Nestled in the majestic embrace of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Cedar Cliff Lake stands as a gem among North Carolina’s stunning natural wonders. Its slender form stretches gracefully over 121 acres, with a curved shoreline measuring 4.5 miles. Resting within the boundaries of Jackson County, this tranquil lake is adorned with a hydroelectric dam at its southern tip, a testament to its enduring beauty since its completion in 1952 by the hands of Nantahala Power and Light, now under the umbrella of Duke Energy. Embracing a reputation as a haven for water sports enthusiasts, Cedar Cliff Lake’s calm waters beckon boating, canoeing, and kayaking enthusiasts to explore its serene expanse. The lake is renowned for its vibrant largemouth bass population, a distinction that sets it apart from other bodies of water in the region. Unlike its counterparts, Cedar Cliff Lake receives its bass from the meandering currents of the Tuckasegee River. Trout, musky, and smallmouth bass also thrive abundance, beckoning anglers to cast their lines beneath the reflective surface. Beyond these prized catches, crappie, rock bass, sunfish, and bream dance beneath the waves, offering a diverse array of fishing opportunities for visitors.
Surrounded by the verdant embrace of Nantahala National Forest, Cedar Cliff Lake also serves as a portal to the myriad hiking trails that wind through the Blue Ridge Mountains. Notable among them is the Whiteside Mountain National Recreation Trail, an iconic pathway that weaves through the rugged terrain.
Meanwhile, the Ellicott Rock Trail presents a formidable challenge as it ascends Scaly Mountain, offering panoramic views that stir the soul. The crisp air of October beckons adventurers to explore these trails when the sun casts a gentle glow upon the changing leaves. Tucked within the embrace of Gorges State Park, a sprawling 7,500-acre natural sanctuary once held by the Duke Energy Corporation, Cedar Cliff Lake provides a sanctuary for outdoor enthusiasts seeking solace in the embrace of nature. The park’s expanse includes a game land area overseen by the North Carolina Resources Commission, where camping, fishing, boating, hiking, and picnicking abound. Just a stone’s throw away lie three other lakes that form a part of the East Fork (Tuckasegee River) Hydroelectric Project: Bear Creek Lake, Wolf Creek Lake, and Tenasee Creek Lake, each bearing the signature of Nantahala Power and Light Company’s tireless efforts. For artists seeking inspiration, Cedar Cliff Dam offers a canvas of endless possibilities for amateur photographers and painters to capture the essence of this serene landscape.
Meanwhile, thrill seekers find their hearts racing along the west fork of the Tuckasegee River, where class II-III rapids offer a thrilling adventure for whitewater rafters. Tubing also presents a gentle way to enjoy the scenery, allowing for quiet observation of the diverse bird and wildlife habitats surrounding the lake. Families find a haven at Cedar Cliff Lake, where many family-friendly activities cater to visitors of all ages. Children revel in camping experiences that blend summer sports and creative arts, while parents find solace on the tranquil greens of a nearby golf course, basking in lakeside sunsets with a beloved book in hand. As winter blankets the landscape in snow, cross-country skiing provides an unrivaled experience through the frost-kissed terrain. In the embrace of Cedar Cliff Lake, worries seem to fade away, carried off by the gentle ripples of its waters. Real estate opportunities abound around the lake, offering enticing lots with motorboat docks and picturesque sunset vistas. Serene vacation rentals provide a peaceful retreat, some even offering the luxury of a boat rental for those seeking to explore the lake’s uncharted beauty. Visitors arrive for a brief weekend respite, only to find themselves captivated by Cedar Cliff Lake’s undeniable allure, weaving a tapestry of memories that endure long after they depart.
