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I feel like my spirit lived in Lake Lure, North Carolina in a previous life.
It’s elevated every time I arrive and see the forested green of the pine trees surrounding the beautiful lake setting.
Where is Lake Lure? It’s located in Rutherford County in Western North Carolina. Lake Lure to Asheville is about 45-minutes. It’s just under 4 hours from Raleigh, and only five minutes drive to Chimney Rock State Park (see more about Chimney Rock down below).
The lake is surrounded by lush mountain tops and sheer granite cliffs. In the distance are the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina and Hickory Nut Gorge with names like Buffalo Head and Sleeping lady.
It’s ancient. Timeless. Connected.
It’s not long after arriving in Lake Lure that I slip into lake time. It moves slow and rhythmically like the oars on my stand up paddle board moving across the lake.
Paddle boarding is one of our favorite things to do in Lake Lure and it’s the first thing we did when we arrived at our accommodation, the Lodge on Lake Lure.
Kalyra (our 11 year old) pauses her paddling to do handstands and cartwheels. I watch in amazement and work up the bravery to slip off the board into the cool waters.
It’s cool and refreshing. The perfect complement to the humid air.
There’s no fear of sharks, jelly fish or crocodiles like back in Australia (our homeland). I can swim freely in the pools of serenity.
Lake Lure NC is my happy place, and it’s one of my top two favorite places to visit in North Carolina along with Wrightsville Beach.
I want to buy a lake house here. I want to buy a summer home here. I just want to spend my summers on this lake, in my lakeside home, with my paddle board.
This was my mantra for our very short two day Lake Lure vacation.
I just had to bring my parents here on our big road trip from Dallas to Boston. It was slightly out of the way, but totally worth it.
My mum and dad loved it too. My Dad being a huge movie buff, he loved the connection that the Lake Lure and Chimney Rock area has to the Last of the Mohicans with Daniel Day Lewis.
I love the connection the lake has with the classic film, Dirty Dancing.
It was the 30th anniversary of Dirty Dancing when we visited and we attended the 8th annual Dirty Dancing Festival, and if you’re a Dirty Dancing fan don’t miss this festival (see more about this down below).
Relax, Learn and Dream on a Lake Lure Boat Tours
You can see the stairs from Dirty Dancing where Baby carried the watermelon on a Lake Lure boat tour, which we did on our last afternoon in Lake Lure, North Carolina.
It was sunny and warm and the breeze gentle. Surprisingly, the seats on the boat were padded and spacious.
We had plenty of room to watch the world go by and learn more about its history – and those gorgeous lake houses on its bank – from our captain and guide.
Including the famous stairs Baby carried a watermelon up and danced back down.
Lake Lure was artificially made back in1927 by Lucius Morse.
He envisioned a lake resort that would be one of the largest in the country as he gazed down upon the Broad River Valley from the top of Chimney Rock, which he owned and opened to the public in 1916.
The town of Buffalo, a small Gold Rush and farming town, now sits at the bottom of the lake.
Legend of the church said to be 70 feet below in the center of the lake whose bell is said to be heard ringing on stormy evenings
The lake is now owned by the town of Lake Lure, with private homes surrounding most of it. Access is provided via a town marina, beach and park.
What I love about this beautiful lakeside destination, is that it has NOT become one large lake resort.
It’s mostly a popular USA destination of privately owned homes that caters to families who vacation in North Carolina every summer.
That’s what I want!
The tours last an hour and is the perfect way to spend an afternoon. Be sure to reserve your spot in advance as they are popular.
I’m going to buy a boat with my house.
Spend my days paddling and cruising up and down, up and down. Stopping for a swim in its dark shark free depths in the middle of the lake with those blue hazy views of the mountains I love so much.
Or, pulling up at the beaches of Town Beach or Rambling Bald Resort.
The girls can have fun zipping down the water slides at Lake Lure beach and water park or kayaking around the bays.
Paddle Boarding or Kayak on Lake Lure
Not only did we love the view from our deck, the breakfast room, and the lower level resting deck, but also from on top of the stand up paddle board.
Stand Up Paddle boards and kayaks are complimentary for guests staying at the Lodge on Lake Lure and we made sure we took one out on each day of our two night stay there.
We developed a family passion for supping when we lived in Australia. It’s now something we pursue on our travels when we can.
We loved paddling on the ocean at Ka’anapali Beach Maui, on Lake Coeur D’alene in Idaho, and in San Diego.
