Lake Lure... Carolina On My Mind

Article by Janet Wolf excerpted and revised

 In the last episode of Ken Burns’ twelve part documentary series, National Parks-America's Best Idea, the focus is on the American tourists who are keen on getting out and exploring their country. While the series focused on National Parks,  these same tourists often find, right next door, countless areas of quiet, peaceful scenic beauty that await their visits; places that renew our collective spirit and make that connection to nature and history so genuine.  There is one place that has been a retreat for the soul for countless generations of travelers from the Cherokee to today's contemporary destination seeker:  Lake Lure, North Carolina.

Lake Lure, the lake and its eponymous town, is nestled between the Piedmont Region and Appalachian Mountains in western North Carolina.  Labeled by National Geographic as one of the most beautiful man-made lakes in the world, it lies in a meteorological “iso-thermal” belt where it is warmer in winter and cooler in summer than surrounding regions. But what lies beyond this technical description is the lure of the place.  One native that has lived away for many years has described Lake Lure as a place that..."once you have lived there, it never leaves you. My best memories were living at the foot of Chimney Rock Mountain, fishing, and exploring Bat Cave and swimming in the lake.  I think it is time to go home again."

“National Parks – America’s Best Idea” reveals stories behind the obvious; little bits of Americana and historical trivia that give Burns’ documentaries a real richness and meaning.  One such story is connected to The Lodge on Lake Lure, a picturesque country inn that sits high on a hillside overlooking the lake.  The lodge was built in 1938 as a memorial to George Penn, a highway patrolman killed in the line of duty; presumably in a shootout with bootlegging gangsters.  It was a retreat for state troopers and their families until 1968 when it became an inn.  Many who stay there say the spirit of George Penn continues to wander the corridors.  So if your spirit needs some renewing and your feet are itching to wander, Lake Lure is waiting beyond the mountain mist and into the blue clear lake waters. 

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