Experience the beauty firsthand during a mountain lake getaway at Lake Junaluska. Learn more at lakejunaluska.com/lodging.
DISCOVER LAKE JUNALUSKA
UNPLUG AND RECONNECT
This issue of Discover Lake Junaluska celebrates what we do at the Lake to unplug and reconnect, whether it’s a stroll along the walking trail, a morning paddle in a kayak or a cup of coffee and a rocking chair with a view. Or, it might be laughing with loved ones during a family reunion, gathering with friends during a weekend getaway or bonding with co-workers at a conference retreat. Whatever you need to unplug and reconnect, Lake Junaluska is the place to make it happen.
VISITOR GUIDE 18-31
Top
Slow down and breathe deep at Lake Junaluska
20 Lodging
Book your stay at our lakeside hotel, historic inn, vacation rentals or campground. 22 Recreation
Explore the walking trail and gardens. Play golf, pickleball and tennis, bocce ball, cornhole and shuffleboard.
23 Water Fun
Enjoy lake cruises, swimming, canoeing, paddleboarding and kayaking.
VISIT LAKE JUNALUSKA
For more than 100 years, Lake Junaluska has served as a beloved spiritual retreat center in the mountains of Western North Carolina. We invite you to unplug and reconnect with a weekend getaway, family reunion, conference or retreat. Enjoy our walking trails, gift shops, golf course, tennis and pickleball courts, water activities, lodging options, rocking chairs and so much more. Lake Junaluska is a place of Christian hospitality where lives are transformed through renewal of soul, mind and body. Plan your visit at lakejunaluska.com
24 Day Trips & Dining
Discover area hikes, top attractions and restaurants. 25 Shopping
Find unique gifts, fair-trade items, books, apparel and more.
26 Explore Year-Round
Plan your spring, summer, fall and winter Lake Junaluska getaways.
COVER PHOTO A family
PHOTO BY DEREK DILUZIO
DISCOVER LAKE JUNALUSKA
Tranquil. Peaceful. Serene. Those are the words most guests use when describing Lake Junaluska, and we couldn’t agree more. From a stroll through the gardens to a walk around the lake, Lake Junaluska offers visitors a respite from a busy world. Or, it can connect you with others through myriad activities and events, if that’s what you need.
Our walking trail is a microcosm of life—a sanctuary for walkers, runners, nature lovers, and others seeking solitude or a dose of friendly banter. It’s where friends meet up to catch up while getting their steps in or strangers gather to watch a bald eagle fly over head.
Lake Junaluska is where families of all generations gather for reunions or weekend getaways, co-workers on retreat bond over a round of golf or a game of pickleball, and still others sit quietly at the Cross to feel God’s presence and enjoy the beauty of our natural surroundings.
Need a place to unplug and reconnect? Discover Lake Junaluska.
Editorial Director MELANIE THRELKELD MCCONNELL
Graphic Designer GARY KYLE
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Melanie Threlkeld McConnell and John Wells
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Derek DiLuzio, Juliet Howell, Madison Morgan, Sydney Sullivan, Teresa Tate and Melanie Threlkeld McConnell
HAVE AN IDEA FOR DISCOVER LAKE JUNALUSKA MAGAZINE?
We welcome story contributions and feedback. Contact us at communications@lakejunaluska.com
Lake Junaluska is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, governed by the Board of Trustees. Learn more at lakejunaluska.com/about-us
ADDRESS:
759 N. Lakeshore Drive Lake Junaluska, NC 28745
PHONE: 800-222-4930
CONNECT WITH US: Facebook facebook.com/lakejunaluska Instagram @lakejunaluska Link lakejunaluska.com Email communications@lakejunaluska.com
RESET
TOP 10 WAYS TO UNPLUG AND RECONNECT
The feeling is palpable at Lake Junaluska, a shift in energy that signals a change of pace from where you were to where you are now, a place to unplug and reconnect with what brings you joy, a place to experience serenity and nature’s beauty, and discover a fresh perspective. Need a reset? Here are some of our suggestions.
1 GREEN SPACE
Step into the Corneille Bryan Native Garden and lose yourself in another world. With more than 500 native trees, shrubs and herbaceous plants, a gurgling creek, handcrafted wooden benches and meandering trails, this enchanting little park in the heart of Lake Junaluska will capture your heart and soul and keep you coming back for more.
The Corneille Bryan Native Garden is one of more than 20 gardens and meditation spaces at Lake Junaluska that are open to the public.
2 WALK IT OFF
Our paved walking trail, with a 2.3-mile inner loop, a 3.8-mile outer loop and stunning views, is one of the most popular places in Western North Carolina to exercise, meditate, ruminate and generally make yourself feel better— all yearlong.
3 SILENCE IS GOLDEN
Put one foot in front of the other during a quiet walk on the Prayer Labyrinth. One of the most visually beautiful spots on the grounds, the Prayer Labyrinth is designed for those who want to move in prayerful, intentional and meditative silence. Located on the lawn east of Memorial Chapel, the pathway is perfect for children and adults of all ages.
4 OFF SHORE
Rent a kayak, canoe or paddleboard and take yourself or others on an easy tour around the lake. It’s a great way to spend time with loved ones—or alone—and if you’re lucky, to catch a glimpse of our myriad turtles, fish, ducks, geese, swans and eagles.
5 ROCK AWAY
Some say our rocking chairs are Lake Junaluska’s secret sauce. All we know is visitors flock to them, often in the morning with coffee in hand, to witness the sunrise, but anytime is a great time. Beware: once you sit down, you may never want to get up.
6 THE CROSS
The Cross, which is illuminated 24-hours-a-day year-round, has served as a beacon of hope for millions of people since 1922.
8 LAKE JUNALUSKA GOLF COURSE
Some of the best views in Western North Carolina are from the Lake Junaluska Golf Course, which can be delightfully distracting when you’re trying to focus on hitting a golf ball. We encourage you to walk at least one round for the full effect.
9 PICKLEBALL
Believe the hype—people are wild about pickleball. We’ve added six new dedicated pickleball courts for a total of 10. The other four double-dip as tennis courts. Bring your paddle or rent one of ours, and enjoy the thrill of this fast-paced, high-energy sport.
