Price Lake, nestled within Julian Price Memorial Park along the Blue Ridge Parkway, is a serene destination for outdoor activities and natural beauty for all ages and seasons. The 47-acre lake offers canoe and kayak rentals, fishing, hiking trails, and picnic areas with reflections of the iconic Grandfather Mountain and the surrounding rhododendron forests. It’s a peaceful retreat that captures the natural beauty of North Carolina’s high country.
Price Lake is easily accessible from Hemlock Hill Cabin, with two convenient routes to choose from. Our favorite is a scenic one-mile hike that begins right at the cabin and winds through peaceful meadows and forested trails.
For a quicker option, it’s just a five-minute drive via 221 and the Blue Ridge Parkway. You can access the Parkway from either Sandy Flat Gap (toward Blowing Rock) or Holloway Mountain Road (heading toward Grandfather Mountain).
Price Lake Boat Rentals provides a range of non-motorized watercraft perfect for exploring the lake or enjoying a peaceful day of fishing. Rental options include canoes, single and double kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and specialized fishing kayaks. The rental season runs from April through October, with boats available until 6:00 PM. All rentals are offered on a first-come, first-served basis. No reservations required. Lifejackets and paddles are provided with rentals.
Price Lake is fed by the cold, clear waters of Boone Fork, originating from Grandfather Mountain, creating ideal conditions for trout. The lake is most known for Brown Trout and Rainbow Trout but also supports Redbreast Sunfish.
For the best fishing experience, head out by boat or from shoreline access points on the north side of the lake. A valid NC fishing license is required, and licenses can be conveniently purchased online or from an outfitter store in nearby Boone.
Price Lake features a variety of hiking trails, ranging from easy strolls to more rugged adventures. The most popular is the Price Lake Loop Trail, a scenic 2-mile path that circles the lake, winding through lush forests with lakeside views.
For those looking to explore further, Julian Price Memorial Park offers several additional trails, including the 5-mile Boone Fork Trail, the Mountains-to-Sea Trail, the Tanawha Trail, and the Green Knob Trail, each offering its own unique perspective on the surrounding natural beauty.
Yes! This is one of our favorite things about the cabin’s location. A scenic walk begins right at the property and winds through peaceful meadows and forested paths directly to Price Lake. It’s one of the few cabin rentals in the area with true walkable access to the Parkway.
The trail is approximately one mile each way, taking about 15-25 minutes at an easy pace. The terrain is gentle and manageable for most ages, though we recommend sturdy shoes and bringing water.
Possibly – while it’s not ideal due to it being narrow at times and due to roots a stroller isn’t ideal. However, it is possible due to it being relatively flat, making it a good option for all-terrain strollers. We have an all-terrain stroller available for guest use.
Yes! Leashed dogs are welcome on all Price Lake trails and along the shoreline. It’s a popular spot for a morning walk with your pup. Dogs are also welcome on the trail from Hemlock Hill Cabin.
Boat rentals are seasonal, running April through October. Rentals are first-come, first-served with no reservations required. Lifejackets and paddles are included. Outside of rental season the lake and trails are still fully accessible and beautiful.
Yes! Price Lake is fed by cold, clear water from Grandfather Mountain, creating ideal conditions for Brown Trout and Rainbow Trout. A valid NC fishing license is required and can be purchased online or at an outfitter in nearby Boone.
Yes, there is a parking area at Blue Ridge Parkway Milepost 297. However on summer weekends and fall foliage weekends it fills up quickly. We always recommend taking the trail from the cabin instead — you avoid the parking hassle entirely and the walk is half the fun.
Very much so. The loop trail is flat and easy, the shoreline is accessible, and the boat rentals are calm and beginner-friendly. Many of our guests make Price Lake their first stop every morning with kids in tow.
