Fontana Dam Parking

imported
#1

Anybody know about parking in and around Fontana Dam. Is it safe, good spots, etc.

Rooster

#2

I parked there a few years back to go on a three day hike with no problems. I parked in the paved parking lot not on the other side of the Dam.

frog

#3

Rooster, you shouldn’t have any problems parking in and around Fontana Dam. I have done it a couple of times. I parked by the Fontana Hilton Shelter for 4-5 days each time. If you need a shuttle call Hike Inn. A great little place for shuttles and a place to stay. 828-479-3677.
http://www.thehikeinn.netfirms.com/

Bilko

#4

Last May I parked at the Visitor Center for two weeks - no problem. It had been recommended by a couple different shuttle drivers as a relatively safe spot. The morning I left my vehicle, I spoke with a TVA police officer who was patrolling the area. He said it was fine to leave the vehicle there and requested that it be left in the upper lot, not right down by the entrance to the Visitor Center, they like to keep the lower lot available for visitors as many of them are handicapped or elderly. He also advised to take the normal precautions of leaving no electronics or anything of value in plain site. I had no problem at all.

Lyle

#5

Thanks for all your help guys. Sounds like I’ll be parking at the dam for my section hike. Thanks again.

Rooster

#6

I left my car at the AT trail head across the dam this past weekend. It was there for 3 days without any problems. There is room for several cars at the trail head. I’ve also left my car at the Fontana Marina parking area (near the bathrooms - which are heated!). There usually is a government vehicle parked there. The visitor center doesn’t open till sometime in April or May so that area is pretty well deserted until that time.

HeartFire

#7

Great info HeartFire. I am always a little weary about parking at trailheads for multiple days, but sounds safe enough for me. Thanks.

Rooster

#8

Ditto Lyle,
A lodge desk clerk said there’s no safer place: it’s government property patrolled by the government. I’ve left my car there (upper lot) several times while hiking through the Smokies.

bluevist