Supping takes a little practice to get used to balancing – I fell of dramatically the first time I did it.
Now I rarely fall of unless it’s intentional.
It’s a bit like riding a bike, once you figure out the balance it kind of becomes automatic.
I’ll be buying a board to match my boat and my house on Lake Lure.
My only complaint is that we did not stay longer. I want to go back in the summer, but I”m scared time is going to zoom by so fast with busyness that we won’t make it work.
Lake Lure is calling me to make it happen.
Play or Relax at Lake Lure Beach and Water Park
Yes, there is a beach at Lake Lure. Well, it’s not an ocean beach like say, Wrightsville Beach on the Carolina coast, but our two girls enjoyed it and it’s one of the fun things to do in Lake Lure with kids!
Here you can float in an inner tube, kayak, paddle board, swim, ride the water slide or get soaked by the water works cannons, or simply relax on the sand and soak up the sun with majestic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
The beach and water park is typically open from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend. And it does get busy here, especially on warm days and on weekends!
Admission Rates
- Adults: $9.00
- Kids ages 4-12 and 45″ & taller:$7.00
- Under 4:Free (when accompanied by adult)
Admission to the water park is included in beach admission price!
Stroll Across Flowering Bridge
How does an old bridge overtaken by blooms and artwork sound to you?
One of my other favorite Lake Lure things to do is to stroll across the Lake Lure Flowering Bridge. It’s a wonderful example of community care and spirit.
They came together to decide what to do with the old highway bridge once the bigger and wider new road was built coming into town.
Why not turn it in to a public garden space? It was created by volunteers and is maintained by volunteers.
The300 foot pathway is part of the 3/4-mile Town Center Walkway that continues past Morse Park to the Lake Lure Beach with great views of theHickory Nut GorgeandChimney Rock.
It’s one of most scenic walks in western North Carolina, is opened year round and is completely free!
Grab An Ice Cream at The Scoop
Across the road from Town Beach sits a popular local ice cream store called the Scoop with flavors such asS’mores, Cherry Blossom, Banana Pudding, Orange Sherbert, Peach and Coffee.
Lucky we ordered the girls ice cream first so we could see exactly what a single scoop looked like.
Dad was about to ask for a double, and quickly changed his mind as the single servings were ginormous!
Perfect for a hot May day.
It’s nice to grab your ice cream after a day of playing at Town Beach, or you can walk there along the lakefront boardwalk after your walk across the Flowering Bridge, or your Lake Lure boat tour.
Stay at The Lodge on Lake Lure – it’s exquisite
My absolute favorite of things to do in Lake Lure NC was to sit on the deck outside our room at the Lodge on Lake Lure among the trees and look down on the lake below, watching it slowly go to sleep and then slowly wake up the next day.
Lake Lure Lodge is one of the most beautiful places to stay in Lake Lure. I fell in love with the view when I visited there last year with my Dirty Dancing friends.
It shot up to the top of my list as a place to stay when we returned to visit Lake Lure this time!
The Lodge on Lake Lure was built in the 30’s as a retreat for North Carolina highway patrolmen.
It opened to the public in 1990. It’s the only lakefront lodging in Lake Lure and offers a unique experience.
The Tree Tops Dining Room has stunning views of Lake Lure and the Hickory Nut Gorge mountains. Its the best way to start your day with a buffet breakfast and dinner is served Wednesday through Saturday evenings.
Attend the Dirty Dancing Festival
The Dirty Dancing festival is one of the most popular Lake Lure events.
On a previous trip to Lake Lure, we attended the 8th annual Dirty Dancing Festival which coincided with the films 30th anniversary, and yes it was a hoot, yes I carried a watermelon, and yes you can go in a lake lift competition!
The Lake Lure Dirty Dancing Festival is held every year in August. Tickets are $25 for adults, $10 for kids. See all the fun we had here.
For this visit, we stayed at the Rumbling Bald Resort which is an awesome place to stay for families right on the lake with water sports and its own beach, a pool, golf course and much more. Keep in mind it is a 25 minute drive from Lake Lure Beach area.
Get Active at Chimney Rock State Park
Chimney Rock State Park is an easy 5 minute drive from Lake Lure Beach and is one of the most popular places to go in North Carolina – movie buffs might know that scenes from Last of the Mohicans was filmed here.