10 BIG VIEW
7 THE BUTTERFLY EFFECT
Just across from the waterfall on the Asbury Trail is the Butterfly Garden, a lovely lakeside resting spot featuring benches and statues surrounded by flowers, plants and the buzzing, humming life of the natural world.
Our beautiful new Chrissy Hill Scenic Overlook is like a pause in your day—a place to stop, breathe deep and appreciate the beauty before you. It’s located between The Terrace Hotel and the Warren Center and Musgrave Event Lawn.
Feature Story »
Reboot
SLOW DOWN AND BREATHE DEEP AT LAKE JUNALUSKA
Strangers gather together near a tall white pine tree, necks craned, to glimpse a nesting bald eagle before continuing their walk around the lake. Children celebrate the first day of summer by coordinating their cannonballs into the shimmering lakeside swimming pool—or, with the tentative dip of a toe to see just how cold the water really is. Newcomers ease into one of the oh-so-popular outdoor rocking chairs to gaze at the spectacular view before them, then surrender peacefully to the hypnotic hum and buzz of the natural world that surrounds them.
Lake Junaluska will do that to you, make you surrender to an altered state of well-being.
The allure of this sacred place as a retreat to unplug and reconnect is strong and undeniable. From the gardens and meditation spaces to the walking trail and iconic Cross, the unfettered rhythm of Lake Junaluska nourishes the soul, mind and body in a way many have never experienced or have forgotten, and others have come to need.
René Jones spent 31 years in full-time ministry at a North Carolina church while managing family, personal and physical challenges—or “life-ing,” as she calls it. Lake Junaluska, her “little piece of heaven,” helps her restore the balance she needs after living a “very busy” life.
“When I come to the Lake, I get to my room, unpack, and then, if weather permits—and most of the time it has— I’ll go and walk around the lake to inhale the peace, quiet and serenity and then exhale what I left behind,” Jones
said. “My most favorite time of the year to do this is during the fall when the leaves are changing. As the leaves are ‘falling’ from the trees, the things— people, places, circumstances—that I need to ‘fall’ away from me begin to do so, enabling me to change as well.”
Kaylee Roberts understands Jones’ sentiment all too well. Just 12 years old, Roberts looks forward to her family’s annual getaway to Lake Junaluska every Labor Day because it’s a break from her normal routine. “I relax more. I don’t have to go do everything, like sports and stuff at home,” she said, as she prepared to launch her paddleboard into the water. “I really like having all of our family and friends here, so we have people to hang out with.”
In fact, her parents, Lee and Nicole Roberts, of Knoxville, Tennessee, have made the pilgrimage with the same group of friends for the past 17 years. The Robertses and two other
From left, Eric Palmer, Connor Roberts, Nicole Roberts, Lee Roberts, Kaylee Roberts and Andy Wallace, all from the Knoxville, Tennessee, area. The adults have been coming to Lake Junaluska together for 17 years.
families—who now number eight children and six adults— have rented the same two side-by-side lakeside houses for the past 12 years. “What has brought us here is you just get away from the madness of life, and you just get to be at a pace you want to be at, whether it’s enjoying the lake or pickleball, miniature golf and that kind of stuff,” said Lee Roberts. “The cool thing about here is, with the kids, you feel like everything is safe. We can turn them loose a little bit, let them ride bikes, let them paddleboard or go do all the activities, and it’s all included.”
Nicole Roberts agrees: “We have a ton of kids who want to be plugged in at home and on screens and stuff, and then here, it’s such a really cool time when they’re doing things, and they don’t have screens in front of their faces.”
That’s true for the parents, too, who happily ditch their phones once they settle in and find their rhythm. “‘Relax’ is what I think of when we’re coming to Lake Junaluska. We love just to sit in rocking chairs on the porch and drink coffee. It’s one of my favorite things to do here,” Nicole Roberts said. “We ladies try to walk around the lake every day. The flowers and the birds, we just enjoy that.”
Deborah Peterson of Waynesville doesn’t relax much chasing her toddler son, T.J., when they come to the Lake, but that’s OK. It’s worth it to get him outside and away from
his devices, Peterson said. “I bring him here as soon as I’m done with chores, and we just walk and see nature,” she said. “We like the view here … and there is a lot to see and hear.”
Tim and Tammy Lawson like to see the seasons change at Lake Junaluska, so they make several trips a year from their home in Jefferson County, Tennessee, often coming in the middle of the week when the crowds aren’t so big. “The lake is nice, just beautiful,” said Tim Lawson, who was enjoying the water and the large hibiscus while seated in one of the white Adirondack chairs at the back of the Harrell Center with wife Tammy and daughter-in-law Billie Lawson. “We love the flowers, even more so when they’re [in full bloom].”
No matter the season, Lake Junaluska offers a remarkable environment, a standing invitation to find joy and comfort in a gathering of friends and family or during a rejuvenating solo trip, as Rene’ Jones has discovered.
One of her favorite memories, Jones said, is falling asleep in her Terrace Hotel room under the glow of the lighted Cross outside her window. “Being in His presence and in the majesty of His creation, I am always reminded of who He is and whose I am,” she said. “I always come away with a ‘game plan’ and directions for the next leg of the journey called life that He has me on.”
Rene’ Jones makes regular pilgrimages to Lake Junaluska to refresh her mind, body and soul.
Deborah Peterson, right; her mother, Daylinda Fernandez, left; and Peterson’s son, T.J., enjoy nature walks at Lake Junaluska.
A Few of Our
Favorite Things
A Sacred Space
Our 1,200-acre property brings people of all ages together for fun and fellowship and oftentimes something deeper. It’s where dog walkers and runners share the path with children in strollers and where fishermen compete with eagles for the catch of the day. It’s where youth on retreat make the traditional walk from Shackford Hall to the Cross and grandparents tour the lake with their grandchildren on the Cherokee IV pontoon boat. This sacred space is where we gather as friends and strangers, in groups or alone to savor life and shore ourselves up with all that Lake Junaluska offers us and inspires us to be.
