Goldmine Loop Trail

Overview

A local favorite with a twist of Smokies lore, the Goldmine Loop is a 4.0‑mile total loop on the Bryson City side that pairs forest singletrack with a walk through the infamous "Road to Nowhere" tunnel. Expect roughly 600–800 feet of total elevation gain, a few steep grades, and a steady climb back from Fontana Lake. Most hikers take 2–3 hours.

Route Snapshot

From the end of Lakeview Drive, many start by strolling the flat, 1,200‑foot tunnel; tunnel‑averse hikers can use the 1.6‑mile Tunnel Bypass Trail instead. Beyond the tunnel, follow Lakeshore Trail to the signed Goldmine Loop junction. The loop drops toward Goldmine Branch and a small cove on Fontana Lake, then climbs back to rejoin the bypass near the parking area. Surfaces are mostly shaded singletrack with some rocky, muddy, and narrow sections. Wayfinding is generally straightforward, but there are a few spur junctions—watch the signs.

Highlights & History

This hike is as much about story as scenery. The unfinished “Road to Nowhere” was meant to replace flooded Highway 288 after Fontana Lake was created; construction stopped at the tunnel, and the long saga eventually ended with a cash settlement instead of a road. Along the loop, look for remnants of early homesteads—crumbling chimneys and artifacts tucked in the Goldmine Branch drainage. The lake cove offers a quiet pause; views expand or shrink with reservoir levels. You may also pass park hog‑management traps; leave them strictly alone.

Difficulty & Conditions

Overall moderate, but the climb back from the lake is the huffer‑puffer section. The trail can be muddy after rain, and the tread narrows in places. A small light is handy in the tunnel on dark days. Cell service is spotty—download a map before you go. Pets aren’t allowed on this backcountry loop.

Best Time to Hike

Year‑round is viable, but autumn shines thanks to mixed hardwoods that pop with color. The loop sees lighter traffic than big‑name Smokies hikes, so weekdays or early starts feel pleasantly quiet. After wet weather, expect slick mud and plan footwear accordingly.

Practical Tips

• Parking is at the end of Lakeview Drive (the "Road to Nowhere"); no restrooms at the trailhead. A park parking tag is required if you’ll be parked more than 15 minutes.
• Bring bug spray in warm months and a headlamp for the tunnel if you’re light‑sensitive.
• Don’t touch hog traps. Stay alert at junctions to avoid wandering down spurs.
• There’s a short side path to Backcountry Campsite 67 if you’re scouting an easy overnighter.

If you want a longer, view‑forward loop elsewhere in the park, consider the Rich Mountain Loop in Cades Cove.