If planning a summer trip, you might be looking for water activities near Asheville, NC. While temperatures here in Western North Carolina might be mild for right now, they will be much warmer in just a few months. Even though coming to the mountains will most likely give you a slight respite from the heat of your hometown, you will still be trying to find ways to stay cool. Our blog has the perfect list of ideas for you, so keep reading!
9 of the Best Water Activities near Asheville, NC
Here at Orchard Inn in Saluda, we always have a few ideas hidden away in our back pocket for fun ways for our guests to have fun and stay cool while in our area. One of them is to explore the lakes in Western North Carolina. Fortunately, we have a few fantastic lakes in our area. Here are some ideas for enjoying our lakes in Western North Carolina.
Lake Lure
The first in our list of lakes in Western North Carolina that we enjoy is Lake Lure. This wonderful town and lake are just a 30-minute drive from us at Orchard Inn and are perfect for a quick day trip. The city has molded itself around the lake and is very accessible in the town center.
Lake Lure is a 720-acre lake fed by rivers, streams, and waterfalls that are surrounded by hills and beautiful mountains. Lake Lure has an exciting beach and water park with water slides, games, a swimming area, and areas to relax on the beach. Another great way to enjoy Lake Lure is to walk along its sandy shores.
Lake James State Park
If you want to get away for the day, the next in our list of lakes in Western North Carolina is perfect. Head to Lake James State Park in Nebo, NC, near the Pisgah National Forest. Lake James is located at the bottom of the Linville Gorge and has over 6,800 acres of the water reservoir with more than 150 miles of shoreline.
Visitors to Lake James enjoy doing several things. The first thing that everyone notices is the view. You will get some of the best views of the nearby Appalachian Mountains from the shores. Another thing people like to do at Lake James is to walk along the shoreline and cool off in the shallows. Feel free to swim, boat, or fish if you want to be on the water. Need a boat? No problem at Lake James. You can rent a kayak or canoe.
Lake Fontana Water Activities Near Asheville, NC
Last on our list of lakes in Western North Carolina to enjoy is Lake Fontana. This fantastic lake is near the Smoky Mountains near Bryson City, NC. Like the rest of the lakes, there are plenty of things to do and plenty of room to do them.
The most significant difference about Lake Fontana is that there are many resources around you to make your trip easier. Many companies nearby can’t wait to take you fishing or just exploring on a day trip on Lake Fontana. Learn how to fly fish, rent a boat, explore the lake independently, or go on a charter. There are so many ways to enjoy this lake that it’s easy to spend a whole day here.
Other great water activities near Asheville, NC, that you can enjoy and will love are listed as the following. There are so many things to do you can plan an entire vacation around water activities!
Whitewater Rafting in Asheville, NC
Enjoying a thrilling adventure down a rushing river is not something you get to do every day, making whitewater rafting a must-do activity in Asheville, NC. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rafter, there are plenty of opportunities to hit the rapids in the surrounding rivers. Book a guided tour with one of the many local outfitters for a fun and safe experience on the water.
Kayaking in Western NC
With so many rivers and lakes in Western NC, there are endless places where you can go kayaking, whether you’re a beginner or an expert. It’s also more leisurely than whitewater rafting and lends opportunities to take in the awe-inspiring natural beauty of the area. You can rent a kayak from a local outfitter or bring your own.
Green River Adventures Water Activities Near Asheville, NC
Green River Adventures is an outdoor adventure company that offers a variety of activities, including ziplining, canyoneering, and guided hikes. But they also offer whitewater rafting trips and waterfall repelling for something different and exciting that will get your adrenaline pumping!
Tubing in Saluda, NC
Every summer vacation should include at least one-day tubing down a river. It is a refreshing and fun way to spend time relaxing on your trip. In Saluda, you can rent tubes and head to Green River for the day. Bring a picnic lunch and have a blast cooling off in the summer heat!
Waterfalls near Saluda, NC
If you love stunning waterfalls, you’ll love knowing that Western NC is known for them. And there are several within easy driving distance of Saluda. Hike through lush forests to see the cascading waterfalls of Shunkawauken Falls, Pearson’s Falls, and others nearby. Take some of the most scenic photographs for your vacation next to these natural beauties.
Western North Carolina Fly Fishing
Western NC is a dream location for anglers who love fly fishing. There are plenty of places to catch trout and other fish with its many lakes and rivers. You can go alone or hire a guide and spend the day enjoying the gorgeous landscapes while casting your line.
Stay at The Orchard Inn
When considering which water activities near Asheville, NC, to discover, whichever you choose, you will have a fantastic time with incredible views. Also, consider staying with us at Orchard Inn while exploring the lakes in Western North Carolina.
Our cozy rooms and cottages will give you an excellent night’s sleep after a day of fun water activities. Wake each morning to incredible views of our nearby mountains and a delicious homemade breakfast which will give you enough fuel for another day in our beautiful area. Contact our fantastic staff today and let us help you plan a fun trip to the lakes in Western North Carolina and Orchard Inn.
Photo by: James Willamor
