Fair Waters Ahead

When the weather heats up, there’s something about water activities that appeal to us. Maybe it’s the fresh, cool fun of splashing through Lake Nantahala. Maybe it’s a desire to relax. Maybe it’s our sense of adventure wanting to explore terrain that’s been barred to us during the winter. The good news is, whatever your reasons for loving water activities at Lake Nantahala, we’ve got you covered with plenty of options. Here’s how you can have fun in the sun and surf this summer.

Boating

boats on NantahalaWant to lounge on the water with lunch and an ice cold drink? Lake’s End Marina makes boat renting simple. Rent a boat for Lake Nantahala cruising and get started on that summer vacation feel. You can enjoy the sunshine in a pontoon, deck boat, fishing boat, or a canoe. The marina rents by half days and full days, so you can enjoy the open water for as long as you can entertain yourself. Bringing kids along? Want to take a break and act like a kid yourself? Gather some friends together and rent a tube for your day on the lake!

Fishing

Make a memory on those still, fog-laced mornings of spring and summer. Teach your spouse, kids, or grandkids to fish the crystal clear waters of Lake Nantahala. Our waters are brimming with freshwater fish and secluded spots to relax with your line. Just avoid the endangered species!

Rafting

Is your sense of adventure telling you to get moving? Then pack up the car and head to the Nantahala Gorge for a day! Our friends in Bryson City have the scoop on rafting lessons, whitewater boating, and guided tours down the Nantahala River. They’ll keep you safe, happy, and having a blast while you satisfy your inner adventurer.

Want to learn more about North Carolina mountain lake exploration? Call Reflection Lake Nantahala today.

Kayaking 101

The 2013 Freestyle Kayaking World Championship has come to a close, and folks in the Nantahala Gorge are settling back to a life of quiet beauty in the North Carolina mountains. But the recent feats of athleticism and adventure have sparked a renewed interest in canoes, kayaks, and hand-propelled boats in the hearts of many nature lovers. Kayaking is one of the fastest growing sports in the world, and with the beautiful views from our Reflection real estate, it’s not hard to see why. Whether you’re sweeping down the rapids of the Ocoee River or paddling the placid waters of Lake Nantahala, here are a few tips to get you started on your kayaking excursion.

Preparation

The key to any new venture is starting out safely and slowly. Stock up on sunscreen, grab your life-vest, and store a safety kit in the bottom of your boat. Chances are you won’t need your flashlight and bandages, but it’s better to have them on hand—along with your phone or radio—just in case you hit some turbulent waters.

kayakingPaddling

Although picking your kayak is probably more fun, researching your paddle is an important consideration when heading toward the lake. Kayaking involves physical exertion, so it’s important to find a paddle that works with you. Choose the right size, style, and synthetic material for your strength and skill. When you’re prepped to go, use short, powerful strokes to propel you across the lake surface. Practice often to develop your muscles and improve your form and endurance.

Whether you’re training for canoeing competitions or simply enjoying the meditative relaxation inherent in the warm sun and clear waters of Lake Nantahala, learning to kayak is a great way to enjoy your North Carolina home. Stop by Lake’s End Marina for canoe rentals, or buy your own kayak for your cabin home. The summer is coming to a close, but today is the perfect day to seize the sunshine and voyage to places unknown.

photo from flickr

Kayaking on Lake Nantahala: Which Kayak is right for you?

kayaking

Choosing the right kayak for your Lake Nantahala adventure is the first step.

Lakes are a great place for paddlers. If you love to kayak or canoe, or think it’s something you’d be interested in, the calm but large waters of Nantahala Lake provide the perfect scenario for beginners or experienced paddlers with beautiful and scenic views and easily maneuvered waters. With close proximity to the Nantahala Outdoor Center and the rapids of the Nantahala River, kayaking in the area allows you access to both rougher rapids and the calm, serene paddling of the lake. Do you know which kayak to get for your sport? Here’s a guide to help you pick the kayak that will meet your needs.

Do you need a recreational kayak, whitewater kayak, or a touring kayak?

Before you purchase your kayak, decide on your intent for the sport. This includes the duration of your trips, what kind of water you plan to use your kayak in, and your ability level before you buy. Choose the description that best applies to you:

  1. Do you plan to just take basic cruises around the lake? Would you like more stability in your kayak for beginner’s assurance and for taking photos? If so, a recreational kayak is probably for you.
  2. Do you want to try out your kayak on multi-day trips along a camping route? Would you like for your kayak to be used in the lake and the ocean on vacations? Will you need to transport gear in your kayak with you? A touring kayak will fit your needs better than a basic recreational model.
  3. Do you want to be able to use your kayak on the rapids of the NOC along the Nantahala River, as well as the calm waters of Nantahala Lake? Consider investing in a whitewater kayak; these kayaks are built for the rushing rapids of a powerful river, unlike your basic recreational model.

 

Photo via  U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service – Northeast Region via Flickr CC.