I have scheduled a maildrop for Fontana Dam NC, but after browsing through a new found copy of the A/T companion noticed that the town is refered to as Fontana village. My origional “thru hike guide” was published in 2000.
Does anyone know the deal with this?
Are discrepencies like this common and do they pose problems to many hikers? Any advice?
I hate to sweat the small stuff, I have faith in myself but relying on these mail drops has me a little nervous. thanks
Stan
Fontana Dam, NC. 28733 828-524-3219 We were told that they may close this one so call first. When you hit the road out of the woods there is a phone on the bill board used to call for a ride. If you get a machine leave a msg and wait. She checks it on the hour, bring change for the soda machine. Bathroom may be locked or have been bulldozed, marina to the right. Stay on the first floor as the basement is moldy. Don’t miss the buffets!
Bushwhack
Stan, the “Village” is the little resort town with the P.O., left from the dam about six miles, not a road walk. It’s like a summer camp with Inn, a bunch of houses for rent, a rec hall, store-don’t eat the ice box cake, it’s ten years old, the Pepperidge Farm one on the center shell second from the rear. I think it’s an experiment in the half life of BHT. Don’t forget to get your Smokies Permit from the register box by the shelter before then dam.
BW
My 2001 ALDHA Companion says the Fontana Village RESORT has the P.O. and is 2 miles West on NC 28 from the AT. The Fontana Village is 6 miles East on NC 28, and has a hiker hostel, but no P.O. (Hostel accepts packages, though)
OMAF
(Oh My Achin’ Feet!)
Achin’ Feet
Yeah, that’s it, 4 miles east. But I still would wait for the shuttle. Does the ALDHA mention about the PO being open this year, or is that the older one. The girl there in March last year said she had heard that they might close that one this year do to budget cuts. Hmm, she lost my film anyway…
BW
The 2002 Companion gives no reason to believe that the P.O. will not be operating this year, tho its hours may be in tune with those of the resort, i.e. on a “seasonal” basis. To be sure you might want to call the Fontana Inn at 800-849-2258, or better yet, the Post office itself, at 828-498-2315.
Baltimore Jack
you guys are something, BW you sure know that area well, thanks for the info, mmmmm buffets. thanks for the # baltimore jack.
stan
Well and accurate are sometimes two different things according to my wife. I still say it was -35* with the wind chill March 6th, 2001 at Mollies Ridge with a +20* bag. :>) And the Pepperidge farm cake is toxic.
Bushwhack