Why I live in Rainbow Springs, and why you should visit!
Reason #1 The Nantahala River
Rainbow Springs is a private community in western North Carolina
bordering the pristine upper Nantahala River. The upper Nantahala River
begins in the Standing Indian section of the Nantahala National Forest,
which happens to be the largest national forest in North Carolina. Not
many know about this part of the Nantahala, as it is remote and the miles of
river here are totally private waters, offering some of the best trout fishing in
the south! The Nantahala is home to one of the healthiest populations of
wild Brook, Rainbow and Brown Trout in the state. The river is also known
for its rafting, canoeing and kayaking with class 2 and 3 rapids, great for
beginners or experienced boaters.
The lower Nantahala is below Nantahala Lake and is home to the
Nantahala Outdoor Center, a popular area for whitewater kayaking and raft
trips. It hosted the whitewater kayaking portion of the Summer Olympics
several years ago. Other activities here include camping, hiking, ziplining,
and even a scenic train ride in an open air gondola on the Great Smoky
Mountains Railroad.
Reason #2 Nantahala Lake
The upper Nantahala River flows through the Rainbow Springs area into
Nantahala Lake, considered one of the purest, most pristine lakes in the
southeast. Built in 1942, Nantahala Lake has over 30 miles of shoreline
and an average depth of 100 ft. The elevation of the lake and Rainbow
Springs is above 3000 ft., providing cool summers and lake temperatures
perfect for trout, bass, walleye, crappie, bass, and even freshwater salmon.
Nantahala is the only lake in North Carolina to have Kokanee Salmon. The
lake is so secluded, that even on the 4th of July, there are no crowds and
much of the lake is bordered by national forest. Our favorite activities
include fishing, swimming, skiing, tubing and kayaking. On a summer day,
there is no better place to be!
Reason #3 Nantahala National Forest
With over 530,000 acres, and the largest in the state, the Nantahala
National Forest has some of the best hiking in the country. The
Appalachian Trail and Balsam Trails are here, and 360 degree views can
be seen from the top of the bald mountains, such as Wayah Bald (wayah is
a Cherokee word meaning “wolf”) and Siler Bald. Waterfalls are abundant
in the area and there are many options for primitive and group camping.
The area is also popular for its horse trails and mountain biking. The
remoteness of the forest provides opportunities to see grouse, turkey,
eales, hawks, deer and bear. Just outside our door, we can hike, fish,
boat, and explore thousands of acres of untouched beauty.
Reason #4 Real Estate (I specialize in Rainbow Springs Properties)
Nantahala is rich with high altitude properties that have spectacular
mountain, lake and river views. (Some even have all 3!) Purchase land
and build your own dream home, or buy an existing cabin or home and get
ready to start having the adventure of a lifetime. Escape the city and enjoy
the best of what Mother Nature has to offer. I live, play, and work here, so
please call or email me to plan your visit.
Wrtitten by Cindy Sullivan
cindy@oldtownbrokers.com
(828) 200-4036