Music Makers
If the walls could talk at Lake Junaluska’s historic Stuart Auditorium, they surely would sing. For more than 100 years, groups such as the East Central Hispanic Region Church of God of Cleveland, Tennessee, have used Stuart Auditorium during retreats for music worship and concerts, filling the space and grounds with a joyful noise.
Stars and Stripes
Lake Junaluska’s multi-day Independence Day celebration is a longtime tradition that brings generations of families together to honor the birth of our nation and each other. With a parade, flotilla, music, fireworks and more, Independence Day at Lake Junaluska is one of our most popular and joyful events.
Naturally Inspired
Breathe, move, meditate. Lake Junaluska’s natural surroundings are the perfect place for qigong, where participants can find community and partner with nature to unplug and recharge. Qigong is offered as part of Lake Junaluska’s Summer Activities Program, which is made possible through charitable giving.
Evergreen Greeter
Bushy the dog is a Lake Junaluska fan favorite, having spent his life greeting walkers and runners as they cross the Turbeville Footbridge rain or shine. The larger-than-life shrub puppy celebrates Lake Junaluska’s milestones and holidays by wearing his feelings on his “sleeves.”
Living Color
There are sunrises and sunsets all over the world, but none better than those at Lake Junaluska, especially if you’re watching them from the comfort of one of our signature rocking chairs or sitting in the amphitheater just below the Cross. Nature often takes center stage at Lake Junaluska, and we’re happy to let it shine.
Dog Paddler
Dogs and paddleboarders individually are two of the most common sights at Lake Junaluska, so it’s no surprise they often join forces to make the most of a day on the water. Who doesn’t need a lift now and then?
Clean Up
Volunteers of all ages turn out for the annual Lake Junaluska Cleanup Day, a true labor of love for the lake by so many.
Happy Campers
Splash, squeal, repeat. The sounds of summer at Lake Junaluska usually start at our lakeside swimming pool, which is brimming with families as soon as the last school bell rings. Located near the recreation area, miniature golf and other amenities, the swimming pool is the hotspot when families are looking to cool down from the heat.
Joyful Gatherings
The Journey to Joy women’s retreats meet several times a year at Lake Junaluska, bringing women from all over for a weekend of female fellowship with opportunities to grow in faith. Some women attend by themselves and make new friends while others come with members of their small group, women’s group, or friends and family.
Make Way
Lake Junaluska is known as much for its wildlife as it is for its walking path and long history as a spiritual retreat center. A favorite place of nature and wildlife photographers, Lake Junaluska is home to bald eagles, which nest high in the evergreen trees, and more than 180 species of birds, plus ducks, swans and other animals.
Lake Junaluska is more than a picturesque retreat; it is a place where mission, memory and meaning converge in profound ways. For generations, this iconic location has been a sanctuary of faith and a beacon of hope for all who visit.
Lake Junaluska holds a unique ability to simultaneously connect visitors to their sense of purpose, their past and their spirituality. Its beauty and tranquility evoke awe, while its sacred spaces and history inspire reflection and renewal. This remarkable convergence of values explains the outpouring of concern and generosity following the devastation of Hurricane Helene.
While Lake Junaluska avoided the catastrophic destruction that affected
Of MISSION and MEANING
surrounding areas, iconic landmarks such as Stuart Auditorium and the beloved Rose Walk sustained damage. Rising water levels tested
the resilience of the dam, which held firm, serving as a reminder of the importance of ongoing stewardship. In the aftermath of the storm, the response was immediate and heartfelt. Friends of Lake Junaluska rallied to pledge support for cleanup efforts, a testament to the deep connection people feel to this special place.
As workers cleared debris and began repairs, the trails around the lake once again welcomed visitors seeking solace. For many, Lake Junaluska became a refuge, offering peace amid the storm’s aftermath. Emergency responders stationed at Lake Junaluska not only found a logistical base but also experienced the renowned hospitality and generosity that define the community.
The resilience of Lake Junaluska during and after the storm exemplifies its enduring mission as a place of renewal and hope. Its beauty continues to inspire, with the iconic Cross overlooking the lake standing as a symbol of steadfast faith, even as clouds part above it.
A LEGACY WORTH PRESERVING
The story of Lake Junaluska is one of enduring legacy, made possible by the unwavering support of donors who recognize its unique role in faith, memory and community. Contributions to the Annual Fund are essential in maintaining operations and programming, ensuring that Lake Junaluska continues to be a source of inspiration for generations and a sanctuary for all.
Targeted giving has also played a critical role in recovery efforts. Stuart Auditorium, a cornerstone of Lake Junaluska’s spiritual and cultural heritage, is a focal point for philanthropy. For more than a century, this sacred space has hosted ordinations, worship services and performances. Donors Dan and Anne Martin emphasize its importance: “Stuart Auditorium transforms lives of faith and discipleship. It must be updated to meet the expectations of future generations.”
The Rose Walk, a beloved feature of the lakeside trail, also suffered during the hurricane, with several sections of the walkway sliding into the lake. Early assessments indicate that repairing the Rose Walk will require some major engineering design.
The dam, too, remains a priority. As supporter Chuck Lipp noted, “The dam withstood the deluge from Hurricane Helene, but its spillway was at capacity. We were blessed by God’s protection, but continued vigilance is essential.” Contributions to its maintenance safeguard this vital structure.
A CALL TO ACTION
Lake Junaluska is a gift—a place where mission, memory and meaning come alive. Supporting its recovery and future through philanthropy is not merely an investment in a location; it is a commitment to preserving a sacred legacy for generations to come.
Whether through the Annual Fund or designated projects, every contribution helps ensure that Lake Junaluska remains a sanctuary of faith and renewal. Together, we can sustain its beauty, history and mission, ensuring that its legacy endures as a source of inspiration for all who follow.
WAYS TO GIVE Online
Make your credit card gift on Lake Junaluska’s secure giving site. You can make a one-time gift or set up a recurring gift at: lakejunaluska.com/support
By Phone
Make a credit card gift over the phone by calling 828-454-6749.
