LAKE LURE – This hidden gem is only about 1-½ hours west of Charlotte and an absolute must! Whether you’re just looking to escape the daily hustle and bustles for the day or if you’re looking for a nice weekend outdoor getaway, the quaint historical village of Chimney Rock will make you feel like you’re in a whole new world. This little town borders the Rocky Broad River lined with cool little shops and stops you’ll have fun getting into.
If you love the outdoors, you’re going to love the Lake Lure area. Not only is it beautiful, there is so much to do here! You can visit Chimney Rock State Park for some hiking fun, do some rock climbing, and after you’re done strolling through the gift shop, sit back and enjoy some down-home North Carolina music by the park’s entertainer, John Mason.
If you want to skip the park, there’s always camping, kayaking and paddleboarding which is what Melissa and I did some years back when we stayed at Hickory Nut Falls Family Campground in a site right alongside the river. There’s nothing like relaxing by a campfire while listening to nature and the sounds of the river flowing and crashing against the rocks. Even better falling asleep and waking up to it! So therapeutic. I’m thinking it’s time to go back!
We also paddle-boarded with a Groupon we found from a rental company just outside of town. They don’t seem to be open anymore but you can always rent a board from the Lake Lure Adventure Company.
I’m no newbie to paddle-boarding but never in the mountains so it was such an amazing experience. If you’ve never done paddle boarding, I highly encourage you to give it a try. It’s so much fun and relaxing. Be sure to also check out the Flowering Bridge. It’s one of a kind and something you’ll want to do before you leave.
Fun Fact: Several areas of Lake Lure were used in the filming of the 1987 classic film Dirty Dancing! While here filming many of the cast and production team lodged at the beautiful 1927 Lake Lure Inn and Spa, where you can book the exact same rooms that Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey stayed in while filming.
Come back in September for the Dirty Dancing Festival! 😉
I know I said 5, but I found it difficult to wrap it up without mentioning the U.S. National Whitewater Center which is just outside of Charlotte and perfect for the outdoor adventurer with all kinds of outdoor activities from zip-lining to mountain biking to hiking to whitewater rafting to kayaking to paddleboarding and so much more!
Have a favorite NC activity you like to do in the Spring? Let me know in the comments below!