Nantahala Lake (/ˌnæntəˈheɪlə/)[1] is located in Macon County, North Carolina in the western part of the state.

The lake is regulated and maintained by Duke Energy and is a major source of hydroelectric power to the region.

With 42 miles (68 km) of shoreline, the lake offers recreational opportunities at Nantahala that include swimming, boating, skiing, and many other activities.

When daytime waves stir up the lake bed along the shoreline, however, the water within the first several feet of shore can become temporarily cloudy.

When the river is not being supplied, it is very calm but when the water is released from the lake it is considered 'on,' which is when kayaking and rafting occurs.