Shuckstack Fire Tower Trail

This is a 6.8-mile out-and-back from the Appalachian and Lakeshore Trailhead Parking area to Shuckstack Fire Tower and back, including the short tower spur. Allow about five to six hours. The Appalachian Trail climbs roughly 2,100 feet on the 3.4-mile approach. The reward is a 60-foot lookout on Twentymile Ridge, with a broad view over Fontana Lake and the mountain ranges around it.

The steepest work comes early: the first 2.4 miles climb an unnamed ridge. The grade eases for roughly two-thirds of a mile, then steepens again for a short push to the junction on Twentymile Ridge. At the junction, turn right onto the path marked with a white T for about 0.1 mile. The white-blazed Appalachian Trail continues onward, so follow the T rather than hiking past the tower spur. The return follows the same route.

Trees screen much of the view from the tower's base. From the cab, the panorama opens over Fontana Dam and Lake, with the Unicoi, Snowbird, Nantahala, Blue Ridge and Smokies ranges around the horizon. The cab's window frames make a natural frame for the lake and layered ridges.

The steel tower was built in 1934 for spotting forest fires. It rises 60 feet above the ridge, and the remnants of the one-room lookout cabin remain nearby. Shuckstack is one of four historic fire towers still standing in the park after newer detection methods made many lookouts unnecessary.

Start at the Appalachian and Lakeshore Trailhead Parking area on Lakeview Drive West, about 0.6 mile beyond Fontana Dam. Cross the dam, turn right at the fork just beyond it, and follow the road to the lot. Some longer mileage figures include a farther-south approach; this route starts at the trailhead lot. A valid park parking tag is required for vehicles parked longer than 15 minutes. Pets are not allowed on this trail. The tower climb is optional: its exposed stairs are steep, and its latest structural condition could not be confirmed.