Shuckstack Fire Tower — GPS Trail Data, Map, Photos, GPX, KMZ

Fontana Dam, NC – Shortly after Appalachian Trail hikers cross the Fontana Dam, they quickly ascend onto the higher peaks of the Smokey Mountain National Park. On this ascent, one can take a short detour and explore the abandoned Shuckstack Fire Tower. Brave hikers can climb to the top of the tower for an awesome view of the surrounding valleys and Fontana Lake. At a length of 3.3 miles (one-way), this section of the Appalachian Trail ascends around 2120′ and can be finished in around 4 hours (out and back).

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Trail Description

In probably one of the more remote parts of North Carolina, out of the range of most cell towers, the Fontana Dam sits at the foot of the Smokey Mountains, impounding the nearly 17-mile long Fontana Lake. It is here that the Appalachian Trail crosses into the National Park and begins its ascent onto the 6000+ foot peaks. The now abandoned Shuckstack Fire Tower is a popular out and back hike for those visiting the dam.

For those not through-hiking on the Appalachian Trail, this hike is best accessed by driving to the Fontana Dam. At the visitor center, keep straight, cross the dam, and follow the narrow National Park road about a half-mile up to the trailhead. The trail picks up elevation quickly as it meanders up to the ridge line. The next mile and a half follow that ridge line up to Little Shuckstack.

At this point, the trail follows the terrain around to the west, setting up an elongated switchback up and over the steep terrain at the summit of Shuckstack. When the trail turns back to the east, the grade increases immensely, gaining 300-400 feet in a hurry. Keep an eye out for a junction – you will follow the trail to the right and arrive shortly at the the fire tower.

Climbing the fire tower will test any fear of heights as there is little more than a set of wooden stairs and rusted metal handrail. It does sway in the wind and has not been maintained in many years, so use caution.