At the top of Chimney Rock you get stunning views of Hickory Hut Gorge and Lake Lure. The hike up to the top of Chimney Rock from the parking lot is 500 steps – easy!
And don’t miss the 1.4 mile return trail through the hardwood forest to Hickory Nut Falls.
For more Western North Carolina tips, check out our post on 19 places to go in the North Carolina mountains.
Watch Our Lake Lure Video:
Planning a Trip to Lake Lure
Booking Lake Lure Accommodation
- Booking.com has over 32 hotels in Lake Lure. You get free cancellation on most rooms and a best price guarantee.
- Read More reviews and book your stay at the Lodge on Lake Lure here.
- Airbnb may have the perfect Lake Lure vacation rentals for you. Click here to search available properties.
Booking a Rental Car for Lake Lure
- RentalCars.com is the world’s biggest car rental booking service that compares all the major brands like Hertz, Avis, Alamo, and Europcar. Book your car rental to Lake Lure here
More cool places to visit near Lake Lure
- Cades Cove Loop bike ride – Smoky Mountains National Park
- The Biltmore Estate – America’s largest home
- Things to do in Asheville with kids – rock climbing, waterfall hikes and breweries
- The Great Wolf Lodge Charlotte
- Fun things to do in Knoxville TN
- Top places to go in the North Carolina Mountains
- Lake Junaluska, NC – a mountain retreat for the spiritually minded
What would be some of your favorite things to do in Lake Lure NC ? Do you love lake vacations?
FAQs
Is Lake Lure worth a visit? ›
If you're thinking of visiting the Western North Carolina mountains, you'll be spoiled for choice on things to do in Lake Lure, NC! As one of the best mountain towns in NC for family vacations, Lake Lure is packed with history, hiking, swimming, and vistas to make the entire family happy.
What is the best time of year to visit Lake Lure NC? ›Summer in Lake Lure, NC, is unmatched! Thousands of visitors flock to the mountains during June, July, and August every year, and with good reason. From relaxing on the beach to festivals to fireworks, there's something for everyone in Western North Carolina.
What is there to do in Lake Lure on a rainy day? ›- THE RIGHT TRACK TRAIN MUSEUM. This is a small model train museum right down the street from the cottage. ...
- KID SENSES INTERACTIVE MUSEUM. ...
- EPIC THEATER.
Well known for its role in the hit movie Dirty Dancing, Lake Lure is a sanctuary for serenity and relaxation. Its unrivaled beauty is just the beginning of what you'll find here. Take a boat tour of the Lake, play on the beach, swim, hike, mountain bike, climb a shear rock face, fish, boat, kayak or just relax.
What movies have been filmed in Lake Lure? ›Scenes from Firestarter, My Fellow Americans, and A Breed Apart were all filmed in various areas of Lake Lure, and even some scenes from the 1958 cult classic Thunder Road were shot here. One of the most well known movies filmed in this beautiful location is the 1987 film Dirty Dancing.
Was part of Dirty Dancing filmed at Lake Lure NC? ›Several areas of Lake Lure were used in the filming of the 1987 classic film Dirty Dancing. While filming, many of the cast and production team stayed at the 1927 Lake Lure Inn and Spa. The majority of filming was done at a former Boy's Camp.
Are there bears in Lake Lure? ›NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH
Rumbling Bald on Lake Lure is located in a geographical area that has always been a home to the Black Bear. We live in their neighborhood as much as they live in ours.
The beach is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day and is a great way to spend a hot summer day. It also includes a water-park, picnic area and a nice, covered shelter for rent. Bear in mind that it is unlawful (and unsafe) to swim in Lake Lure off the shore of any town-owned property, except at the town-owned beach.
Is the water in Lake Lure clean? ›This must be one of the most beautiful lakes in the world. The water is very clean and cool but not too cold.
Does it cost to swim at Lake Lure? ›The admission for adults is $10 and kids 4 to 12 was $8, with under 4 free. You can find pricing and information on the Lake Lure website.
How cold is the water at Lake Lure? ›
Lake Lure is considered a cool-water lake, with average surface temperatures being in the low 70s and average temps at the thermocline being in the low 60's.
Is alcohol allowed at Lake Lure? ›Coolers are permitted, however glass bottles and alcoholic beverages are prohibited. Grills are not permitted. Oversized floats are not permitted.