By Mail
Mail your check to: Lake Junaluska Development Office 759 N. Lakeshore Drive Lake Junaluska, NC 28745
Stay at the Lake
The Terrace Hotel
lakejunaluska.com/terrace
Great views, central location and modern accommodations are the markers of The Terrace Hotel. Check in, drop your bags and head to the balcony where you’ll be lured into relaxing in one of our popular rocking chairs to admire the breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
The hotel’s spacious two-story lobby features a fireplace and floor-to-ceiling windows, which offer more views of the lake and a natural light-filled commons area that’s perfect for visiting, reading or playing board games with the grandkids. It also has meeting rooms and venues, making it popular with groups looking for warm, inviting gathering spots. It offers a daily breakfast buffet and 105 guest rooms.
The Terrace Hotel is convenient to the Rose Walk, Junaluska Gifts & Grounds coffee and gift shop, Stuart Auditorium, boat rentals and the walking trail.
Historic Lambuth Inn
lakejunaluska.com/lambuth
Known as the “stately lady,” the historic Lambuth Inn sits perched above the lake near the Cross, its iconic dome visible through the trees. One of Lake Junaluska’s most notable landmarks, Lambuth Inn was built in 1921 and renovated in 2018. With 130 rooms, Lambuth Inn is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and offers panoramic views of the lake and the Blue Ridge Mountains. Inside, you’ll find quaint parlors, historic charm, spacious meeting rooms and an old-world feel.
Vacation Rentals
lakejunaluska.com/rentals
Looking for an alternative to hotel lodging? Lake Junaluska has an abundance of vacation homes, condominiums, cottages and apartments with options for couples or families of all ages. Managed by Vacasa, a premier short-term vacation rentals management company, Lake Junaluska Vacation Rentals are available year-round with options for up to 16 guests. Rentals are individually owned by private owners. Some are pet-friendly.
HILLSIDE LODGE
lakejunaluska.com/hillside-lodge
The budget-friendly Hillside Lodge has a large lobby and 25 motel-style rooms that feature two double beds, flat-screen TVs and coffee makers. It’s located near the swimming pool, boat rentals, award-winning playground and Crepe & Custard restaurant.
Campground
lakejunaluska.com/campground
Revel in the beauty of Western North Carolina at the Lake Junaluska Campground. Open year-round, Lake Junaluska Campground has RV hookups, tent sites, cabins, apartments and a spacious meeting lodge. It features pull-through sites for RVs plus fire rings and picnic tables. Wireless internet access and cable are available in the log cabin, apartments and some RV areas. Campground guests may access the Lake Junaluska pool, recreation area, playground, gardens and lakeside walking trail.
APARTMENTS
lakejunaluska.com/apartments
Lake Junaluska’s 48 apartments are short-term rentals and just steps from our seasonal pool and boat rentals. They’re economical, convenient and comfortable, and some are pet-friendly. They can host from four to 10 guests, and most of have kitchenettes.
MOUNTAINVIEW LODGE
lakejunaluska.com/mountainview
Mountainview Lodge is an ideal budget option for youth groups and hostelhoppers. It has 40 simple rooms that sleep up to six people. Guests have complimentary access to our pool, tennis and pickleball courts, recreation area, and mini-golf and volleyball.
Visitor Guide » Recreation
GOLF
lakejunaluska.com/golf
The Lake Junaluska Golf Course is a beautiful course with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. It’s also fun and challenging for players of all ages and skill levels. Opened in 1919, this historic 18-hole, par-68 course with scenic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains is one of the oldest courses in North Carolina. Spanning 5,108 yards, the course is open to the public year-round. The pro shop has everything you need, from golf shirts to gift certificates and more. Book a round or purchase an annual membership. We offer private country club course conditions at daily fee pricing. The course is available for tournament bookings.
GARDENS
lakejunaluska.com/gardens
Lake Junaluska’s gardens are some of our most popular attractions. Filled with flowers, trees and birds, these green spaces are perfect for reconnecting with nature and with God. Download our Garden Tour Guide on our website. Bouquets and floral arrangements made with our blooms may be available for purchase seasonally for weddings and special events. An annual plant sale each spring supports landscaping and gardens at Lake Junaluska.
BIRD-WATCHING
lakejunaluska.com/birding
Lake Junaluska is beloved by area birdwatchers and wildlife photographers for being one of the best year-round bird-watching sites in Western North Carolina. With more than 180 bird species, including bald eagles, Lake Junaluska draws nature lovers from around the region to experience this avian sanctuary. Download a birding checklist on the website.
WALKING TRAIL
lakejunaluska.com/laketrail
Lake Junaluska’s popular lakeside walking trail, with 2.3- and 3.8-mile loops, is wheelchair- and stroller-friendly. Made possible through charitable giving, the walking trail is mostly paved, with some uneven surfaces, and is open daily year-round.
MINI-GOLF, TENNIS, PICKLEBALL & MORE
lakejunaluska.com/play
Lake Junaluska Outfitters rents recreation equipment for a variety of activities including miniature golf, tennis and pickleball, sand volleyball, basketball and our newly redesigned bocce ball, shuffleboard and cornhole courts. Also enjoy our nearby awardwinning playground. Rent equipment at the Outfitters window at the pool or bring your own.
FISHING
lakejunaluska.com/fishing
Fishing at Lake Junaluska is open to the public in designated areas. Best catches are bass, perch, crappie, brim, bluegill and trout. A public boat ramp is located on Highway 19 near the main Lake Junaluska entrance, and a boat beach is near the pool. Or, head to the backside of the dam and fish the spillway. A valid N.C. fishing license is required.
Water Fun
Lake Junaluska Outfitters
lakejunaluska.com/play
Summer is a wonderful time of the year at Lake Junaluska, where our 200-acre lake takes center stage. From sunup to sundown, the lake is a hub of activity with our popular lakeside swimming pool; kayak, canoe and paddleboard rentals; and our resident wildlife skimming the water for fun and food.
