Photo of Nantahala's Smoky Mountains. Click Here for 10 Things to Do in Nantahala NC.

Forge Lake Lodge is an idyllic Lake Nantahala Escape surrounded by the Smoky Mountains. There are many ways to appreciate the beauty of the area, including hiking, fishing, and kayaking. The surrounding area has unique opportunities for the adventurer in you. Spend the day mountain biking, ziplining, or mining for rubies! At the end of the day, return to the breathtaking Forge Lake Lodge to unwind and enjoy the unbeatable views. 

Boating

Lakes End Marina offers rentals and services to enjoy the water however you like. They offer rentals for pontoons, ski boats, sailboats, kayaks, paddleboards, and more! 

Fishing

The Nantahala River offers elite trout fishing. The Nantahala is divided into three sections, which all have different fishing regulations to check out before you start. For tips and the best locations for fly fishing in the area, please visit their website.

Rafting

Enjoy the scenery of the Nantahala National Forest and the Smoky Mountains on a whitewater raft via Carolina Outfitters. They provide both guided and unguided trips, depending on what you’re interested in. 

Horseback Riding

Carolina Outfitters offers another exciting way to explore the mountain paths by horseback. Enjoy the plants, flowers, wildlife, and trees that surround the mountains.

Hiking

Around Forge Lake Lodge is the Nantahala National Forest, which has over 600 miles of trails to explore. Spend a day hiking for the best views of the Smoky Mountains and Lake Nantahala. 

Mountain Biking

The Nantahala National Forest has fantastic mountain biking trails. These trails range in difficulty from easy to very difficult depending on your skill level.

RidgeRunner Zipline

Experience the Appalachian Mountains like never before. RidgeRunner Zipline takes you across lines to enjoy the surrounding forest while suspended 80 feet above the forest floor. 

Mason’s Ruby and Sapphire Mine

Mason’s Ruby and Sapphire Mine is a site where you can come and mine for rubies and sapphires. Get ready to pick up a shovel and a bucket for an authentic mining experience unlike anything else!

The Oconaluftee Indian Village

Get to know Cherokee Indian history and culture in North Carolina by taking a short trip to Cherokee, North Carolina. Tour the Oconaluftee Indian Village and watch craft demonstrations, learn the history and traditional Cherokee dancing. 

Unto These Hills

Exterior Photo of Forge Lake Lodge. Click Here for 10 Things to Do in Nantahala NC.

Before you leave Cherokee, make sure to stay for the outdoor drama Unto These Hills. The drama is the history of the Cherokee people from the Trail of Tears to the present day. A poignant and must-see performance for anyone visiting the area. 

These are 10 things to do when you’re staying at the idyllic Forge Lake Lodge (as pictured). Experience the outdoors by fishing, whitewater rafting, horseback riding, ziplining, and more! Book your reservation for Forge Lake Lodge today by visiting our website or by calling 651-389-3843.