Our top accessible, paved hiking trail near Asheville is the Lake Junaluska walking trail around the beautiful lake at the Conference and Retreat Center. They are open to the public and welcome everyone to walk the 2.3-mile loop (or the extended 3.8-mile option) by many natural sights along the way.
The trail is wheelchair, stroller and scooter friendly. It's mostly flat with one hilly, wooded section. Since there are many places to park along the trail, you can enjoy a short stroll or the entire loop.
We suggest parking along the Rose Walk or start out at the Welcome Center where you can find more info about Lake Junaluska. (GPS: 575 N Lakeshore Dr, Lake Junaluska). A gorgeous spot to rest after your walk. Stroll by 200+ rose bushes and stop to smell them! Walk by the 1949 stone Memorial Chapel and peek inside. Next to the chapel is a labyrinth for a meditative walk. Along the rest of the trail, pass many historic buildings used at the retreat center, including several hotels.
The highlight is walking the Turbeville Footbridge and walking across the dam (pic above). Take a short detour to Lambuth Inn and climb the hill to Inspiration Point for the best view of the lake and mountains.
The longer 3.8-mile option extends the walk by the highway and takes you by the Bethea Welcome Center and other additional sites. In fact, the Welcome Center (91 North Lakeshore Drive Lake Junaluska) is a great first stop to pick up a map and see what is happening on the day you visit - including dining options.
Along the way, other detours include garden areas. Stroll through the lush Corneille Bryan Native Garden with more than 500 species of native plants and is a haven for birdlife. The Biblical Garden at the Bethea Welcome Center features plants mentioned in the Bible, including herbs, figs, pomegranates, and vines.
If you are looking for a place to ride your bicycle, the nearby Waynesville Greenway follows Richland Creek for 5.3 miles.
Junaluska Gifts & Grounds in the Harrell Center offers specialty coffee, hand-dipped ice cream, smoothies, snacks, gifts, books, fair-trade products and souvenirs.
Trail Map: Download a PDF of the walking trails map with points of interest.
Directions: It's a quick 25-mile drive from Asheville.
- From I-40 West, take exit 27 onto US 19-23.
- Drive 3 miles and take exit 103
- Drive about 1 mile until you see Lake Junaluska gates on the right.
- Bear right and follow the main road to the Bethea Welcome Center. Stop there to get a map and best places to visit on that day.
For more info, go to our Lake Junaluska Guide.
Places to Stay & Special
The Terrace at Lake Junaluska
This lakeside hotel is the perfect place to relax in a rocking chair with views of Lake Junaluska, at the foot of the Great Smoky Mountains. Enjoy lakefront rooms, a pool, paddleboard rentals, and… read more
This lakeside hotel is the perfect place to relax in a rocking chair with views of Lake Junaluska, at the foot of the Great Smoky Mountains. Enjoy lakefront rooms, a pool, paddleboard rentals, and a walking trail. 105 rooms, king and double queen beds. Complimentary WiFi, HD TVs, coffee makers, breakfast, access to the Fitness Center, boat rentals, and pool. On-site meeting space is available…