Lake Junaluska Outfitters, located at the pool, offers everything you need for a great day at the lake. It has boat rentals, swimming pool passes and recreation equipment for mini-golf, cornhole, shuffleboard, bocce ball, volleyball, tennis and pickleball, and of course, plenty of snacks and drinks for purchase. Hours are seasonal. Parking and restrooms nearby.
LAKE CRUISES
lakejunaluska.com/lake-cruises
Nothing beats a slow cruise around the lake on the Cherokee IV pontoon boat, especially at dusk with a brilliant summer sunset or on a cool fall afternoon when the season’s vibrant colors glow all across the landscape. This signature experience is perfect for guests of all ages. The 45-minute guided tours depart from the dock behind the Harrell Center. The Cherokee IV can also be booked for private tours or for small weddings and special events. Visit the website for pricing and upcoming guided tours and to make reservations online.
SWIMMING POOL
lakejunaluska.com/pool
It’s timeless, the sound of children splashing and laughing in a swimming pool, and that’s what echoes across our grounds once summer officially begins. The Lake Junaluska pool, surrounded on three sides by the lake, is open daily, weather permitting, from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. Season and day passes are available for purchase and include pool access, miniature golf and more. Lodging guests enjoy complimentary admission. Purchase passes at the Outfitters window or online.
KAYAK, CANOE & PADDLEBOARD RENTALS
lakejunaluska.com/kayak
Rent a canoe, kayak or paddleboard and explore Lake Junaluska by water. The 200-acre lake offers wonderful views of the surrounding mountains. If you are a first-time boater, the gentle water is the perfect place to start. Our staff is eager to help guests with their rental equipment, which is available daily during the summer and weekends in late spring and early fall. Make reservations at the Outfitters window or online.
Day Trips & Dining
Day Trips
Location is everything when it comes to Lake Junaluska. From the great outdoors to excellent shopping and dining, exciting adventures await our visitors throughout Western North Carolina. Explore waterfalls, see elk, ski, snowboard, whitewater raft, hike, mountain bike or take a scenic train ride. Visit Biltmore Estate, Cherokee or other top regional attractions.
Discover the quaint mountain towns of Waynesville, Canton, Clyde and Maggie Valley, or go the nature route with side trips to the nearby Blue Ridge Parkway, Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Pisgah National Forest. Whatever you choose, plan your trip at visitnc.com
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Oconaluftee Indian Village, Cherokee PHOTO CREDIT: COMMERCE DIVISION, EASTERN BAND OF CHEROKEE INDIANS; Sunburst Swimming Hole PHOTO CREDIT: VISIT HAYWOOD; Waynesville Street Dance PHOTO CREDIT: VISIT HAYWOOD
Dining
Enjoy lakeview dining, both inside and out, at The Terrace Hotel, which offers a daily hot breakfast buffet in the newly remodeled thirdfloor dining room, and at Crepe & Custard restaurant in the Kern Center, which features savory and sweet crepes, creamy custard, and soups and salads. Or, gather the family for a traditional Sunday brunch buffet at York Dining Commons, which offers inside dining or outside on our popular lakeside deck. The 1919 Grill at the Lake Junaluska Golf Course has indoor and outdoor seating and a menu that’s sure to score a hole-in-one with every diner. On the lighter side, a coffee and smoothie bar with pastries, ice cream and more is located inside Junaluska Gifts & Grounds.
1919 Grill, Lake Junaluska Golf Course
Shopping
ESPRESSO & SMOOTHIE BAR
Locally roasted fair trade coffee and espresso, lattes, frappes, smoothies, sodas, snacks, ice cream, milkshakes, sandwiches, pastries
FAIR TRADE
Handmade gifts and nativities from around-the-world nonprofit organizations such as Ten Thousand Villages and Ornaments 4 Orphans
GOLF PRO SHOP
Find golf shirts, caps, balls, tees, clubs, soft drinks, snacks, gift certificates and more at the Lake Junaluska Golf Course Pro Shop.
Junaluska Gifts & Grounds
Junaluska Gifts & Grounds is one of the most unique shops in Western North Carolina. Located inside the Harrell Center across from The Terrace Hotel, this amazing shop-of-wonders offers locally crafted artwork and pottery, jewelry, a dedicated men’s section of outdoor gear and multitools, apparel, soaps, lotions, ornaments and fair trade items. It also carries a robust selection of greeting and gift cards, scripture stones, ornaments, toys, mugs, water bottles, our own label of coffee, preserves, jams, jellies and fruit butters.
If you need a little nourishment while you shop, you can purchase a great cup of coffee, espresso, latte, ice cream, milkshake (vegan options available), smoothie, lemonade or handy grab-and-go item and enjoy them at a nearby table, bench or rocking chair overlooking the lake.
Hours change seasonally. For current hours, more information or to place an order, call 828-454-6777 or visit lakejunaluska.com/shop.
GIFTS
Freeze-dried and other gourmet candy, home decor, jewelry, pottery, puzzles, games and toys, art print collections from Lake Junaluska artists-in-residence, gift cards
LOGO APPAREL
T-shirts, sweatshirts, outerwear, caps, umbrellas
LAMBUTH MARKET & MEMORIES
Inside historic Lambuth Inn, is a market featuring souvenirs, sundries and locally made artwork, jewelry, soaps and more.
BOOKS & CARDS
Lake Junaluska history, local hiking, birding, Bibles, Christian living and devotionals, journals, greeting cards, and blank notecards from local artists
SOUVENIRS
Postcards, prints, magnets, ornaments, mugs and tumblers, coasters, made-inAmerica specialty items
TERRACE HOTEL MARKET
Grab-and-go markets near the front desks at The Terrace Hotel and Lambuth Inn sell bottled water, soft drinks, snacks, souvenirs and convenience items.
March 21-23 Journey to Joy Women’s Retreat
April 4-6 Journey to Joy Women’s Retreat
April 4-6 Peace Conference
April 12-19 Proper Golfing Academy
April 20 Easter Sunrise Service Easter Buffet
May 1 National Day of Prayer Service
May 3 Annual Plant Sale
May 4-9 Suncoast Pickleball Camp
May 11 Mother’s Day Buffet
Fall may get the last word before we settle in for a long winter’s nap, but spring gets to ring the opening bell to awaken us to another trip around the sun. And what a glorious sight we wake up to at Lake Junaluska.
