If it’s jaw-dropping mountain views you seek in North Carolina, then there are plenty of places to find them. From the top of Mount Mitchell, to Blue Ridge Parkway overlooks, and even from small mountain towns like Sylva, you’re never far from awe-inspiring beauty in the mountains of Western North Carolina. Perhaps one of the most striking mountain vistas is seen from high atop the tallest dam east of the Rockies.
Nothing is more beautiful than a cool mountain lake filled up with sparkling blue waters deep in the bowl of surrounding mountain ridges.
Google Maps/Daniel Burda
And that’s what you’ll find at Fontana Dam. It is a wonderful spot for a day trip. Built from 1942 to 1944, the dam is a historic treasure to North Carolinians as well as visitors from all over the world.
TripAdvisor/kingbyriverk
From here, you’ll marvel at the 360-degree views of the surrounding Smoky Mountains.
Facebook/Graham County Travel and Tourism
A seasonal visitor’s center is open from April to October (but you can still visit the dam outside of those dates). Inside, you’ll discover a wealth of information about the dam and Fontana Lake, including photos, educational kiosks, and videos.
Facebook/Graham County Travel and Tourism
A set of stairs leading to an observation tower on top of the visitor’s center is open year-round. It’s the highest viewing point on the dam and is a must for any visit.
TripAdvisor/Tabitha M
No trip to Fontana Dam would be complete without a trek across this engineering treasure. The dam is 480 feet tall, and 2,365 feet across.
TripAdvisor/Amanda B
However, if you’re a bit afraid of heights…
TripAdvisor/relayer
… then we suggest you keep your eyes up toward the horizon. On one side of the dam, the water, of course, is much higher and you’ll be mesmerized by beautiful Fontana Lake.
Google Maps/Robert Schaefer
And on the other side, there’s a gorgeous view of the Little Tennessee River — nestled in a valley within the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains.
Flickr/Chris Norrick
Fontana Dam is located just off North Carolina Highway 28 in Fontana, North Carolina. The Visitor Center is open from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. April through August, and from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. September and October. While you’re there, take the mountain road down to the bottom of the dam to get another unique perspective on the size. Learn more on the official website!
Google Maps/Daniel Burda
TripAdvisor/kingbyriverk
Facebook/Graham County Travel and Tourism
TripAdvisor/Tabitha M
TripAdvisor/Amanda B
TripAdvisor/relayer
Google Maps/Robert Schaefer
Flickr/Chris Norrick
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