Is there a town at the bottom of Lake Lure? ›Turns out we had found remnants of Buffalo, an 1800s Gold Rush town that lies approximately 50 feet underneath the waters of Lake Lure.
How far is Lake Lure from Biltmore Estate? ›Lake Lure, just over 40 minutes away from the Biltmore Estate and only 10 minutes away from Chimney Rock, is one of the loveliest sights in North Carolina. The best way to enjoy the lake is by taking a cruise to enjoy the beautiful scenery and rich history surrounding the lake.
Can you walk around Lake Lure? ›A scenic and calming walk along bridges, across boardwalks and through a flowering bridge offer an easy stroll through Lake Lure, NC.
Where are the Dirty Dancing stairs at Lake Lure? ›Located on private property in what is now called Firefly Cove, the white railing may be gone, but you can still easily see where Baby practiced her steps all the way back to Kellerman's.
What lake was Dirty Dancing filmed on? ›That site of the filming was Mountain Lake Lodge in Pembroke, Va., which doubled for the fictional Kellerman's Resort in the Catskills. (Some scenes were filmed in Lake Lure, N.C.) Part of the Virginia resort was a picturesque lake but, according to an article on CNN.com, the lake dried up in 2008.
Where is Dirty Dancing set? ›Principal photography for Dirty Dancing took place in Lake Lure, North Carolina, and Mountain Lake, Virginia. Scenes in Lake Lure were filmed at a former Boy Scout Camp called Camp Occoneechee, which is now a private, residential community known as Firefly Cove.
Where is Johnny's cabin from Dirty Dancing? ›Day 1: 1927 Lake Lure Inn & Spa
Settle into Johnny's Cabin or Baby's Bungalow, both spacious Dirty Dancing-themed cabins. Although none of the film was shot at the Inn, the landscape at nearby Camp Chimney Rock – including its original cabins, dining hall and gymnasium – were used in the film.
Kellerman's Film Package and explore the place where it all started any time! Enjoy two nights at Mountain Lake Lodge with a welcome cocktail, exclusive gifts, special screening of the movie, $200 dining credit, and scavenger hunt.
Why is the Dirty Dancing lake gone? ›
The lake hits a low about every 400 years and completely dries up. But it refills back up again in a natural cycle. Locals noticed its water levels dropping in 1999, but the water came back in 2003. In 2006, the water levels dropped again and by 2008, the lake was completely dry, according to The Roanoke Times.
What animals are in Lake Lure? ›Lake Lure is a deep, clear lake with a maximum depth of 104 feet. Both warm and cold-water species of fish inhabit Lake Lure, such as the largemouth and smallmouth bass, trout, bream/bluegills, crappie, white bass, carp, and several species of catfish.
Do black bears swim in lakes? ›Can American black bears swim? Black bears are also good swimmers, and will readily enter water in search of fish. Black bear cubs take to the water easily and quickly. One of our favourite black bear facts is that one adult is believed to have swum nine miles along the Gulf of Mexico.
What to do if you see a bear while fishing? ›- Keep a safe distance. Back away slowly.
- Make yourself look bigger by lifting and waving arms.
- Make noise by yelling, using noisemakers, or whistles.
- DO NOT run. Do not make eye contact. Let the bear leave the area on its own.
All watercraft - motorized and non-motorized - must obtain and display a permit issued by the town in order to be on the lake. This includes, but is not limited to, any kind of stand-up paddle boards, kayaks, and canoes.
What town is Lake Lure close to? ›Towns near Lake Lure I Bostic, Chimney Rock & Forest City.
Is Lake Lure a nice lake? ›Lake Lure NC is a town that is literally built around a lake, nestled in the steep rocky cliffs of Hickory Nut Gorge area of NC, and south of the city of Asheville NC. Lake Lure is one of the most beautiful mountain lakes in not only the Blue Ridge Mountains, but in the United States as well.
Can you swim off a boat in Lake Lure? ›Bear in mind that it is unlawful (and unsafe) to swim in Lake Lure off the shore of any town-owned property, except at the town-owned beach. No person shall swim farther than 50 feet from the shore of Lake Lure unless accompanied by an observer in a boat, or it is a marked-off area permitted by town regulations.
Can you drive around Lake Lure? ›No matter what season or purpose brings you to Lake Lure and the Blue Ridge Foothills, there's always time for a lovely drive and more than enough natural beauty to go around.
