
New N.C. State Parks website launches on August 30
Posted on: Monday, August 15, 2022 - 3:26pm |
Trails

The mountain bike trails and the State Park sections of the Fonta Flora State Trail are CLOSED today, August 17.
Be advised that the direction of Tindo and Wimba trails has changed as of July 11, 2022. The Tindo Trail is going in a clockwise direction. West Wimba Trail is going in a counterclockwise direction. East Wimba will be going in a clockwise direction. Ignoring closures will cause permanent damage to the trail system and could lead to a citation and fine. Your cooperation ensures we can keep the trail system healthy and functioning for YOUR benefit and safety.
For information about Burke County portions of the Fonta Flora State Trail, please visit their website at https://www.burkenc.org/1258/Fonta-Flora-State-Trail.
If the time stamp on this alert is more than 24 hours old, please feel free to call the park office at 828-584-7728 for the most up-to-date information.
The boat rental concession at the Paddy's Creek day-use area will be open Saturday and Sunday, August 20 & 21, subject to staff availability. At this time only canoes will be available for rent. We appreciate your understanding on this matter.
Please contact the park office at 828-544-6800 or lake.james@ncparks.gov for daily rental status.
The Paddy’s Creek Swim Area is open for the season from 10 am - 6pm daily. Concession stand operation and boat rentals have resumed for the season-- please contact the park office at 828-584-7728 or lake.james@ncparks.gov with questions on hours and fees.
Contact the park
828-544-6800
lake.james@ncparks.gov
Addresses
Paddy's Creek access and park office
7321 N.C. 126
Nebo, NC 28761
GPS: 35.7503, -81.8920
Catawba River access
2785 N.C. 126
Nebo, NC 28761
GPS: 35.7287, -81.9011
Mailing address
P.O Box 340
Nebo, NC 28761
Hidden Cove boat ramp
3381 N.C. 126
Nebo, NC 28761
GPS: 35.7301, -81.8908
Canal Bridge boat ramp
9182 N.C. 126
Nebo, NC 28761
GPS: 35.7394, -81.8863
Hours
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- December to February:
7:00am to 7:00pm
- March to April:
7:00am to 9:00pm
- May to September:
7:00am to 10:00pm
- October:
7:00am to 9:00pm
- November:
7:00am to 8:00pm
- Closed Christmas Day
►
- open year-round
- 24-hour access
►
►
- May 1 to September 30:
10:00am to 6:00pm
►
Catawba River office - closed
Paddy's Creek office
- Daily:
9:30am to 6:00pm
List of trails
Taking a hike on the extensive trail system at Lake James State Park is a great way to enjoy the outdoors at your own pace. A walk in the spring when the air is scented with sweet wild azalea and rhododendron blossoms or a stroll in the fall when the leaves are ablaze in colors is tonic for the soul.
Lake James has 15 miles of multi-use mountain biking trails with terrain suitable for riders of all skill levels. Cyclists are permitted on these trails specifically—not on hiking trails.
⇒ ATTENTION: BIKE TRAIL USERS
When trails are closed for construction, poor trail conditions due to weather or any other reason, they are closed both for visitor safety AND for the protection of the trail and natural resources. Trails are expensive to construct, maintain and repair. Disregarding trail closures results in:
- Delaying or proloning construction or repair;
- Damaging the trails, resulting in significant costs and further closure time for additional repair;
- Endangering yourself in addition to both state park and EMS staff who would work to get you out of harm's way if you are lost or hurt.
Thank you for respecting our park's natural resources, facilities and fellow park visitors.
The trail is an easy hike to a scenic overlook of Lake James and Linville Gorge.
0.50 miles
one way
moderate hike
White circle
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Park Maps and Brochures: