Know Before You Go:
Suggested Paddle Trip:
Hike from Dupont Visitors Center to Lake Julia Access Point
Trip Length: ~3.1 Mile Hike + ~1 Mile Paddle (~4 to 6 Hours)
Difficulty Level: Intermediate
Quickest Hike to Lake Julia (~3.1 Miles Roundtrip): Begin at the Dupont State Forest visitor center parking area on Buck Forest Road. Hike along Buck Forest Road (or a portion of High Falls Trail) and then across the High Falls Covered Bridge. Shortly after the bridge, you’ll connect onto Conservation Road which will take you all the way to a Lake Julia Access Point.
If you’re up for a ~1.4 mile addition to your hike you can detour onto the Three Lakes Trail and pass by Lake Dense and Lake Alford!
Alternative Hike to Lake Julia (~3.5 Miles Roundtrip): Starting at the Fawn Lake Access Area, hike along the gravel Conservation Road, cross the DuPont Airstrip, and then connect onto Camp Summit Road which leads you to Lake Julia Road and the Lake Julia boat launch. To make your hike more interesting take a short detour past Fawn Lake (a great place to take a break and go for a quick swim or paddle!).
Paddling Lake Julia: The paddle from one Lake Julia Access Point to the other is just shy of 1 mile roundtrip. There are two additional coves to explore if you want to extend your paddle trip! There are picnic tables and spots to relax and enjoy the view of the lake at both access points.
Local Spot to Stop At: Be sure to stop at Cedar Mountain Outpost for delicious food and drinks just 10 minutes away from either access point parking lot.
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.