Sandwiched between the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the Nantahala National Forest, Lake Fontana. Balsam Lake Lodge is nestled in the center of the 39,000-acre Roy Taylor Forest within the Nantahala National Forest. There arecampsitesalong the lake that are only accessible to paddlers, and those who stay here will enjoy the blissful sounds of nature and nothing else. Best Fishing Spots in North Carolina These three physical regions account for much of the diversity in lifestyles and cultures within the states boundaries. Poke-O-Moonshine is accurately named through a rough translation of two Algonquin words, Pohquis and Moosie, which translates into broken and smooth. With a reputation for being one of the best fishing lakes in North Carolina, Blue Bear Mountain Camp offers year-round camping experiences for every type of outdoor enthusiast. Mountains 42 results. Tucked just inside the borders of Pisgah National Forest, a densely forested land of tumbling waterfalls and tree-covered peaks, sits the Davidson River Campground. North Carolina is overflowing with wonderful lakes to visit! Suggestions are that you do not attempt it alone, though. Additionally, there is ADA beach access, an accessible fishing pier, restrooms, and picnic benches on-site, ensuring everyone can have a good time. Bask in mountain waters and solitude once youve launched your watercraft, and enjoy a unique mountainous day out. Although Beaver Lake is private, the Lake View Park community welcomes guests as long as they follow the rules. There are two marinas on the lake that offer places to eat and boat rentals, sales, and service. Fontana Lake. Because it is largely contained by Lake James State Park, its primed for outdoor recreation and makes for a great last minute getaway. Jennifer Prince has covered weddings and travel since 2010. Lake Montonia. Only Sliding Rock and the beaches at Lake Lure and Lake James have lifeguards. Covering nearly 7,000 acres in the Great Smoky Mountains near the border with Tennessee, Lake James is a true treasure among lakes in North Carolina. This geography has made it a favorite for local water sports enthusiasts. For folks who want to take a break after finishing the hike, Tupper Lake is slightly east of the mountain and offers some of the best fishing known in the Adirondack Mountains. A thriving beachfront features showers, changing rooms, and restrooms to give you more tools for your day on the lake.. Splash into waterfalls and wading pools. Prince Boat Marina. Smith Mountain Lake is the largest lake that is entirely in Virginia. If you wake up early on Lake Hickory, the water usually is calm enough to look like glass. Fishing and waterskiing are both popular activities in North Carolina so be sure to pack your summer skis and fishing rod! Greenfield Park in Wilmington is around 200 acres and surrounds Greenfield Lake. The surrounding Falls Lake State Recreation Area also provides opportunities to explore the land via hiking or camping. Its elevation at 3,494 feet above sea level makes it one of the highest elevation lakes east of the Mississippi, keeping the temperatures in the summer perfectly poised for relaxing the day. Now far from Blowing Rock, newly restored bass lakes will always have something to fish. Sneak E Squirrel Jordan Lake is ideal for folks whose perfect weekend includes camping by the water. WebThere are more than 300 miles of streams in the North Carolina region of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. A scenic Dan Maples signature golf course and a 166-slip deepwater marina highlight this gated waterfront community in the Albemarle Sound region of northeastern North Carolina. Boat,kayak, jet ski, and paddleboard rentals are available onLake Glenville, and for those looking to paddle downstream, check out ourwhitewater raftingguides. Walk or drive across the dam and learn about the construction during the 1940s in the Tennessee Valley Authority Visitor Center. An interesting fact about Bald Mountain is that it is one of the twenty-five Adirondack Fire Tower Peaks, which also includes Mount Arab, Vanderwhacker, and Owls Head. Knowing about the different NC mountain regions is a must when it comes to visiting the area. Below are nine of the best nature hikes available while visiting one of the most spectacular mountain ranges in all of America. Though trout do not exist in the lake, so dont be disappointed if you dont catch any of those! Mountain Lakes A valid North Carolina or Tennessee fishing license is required to fish anywhere in the park. Situated in the western North Carolina mountains, Lake Junaluska is well known for being a retreat center and the ideal place for a summer vacation rental. Best Lakes in North Carolina to Enjoy Your Vacation Lake Hartwell sits on the Georgia and South Carolina state line. Long revered for their remote location, clear waters, and natural beauty, they have been deemed the blue jewels along the Tuckasegee River. While many lakes dont allow motorboat access, Lake