Lake Toxaway, North Carolina facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Lake Toxaway
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Unincorporated community
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![]() Lake Toxaway Methodist Church
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Country | United States |
State | North Carolina |
County | Transylvania |
Elevation | 2,979 ft (908 m) |
Time zone | UTC-5 (Eastern (EST)) |
• Summer (DST) | UTC-4 (EDT) |
ZIP code |
28747
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GNIS feature ID | 1021081 |
Lake Toxaway is a beautiful community in western Transylvania County, North Carolina. It is located along U.S. Route 64 and North Carolina Highway 281. This area is known for its stunning natural beauty and the large private lake that shares its name.
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Discovering Lake Toxaway
Lake Toxaway is not a town with its own government. Instead, it is an unincorporated community. This means it is a group of homes and businesses that are not part of a specific city or town. It is part of the larger Transylvania County.
The Lake's History
The original Lake Toxaway was created in the early 1900s. It was a popular vacation spot for many famous people. Sadly, a huge flood in 1916 destroyed the dam, and the lake drained away. For many years, the area was just a valley.
Rebuilding the Lake
In the 1960s, a new dam was built. This brought Lake Toxaway back to life. Today, it is the largest private lake in North Carolina. This means that the lake and its shoreline are owned by a private group, not by the public.
What Makes Lake Toxaway Special?
Lake Toxaway is a popular place for people who love nature and outdoor activities. The area is surrounded by mountains and forests. This makes it a great spot for hiking, fishing, and boating. Many people visit or live here to enjoy the peaceful environment.
Local Landmarks
One important historical building in the area is the E. M. Backus Lodge. It is also known as Canaan Land. This lodge was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1988. This means it is recognized as an important historical site.
Geography and Climate
Lake Toxaway is located in the Blue Ridge Mountains. This mountain range is part of the larger Appalachian Mountains. The elevation of Lake Toxaway is about 2,979 feet (908 meters) above sea level. This high elevation helps keep the summer temperatures cooler than in other parts of North Carolina.
Natural Surroundings
The area around Lake Toxaway is rich in natural beauty. There are many waterfalls, dense forests, and diverse wildlife. This makes it a great place for nature lovers. The cool mountain air and clear waters are a big draw for visitors.
Things to Do
Visitors and residents of Lake Toxaway enjoy many activities. These include fishing, swimming, and boating on the lake. The surrounding mountains offer trails for hiking and exploring. It is a perfect place for outdoor adventures.