Exploring the Serenity of Cherokee Lake: A Hidden Gem in Murphy, NC

Nestled amidst the breathtaking beauty of Murphy, North Carolina, lies Cherokee Lake, a tranquil haven that beckons adventurers, nature enthusiasts, and serenity seekers alike. Tucked away from the hustle and bustle of city life, this pristine lake offers a serene escape surrounded by the majestic Appalachian Mountains. Let’s embark on a virtual journey to uncover the allure of Cherokee Lake and why it deserves a spot on your travel bucket list.

A Natural Oasis

Cherokee Lake, with its crystal-clear waters and lush greenery, is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re an avid angler, kayaker, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of nature, this hidden gem has something to offer for everyone. The lake spans approximately 400 acres, providing ample space for various recreational activities while maintaining an intimate atmosphere that allows visitors to connect with nature.

Fishing Paradise

For fishing aficionados, Cherokee Lake is a dream destination. Stocked with an abundance of bass, crappie, bluegill, and catfish, the lake offers excellent fishing opportunities year-round. Cast your line from the shore or venture out onto the water in a boat, and you’re bound to reel in a memorable catch. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a novice, the tranquil surroundings and plentiful fish make for an unforgettable fishing experience.

Water Recreation

Beyond fishing, Cherokee Lake invites visitors to indulge in a myriad of water-based activities. Kayaking and canoeing are popular choices, allowing adventurers to explore the lake at their own pace while immersing themselves in the serenity of the surroundings. The calm waters and stunning scenery create the perfect backdrop for a leisurely paddle or an adventurous expedition.

Scenic Beauty

One of the most captivating aspects of Cherokee Lake is its scenic beauty. Surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills, the landscape offers a picturesque setting that seems straight out of a postcard. Whether you’re admiring the vibrant hues of fall foliage or basking in the warm glow of a summer sunset, every moment spent at Cherokee Lake is a feast for the senses.

Wildlife Watching

Nature enthusiasts will delight in the diverse array of wildlife that calls Cherokee Lake home. From majestic bald eagles soaring overhead to playful otters frolicking along the shoreline, the lake is teeming with animal life waiting to be discovered. Keep your camera ready, as you never know what fascinating creatures you might encounter during your visit.

Planning Your Visit

Cherokee Lake is conveniently located near Murphy, North Carolina, making it easily accessible for visitors from near and far. Whether you’re planning a day trip or an extended stay, there are plenty of accommodation options available in the area, ranging from cozy cabins to family-friendly campgrounds.

Before embarking on your adventure, be sure to check local regulations and obtain any necessary permits for fishing or boating activities. Additionally, remember to respect the natural environment and leave no trace of your visit to ensure that Cherokee Lake remains a pristine paradise for generations to come.

Conclusion

In a world filled with hustle and bustle, Cherokee Lake offers a welcome respite—a tranquil oasis where time seems to stand still and worries fade away. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventure, peaceful relaxation, or simply a connection with nature, this hidden gem in Murphy, North Carolina, promises an unforgettable experience. So pack your bags, embark on a journey of discovery, and let the serene beauty of Cherokee Lake captivate your heart and soul.

If this peaceful mountain lake lifestyle speaks to you, connect with a trusted Murphy NC real estate agent to explore available homes near Cherokee Lake and beyond.

Watch the full video to experience it for yourself:

Discover the Beauty of Cherokee Lake in Murphy, NC

Enjoy Lake Time & Ice Cream Treats in Murphy, NC

There’s nothing like spending some time at a cool mountain lake near Murphy, NC. You herd the family into the car (or truck), pack a picnic lunch and some sunscreen and cold water, and get ready to chill out for the day. When you arrive, you soak up some fresh mountain air and decide whether you’d like to swim, fish, or do absolutely nothing. And sometime during the afternoon, you decide to top off this splendid day with a delicious ice cream treat. It really doesn’t get much better than this!

So, decide which beautiful mountain lake you’ll visit today. To make your decision easier, you’ll find all three lakes located along Route 294 just a stone’s throw west of Murphy, North Carolina.