Lure is meant for motorized fun under the sun if you choose. Mountains-to-Sea Trail Once a meadow known as Baird Bottom, the construction of a dam in 1923 flooded the area to create the lake, and there are still trolley tracks hidden under the water. MLS ID #2514546. Chestnut Mountain (Caldwell County, North Carolina) Chestnut Mountain (Transylvania County, North Carolina) Crowders Mountain. Lake Russell is split between 13 public recreation areas that serve as launching points for the days adventures. Land lovers will enjoy traversing the miles of hiking trails, such as the 6-mile-long Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail, or seeking adventure on the mountain biking paths. Near Tuckasegee, North Carolina. You can get away from it all at Hyco Lake near Semora, one of the best small towns in North Carolina. (2020). They are located far from town along Highway 281 and cell service is nil, so we recommend going old school and bringing along a physical map or preloading the directions into your phone or GPS. Visitors can fish from the pier for a minimal fee, and bait is available nearby. Scientists speculate that meteors or icebergs carved large holes in the earth to form these anomalies. Built to give Greensboro hydroelectric power, Belews lake isnt trying to be anything fancy. Seller is SERIOUS about selling this 509-acres located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina! The Mount Arab Trail, just south of the town of Piercefield, in Horseshoe Lake Forest, is a moderately graded trail that is good for novices as well as more experienced hikers. Once Waterfalls in North Carolina Lakes WebLake James is a large reservoir in the mountains of Western North Carolina which straddles the border between Burke and McDowell Counties. Youll find plenty of boat rental options, stunning NC hiking trails, and golf courses to fill up your time between dips. If you want an unforgettable experience, take a sunset waterfall cruise on a luxurypontoonyacht with Captain Marks Scenic Boat Tours. 2. Courtesy of Mountain Stream RV Park. The beachfront even offers simple concession services to ensure you wont have to leave before sunset. Lakes As North Carolinas largest human-made lake, 520 miles of shoreline and a plethora of activities await in all seasons. It also boasts two yacht clubs for you to store your boat at. Over 350 miles of shoreline encompasses 20,300 acres of exceptionally clean water that reflects some of the most breathtaking sunsets in the state. The capital is Raleigh. All campsites are primitive, hike in locations. With daytime temperatures in the mid-to-high 70s Fahrenheit, activities like hiking, biking, and taking a dip in a mountain waterfall are all doable. Flows through a 1200 foot deep gorge. Lets start with the obvious choiceLake Glenville. Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Nags Head Oceanfront. WebWade Hampton Golf Club has been rated the #1 golf course in North Carolina by Golf Digest and the #26 in the United States. The largemouth bass population loves the aquatic vegetation where the shoreline has merged with the water. North Carolina. Interestingly, this is the only lake on this list not owned or operated by Duke Energy. WebVisit these lakes in the North Georgia mountains for fun on the water and charming small towns, including Clarkesville, Hiawassee, Blairsville and Lavonia. In the mountains of western North Carolina, Lake James offers everything you want from a family vacation, including the location of several major films. It begins at the confluence of the Yadkin River and the South Yadkin River. Come to Lake Norman in the summertime, and youll surely find some events popping up. With either boat access points and plentiful fishing, this lake is an anglers dream. Lakes in North Carolina Web1926 Mountain Rd, Walnut Cove, NC 27052. Music On the flip side, its proximity to the ocean also creates wonderful birdwatching conditions. For those who wish to traverse it from start to finish, there are options for camping overnight along the way. Near Brevard, this is one of the best lakes in the NC mountains. They rent wakeboards, skis, kneeboards, and tubes to add to the thrilling element of skimming the water behind a boat. Lakes also afford the opportunity to get close to nature, whether you enjoy hiking the surrounding trails, waiting in a boat for the perfect catch, or simply sitting on the porch soaking in the views with a cup of coffee in hand. Our love story begins in Wilmington, where we met while attending UNCW. An hour from Asheville, you will find Lake James in the rolling It's the largest lake in western North Carolina with 238 miles of shoreline. Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Asheville Downtown Tunnel Road, NC. Lake Lure is where you can have one of the best lake vacations in NC. Sunrise is the perfect time to appreciate Lake James. The Best Beach in the Mountainscan be found at the PinesRecreation Area. The 15 Best Western North Carolina Mountains For Hiking. WebThat said, check out the 10 best lakes in North Carolina to help you narrow down your search. Hike Distance: 1.2 miles or 2 miles roundtrip. Natasha moved to North Carolina for college years ago (but she's not trying to age herself here). WebNorth Carolina Blue Ridge Mountains In the Heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains! The lake allows non-motorized boats and has activities like tennis courts, horseshoe pits, and a playground. This lake truly is a paddlers paradise as there is no motorboat access permitted. Our checklist of the freshwater fishes of North Carolina follows: Tracy, B. H., F.C. Fishing in North Carolina Lakes In the area is Gorges State Park. WebNorth Carolina Mountains, North Carolina Lakefront Homes Communities. WebLake Hiwassee is located in the mountainous region of North Carolinas southwestern Cherokee County. Hendersonville, NC 28739. Significant scenic and recreational values. Near Morganton, three dams converged in the Blue Ridge Mountains to form Lake James, and the local community has capitalized on the development to establish an excellent spot for a day on the water. So, be very careful and be a good swimmer. North Carolina Lake No matter your preferred activity when youre by the lake, head to one you havent frequented before. Lake Norman. In fact, find a lakeside hotel, inn, and campground along with vacation rental homes and apartments. You may recognize the Blue Ridge mountains in the backdrop of this mountain lake from Dirty Dancing. For those who want to rough it, there arecampsitesavailable in this remote area. The lakes visitors enjoy the slice of nature in the research triangle. The rustic-style clubhouse features dining, a golf shop, and spaces for relaxing. The real treat is in the fall when the leaves around the lake turn into a collage of yellows, oranges, and reds. If youre looking to go off the grid this certainly is the place to do it! Show more details. While not one of the Adirondack Fire Tower Peaks, Mount Haystack is still worthy of being included in a list of awesome hikes. Black Balsam Knob Distance to Slopes Near to Slopes (Less than 20 Minutes) Ski In - Ski Out North Carolina 28607. It was created in the early 1940s when the Little Tennessee River was impounded to create the Fontana Dam, which stands at 480 feet and is the tallest dam east of the Rockies. If you'd like to learn more visit the about us page. just click the icon with the number bedroom you need. Lake Jordan Lake is conveniently located just west and south of Raleigh and Durham respectively. 6. The North Carolina mountains cover a lot of areas in western NC. High Rock Lake. Largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, crappie, catfish, spotted bass, white bass, and striped bass can all be found in the lake. WebIt is located in western North Carolina, and offers top-notch camping and hiking. Innovation Brewing Prince Boat Marina, Fontana Lake. White Lake, NC 28337, USA. Convenient to Asheville! While stopping for the night is not necessarily required, the Adirondacks are great for camping with friends and/or family. Theres a bit of a dispute that we wont get into, but Old Forts Gold Festival typically kicks off each June. Car-accessible tent and RV sites in a natural setting. WebBlue Ridge Lake Retreat. 2637 Hwy 226 N, Bakersville NC 828-688-9290. List of mountains in North Carolina Web627 Mountain Vista Drive, Mcgrady, NC, 28649, Wilkes County. If you enjoy birdwatching, keep an eye out for bald eagles that frequent the lake in the summertime. High Rock Lake The oldest garden at the Arboretum, it showcases regional landscaping plants and exemplifies ways in which stone may be. The lake runs through popular suburb towns of the big city, creating a unique ecosystem blend of natural beauty and myriad activities. WebWingate by Wyndham Charlotte Airport South/ I-77 Tyvola Road. Hurry up and wait: Truffle farmer shares process of growing delicacy in mountains of NC. 7. WebHere are five great places to cast a line in North Carolina. 20 BEST Lakes In North Carolina to Visit - Lost In The Rent a pontoon and prepare to spend the day picnicking, sunning, and diving from the vessel. This is due to the melting of the snow as temperatures rise. Highly Rated North Carolina Campgrounds. Lake James has a surface area of approximately 6,812 acres, with 150 miles of shoreline. The Smallest of the East Fork LakesTanasee Creek is only 40 acres but dont let the size fool you. A 7-mile walking trail surrounds the lake and offers scenic views of the water from every vantage point. Lakes WebNorth Carolina is known for 300 miles of barrier-island beaches, but also browse water sports and things to do from mountain rivers to Lake Norman to Outer Banks and A top species targeted is bass but the lake also includes muskie, walleye, lake trout, crappie, and panfish. Harrah's Cherokee Casino Resort. North Carolina Mountain Created in 1929, High Rock Lake is the northernmost of the Uwharrie Lakes and the second largest lake in North Carolina behind Lake