A Picturesque Lake At The Foot Of The Great Smoky Mountains Is A Serene Outdoor Retreat

If you're looking for one of the best ways to see the Great Smoky Mountains, why not start just outside the town of Waynesville, North Carolina? Here, you'll find Lake Junaluska, a destination that flies under the radar while offering easy access to more popular mountain attractions. It's right near the Blue Ridge Parkway and only about a half hour's drive from Asheville. With 200 acres of calm water and panoramic mountain views, it offers one of the most peaceful lakeside escapes in Western North Carolina.

Originally established in 1913 as a retreat for the United Methodist Church, the area has grown into a welcoming destination open to everyone. The real star of the show might be the 3.8-mile paved walking trail that loops around the lake. Wheelchairs and strollers are no problem — the trail was top of the list of Romantic Asheville's accessible hiking trails near Asheville. There's also a walking labyrinth and a variety of curated gardens for those looking to slow down even more. Definitely don't miss the Rose Walk, the Butterfly Garden, and the Corneille Bryan Native Garden during your exploration of the grounds. 

No motors are allowed on the water, meaning noisy speedboats won't interrupt the tranquility. Kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards are available to rent from Lake Junaluska Outfitters for $10-15 per hour, and trolling motors are allowed for those bringing their own boat. For anglers, the lake is stocked with bass, perch, trout, catfish, and more — but you'll need a North Carolina fishing license, which you can grab online or at nearby sporting goods stores. Whether you're here for a weekend to unplug or just passing through following the Blue Ridge Parkway to the maker's mecca of Asheville, Lake Junaluska delivers a mountain getaway perfect for exploring the Smokies.

At Lake Junaluska, you'll feel like you're on an actual retreat, with amenities that make relaxing easy. Whether you're traveling solo, bringing kids, or planning a couples' getaway, the lake's range of accommodations and activities lets you customize your stay how you like. If you want lake views with hotel comfort, the Terrace Hotel and the historic Lambuth Inn are both lakeside. Many rooms have balconies overlooking the water and mountains, and it's a short walk to most trails and activities. You'll also find rocking chairs with lake views at both — a perfect way to unwind in the afternoon and enjoy the scenery.

There are also vacation rentals and a campground, including full hook-up RV sites, rustic tent areas, and cozy rental cabins. The campground is a favorite for families, especially during the summer when kids can play on the playground or at the lakeside pool (open Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day). Visitors can also grab a bite without even leaving the lake area. The Terrace Dining Room serves buffet-style breakfast with mountain views, and the Gifts & Grounds coffee shop and Crepe & Custard Cafe are favorites for light bites and sweet treats. For groceries or places for dinner, the nearby town of Waynesville offers plenty of local options — The Sweet Onion and Chef's Table are highly recommended.

As for family fun, groups can challenge each other to rounds of shuffleboard, mini-golf, or cornhole. More friendly competition can be found at the lake's tennis and pickleball courts, with rentals available at Lake Junaluska Outfitters. The Lake Junaluska Golf Course is another big attraction open to the public, with a 68-par course complemented by an on-site pro shop and the 1919 Grill for golfers with an appetite.

There's really no bad time to visit Lake Junaluska, as every season offers something unique to enjoy. Spring brings colorful blooms and a flurry of bird activity — keep an eye out for herons along the shore and finches darting around the garden paths. Summer is peak season, with long daylight hours perfect for paddleboarding, picnicking, swimming and a guided lake cruise aboard the Cherokee IV. Fall beckons leaf peepers, as the mountains explode in autumn color, and even winter has its charm — especially if you're cozying up to the fireplace at the Terrace Hotel while watching snow fall on the lake from the window.

While Lake Junaluska is a great spot to add to your Appalachian getaway along the Blue Ridge Parkway, long-distance visitors can get there easily by flying into Asheville Regional Airport. There are also several all-inclusive packages available for booking that cover everything from lodging to activities and special touches — just check the Lake Junaluska website for availability and pricing.

Lake Junaluska might not be a thrill-seeker's destination, but that's kind of the point. It's a place to reset and renew, whether you're walking the loop trail at sunrise, meditating in one of the quiet gardens, or getting in touch with nature from a kayak slowly cruising on the water. So don't miss out on this little mountain gem if you need a quiet getaway to rest and recharge in the Smokies.