If I'm reading the Graham County map correctly, it appears that the Appalachian Trail passes very close to Fontana Village. Has anyone done any hiking on past MOTD's? Looks like it would be a great way to stretch your legs for a few hours before/after some spirited driving.

Thanks.

 

Yes...the AT goes right through the area. Often, at past MOTDs, I've always seen hikers that stop in to Fontana for supplies and pick up of shipments they sent ahead.

Mark

 

The trail actually crosses Fontana dam!

 

Fontana Dam is only a couple miles for Fontana State Park. It the highest Dam east of the Mississippi. You can drive there and park the Mini and hike.

 

Never did it during a MOTD but I did hike a section of the AT through the Smokies over a few days. If you go into the park from Fontana it's a pretty decent climb up the mountain, but there's a fire tower at Shuckstack off of the AT that offers some awesome views that's worth the effort.

There's also a multitude of trails in the park itself--you don't have to limit yourself to the AT necessarily.

 

Shuckstack shows to be 3.2 miles in from Fontana Dam. Any guess on how long it would take to get there on the AT?

On my drive to MOTD 2006, I listened to a book on tape about a couple of guys hiking the AT beginning to end... they were lucky to cover 10 miles in one day (making/braking camp + carrying full gear + stops for water, etc).

I would think that a lightly equipped day-hiker could make better time. Any major obstacles in the way?

If there is a nice day, this would be a lot of fun to do.

 

Thanks for all the input! I feel a plan coming together. . . Like start with the sunrise drive you're leading on Friday, followed by some hiking, before the Brew Swap in the evening. This is my first MOTD, but that sounds like my idea of a perfect day!

 

Eek!

Sorry to spoil your plan, but my Sunrise drive is on SATURDAY morning... not Friday. I ran over to the drive summary page and realized that I got it screwed up and posted it on the wrong day. The error has been corrected.

I still hope to see you there. It honestly was the most beautiful drive I've ever been on. If we get some OK weather, it should be a great run. Be sure to schedule a nap on Saturday so you can do both my drive and the Midnight run!

 

Depends on how in-shape you are... those 3+ miles are all uphill, going from about 2,000 ft to 4,000 ft at the tower. I'd wager 2-3 hours, give or take. The return trip is a lot faster, of course.

ETA: Here are two photos of the view that awaits you. (Damn, now I want to go back!)

 

Stunning pics! Thanks!

I'm a bit (well... more than a bit...) of a fat-****... I think I'll allocate 3 hours... maybe 2 on the way back.

Thanks!

 

We've hiked a few sections of the A.P. and if memory serves me correctly (I am an old fart as CRASHTON likes to say) you can pick up the A.P. right at the top of the Dam. In fact I believe the top of the Dam is part of the trail, so you won't have to go far to find it.

Hang on a second....I think I have an image somewhere's.....ah yes....here 'tis......

 

There is a small (dirt) parking area on the park side of the dam where you can pick up the trail. My wife and I went a short ways up the trail at MOTD 2006.

 

I'm famous for being an over-prepared "Boy Scout", but please take wilderness hiking seriously. I realize that you will only be 4 miles from civilization, but being prepared is always a good idea.

There is a great article on the "10 Essentials" with an updeated list from a long while ago when I was active in the outdoors. I'm assembling my pack now! :D

http://www.rei.com/LearnShareDetailA...ssentialsf.jsp

Updated Ten Essential "Systems"

• Navigation
• Sun protection
• Insulation (extra clothing)
• Illumination
• First-aid supplies
• Fire
• Repair kit and tools
• Nutrition (extra food)
• Hydration (extra water)
• Emergency shelter

Classic Ten Essentials

• Map
• Compass
• Sunglasses and sunscreen
• Extra clothing
• Headlamp/flashlight
• First-aid supplies
• Firestarter
• Matches
• Knife
• Extra food