From the purple and yellow crocus along the walking trail to the pink and white dogwood and Eastern redbud trees, spring color often presents itself just in time for Lake Junaluska’s Easter Sunrise Service at the amphitheater just below the Cross.
Lake Junaluska truly comes alive in spring. We hear it on the tennis and pickleball courts as players reconnect, we see it on the walking trail as babies once pushed in strollers now toddle with parents close behind, and we see it on the grounds as our staff excitedly prepares for our summer programming that will fill this sacred space with music, fellowship and worship.
In addition to the Easter Sunrise Service, springtime Lake Junaluska events include Easter and Mother’s Day buffet meals and the annual plant sale. A beloved event that supports landscaping at Lake Junaluska, the plant sale features flora grown in Lake Junaluska’s greenhouse or from our Corneille Bryan Native Garden.
lakejunaluska.com/spring • lakejunaluska.com/events
Summer
It’s summertime, and the living is certainly easy at Lake Junaluska. With our canoe, kayak and paddleboard rentals and resident ducks and geese, the 200-acre lake stays humming from dusk to dawn.
Our lakeside swimming pool, award-winning playground and newly renovated recreation area, which now includes bocce ball, cornhole and shuffleboard courts, stay full with children, parents and grandparents. We also offer tennis, pickleball and volleyball courts, miniature golf and an 18-hole golf course. The secret sauce for a perfect day just might be a gentle, family-friendly cruise around the lake aboard the Cherokee IV pontoon boat followed by a scoop of ice cream at Junaluska Gifts & Grounds.
Lake Junaluska offers fun, free and low-cost activities through the Summer Activities Program, such as morning devotions, evening s’mores and storytelling by the firepit. Sundays feature a morning lakeside worship service with our theologians in residence, who also offer weekday workshops and discussion groups.
The real firecracker each summer is our annual Independence Day Celebration. From June 29-July 5, this family-friendly multiday event features a spectacular fireworks display, floating lanterns, flotilla, parade, music and more.
lakejunaluska.com/summer • lakejunaluska.com/events
May 23 to Sept. 1
Summer Season for Lake Junaluska Outfitters & Pool
June 23-27 Music & Worship Arts Week
June 25 Lake Junaluska Day
June 25 to July 15
June 29 to Aug.10
M28 Summer Youth Camps (five three-night camps)
Summer Worship Series, Theologian-in-Residence Program, Summer Activities Program
June 29 to July 5 Independence Day Celebration
Aug. 18-21 Festival of Wisdom & Grace
Aug. 22-24 Journey to Joy Women’s Retreat
Aug. 30
Friends of the Lake 5K Road Race & Walk
Sept. 1 to Oct. 31 Fall Lodging Specials
Sep. 11-14 Smoky Mountain Ukulele Retreat
Oct. 5-10 Suncoast Pickleball Camp
Oct. 17-19 Choir Music Weekend
Nov. 14-16 Journey to Joy Women’s Retreat
Nov. 27 Thanksgiving at Lake Junaluska, Thanksgiving Buffet
“For the beauty of the earth” comes to mind when summer eases into autumn at Lake Junaluska. The lush green of summer starts to fade, making way for the brilliant leaves of red, gold and orange to light up the grounds and surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains.
Fall at Lake Junaluska means preparing for Choir Music Weekend, sweeping out the fireplaces and preparing for visitors who flock to Western North Carolina to witness the beauty of nature’s changing of the guard. Even the Cross takes on a special glow in the midst of fall’s kaleidoscope of color.
Fall means a wonderful Thanksgiving lunch buffet at The Terrace Hotel Dining Room, and nearby apple and music festivals and myriad arts and craft shows. An official Monarch Waystation, Lake Junaluska offers spectacular viewing as the migrating beauties make their way through Haywood County during the early fall season.
Come experience Lake Junaluska in the fall when we “spice” things up a bit, with nature’s help, of course, and discover something new.
lakejunaluska.com/fall • lakejunaluska.com/events
Winter
We embrace winter at Lake Junaluska and all it brings—garland, wreaths and festive lights—to help us celebrate the joy and excitement of the holidays. We giddily rejoice as the first snow dusts the ground, while acknowledging the dimming light offers us much-needed down time for reflection and introspection.
Lake Junaluska is the ultimate host during the Christmas season with carriage rides, hot chocolate, cookies and carols.
Winter at Lake Junaluska is filled with families and friends who gather for holiday parties, concerts and other special events at historic Lambuth Inn and the Warren Center. Some come for a winter mountain getaway, while others such as youth groups gather for weekends of skiing at nearby Cataloochee Ski Area.
Lake Junaluska in the winter is the perfect place for outdoor enthusiasts to gather for some of the best bird-watching in Western North Carolina. With a large stone fireplace inside The Terrace Hotel lobby and hot drinks at Junaluska Gifts & Grounds, they know the cold is only temporary.
lakejunaluska.com/winter • lakejunaluska.com/events
Dec. 5-7
Dec. 12-24 Christmas at
Dec. 25 Christmas Day
Dec. 2025 to March 2026 Youth and Confirmation Retreats
Jan. 1, 2026 New Year’s Day
Balsam Range Art of Music Festival
Lake Junaluska
RECREATION
1 Lake Junaluska Golf Course
2 Walking Trail
3 Nanci Weldon Memorial Gym
4 J.B. Ivey Playground
5 Shuffleboard/Tennis/Pickleball/ Volleyball/Basketball/Gaga Courts
6 Mini-Golf
7 Lake Junaluska Outfitters Pool, kayak/canoe rentals, snacks, recreation equipment
8 Fishing Pier
9 Fitness Center
10 Cherokee IV Boat Tours Dock
GARDENS AND SACRED SPACES
1 Biblical Garden
Corneille Bryan Native Garden 3 Stuart Spring 4 Gattis Meditation Garden
5 Susanna Wesley Garden
6 Chrissy Hill Overlook
7 Rose Walk
8 Memorial Chapel and Room of Memory
9 Prayer Labyrinth
10 Meditation & Fishing Pier
11 Lake Junaluska Cross and Amphitheater
12 Inspiration Point
13 Park at Lake Junaluska Dam
KEY
Public Area
Lake
Gardens and Sacred Spaces
Golf Course (Public)
Road
Walking Trail: Inner Loop
Walking Trail: Outer Loop
Trolley Stop
Public Parking
Public Restrooms
Visitor Information
RV/Tent Camping
Golf Course
Swimming Pool
Boat Rentals
Boat Launch
Kayak/Canoe Launch i
WALKING TRAIL
Inner Loop – 2.3 miles Outer Loop – 3.8 miles
Walkways have irregular surfaces. Pick up our Walking Trail Guide for more information.