Norman. It is mostly known for its abundance of largemouth bass. Jessica - Flickr. This area has a wonderfully temperate climate and an ideal getaway for families to enjoy various activities. This extremely popular, literal, sliding rock is a well-loved swimming hole. It is a man-made reservoir that was built by the Tennessee Valley Authority and completed on New Year's Eve in 1948. While Bald Mountain has a summit of over twenty-three hundred feet, akin to Owls Head and Mount Arab, Bald Mountain has an easier trail to hike with younger members of the family. Room for RVs but no power or sewer service. This tiny space is the highest lake east of the Mississippi at 3,492 ft. A day in the boat on Lake Glenville will allow travelers to marvel at three waterfalls that feed into the alpine lake, only reachable by boat. Fishing is quality as are the good times to be had here! Macs Falls Boaters from the states central region have plenty of launch points at this lake, and five designated swimming areas provide plenty of spaces to take a dip., The Nantahala National Forest features some of the most rugged, untouched outdoor spaces in the state. While the coast and its beaches get a lot of glory, the lakes in North Carolina are a special place come summertime. Isolated stream bordered by swamp forests; habitat for variety of flora and fauna. Cosmic Carryout WebMap. Near Saranac Lake, in the center of Adirondack Park, the Ampersand Mountain Trail is a moderately challenging trek, but well worth it upon reaching the summit. Crowder's Mountain. Home Travel Guides United States North Carolina (NC) 15 Best Lakes in North Carolina. Not for the faint of heart, the Northville Placid Trail is approximately one hundred forty-two miles from start to finish. City Lights Cafe We thoroughly enjoyed our time at the Terrace at Lake Junaluska, NC. 20 Places To Visit Near Raleigh (BEST Day Trips from Raleigh), 17 BEST Breweries in Wilmington, NC to Enjoy a Beer. Check Rates: Omni Grove Park Inn via Booking.com. Named after nearby High Rock Mountain, High Rock Lake is the second largest lake in North Carolina at 15,000-acres. 17. With tons of inlets, coves, and islands created by ancient mountains tops poking through the calm surface waters, there is a ton to explore with your boat on this lake. If you want a lovely stretch of cool water to spend a day on, the lake is low-key and has plenty of marinas on the waters edge to get your fill of fun in the sun. The Nantahala River just below the river is known for its spectacular whitewater rafting and kayaking. The town of Cashiers is centrally located in the Plateau region and attracts thousands of visitors between May to October each year. Open now. Lakes And for more aquatic adventures in The Tar Heel State, be sure to check out these six fun waterparks. If you enjoy fishing, you can spend your vacation trying to catch bluegill, tiger muskellunge, and threadfin shad. Nantahala is on the smaller side of lakes, though it is manmade. Best Lake Communities in Western North Carolina Amenities include a day-use picnic area, an accessiblelakesidetrail (the Robinson Trail), and theBalsam Lake Lodge(reservation only), including an accessible fishing pier and trail. View Property. Nowadays, there are 516 properties surrounding the lake, and dues from the community go towards maintaining the site. Nantahala Lake is in the middle of that action. The lake area is a National Wildlife Refuge because of the large winter populations of migrating birds, establishing Lake Mattamuskeet is a birdwatchers paradise. You dont want to miss a classic sunset nestled in these mountains! Sort: Homes for You. This area hosts a lot of ground to cover and is especially ideal for those looking for amazing hiking trails with breathtaking views. The lake is a convenient 45-minute drive from the city of Charlotte. Davidson River Campground. Some of our favorite treasures happen to be the states beautiful lakes. Lake James, NC. Settled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, it seems as though every vantage point is stunning whether youre in the water, on the shoreline, or hovering overhead in a hot air balloon. 599 reviews. The North Carolina mountains are home to hundreds of waterfalls, including more than 250 in the Brevard area alone. Summertime is a highlight as skiers, swimmers, and boaters flock to the water to enjoy recreation. Vanderwhacker Mountain is part of the Adirondack Fire Tower Peaks and, as such, promises great photographic opportunities along the way as well as at the summit. WebBalsam Lake Lodge. Listing provided by TMLS. The lodge overlooks Balsam Lake and offers spectacular mountain views. Trust me when I say that there are plenty of lakes in North Carolina to enjoy. Come here and leave your gearbecause our Outfitters & Guides have everything you need for a day on the water. 