I Love This Inspiring Lakeside Walking Trail In North Carolina That Is Home To An Ice Cream Shop, Swans, And A Chapel

Lake Junaluska offers one of the prettiest hiking trails in North Carolina on which I have walked a hundred times. This gorgeous space is near my momma's home if you can imagine waking every day to such surroundings the Great Smoky Mountains offer. Even a trip to the local grocery store leaves me in awe of the panoramic scenery available from the parking lot. Come let me show you one of the best lakeside trails in North Carolina, packed full of sightseeing, ice cream, history, and places to meditate.

Once I drove in and followed the road around, I found a parking spot right along the paved trail.

This trip was perfectly timed to see some of the spring blossoms popping out.

The 3.8-mile trail is well-marked with bright signage and informational markers.

I walked by numerous historic buildings, including the George R. Stuart Auditorium.

It was the site of the first meeting at Lake Junaluska in 1913. Concerts, conferences, and other events took place over the years, including one speaker of note Eleanor Roosevelt.

And Gothic architecture never looked prettier than on a landscape with a sparking lake, mountains, and trees.

Memorial Chapel offers religious services, events, and is a popular venue for weddings.

Carved-out nooks for praying and meditation are around, such as this secret garden right behind the church.

And Shackleford Hall is an immense nod to the history here.

A former educational facility built in 1923, the recently renovated modern interior has an auditorium and several meeting rooms.

Some fishermen nearby were dropping their lines right near shore where chances are better of catching crappie, perch, and bluegill.

Fishing at Lake Junaluska is open to the public with a valid NC fishing license available at Ace Hardware in nearby Waynesville. Call 828-926-0300 for prices.

You can also bring some rods and reels to fish on this handy pier.

Many benches and gazebos are provided around the lake to observe the exciting activities.

While the hike is mostly flat, the North Carolina heat or chill can bring on a hunger for something delicious and creamy.

Junaluska Gifts & Grounds in the Harrell Center has a shop full of unique items, such as jewelry and local pottery. The center also offers public restrooms and information about the lake, a library, and coffee.

But what encouraged me to enter on this sunny, warm day was the ice cream.

I chose the hand-dipped Cappuccino Crunch. First I ordered a large, but the very nice salesperson advised that a large was four scoops and a small was two! I went with the small which was perfectly delicious.

Interesting structures enhance the natural horizon provided.

Other amenities include an award-winning playground, tennis and pickleball courts, a sand volleyball court, shuffleboard, and mini-golf.

The swimming pool blends right in with the lake.

It's also the place to rent a canoe, kayak, or paddleboard.

When I'm not in the mood for the full hike, I take the shorter, 2.3-mile walk by crossing the Turbeville Footbridge.

And while I wish I had a snack for these graceful swans, it is against the rules to feed them.

Lake Junaluska offers more information on the website. We celebrated my parent's memorable 50th Wedding anniversary here at an event venue. One of the many next times might find me renting a campsite or a room in the vintage Lambuth Inn at one of the most beautiful lakes in North Carolina.

While you're there, drive a few miles to Maggie Valley for antiques and delicious food.

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