Bear Creek Lake

Just over 1 hour from Asheville, this 500 acre lake is the largest of the “Four Remote Gems” of the East Fork of the Tuckasegee River. Explore this secluded lake with minimal shoreline development and a hidden waterfall to discover!

Bear Creek Lake Paddleboarding

Know Before You Go:

Distance from Asheville: 63 Miles (~1 Hour 14 Minutes)
Lake Size: 500 Acres
Access Fee: No Fee
# of Public Access Points: 1 Access Point
Allows Motorized Boats: Yes, Motorized Boats Are Allowed
Parking Availability: Parking Available In Paved Lot Near Access Point
Facilities Available: Small Restroom Facility Available At Access Point

Suggested Paddle Trip:

Bear Creek Lake Boat Ramp to Sols Creek Falls

Trip Length: ~5 Miles (~2.5 to 5 Hours)
Difficulty Level: Intermediate

Experience the beauty of Bear Creek Lake on a ~5-mile round trip paddle to Sols Creek Falls – only accessible by boat.

Enjoy calm waters and beautiful forested shores, with a delightful stop at Butterfly Island—your perfect lunch spot with 360-degree lake views.
From the island, paddle ~0.5 miles to the Sols Creek Falls trailhead. A short, moderately difficult ~0.2-mile hike (watch for slippery rocks/roots!) leads to the impressive 100+ foot falls.

Check wind and weather conditions before you go, as they can significantly impact your paddle. Stick to the shoreline and take breaks for a safer, more enjoyable outing.

SUP Asheville provides these paddleboard guides for informational purposes only. Waterway conditions, access, and regulations may change at any time. SUP Asheville is not liable for any loss, injury, or damage resulting from use of these guides. Please verify all information independently and paddle at your own risk. Some links on this page are affiliate links, which means SUP Asheville may earn a commission if you make a purchase or sign up through these links, at no additional cost to you. The inclusion of affiliate links does not influence our recommendations or content.