ctechbob
Well-known member
I've known about this place for a while now and finally got the chance to go see it. Don't ask my why unfinished/disused roadways interest me, but I find them intriguing, especially when they have a tunnel on them you can walk through. It is a short walk to the tunnel and less than 1/4 mile through to the western portal.
It is a very pretty drive with views of Fontana Lake in spots. Like it or not, the Fed has just spent a ton of money repaving and lining the route with new guardrails, so in addition to being pretty, the road is in great shape. If you are into hiking, there is a 35 mile trail that follows the intended route of the road all the way to Fontana Dam.
I won't repeat the history here as the Wikipedia article is well done and full of information, so on to the pictures.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lakeview_Drive
https://maps.app.goo.gl/TNqqTY58NBbd9QKC6
View of the tunnel from the parking lot.
Eastern Portal
Western Portal. It is pretty easy to walk up to the top of the stonework if you choose.
My 3 girls (Wife/Daughter/Doggo) for scale.
It is a very pretty drive with views of Fontana Lake in spots. Like it or not, the Fed has just spent a ton of money repaving and lining the route with new guardrails, so in addition to being pretty, the road is in great shape. If you are into hiking, there is a 35 mile trail that follows the intended route of the road all the way to Fontana Dam.
I won't repeat the history here as the Wikipedia article is well done and full of information, so on to the pictures.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lakeview_Drive
https://maps.app.goo.gl/TNqqTY58NBbd9QKC6
View of the tunnel from the parking lot.
Eastern Portal
Western Portal. It is pretty easy to walk up to the top of the stonework if you choose.
My 3 girls (Wife/Daughter/Doggo) for scale.