LODGING
1 The Terrace Hotel
2 Lambuth Inn
3 Mountainview Lodge
4 Hillside Lodge
5a Apartments 1-20
5b Apartments 21-40
5c Apartments 41-50
6 Vacasa Vacation Rentals
7 Campground
SHOPPING & DINING
1 Golf Course Pro Shop/1919 Grill
2 York Dining Commons/ Lakeside Deck Private events
3 Crepe & Custard
4 Terrace Hotel Hot breakfast
5 Junaluska Gifts & Grounds
Harrell Center
6 Christmas Memories
PEACEFUL WATER
REFLECTIONS BRING RELIEF
Ken Wooten is a jovial man who engages easily in conversation. But he was quiet, if only briefly, when asked why the organization he works for has returned to Lake Junaluska for 30 years for its annual retreat.
“No words,” he whispered, gesturing toward the lake with a sweep of his hand, as he sat in a rocking chair on the back deck of the Harrell Center on a warm September day. “This is one of the most beautiful places in Western North Carolina. It’s just so serene. Our conference is called the Reflections Symposium, and the name is derived from that sun shining on that lake.”
Wooten is the director of training and compliance for the Children’s Advocacy Centers of North Carolina, an accredited state chapter of the National Children’s Alliance with 12 employees and the statewide leader in the fight against child abuse. CACNC connects local child advocacy centers and partners with the tools, resources and support needed to provide a comprehensive response to the children and supportive caregivers affected by abuse.
Wooten has been with the organization since 2016 and plans to retire in December 2025.
“We have 55 child advocacy centers across North Carolina whose mission is to provide services for free of charge to child maltreatment victims for as long as they are needed. Those services which include forensic interviewing, victim advocacy, child medical evaluations and evidence-based mental health treatment allow for children to heal from the trauma they experienced and allow for justice in the community,” he said.
The centers operate with multidisciplinary teams, Wooten explained, so anyone who has anything to do with a child abuse case is on that team, such as members of law enforcement, prosecutors, therapists, guardians ad litem, pediatricians or other medical providers, or a member of the department of Social Services or Child Protective Services.
And it’s hard, difficult work, says Julie Schroer, training and curriculum coordinator for the CACNC. “It’s every day we talk about tough stuff—every day—so that team support is crucial, and it’s crucial from the Children’s Advocacy Centers’ standpoint to be able to recognize when a team member might be struggling, or might need a conversation or to sit somewhere and have afternoon coffee,” Schroer said.
Enter Lake Junaluska.
“There are two parts to the symposium. One is educational— the training part. The second is the mental health of the people who do the job,” Wooten said. “Coming to Lake Junaluska provides a respite for people in these jobs that are really difficult, and it offers them a chance to connect with each other and connect with their surroundings in a way that recharges them.”
From left, Ken Wooten, director of training and compliance for the Children’s Advocacy Centers of North Carolina, and Julie Schroer, training and curriculum coordinator for the CACNC.
And Wooten included. A self-described early bird, Wooten gets up at 5:30 a.m. when he’s at Lake Junaluska, and heads to The Terrace Hotel lobby for coffee and then to a rocking chair on the balcony to watch the sunrise. “It’s just majestic,” he said.
Lake Junaluska’s history is important too, he added. “First of all, this place was owned by the Methodist Church. So, when they first started here, there was an aura when you walk through that lobby up at the Terrace. And then when you go up to that Cross upon the mountain at Lambuth Inn, there’s something special. It would grab you a little bit. It’s just different.”
For Schroer, who lives in Canton and works remotely as do all of the employees of the CACNC, it’s the early morning mist on the lake that brings her to a place of peacefulness.
“When Ken and I are here for an event, we’re working, so my time to reflect is really just in the morning. We get here, take a moment out on the balcony of the Terrace, see the mist, it’s quiet, you’re starting to see people walking, there are some other center directors and other staff who are wandering around, and it’s that quiet moment to have a connection to people and to nature in a way that is peaceful. It’s just a peace that you can gather here,” she said.
Wooten said those who attend the CACNC retreats at Lake Junaluska don’t have to, but they want to. “They could choose from a multitude of conferences across the country that have high-name cities and locations. But for 30 years, to continue in the same venue is almost unheard of for a lot of entities who do planning for symposiums and conferences,” he said. “Thirty years—it says a lot about why they want to come back, and if you look around where we are here today, it’s just a beautiful place.”
BRING YOUR GROUP
Lake Junaluska is the perfect place for conferences, retreats, meetings, weddings, reunions and more. Choose from a wide range of accommodations, dining and catering options, recreational activities and spacious indoor and outdoor meeting and event venues as you plan your next event.
AMENITIES & RECREATION
• 200-acre lake
• 18-hole golf course
• 2.3-mile or 3.8-mile loop walking trail with Rose Walk
• Gift and coffee shop
• Gardens
• Fitness center
INDOOR & OUTDOOR MEETING VENUES
Shackford Hall: Accommodates up to 600 people in auditorium with stage; 10 breakout rooms.
Memorial Chapel: Accommodates 200 people in pew seating.
Terrace Auditorium: Accommodates up to 220 people; five breakout rooms.
Lambuth International: Accommodates up to 200 people; seven breakout rooms.
Lakeside Tent: Accommodates 175 people in theater-style seating.
Kern Center: Accommodates up to 200 people; one breakout room.
