Nantahala Lake is located in Macon County in the Great Smoky Mountains. Hidden away in the heart of the Nantahala National Forest area, the lake boasts the best of western North Carolina's outdoor recreational opportunities and is within easy driving distance of Atlanta, Charlotte, and Knoxville.
The lake's shoreline is dotted with private homes and cabins, yet much of the land is public, managed by the U.S. Service and the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission, which also maintains the lake's public boating access area. The crystal-clear lake is located in the Wayah District of the Nantahala National Forest at the elevation of 3,002 feet.
Nantahala is a great fishing lake that has the distinction of having the only freshwater salmon in the state. You'll also find walleye, crappie, sunfish, trout, and bass.
Another big attraction of the region is the magnificent river gorge. Nantahala means "land of the noonday sun" because the steep gorge only gets direct sunlight during the middle of the day.
White-water boating is very popular on the Nantahala River. The eight-mile river trip goes through Class I, II, and III rapids and takes about three hours. The Nantahala Outdoor Center is rated one of the "best outfitters on Earth" by National Geographic Adventure Magazine and is one of many who lead white-water rafting trips on the river. The company also offers canoe and kayak paddling school, adventure travel, mountain biking, group programs, ropes courses, tour kayaking, flyfishing and hiking.
Horseback riding is available at area stable. Riders can enjoy Norht Carolina's best trails and breathtaking views while discovering the many varieties of trees, wildflowers, creeks, and wildlife.
Many types of lodging are available in the area, from camping to renting a luxury log cabin, and dining options range from your fast food burger to fine dining to please the most discriminating palate.