Posted in Virginia Attractions, Explore, Natural Wonders, Nature March 02, 2023 by

Discover A Little-Known Natural Wonder In Virginia On The 1.5-Mile Mountain Lake Trail

Natural wonders are all around us here in Virginia. From the famous Crabtree Falls to the Blue Ridge Mountains and even the Grand Canyon of the South — the Old Dominion is positively brimming with beauty. And perhaps the best way to discover them is on foot. The state’s seemingly endless network of hiking trails lends itself to some downright impressive adventures. Today’s feature spot is a relatively little-known natural wonder in Virginia that isn’t too tricky to reach. Take the 1.5-mile loop named Mountain Lake Trail and you’ll arrive at a breathtaking natural lake whose origins remain somewhat of a mystery. Have we piqued your interest? If so, keep reading to learn more about this lovely little gem.

Mountain Lake Trail, also known as Indian Trail, can be found near the namesake Mountain Lake Lodge in Pembroke, Virginia.
Shuo Mao / AllTrails
The trail is marked by a white blaze and about .15 miles into the trail, you'll happen upon a storybook-like footbridge.
Before long, you'll catch a glimpse of the beautiful lake.
Johnny Jones / AllTrails
Most of the trail is well-maintained, but it's best to wear proper hiking shoes. Depending on rainfall and weather, parts of the trail may not be in the best condition.
The lake is modest and somewhat peculiar. In fact, it's known to drain and fill seemingly at random.
Doniel Kaye / AllTrails
The last time that Mountain Lake was completely filled with freshwater was in 2005.
Shuo Mao / AllTrails
Three years later, it began to drain. And then, once again in 2020, the lake began to slowly re-fill again.
Matthew Scottmiller / AllTrails
This mysterious lake is filled to about 1/3 of its capacity. Fortunately, it's being studied and protected by the Mountain Lake Conservancy.
Johnny Jones / AllTrails
Spring and summer are the most popular times to visit this little-known gem, but winter provides its own brand of magic!
Tom Delano / AllTrails

Did you know about Mountain Lake? Have you ever hiked to this little-known natural wonder in Virginia? Feel free to share your thoughts with us in the comments below! For related content, learn all about what makes Mountain Lodge in Virginia so famous. (Hint: a very famous movie was filmed there — and you’re bound to have the time of your life when you visit!)

If you’re curious to learn more about Mountain Lake, you can visit the Mountain Lake Conservancy website. Or, if you’d like to book a stay at this famous Virginia lodge, check out the Mountain Lake Lodge website. Happy exploring!

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Address: Mountain Lake Lodge, 115 Hotel Cir, Pembroke, VA 24136, USA