Paddle Fontana Lake Smoky Mountains offers a serene and picturesque experience for those interested in exploring the beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains. This 29-mile lake, nestled within the heart of the Smokies, provides a variety of water-based activities and scenic attractions that are sure to captivate visitors.
Popular Activities on Fontana Lake
- Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP): Explore the lake at your own pace, taking in the stunning scenery and wildlife. Rentals are available from companies like Carolina Bound Adventures and Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC).
- Kayaking: Enjoy a peaceful trip on the lake alone or with a friend, with options for single or tandem kayaks. NOC offers kayak rentals for this activity.
- Wildlife Observation: Keep an eye out for various wildlife such as Osprey, Kingfishers, Box Turtles, Ducks, and River Otters.
- Camping: Primitive campsites are available on the north shore and island within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, requiring a permit obtainable at the Fontana Marina.
Rental Services
- Carolina Bound Adventures: Offers 2-hour SUP rentals for $44, with additional hours available for $22 each. They also provide kayaks and meet you at the lake.
- Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC): Provides 2-hour kayak and SUP rentals for $35. They offer single and tandem kayaks and allow dogs on the lake with certain guidelines.
Scenic Attractions and Experiences
- Unobstructed Views: Portions of the 29-mile lake offer unobstructed views of Clingman’s Dome, the highest peak in the Smoky Mountains.
- Finger Lake Area: A favorite spot for paddleboarding, easily accessible and free from boat traffic.
- Hazel Creek: Paddle up into Hazel Creek for a serene experience, with opportunities to explore the surrounding area and camp at primitive sites.
Additional Information
- Age and Weight Restrictions: Some rental services have age and weight restrictions, such as Carolina Bound Adventures (8+ years, 250 lb. weight limit) and NOC (4+ years, weight limits for dogs).
- Equipment and Safety: Rentals typically include the necessary equipment, such as boards, paddles, and life jackets. It is advisable to wear appropriate clothing and secure loose items.
Paddle Fontana Lake Smoky Mountains is a must-visit destination for those seeking a peaceful and picturesque adventure in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains. With a variety of water-based activities, scenic attractions, and rental services, this lake offers a unique and unforgettable experience for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.
References:
- Carolina Bound Adventures. (n.d.). Paddleboard Rentals Fontana Lake – Open Lake. Retrieved from https://carolinaboundadventures.com/product/stand-up-paddleboard-rentals-fontana-lake/
- Nantahala Outdoor Center. (n.d.). Fontana Lake Kayak & SUP Rentals. Retrieved from https://noc.com/trips/fontana-lake-kayak-sup-rentals/
- Adv Guides. (n.d.). Paddle Fontana Lake | Canoe + Kayak Guide. Retrieved from https://advguides.com/destinations/the-smoky-mountain-adventure-guide/paddle-fontana-lake-canoe-kayak-guide/
- Great Smokies. (n.d.). Paddleboarding & SUP Rentals NC Mountains Fontana Lake. Retrieved from https://www.greatsmokies.com/paddleboarding/
- Paddling.com. (n.d.). Fontana Lake in North Carolina. Retrieved from https://paddling.com/paddle/trips/fontana-lake-north-carolina-1.