1. Great Smoky mountains Scattered across the edges of the lakes are other craters that never filled in with water instead of taking an ovular shape filled with sand. It may come as a shock to you that North Carolina is home to the largest number of breweries in, Beaufort is a small North Carolina town with plenty of southern charm and maritime history. Dupont State Recreational Great Smoky Mountains National Park Lake Montonia in Kings Mountain is a hidden gem on this list, but well worth mentioning. Within minutes of Charlotte, North Carolinas largest city, lies Lake Norman, North Carolinas largest artificial lake. North Carolina lake life consists of picture-perfect mountain towns and family-friendly lodging experiences. Boone is a popular base for the nearby outdoor pursuits with the Grandfather Mountain and its suspension bridge, along with the Appalachian Ski Resort as a top destination for snowboarders and skiers. Oconaluftee Visitor Center A weekend spent in one of the lakes many coves offers a rare chance at solitude while on the water. Richland Balsam Lake James is named for James B. Duke, one of the founders of Duke Energy. There are no restrictions on boat motor sizes and personal watercraft are legal for use on the lake. A playground, tennis courts, camping, and forested trails are additional highlights at this destination. There are also two entry points for boats, along with hiking trails for those less inclined to get on the water. If you want a laid-back destination with plenty of fish to catch, as well as a charming local scene, this second largest lake is the first lake in the hearts of many Carolinians. Pothole Falls Though both trails, the Observers Trail and the Ranger Trail, are listed as moderate, do not let the Ranger Trail fool you. Tuckaseegee River Covering in excess of 15,000 segments of land with 365 miles of shoreline, High Rock Lake is the second-greatest lake in North Carolina behind Lake Norman. The lake itself offers plenty of recreational activities and is located in the mountains of western North Carolina. Charlotte Observer/Getty Images. For a different lake experience, spend the week at Hyco Lake and enjoy only the company of the folks who were in the car with you. Mountain Swimming Holes Best Lakes in the North Carolina Mountains - Discover Despite having been created in 1964, the lake has attracted a variety of species over the years and makes for great bird watching and animal sightings from the water. Rated Mountain Towns in North Carolina This is a good hike for families, groups of friends, or even two or three people. No gasoline or liquid fueled motors are allowed north of the Highway 62 bridge. Lakefront Hotels in North Carolina Its the perfect place to spend a warm day, and there are restrooms on site for comfort. Located in the Nantahala National Forest swimming, boating, and skiing are all popular lake activities. Sliding Rock. Located 15 miles east of downtown Durham, Falls Lake is a 12,000-acre reservoir with five beaches and multiple access points to launch boats. Another popular location for filming blockbuster films, Lake Lure is possibly best known for the popular film Dirty Dancing starring Patrick Swayze and Jennifer grey. Must-See Lakes in North Carolina Fishing and sailing are permitted, though sailboats with main masts over 25 feet are prohibited. Mountains of North Carolina The Snowy Mountain Trail is accessible year-round (snowshoes or cross-country skis are suggested for the winter months). Lake Mattamuskeet is the largest natural lake in North Carolina and is relatively shallow, averaging between two and three feet throughout the entire lake. All rights reserved. The North Carolina Mountains offer scenic drives, majestic hikes and a variety of small country stores and hometown restaurants for leisure. Address: 1648 Brevard Rd, Asheville, NC 28806, USA. Web4. Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a leash. Visitors can rent paddleboats, kayaks, cedar strip canoes, and sailboats at the boathouse. Beautiful Boone, North Carolina, is easily one of the most popular NC mountain towns to visit. Lake Tomahawk Park, Black Mountain, NC. Lake Glenville. Price Lake offers an ever-changing landscape for the other three seasons that makes the lake feel different every time you step onto its shores. Where to Fish This manufactured North Carolina lake is for recreation. It features seasonal excursions and special events during holidays. Lake James. Personal watercraft are prohibited and boats are not allowed overnight. WebWe do have moderate winters. Salem Lake Visit Winston-Salem Just minutes from downtown Winston-Salem lies Salem Lake. In addition, the North Carolina rainforest surrounds the 26 miles of lake shoreline. Mountains of homes in NC; Lake homes in NC; Disclaimer: School attendance zone boundaries are supplied by Pitney Bowes and are subject to change. Nantahala Lake, North Carolina, USA. High Rock Lake is a tremendous stock arranged in central North Carolina. There are no boat restrictions across the lake, and there are numerous put-in locations. You will need a fishing license, but its necessary for spending the day catching rockfish, bass, and crappie.