The North Carolina Arboretum, the 434-acre public arboretum and botanical garden located within Bent Creek Experimental Forest just south of downtown Asheville, is pleased to unveil its one-of-a-kind exhibit Wild Art, an eclectic sculpture showcase inspired by nature and situated throughout its spacious gardens. The outdoor exhibit – of [...]

Mosaic agent Caley Bowman has done it all – zipline tour guide, filmmaker, bartender – and always she’s done it with a sense of adventure. It’s here in Asheville that Bowman has found fulfillment for her thrill-seeking spirit, integrating nearby adventure – both urban and natural – into everyday life. And she revels in helping clients do the [...]

Tucked at the base of Linville Gorge in the Blue Ridge Mountains is Lake James, a large reservoir offering myriad outdoor adventures against a breathtaking setting. The lake, with more than 150 miles of shoreline, is situated between Marion and Morganton, easily accessible via I-40, and only 45 minutes from Asheville. The lakefront communities dotting the area offer a peaceful retreat nestled in natural beauty.

Lake James, which straddles the border between Burke and McDowell counties, is named for tobacco tycoon and Duke University benefactor James Buchanan Duke. The lake, with surface elevation of 1,200 feet, lies behind a series of four earthen dams and was created by Duke Power from 1916 to 1923 as a hydro-electric project (still generating power today).

Lake James: plentiful water activities, hiking and camping

Lake James State Park is located on the lake’s southern shore. In 2004, the 605-acre park was expanded by 3,000 acres, making it the largest waterfront state park in N.C. The surrounding terrain is covered with hardwoods, pines and hemlocks; it is home to a range of wildflowers, as well as mountain laurel, rhododendron and flame azalea along the hilly terrain.

Paddy’s Creek and Catawba River are the park’s main areas to enjoy. Paddy’s Creek features a large, sandy beach and swimming area, along with a pavilion, restrooms and concession stand. Hiking and camping spots – including boat-in camping – are plentiful in both areas. Paddy’s Creek offers 15 miles of mountain biking trails for beginners as well as intermediate riders. Two miles east of Lake James State Park entrance sit two boat ramps, Hidden Cove and Canal Bridge, offering access for motorboats, sailboats and small watercraft.

A range of available homes in Lake James

Most housing development around Lake James is clustered along its southern and eastern shores, offering a range of styles including sprawling estates, rustic ranches, and green-build properties, many with long-range mountain and lake views.

Restaurants and breweries in and around Lake James offer a variety of options when you don’t feel like cooking at home. Among local favorites are Catawba Brewing, Lake James Grille, Slices Bistro, Fonta Flora Brewery and Root & Vine.

For information about real estate in Lake James, contact us at Info@MyMosaicRealty.com, or call us anytime at 828-707-9556.

Explore Lake James area real estate near Nebo

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Located in the Smoky Mountains about 20 minutes west of Asheville sits the picturesque town of Canton, N.C. This Haywood County town offers dining, shopping and sightseeing along its historic Main Street, as well as iconic local hikes and other outdoor adventures. An idyllic, small-town feel coupled with close proximity to the [...]

A second-generation real estate agent with 22 years of experience, Mosaic broker Justin Mitchell knows how to make the most of life in Western North Carolina as an avid cyclist and outdoor enthusiast. Drawing from his adventure-seeking savvy, along with his skill as a seasoned videographer, Mitchell can be trusted to give both buyers and [...]

Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Western North Carolina, the town of Mars Hill (pop. 2,000) in Madison County wows with its beauty and ease of living. Residents and visitors alike enjoy quick access to all manner of mountain sports and family activities. In addition, Mars Hill is only about 15 miles north of Asheville via I-26, which [...]