Things To Do
Lake Junaluska
- The walking trail offers a paved and mostly flat lakeside path with scenic lake and mountain views. 3.8-mile trail loop or take a shorter, 2.3-mile walk by crossing the Turbeville Footbridge and the bridge above the dam. - Rent a canoe, kayak or paddleboard from Lake Junaluska Outfitters and explore the lake from the water. - Explore the waterfront of Lake Junaluska with guided lake cruises and private boat tours. - Tennis & Pickleball: Bring a friend and get a great workout with a game of tennis or pickleball! Rent rackets and balls at Lake Junaluska Outfitters, just across from the courts. - Fishing is open to the public with a valid N.C. fishing license. - A diverse range of bird species from pine siskin to eagles soar through the air at Lake Junaluska, and the lake offers a free birding checklist as well as guided birding tours.
Downtown Waynesville
Downtown Waynesville is a great place to explore during the weekend. The walkable Main Street is filled with local shops, art galleries, coffee spots, and mountain views that capture the character of Western North Carolina. If you’re looking for a place to grab a drink, stop by Frog Level Brewing for craft beer and live music along the creek. For a delicious meal, we recommend Haywood Smokehouse, a local favorite known for its Texas-style barbecue.
Waterrock Knob Overlook
An ideal spot for watching sunrise and sunsets across the rugged mountains. The outlook can be accessed by car via the Blue Ridge Parkway. The nearly 360-degree view from Waterrock Knob stretches the eyes over the heart of the Southern Highlands – including all of the major southern mountain ranges: the Great Balsams, Great Smokies, Cowees, Nantahalas, Blue Ridge Mountains, Newfound Mountains, Blacks, and Craggies. There is also a trail where you can enjoy a moderate to strenuous hike (0.6 miles one way) to the top of the summit.
Easy Hikes Nearby
If you have some extra time during the weekend, the mountains around Waynesville offer beautiful scenery and several short, accessible hikes. Many of these trails are located along the nearby Blue Ridge Parkway, making them easy to combine with a scenic drive through the Blue Ridge Mountains. Black Balsam Knob - Distance: ~1.5 miles round trip - Difficulty: Easy–Moderate - Drive time from Waynesville: ~45 minutes - Known for its wide grassy mountain “balds” and incredible 360° panoramic views. Graveyard Fields Waterfall - Distance: ~1 mile round trip to the lower falls - Difficulty: Easy - Drive time from Waynesville: ~45 minutes - A gentle walk through an open mountain valley leading to beautiful waterfalls. Mingo Falls - Distance: ~0.4 miles round trip - Difficulty: Easy (short staircase climb) - Drive time from Waynesville: ~30 minutes - One of the tallest waterfalls in the region and a quick but impressive stop.
Downtown Asheville
If you’re visiting for the weekend, take some time to explore Asheville and the surrounding mountains. The area is known for its beautiful scenery, vibrant downtown, and great food and breweries. Stroll through downtown for local shops, art galleries, and restaurants, tour the historic Biltmore Estate, or enjoy scenic views along the Blue Ridge Parkway.