How far is Lake Lure from the beach? ›| Distance type | Miles | Kilometers |
|---|---|---|
| Straight line distance | 239.41 mi | 385.30 km |
| Driving distance | 304 mi | 489.80 km |
Why is Lake Lure being drained? ›
Goal: The 2022-2023 Town of Lake Lure dredging plan seeks to remove silt accumulated on the west end of the Lake to allow for safe navigation of waterborne vessels into the Town Marina Cove, Firefly Cove, and the Rocky Broad inlet channel within the Lake boundary.
How much does it cost to fish Lake Lure? ›Non-Resident Annual Permits are only available to non-residents that have an annual boat slip rental on Lake Lure. These permits are $650. Non-motorized permits are $25 per day or $100 for an annual permit.
Can dogs swim in Lake Lure? ›Strap your four-legged sidekick into a doggie life vest and enjoy the views from the lake with Fido! Each of the certified instructors will be more than happy to show you the ropes to ensure your lake experience is a safe one. Dogs are allowed to play in the water as long as they are closely monitored.
Can you walk with alcohol on the Riverwalk? ›No. A person with an alcoholic beverage can only exit a licensed premise to an open container area, which is defined as the boundaries of the Riverwalk. It does not allow you to walk anywhere within the Specialty Center except the Riverwalk. Can I enter the waterfront parks with a drink?
Can you drink beer on the Riverwalk? ›Yes, you can walk around with alcohol on Riverwalk.
Is Lake Lure in the Smoky Mountains? ›One of the most beautiful man-made lakes in the country, Lake Lure is nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. Located about 27 miles from Asheville, Lake Lure sits in the Hickory Nut Gorge, surrounded by lush mountain tops and sheer granite cliffs.
Why is it called Lake Lure? ›This lake was to become Lake Lure. Though the name "Lake Lure" has always been attributed to Dr. Morse's wife Elizabeth, Dr. Morse was using the name "Lure" in his Chimney Rock promotional materials before the lake project began.
Is Lake Lure a man made lake? ›For now, enjoy your visit and make sure you come back! The moment you arrive in Lake Lure, it is obvious you are surrounded by beauty, unsurpassed anywhere else in Western North Carolina. Here, the rivers, streams, and waterfalls converge into a perfectly sized 720-acre man-made lake.
Is Lake Lure a private lake? ›The lake is owned and operated by the Town of Lake Lure as a private, rather than a State controlled lake.
Is there a lot of walking at the Biltmore Estate? ›For those with afternoon house times, enjoy a leisurely morning exploring the grounds. The Biltmore Estate is renowned for its amazing gardens, but it's also home to over 22 miles of hiking and walking trails.
Do you have to pay to walk around Biltmore? ›
An admission ticket, Biltmore Annual Pass, or reservation at Inn on Biltmore Estate or Village Hotel on Biltmore Estate is required to enter the grounds.
Is Chimney Rock worth seeing? ›Chimney Rock State Park is so much more than a giant rock, though; it's a testament to time. Chimney Rock has been standing tall over North Carolina for more than 500 million years. It's well worth the effort it takes to climb to the top – but there's also an elevator for anyone unable to make the trek.
What waterfalls are at Chimney Rock? ›Hickory Nut Falls, Chimney Rock. The 404-ft. tall Hickory Nut Falls at Chimney Rock State Park is one of the highest waterfalls east of the Mississippi. Take a beautiful woodland hike on an easy 3/4-mile trail to enjoy an up-close view at its base from a platform.
How long is the Lakes Entrance walk? ›The Entrance Walk is a 5.5km, grade 2 circuit hike located in Lakes Entrance, Victoria. The hike should take around 2 hrs to complete.
Does Lake Lure have clear water? ›4 - Lake Lure, North Carolina
Sitting in cozy Hickory Nut Gorge, Lake Lure provides gorgeous clear waters and a clean beach. Visitors can swim, enjoy the sun, and sandy beaches located near the main area of Lake Lure.
NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH
Rumbling Bald on Lake Lure is located in a geographical area that has always been a home to the Black Bear. We live in their neighborhood as much as they live in ours. Rumbling Bald has installed numerous bear-resistant trash containers throughout our property with plans to add even more.
Thinking about a visit to Lake Lure? You'll find a beach as well as a water park for one admission fee at this famous lake in North Carolina.
What city is closest to Lake Lure? ›Towns near Lake Lure I Bostic, Chimney Rock & Forest City.