CHEROKEE LAKE

Enjoy a good old-fashioned summer picnic at this scenic lakeside spot with plenty of room for everyone. Bring some sandwiches and snacks from town; or pair some grilled burgers and hot dogs with salads and cold drinks. While you dine like kings, enjoy Cherokee Lake’s serene setting, and soak up the peace and quiet.

After lunch and a quick pit stop, stroll the walking trails, or spend a few lazy hours casting your line from the dock. With a current North Carolina fishing license, and equipped a good rod and tackle, you’ll be ready to face off against those crafty, elusive mountain fish.

Directions: Take Highway 64 West, and turn right on Highway 294. Travel just a few miles. Turn right on Forest Service Road 313 to enter the Cherokee Lake picnic area.

HIWASSEE LAKE

Scenic Overlook

As mountain lakes go, Hiwassee Lake is pretty impressive. This sprawling lake covers almost 6,100 acres, has nearly 180 miles of winding shoreline, and extends for a generous 22 miles. In other words, you’ll find plenty to see (and plenty of fish) there.

If you enjoy picture-postcard mountain scenery, you’ll have some stunning photo ops here. Hiwassee Lake is completely nestled in the Nantahala National Forest, and the view from the dam-area overlook is simply amazing. The lake stretches on forever, and it’s bordered by miles and miles of wooded shoreline.

Directions to scenic overlook: Take Highway 64 West, and turn right on Highway 294. Travel several miles, and look for the U.S. Forest Service sign on the right.

Water Activities

Now, let’s assume you’d like to do some serious fishing, boating, or water-skiing. Or, you’ve had enough of the hot, steamy weather, and you’d like to splash around the lake to cool off. Or, maybe you want to enjoy a picnic lunch before taking a leisurely hike through the woods. You can access those activities at Hanging Dog Recreation Area, located just an easy drive from Murphy.

Directions to Hanging Dog Recreation Area (from Murphy): Drive about 4 miles northwest on Peachtree Street, which turns into Joe Brown Highway. Look for the entrance to Hiwassee Lake on the left.

APALACHIA LAKE

If you’ve been looking for a serene, unspoiled mountain lake with amazing views, put Apalachia Lake on your “must see” list. This gorgeous 10-mile-long lake feeds into the Hiwassee River, and the Nantahala National Forest is right next door.

As the crow flies, you’re not too far from Hiwassee Lake, but Apalachia Lake has a remote character all its own. With very little shoreline development, and virtually no recreational facilities, Apalachia Lake is one of the purest mountain lake settings you’ll ever find.

If you want to enjoy some laid-back fishing, kayaking, or canoeing, you can take advantage of a convenient launch ramp. Or, you can meander through the woods on a scenic hiking trail. In other words, you make your own fun at Apalachia Lake, and you probably won’t have much company.

Directions: Take Highway 64 West, and turn right on Highway 294. Stay on 294 for quite a distance, and you’ll eventually see the Apalachia Lake turnoff sign.

ENJOY ICE CREAM TREATS AT THE SWEET TOOTH

Wrap up your lake excursion with some delicious ice cream confections from The Sweet Tooth. This incredibly popular family ice cream shop is located at 658 Andrews Road, not far from downtown Murphy, NC. During the summer season, The Sweet Tooth is open 7 days a week from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

This little walk-up ice cream shop has a quirky character, and the building features lots of ice cream-y photos that you can view while waiting for your order. There aren’t any one-size-fits-all ice cream cups here – perish the thought! Instead, you’ll enjoy your own personal ice cream treat that comes with your choice of toppings. So, dig in and enjoy every bite as you reflect on the perfect ending to a great summer day at the lake.

Looking to make Murphy your permanent getaway spot? Our expert Murphy NC real estate agents are here to help!

The Poltrock Team – REMAX Mountain Properties – Murphy NC – www.ILoveMurphy.com – Call us Toll Free at 1-866-Murphy-NC or 1-866-687-7496 – Murphy’s #1 Real Estate Team