Fontana Dam, completed in 1944 during World War II, stands as the tallest dam in the eastern United States at 480 feet and spans the Little Tennessee River in western North Carolina, creating the expansive Fontana Lake that borders the southern edge of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Built primarily to generate hydroelectric power for aluminum production critical to the war effort, the massive concrete structure offers dramatic views of the deep river gorge below, the surrounding Nantahala National Forest, and distant Smoky Mountain peaks. The Appalachian Trail famously crosses right over the top of the dam, making it a popular stop for hikers seeking both engineering marvel and scenic overlooks. Its largely undeveloped shoreline and access to nearby trails like those at Tsali make the area a standout destination for outdoor exploration.
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