Blog — Page 6

Nantahala the Beautiful

August 23, 2013 by Taylor Leave a Comment

Lounging by the lake makes for a relaxing afternoon, but sometimes the trails of adventure call. As any Nantahala native knows, the Reflection community rests in the heart of the beautiful Nantahala National Forest, and just a stone’s throw from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Whether you’re exploring a new way of camping or tackling the hiking trails for a day of natural marvels, our cabins are surrounded by a world of opportunity.

Nantahala National Forest

Our exclusive lakeside real estate overlooks some of the best woodland views North Carolina has to offer. But Lake Nantahala isn’t the only oasis that embodies the Cherokee word for “land of the noonday sun.” The national forest we call home shares our name and enables us to revel in our surroundings. With 3 distinct districts, the Nantahala National Forest has no shortage of hiking, fishing, waterfall exploration, and foliage familiar and remarkable. When you retreat to your cabin home, you’ll have a new appreciation for the majesty of the mountains around you.

Great Smoky Mountains National Forest

Sometimes a weekend away is just what you need to appreciate your peaceful mountain home. This national forest spans North Carolina and Tennessee and offers no dearth of family-friendly campgrounds, historic buildings, and wildlife. Tour from horseback, bike around the countryside, or enjoy an automobile tour so you don’t overlook any of the lakes, streams, caves, and cliffs of the Great Smoky Mountains.

Outdoor Adventure Made Easy

It’s easy to fall in love with the great outdoors, and the U.S. National Park service knows it! That’s why they developed America the Beautiful, a variety of affordable yearly pass options in case one day isn’t enough to satiate your taste for nature. With special discounts for military and seniors, unique opportunities for volunteers, and exploration made easy for thrill-seekers and relaxation experts alike, there’s no reason not to enjoy every mile of mountains, waterfalls, and hiking trails that North Carolina—and America—has to offer.

photo from flickr

Filed Under: Uncategorized

Shores of Safety

August 15, 2013 by Taylor Leave a Comment

Lake Nantahala, North Carolina boasts rare salmon, bountiful trout, and a variety of other fish to keep your hooks heavy and your boats full. But our shores are also a refuge for a handful of federally protected fins. Next time you trek down from your mountain cabin, take a gander at our own endangered species.

Spotfin Chub

The spotfin chub or ‘turquoise shiner’ is a ray-finned fish exclusively found in Tennessee rivers and the Nantahala region. They thrive in Lake Nantahala because of its crystal clear waters, which support their natural habitat of lake-bottom boulders in clean lakes and streams. You can find this fish most frequently hidden in rock crevices between May and August. Dams, sedimentation, and loss of habitat are the leading contributors to the decline in the spotfin chub population. The state is working to relocate and breed these creatures with a goal of redistributing them to their native regions.

Appalachian Elktoe Mussel

This mollusk may seem simple; in fact, it’s often mistaken for a rock or piece of gravel on the lakebed. But far from harming the mussel, its rocklike appearance allows it to camouflage itself in a habitat that offers a shallow stream of cool, clear water and plenty of passing snacks. There is still plenty to learn about this mussel; Appalachian Elktoe are easily damaged, which limits scientific study. Take care if you discover one of these creatures while splashing around the lake.

Little-wing Pearlymussel

This small, incredibly rare mussel is one of our winter-breeding wildlife. Like our friend the Appalachian Elktoe, the Little-wing Pearlymussel inhabits high, clear streams. Unlike its neighbor, this mollusk is more often found beneath rocks instead of camouflaged by them. This tiny creature has suffered poor water quality and insufficient habitats, threatening the population of this once prevalent species.

The beautiful Nantahala mountains are home to more than just nature lovers. These 3 endangered species diversify our ecosystem and enrich our shores. Now it’s up to us to pay it forward and keep these critters safe in the water.

Filed Under: Uncategorized

Hammocking the Nantahala Way

August 7, 2013 by Taylor Leave a Comment

Many an outdoor enthusiast has relaxed on a hammock by the lake or stargazed from a traditional rope hammock on a bright, cloudless night. But did you know that hammocking is also a fun way to camp? The simplicity and comfort of hammocks is lending popularity to their use in outdoor recreation, and countless people are switching from tents to hammocks.

