Lake Lure takes its name from the 750-acre man-made lake in the center of town. Sitting in the heart of the Hickory Nut Gorge, it is surrounded by the Rumbling Bald mountain range; faults in the mountains have created landslides, exposing caves in the upper slopes. Scenic coves and inlets offer access for boating, swimming and fishing. Identified by its deep violet blossoms, the paulownia, or empress tree, was brought to the vicinity by George Vanderbilt. Learn More...