US-16 Appalachia Pop

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The Fontana Dam → Kuwohi traverse is one of the great climbs of the Appalachian Trail — a 30‑mile ascent from the shores of Fontana Lake to the highest point in the Smokies. The route begins at the iconic Fontana Dam and climbs through lush forest, mossy ridges, and classic AT terrain, passing Shuckstack, Mollies Ridge, and Derrick Knob before entering the cool spruce–fir zone near the summit. The final push leads to Kuwohi, where a 360° panorama of rolling blue ridges delivers a perfect Southern Appalachian finale. It’s a long, soulful climb from lake to sky.

Base Camp: Bryson City, North Carolina

• Distance: 32 miles

• Elevation Gain: 11,017 ft

• Estimated Time: 10 - 16 hours

• Route Type: Point-to-Point

The best time to hike from Fontana Dam to Kuhowi is April through June and September through November, when temperatures are cooler, humidity is lower, and the Smokies’ long forested climbs feel far more manageable.