Camping Hammocks

When you think of a hammock, you probably imagine a contraption of woven ropes and long wooden spacers hanging in someone’s backyard. But camping hammocks are more reminiscent of the woven hammocks many cultures traditionally used for sleeping. Camping hammocks are made from a variety of weatherproof materials, but all are woven and lacking the support rods that stretch hammocks into flat, easy-to-flip surfaces. Sling your outdoor hammock between two trees or use a freestanding support. Leave yourself a bit of slack so your body can relax into a curve. On rainy nights, pull a rope taut above your hammock and sling a tarp over the line to protect you from the elements.

Comfort

Hammocks give better support than sleeping flat. Many doctors suggest patients with back troubles replace their mattresses with hammocks, and medical research shows that the gentle rocking motion promotes better rest. Regardless of whether you’re ready to trade in your TempurPedic for a good ol’ cloth hammock, it’s by far the most comfortable choice for outdoor sleeping. Hammocks provide better alignment and inflict less tension than sleeping on the ground. And during those sticky summer months, the suspension of the hammock allows nighttime breezes from Lake Nantahala to keep you cool as you sleep.

Benefits

Hammocking is easier and less costly than traditional tent camping. Unlike tents, hammocks are easily transportable and can be strung nearly anywhere. They are easier to assemble and disassemble than tents, and at a fraction of the cost. You can enjoy all the amenities of traditional camping and savor the beauty of nature as you drift off to sleep.

You can hammock on your porch, nap in a hammock by the lake, or near those explorers sleeping on the hard ground. Camp as a family or enjoy the wonders of nature on your own. The possibilities are as endless as Nantahala and your taste for adventure.

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: camping, Lake Nantahala, NC real estate, Reflection on Lake Nantahala

Lake house ideas to make your home stand out

July 29, 2013 by Kristine Leave a Comment

Go for a rustic design like this one, or modern and chic–Your lake house, your choice!

Reflections on Lake Nantahala offers the perfect location for your new lake house. With a great view of the lake, quick access to the water with the nearby marina and dock, and the perfect, tranquil mountain setting in North Carolina, you have everything you need around you to provide the perfect lake house setting. Now that you have the setting, it’s time to think about what’s going inside of your lake house and in the lake house design. Here are a few ideas we have to help make your new home even more spectacular:

Incorporate natural colors into your home.

Life at the lake is all about getting back into sync with a slower pace of life and nature, so surrounding yourself with natural hues will help add to the feeling. Go rustic with exposed woods and rich autumn shades inspired by the leaves around you in the fall. If you want a more modern and chic look, incorporate a country white wash or white space as well as shades that you’d see in the water, such as the deep blue or soft green that Lake Nantahala showcases from a distance.

Be smart with storage.

Built ins are a great way to add space and interest to your home without sacrificing any square footage. Consider adding book shelves under your stairs or cubbies in the bathroom for towels and toiletries. If you want to get really creative, consider a modern design such as these Murphy style bunk beds.

Add a touch of whimsy and personality.

The lake house is your retreat, whether you live at Lake Nantahala year-round or just come for regular visits. Let your home show off the same care-free spirit you want to have while you’re there by adding fun accents with a lake theme, or just items that reflect your personality. Not feeling really inspired? Scour sites like Pinterest or Etsy for great lake house decor ideas and sources to find what fits your style.

Photo via Flickr CC.

Filed Under: Lake House Ideas Tagged With: lake house, lake house ideas, Lake Nantahala, Nantahala Lake, NC real estate, Reflections on lake nantahala

Swimming in rivers, streams discouraged due to high water levels in Nantahala

July 26, 2013 by Kristine Leave a Comment

Don’t let the rain get you down. With care for precautions, you can still enjoy a great day of swimming in Nantahala.

Swimmers in the Nantahala and Pisgah areas may want to make plans now to head to Lake Nantahala, as the U.S. Forest Service National Forests in North Carolina has issued a statement discouraging swimmers in the rivers and streams of the area:

“The U.S. Forest Service National Forests in North Carolina is urging visitors to the Nantahala and Pisgah National Forests to avoid swimming in the creeks, rivers and streams until water levels recede. Water levels are more than a foot above normal in some waterways. High water levels and strong stream flows pose a safety risk to visitors.”

With the added water from the consistent rain we’ve been getting in the area, the rapids of the Nantahala River and the power of the streams in the area has steadily grown, making the water somewhat risky for visitors. If you’ve planned to visit your lake house in the coming weeks or have planned a vacation to Nantahala, don’t worry; you don’t have to miss out on all water sports. To avoid the strong stream flows and to have a safer swim, Nantahala Lake provides a calmer, more serene retreat until the water recedes. The large lake can handle added water capacity well, keeping the waters calm and clear, perfect for swimmers, fishing, kayaking, boating, and other water sports.

The U.S. Forest Service National Forests in North Carolina does, however, warn against some activities around the shore of the lake, stating that visitors to the Nantahala and Pisgah areas should “avoid climbing near waterfalls and be aware of the potential for flash flooding.”

We hope that everyone continues to have a safe and amazing fun summer in the Nantahala area, especially at the lake! A little vigilance and safety can go a long way towards having a great day at the lake, even after all of the rain.

Photo via Flickr CC.

Filed Under: Swimming Tagged With: clean lake, lake activities, Lake Nantahala, Nantahala Lake, NC lake, swimming in Nantahala

Bikers and Motorcycle Enthusiasts Love Wayah Road

July 15, 2013 by Kristine Leave a Comment

Get your chopper out of its parking space and onto a great road when you travel Wayah Road in NC.

Whether you’re a weekend rider or a biker for life, motorcyclists know that part of what makes a ride enjoyable is the road itself. The scenery, the speed limit, the curves, and more all come together to make a ride a great experience or a lot of work. While most of you may be familiar with Devil’s Whip as a favorite route in NC, how many of you know Wayah Road? This alluring, scenic, curvy road is perfect for bikers.

Why is Wayah Road so great for bikers?

Motorcyclists will love Wayah Road for it’s scenery, curves, peacefulness, and the lack of semi-trucks and other large trucks along the way. The route begins (or ends, the preference is up to you) at US 64 (Murphy Road) and goes all the way through to US 19 in Topton, NC, right at Lake Nantahala. Wayah Road is perfect for the scenic ride out, as there aren’t many businesses along the route; instead, you’ll enjoy waterfalls and serene forest views as you ride. If you ride East to West, you can enjoy a burger or a picnic at the Lakes End Diner and Marina while you check out the lake before heading back or staying the night.

What are bikers saying about the Wayah Road route?

According to Motorcycle Roads, Wayah Road has a 4 out of 5 Star rating from reviewers. While several discuss the roads great turns, the great view of Nantahala Lake and that the road is one of their favorites, one rider went so far as to say that Wayah Road is “one of my favorite roads, anywhere! I visit the area a few times per year and I always make sure this one is on the route.”

Have you tried out your bike on Wayah Road? Tell us about your motorcycle experiences near Lake Nantahala in a comment.

Photo via Lucas County Choppers on Flickr CC.

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Lake Nantahala, NC bikers, NC choppers, NC lake, Topton NC, wayah road

Enjoy Kokanee Fishing at Lake Nantahala

July 12, 2013 by Kristine Leave a Comment

Ashley Swann with her record setting Kokanee Salmon from Lake Nantahala.

Angler enthusiasts enjoy a wide variety of fishing near Nantahala lake. While the Topton, NC and Nantahala River areas are best known for their trout fishing opportunities, a day with your fishing pole at the lack will lend you more than a wide variety of catches. Lake Nantahala, however, holds a special kind of fish that no other lake in North Carolina has: The Kokanee Salmon.

What is the Kokanee Salmon?

The Kokanee Salmon is a variety of sockeye salmon that lives in landlocked, freshwater bodies around the United States. The fish, named for it’s title of “silver trout” in the Okanagan language, was stocked in the lake as a forage fish for other predators in the lake by the NC Wildlife Resource Commission in the 1960’s. Lake Nantahala is the only lake in North Carolina to stock the fish, though the fish can also be found in lakes in the Western US, namely in Alaska, Washington, Oregon, and several other states.

Want to set a record? According to the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission, the current record for the largest Kokanee Salmon from Lake Nantahala belongs to Ashley Swann and was set in June of 2009. The record-breaking catch weighed in at 3 lbs and 9 oz.

What other fish are available in Lake Nantahala?

Even if you don’t land a Kokanee Salmon, chances are you’ll catch an impressive variety and number of fish during a day at Nantahala Lake. In addition to the rare Kokanee and the famous Trout, you can find Bass, Sunfish, Crappie, and Walleye in the lake, providing you a wonderful variety of freshwater fish to target for your day on the water.

Tips for Fishing at Nantahala Lake

Ready to head out on the lake for a day of angling? First, make sure that all of your licenses and gear are ready to go and that the fish you’re targeting are in season. If you’re a lake area resident, such as a homeowner in the Reflections on Lake Nantahala Community, you’ll even get to save on your license as they are cheaper and last longer for area residents. If you want a little help finding the sweet spots on the water, consider using a fishing guide from the Nantahala area.

