The Marion area's lakes, trails and mountain terrain offer recreational opportunities for all ages in all seasons. Whether you're interested in hiking a steep forested ridge or a liesurely canoe trip on a scenic lake, you'll find plenty to do around Lakewood.

Some of the highlights of living at Lakewood include the following activites...

Boating and Water Sports - Lake James... one of western North Carolina's premier mountain lakes is only minutes from your doorstep at Lakewood. Two boat ramps, Hidden Cove and Canal Bridge, offer access to Lake James where power boats, sailboats and smaller craft have ample room to enjoy the water. Nearby, a number of other launching sites and marinas offer boats and motors for rent. Fishing tackle, bait, ice and snacks are also available. The cool mountain waters of the Linville and Catawba rivers flow into hilly terrain to form a deep lake with enough points and coves to challenge any fisherman. A sandy beach for swimming and sunbathing is located near the state park office.

Hiking - Experience the Spring scent of azaleas and rhododendron as you stroll local trails. Or immerse yourself in the colors of western North Carolina's Fall foliage. Hike around Lake James to Sandy Cliff Overlook or Lake Channel Overlook. The views are spectacular.

Cycling - Pedal your choice of the many challenging climbs, downhill plunges, or gentle rides on the Blue Ridge Parkway, Mountains to the Sea Trail, Lake James Road, Old US 70 or Lake Tahoma Road.

Golf - Year round golf is available in Marion and around McDowell County. Play the rolling terrain of Bermuda grass fairways and bent grass greens. Courses available for all experience levels.

Horseback Riding - Spend an afternoon on a guided trail ride through beautiful mountain scenery. Public horseback riding is permitted in many areas within the Pisgah National Forest Lands and the Grandfather district, include the Curtis Creek Recreational Area, the Woodlawn Work Center, the Yellow Mountain Road, and the Kistler Memorial Highway near the Linville Gorge Wilderness Area.

Fishing - There's no shortage of great fishing lakes and streams around Lakewood and the Marion area. Try your luck with the scenic vistas of Lake James or the many popular trout streams that wind thier way though McDowell county.

Skiing, Snowboarding & Snowtubing - Enjoy downhill fun for all skill levels of skiers, snowboarders and tubers. This area offers many favorite places to ski or snowboard. Take the whole family out for an unforgettable experience on the mountain terrain of North Carolina's slopes. Dramatic scenery, refreshing crisp winter days, capped off with evening relaxation by a roaring fire... fantastic.

In addition to outdoor recreation, the local Corpening Memorial YMCA offers indoor recreation, including aquatic fitness, Pilates, RPM cycling, Cardio-Blast, yoga and more.