It seems like the Smokies have endless miles of trails. If you're new to hiking, there are a lot of great beginner-friendly trail options that allow you to admire the scenery without much effort! Let us tell you about one in the Great Smoky Mountains in North Carolina. Here is your guide to hiking the Goldmine Loop:
| Trail Length | 3.1 Miles |
| Trail Difficulty | Easy |
| Trail Highlights | History, Lake Views |
Directions to Trailhead
Starting from the intersection of US 19 and Everett Street, drive north on Everett Street until it becomes New Fontana Road. Continue on into Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The road will turn into Lakeview Drive. Stay here until you reach the Lakeview Drive Tunnel. This is where the Goldmine Loop Trail begins. Before you set off, be sure to purchase a Smoky Mountain parking tag for your vehicle!
Trail Description
The Goldmine Loop is 3.1 miles long with an elevation gain of 615 feet. You will start the hike with a walk through the Lakeview Drive Tunnel. It is 1,200 feet long and very flat. On the other side, you will reach the start of the Lakeshore Trail. It is the second-longest trail in the Smokies at 34.7 miles long! Walk for less than a mile before turning left onto the Goldmine Loop. Look out for parts of a washtub and chimney. These were once a part of the many cabins in the area.
At about 1.5 miles from the trailhead, you will see Backcountry Campsite 67 and then a small cove that is part of Fontana Lake. There are some old wild hog traps here. You then come across some short and steep sections. Remember to go slow and take your time. Look for an opening in the canopy of trees to admire the mountain views. It will be a welcome break before continuing on. The trail will dead-end 2.7 miles from the trailhead at the Tunnel Bypass Trail. Turn right here to reach the west end of the Lakeview Drive Tunnel.
Things to Know
The Lakeview Drive Tunnel is the end of the “Road to Nowhere.” The construction started in the 1940s as a project to repair flood damage caused by the Fontana Dam. The work was halted due to environmental concerns. Today, the stretch of road is a 6-mile scenic drive. Admire the views of the vast Fontana Lake and the surrounding mountains. Keep your eyes open because you might see some animals along the way as well. Popular creatures include black bears, deer, and turkeys. A nice drive is sure to be a relaxing activity after your hike.
A great summertime activity to do after your hike is swimming. There are several points in Fontana Lake where swimming is permitted. Beat the heat by swimming around in the cool water. Pack a picnic to enjoy after you get out of the water.
More Great Smoky Mountains NC Hiking Trails
Now you know all about the Goldmine Loop Trail! Want to know about other hikes in the North Carolina Smokies? Here is your guide to hiking the Kanati Fork Trail!