Photo via NC Wildlife Resource Commission.

Filed Under: Fishing Tagged With: kokanee salmon, Lake Nantahala, nantahala fishing, Nantahala Lake, NC fishing, NC lake

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

July 4, 2013 by Kristine Leave a Comment

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:

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.
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.
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.

Filed Under: Boating and Paddling Tagged With: clean lake, kayaking for beginners, kayaking in NC, lake activities, Lake Nantahala, lake nantahala kayaking, Nantahala Lake

Enjoy a clean and clear lake experience with the crystal water of Lake Nantahala

June 23, 2013 by Kristine Leave a Comment

When most people think of time of the lake, they think of water sports, fishing, swimming, and their other favorite lake activities, but not about the clarity of the water. Lakes, especially in the South with the presence of red clay and other muddy soils, tend to be thought of as murky waters; they’re fun to enjoy, but crystal clear water is not expected. Lake Nantahala is a special gem, up in the North Carolina mountains, as the water of the lake is well known for it’s clarity.

A view of the lake bottom from the Lake’s End Marina dock.

Lake Nantahala was formed in 1942 when the Natahala River itself was dammed to create a clean and crystal clear reservoir. The surrounding area had remained mostly wild and untouched, not receiving access to electricity until the 1940’s, with mail still being delivered on horseback. Since it’s formation, the lake has maintained it’s pristine beauty and seemingly untouched clarity; from shoreline to over 15 feet deep, visitors can see clearly to the bottom of the lake on most days.

The pristine beauty of the lake and clean nature of the water make it a site of exceptional natural splendor for visitors to the area and lake residents. The beautiful water is often the talk of much conversation and an instant photo choice for new visitors. From a distance, the water showcases a deep, almost sapphire blue appearance, but from the shoreline or a boat, people get to enjoy a glass-like purity that allows you to enjoy a view straight to the bottom of the lake or into its depth.

When is the last time you spent time on the water? How about the last time you visited a lake this clear? Take a summer weekend and head up to Nantahala to take advantage of the beautiful surroundings and to have a day on the lake. Make sure to send us a tweet at @lakenantahala to let us know you’re in the area!

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: clean lake, Lake Nantahala, nantahala, NC lake, NC real estate, Reflections on lake nantahala

Hiking In Nantahala How-To’s

June 8, 2013 by Kristine Leave a Comment

Hike for one day or for two weeks; either way, there’s a trail near Nantahala that’s perfect for you.

Lake life may not seem the norm for residents of large cities, but at Lake Nantahala, we find the area to be an excellent weekend “escape” for those residing in Atlanta, New Orleans, Charlotte, and more who just want a weekend to get back to nature and to enjoy a little quiet. When it comes to getting back to nature, hiking is one of the most popular past-times in the area, as Lake Nantahala’s beautiful surroundings has lent the area to excellent trails, including access to the Appalachian Trail. Before you head to the woods, there are a few things you’ll want to take note of when hiking in NC:

Stick to the trails

When hiking in densely forested areas, a trail comes in handy not just as a natural map, but also as a clear pathway. Get a trail map or do extensive research on the trail you plan to take while you’re at the lake so that you know what to expect, the duration of the hike, and the expertise needed to navigate it.

Pack accordingly

Even while taking a short hike in the area, you may want to have a bottle of water with you or a quick snack. On longer hiking ventures, make sure you have the correct over night gear, provisions, and equipment to handle the weather, trail, and situations you may encounter.

Be respectful of others

One of the reasons that people choose to purchase real estate in NC with a lake view of Lake Nantahala is the pristine, clear nature of the water. From the docks to the deep, you can see clearly down to the bottom of the lake, as far as the sun can reach, until it’s too deep to see further. This clarity is in part due to the cleanliness of the lake, and the respect people have for the water and the land around it. When hiking, dispose of wrappers and trash appropriately, follow the trail guidelines for pet waste, and be conscious of noise and behavior around neighboring hikers.

Planning a weekend trip or a full out hiking excursion near the lake? Get more details and hiking how-to’s from The Appalachian Trail Conservancy. Have a trail you love in the area? Tell us about it in our comments section.

Photo via Flickr CC.

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: hiking in Nantahala, lake activities, Lake Nantahala, nantahala, NC real estate