Nanci Weldon Gym: Accommodates up to 400 people in open air gym.
CONTACT
• Outdoor pool
• Mini-golf, tennis, pickleball
• Canoes, kayaks and paddleboards
• Campground
• Playground
Stuart Auditorium:
Accommodates 2,000 people in permanent theater-style seating and a rehearsal/green room space.
Inspiration Point: Accommodates up to 90 people and offers sweeping views of the lake, mountains and Cross.
Warren Center: Accommodates 180 people in banquet hall and features an event lawn for ceremonies and receptions.
Harrell Center: Accommodates up to 400 people theater-style along with five breakout rooms.
York Dining Commons: Accommodates up to 420 people for a catered meal or private event. Lakeside Deck, up to 200 for a reception.
Visit lakejunaluska.com/plan-an-event, call 828-454-6650 or email groupsales@lakejunaluska.com to learn more.
Lake Love
BRIDE’S CHILDHOOD DREAM COMES TRUE WITH LAKE JUNALUSKA WEDDING
Memorial Chapel was filled to the brim with family, friends, love and memories for the wedding of Claire Ecrement and Rich Lutter. A beacon of Ecrement’s childhood, Lake Junaluska served as the backdrop for the joyful celebration that featured fresh-from-the-garden flowers and a sparkling new event center.
“Lake Junaluska has always been my happy place, and my mom and I have dreamed about me getting married there for as long as I can remember,” said Claire, who now goes by Claire Lutter.
The couple, from Columbia, South Carolina, had their reception at the newly opened Warren Center and Musgrave Event Lawn—the first wedding reception to be held at the elegant new space since it opened in June 2024.
“My grandparents stumbled upon Lake Junaluska 16 years ago on their way home to Kentucky from visiting us in South Carolina,” Claire said. “We have a big family, and they were able to rent the Brookside Lodge every summer during the week of the Fourth of July. Visiting the lake every year was the highlight of my summer, and I would always dream of Junaluska.”
“Lake Junaluska was always and is always a spiritual place for me. I feel so close to Jesus,” Claire said. “When I met my husband, our faith very much bonded us. I took him to Lake Junaluska, and he immediately felt the same way I did, and so when we got engaged, we knew we wanted to get married at the chapel.”
Claire hired Melissa Marshall, Lake Junsluska’s director of landscaping, to make the centerpieces for the reception and the wedding party’s bouquets, boutonnieres and wrist corsages with a mix of summer wildflowers from Lake Junaluska’s gardens.
Her dream came true at 4 p.m Saturday, July 13, 2024, when she was escorted down the aisle by her brother, who pushed her wheelchair, and her father, who held her hand. Claire, a middle school art teacher, and Rich, who works in environmental remediation, met on a blind date. They felt an instant connection, Claire wrote in a wedding blog. “I don’t think I will ever forget how hugging him for the first time felt. It was almost like our souls recognized each other. Our connection felt immediate, and our first date was truly love at first sight.” They were engaged Nov. 22, 2023.
Faith is the centerpiece of the Lutters’ life, and that made Lake Junaluska even more appealing as the site of their nuptials.
“I told her my vision and she handpicked wildflowers for the day, and it was perfect,” Claire said.
The sit-down dinner at the Warren Center was catered by Lake Junaluska’s food service department. “It was everything I wanted it to be,” Claire said. “The outdoor space was truly magical. The floral arrangements on the wooden tables with all the candles were so romantic.”
Claire’s childhood memories of summer family gatherings at Lake Junaluska have now grown to include a most adult landmark moment: her wedding.
“Lake Junaluska’s entire event staff went above and beyond to help make our day special, and we couldn’t be more thankful. It was a dream come true,” she said.
WEDDINGS & RECEPTIONS
Lake Junaluska offers scenic indoor and outdoor wedding and reception venues, as well as packages that include lodging, meals, flowers and more. Learn more at lakejunaluska.com/weddings
REMEMBERED
COLLECTION, D.H. RAMSEY LIBRARY SPECIAL COLLECTIONS, UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA ASHEVILLE,
at Shining Rock G092-4M, BUNCOMBE COUNTY SPECIAL COLLECTIONS, PACK MEMORIAL PUBLIC LIBRARY, ASHEVILLE, NC
George Masa was born in Osaka, Japan, in 1881 but moved to the United States as a young man. He eventually made his way to Asheville in 1915, according to “George Masa: A Life Reimagined,” written by Janet McCue and Paul Bonesteel. There he worked primarily as a professional photographer while establishing himself as an avid mountaineer. Subsequently, he was credited as a founder of Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the Appalachian Trail. He also was a founder, along with Horace Kephart, of the Carolina Appalachian Trail Club, which merged
with the Carolina Mountain Club in 1931, according to the book.
Masa was known for his photographs of Western North Carolina, especially the mountains. He also took photographs of Lake Junaluska during its early development. Some of his Lake Junaluska photographs were turned into postcards and published by the Asheville Post Card Co. They can be found in a database at https:// georgemasaphotodatabase.com/ database/. “George Masa: A Life Reimagined” was published in 2024 by Smokies Life.
Lake Junaluska, Assembly Grounds — Photograph by George Masa ORIGINAL IMAGE COURTESY OF E.M. BALL PHOTOGRAPHIC
28804 Below: George Masa
Lake Junaluska Assembly Inc.
759 N. Lakeshore Drive
Lake Junaluska, NC 28745
Discover Lake Junaluska
A beloved spiritual retreat center for over 110 years, scenic Lake Junaluska in the mountains of Western North Carolina welcomes leisure and business travelers, families and groups seeking a special getaway experience with plenty of on-site things to do. Discover nature’s beauty and the best of the Blue Ridge Mountains at our 200-acre lake and charming community. Relax and enjoy the lakeside hotel, historic inn, vacation rentals, lakeside walking trail, gardens, golf course, pickleball and tennis courts, lake cruises, wildlife viewing and panoramic vistas. A place of Christian hospitality where lives are transformed through renewal of soul, mind and body, where better to unplug from the noise of life and reconnect with your family or group than our peaceful slice of heaven?