Nestled between Asheville and Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a retreat owned by the Methodist Church on Lake Junaluska, but everyone is invited to enjoy the lovely property. One day I visited to kayak, the lake is surrounded by mountains – the county has 18 peaks over 6,000’!
An hour was perfect to paddle around the perimeter of the lake and take in the birds, glittering water, and get some great exercise.
The rates are very affordable.
Afterwards I wasn’t quite ready to leave, I wanted to take a hike around that gorgeous lake.
There is a wonderful 3.5 mile trail that takes you around the neighborhood and through the woods. I laughed so hard when I saw a huge topiary dog in front of someone’s house, thank you for that whoever you are.
In spring the flora was blooming
and the chicks were hatched.
The boardwalk over the water was a scenic highlight.
There is also a little waterfall
and a vibrant rose garden.
If the day was warmer I would have loved to hang around at the pool, there is a small admission fee for that – and it sits right beside the lake!
2 thoughts on “Lake Junaluska, North Carolina”
Beautiful countryside. Thank you for sharing it. One of our favorite places.
Ah, we took the same hike around the Lake! We didn’t see anyone kayaking. What a perfect place to do so! We’ll have to go back for that!