Indian Lakes Scenic Byway
Places to Visit
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This lake was named with the Cherokee word for "otter."
Distance from byway: On the byway Directions: Located near Tapoco along US 129.
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The highest dam in the east, Fontana Dam created Fontana Lake in the 1940's.
Distance from byway: On the byway Directions: On the byway near Fontana Village off of NC 28.
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This historic village provides access to all the recreational opportunities of the byway.
Distance from byway: On the byway Directions: Located off of NC 28 on the byway.
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Great Smoky Mountains National Park (NC)
Named for the smoke-like haze enveloping them, the Great Smoky Mountains are the majestic southern climax of the Appalachian Highlands.
Distance from byway: On the byway Directions: The byway goes right next to the Great Smoky Montains as travelers drive from Fontana Village to Tapoco.
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Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest (NC)
This forest honors Joyce Kilmer, the poet best remembered for his poem, "Trees."
Distance from byway: On the byway Directions: Located just west of the byway.
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Junaluska Memorial and Museum (NC)
This museum honors Junaluska, the Cherokee Warrior, and is dedicated to preserving Cherokee Heritage.
Distance from byway: On the byway Directions: Located in Robbinsville on the byway
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Nantahala National Forest (NC)
Nantahala is a Cherokee Indian word meaning land of the noonday sun, a fitting name for the deep valleys and gorges of the Nantahala.
Distance from byway: On the byway Directions: The entire byway is located within the Nantahala National Forest.
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Located near the easternmost end of the Byway, Robbinsville is the gateway to areas like the Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest.
Distance from byway: On the byway Directions: Located on US Highway 129 on the byway.
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This beautiful lake is an enticing stop for fishermen.
Distance from byway: On the byway Directions: The western section of the byway on US 129 travels along Santeetlah Lake.
