Lake Nantahala

Lake Nantahala – Macon County

About Lake Nantahala

Built in 1942 by Nantahala Power and Light, Lake Nantahala is a Duke Energy-regulated cornerstone of Western North Carolina’s outdoor scene. With 80% of its shoreline protected by the Nantahala National Forest and managed by the U.S. Forest Service, the lake remains unspoiled, offering breathtaking mountain views. Its proximity to Topton’s Loafer’s Glory store and Franklin’s vibrant downtown enhances its appeal for vacationers and investors. From whitewater rafting on the Nantahala River to hiking the Appalachian Trail, Lake Nantahala delivers year-round excitement, making Lake Nantahala NC real estate a prime choice for lakefront living.

Lake Nantahala

Located in the heart of Macon County, Lake Nantahala enchants with its 1,605 acres of crystal-clear waters, just 18 miles from Franklin and 5 miles from Topton. Surrounded by the Nantahala National Forest at 3,012 feet, this Duke Energy reservoir boasts 29 miles of pristine shoreline, perfect for those seeking NC mountain lake homes. Whether you’re fishing for rare Kokanee salmon or kayaking to Clear Creek waterfall, Lake Nantahala’s serene charm makes it a top destination for adventure and relaxation, with Lake Nantahala NC real estate offering a vibrant lifestyle.

Features

Lake Nantahala is the Southeast’s only home to Kokanee salmon, alongside bass, trout, and crappie, drawing anglers year-round. Kayak to Clear Creek waterfall or raft the Nantahala River’s Class I-III rapids, just minutes away. The lake’s clear waters, visible up to 15 feet deep, are a kayaker’s dream. Over 50 forest campsites at Appletree Campground and Lakes End’s yurts invite campers, while the Appalachian Trail’s 58.7-mile stretch to Georgia beckons hikers. Or take a day trip touring the local waterfalls like Dry Falls near Highlands NC   a waterfall you can actually walk behind.  Lakes End Marina offers rentals and dining at its Café & Grill. With limited lakefront homes for sale, the competitive market fuels demand for vacation rentals and permanent retreats.
Nantahala National Forest lakeside living
Nantahala Lake in NC mountains
NC mountain lake
a NC mountain lake
Lakefront Property in the NC Mountains
mountain lake swimming
Lakes End Marina at Nantahala lake
Boat ramp at nantahala lake

Visitor Information

  • Lakes End Marina: At 17838 Wayah Rd, Topton, NC, rent pontoons, kayaks, or paddleboards, dine at Lakes End Café & Grill (Wednesday–Sunday), or shop the Adventure Store. Call 828-321-3001.
  • Rocky Branch Boat Ramp: On Wayah Rd, Topton, NC, offers free boat launches, parking, and fishing access. Ideal for Kokanee salmon anglers.
  • Big Choga Boat Ramp: Near Wayah Rd, Topton, NC, provides free boat access with ample parking, perfect for year-round boating.
  • Appletree Campground: On Wayah Rd, Topton, NC, offers primitive and group camping in Nantahala National Forest. $10–$20/night, open April–October.
  • Lakes End Cabin/Yurt Rentals: At Lakes End Marina, glamp in lakefront cabins or luxury yurts. Call 828-321-3001 for reservations.
  • Nantahala River Rafting: Access via Nantahala Outdoor Center (13077 US-19, Bryson City, NC) for 8-mile Class I-III rapids. Call 828-785-4844.
  • Appalachian Trail: Access near Wayah Bald for a 58.7-mile hike to Georgia, with scenic views and moderate terrain.
  • Swimming and Picnicking: Rocky Branch offers shoreline swimming; picnic areas at Big Choga are free and family-friendly.
  • Fishing: Kokanee salmon, bass, and trout thrive; North Carolina fishing license required. Guided tours via Smoky Mountain Outdoors (828-507-3916).

Local Contact for Lake Information

For lake inquiries:

  • Macon County Chamber of Commerce: For lake events and tourism info, call 828-524-3161. Address: 1200 Old Murphy Rd, Franklin, NC 28734. Website: Franklin Chamber.
  • Duke Energy: For lake conditions, call 800-452-7500, Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM, or visit Duke Energy.
  • Contact Advantage Chatuge Realty: For NC mountain lake homes for sale, contact Gary Ward. Email: gward828@gmail.com. Phone: 828-508-0803. Explore more at our lakes lifestyle page.
Gary Ward 030223
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Buying property is a huge investment. Having someone who keeps your interest in mind can mean the difference between a good investment and a poor one. Some realtors only look at the bottom line. Gary Ward of Advantage Chatuge Realty  is an honest family man with strong values, that is why we say to always ask for Gary if you are looking for property in this area or if you are wanting to list your property here. It is the only way we can assure you that you are getting the quality, honesty, and assistance you deserve. Working as a Broker for over 25 years in the north Georgia and North Carolina Mountain area, he will show you any available property and will represent you as a buyer’s agent as long as it is not his listing, in that case he is representing the seller and he will tell you that up front. Either way, you will always know where you stand and be well-informed. His knowledge and expertise in the area will put your mind at ease.

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