Named one of the most beautiful man-made lakes in the world by National Geographic, Lake Lure offers some of the most magnificent views found in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The lake is surrounded by lush mountain tops and sheer granite cliffs, and from almost any vantage point on the water you can see the famous Chimney Rock standing stately. Take a short trip from the lake and visit Chimney Rock Park where you’ll enjoy spectacular views of the lake and the whole of the Hickory Nut Gorge.
Lake Lure’s rising shoreline determines the location of lakeside homes and cabins, leaving them perched atop a wooded ridge or on a hillside. The water’s edge is saved for wooden boathouses with rooftop decks that are perfect for settling back to watch the ducks swimming in a cove, or to enjoy a stunning sunrise or sunset.
One of the best ways to take in the splendor and natural beauty of the area is to put on a pair of hiking shoes and set off on one of the many trails that are within 35 minutes of Lake Lure Beach. Each hike offers a different view of nature’s wonders. One such trail system is accessible from two trail heads, a public one at Buffalo Creek Road and a second trail head inside Rumbling Bald Resort for their residents and guests. The two trailheads are connected by 1/3 mile of smooth, flat pathway and a bridge over Buffalo Creek. This mountain trail snakes upward in a 3.5-mile loop that climbs approximately 500 feet through lush forest terrain and dynamic boulder fields.
One unique sighting that offers natural beauty to the area is The Lake Lure Flowering Bridge. When the historic Rocky Broad River Bridge was closed to traffic in 2011, volunteers came together and created a bounty of blooms that covered 155 feet of the bridge, which is located along the 3/4 mile Town Center Walkway.
Looking for an event with a view? The Dirty Dancing Festival, which features a FREE Lakeside Screening of the movie at Morse Park Meadows, is offered to fans annually, all in the breathtaking backdrop of Lake Lure and Chimney Rock. In addition, the Lake Lure Olympiad sports festival features the Lake Lure Triathlon, hosted by Rumbling Bald Resort a lovely mountain getaway at the north end of Lake Lure. What a sight it is to see the athletes enter the water for their 750M lake swim from Rumbling Bald’s beautiful sandy beach!
Lastly, the Lake Lure area provides a plethora of dining experiences that are sure to delight every culinary palate, and many, including RBR’s own Legends on the Lake, offer breathtaking views of the lake, the mountains or the Rocky Broad River.
We encourage you to visit the Lake Lure area this summer, and every summer, so you won’t miss out on some of the most remarkable views in the foothills!
