Balsam Lake Lodge

Summary

Balsam Lake Lodge is located in the Nantahala National Forest and overlooks Balsam Lake with spectacular mountain views and a range of activities. The lodge offers 16 twin beds, a kitchen, three bathrooms and a roll-in wheelchair shower. Open from early April to late November, visitors can explore the surrounding forest, including Whitewater Falls, the highest falls east of the Rocky Mountains.

Overview

Balsam Lake Lodge is nestled in the center of the 39,000-acre Roy Taylor Forest within the Nantahala National Forest. The lodge overlooks Balsam Lake and offers spectacular mountain views.

The lodge opened its doors to the public when the Forest Service acquired the dwelling and lake in 1982. Since then groups have rented the lodge for meetings, recreation and environmental activities.

Recreation

Near the 8-acre lake are three short hiking trails, several fishing piers and a picnic area. The Robinson Trail, suitable for wheelchairs, leads to a dock and fishing pier. The Malonee Trail travels approximately a half-mile beside the lake to the day use area. The .3-mile Wolf Creek Trail continues beside a stream.

Anglers can fish for trout in Balsam Lake. It's also open to non-motorized boating.

Facilities

The lodge's amenities include 16 twin beds (some bunks) complete with linens and pillows, and accessible kitchen with all utensils and appliances, outside grills, three bathrooms with flush toilets, one roll-in wheelchair shower, firewood, fireplace, gas heat and a phone for local or credit calls. The lodge has electricity.

Natural Features

Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, Balsam Lake Lodge offers a haven in the Nantahala National Forest. This mountain getaway can be reserved for weekends and weekdays from early April through late November. Reservations will be open from early April through late November. A dense forest of mixed deciduous and conifer trees hugs the shoreline of this tranquil lake.

Nearby Attractions

Visitors to Balsam Lake Lodge can explore the rest of the Nantahala National Forest, which is especially known for its spectacular waterfalls. This includes Whitewater Falls, the highest falls east of the Rocky Mountains.

Charges & Cancellations

$170 per night sunday through Thursday. $200 per night friday and saturday.