June 1, 2026
A new flock is preparing to glide across the waters of Lake Junaluska this summer. Seven pedal-powered swan boats could arrive as early as Independence Day Weekend, bringing a new whimsical recreation experience to the 200-acre mountain lake.
“We are excited to launch the swan boats and offer a new way to slow down, enjoy the beauty of the lake and mountains from the water and spend meaningful time together,” said Mike Huber, general manager at Lake Junaluska. “We’re deeply grateful to Carol V. Clark for the generous gift of these beautiful boats, which we know will become part of many guests’ favorite Lake Junaluska memories.”
The “Seven Swans a-Swimmin’” gift is dedicated in memory of Clark’s parents, Norman and Virginia Clark, and her sister, Nancy Clark Johnson, as well as in honor of her sister, Jean Clark Workman. Clark traced the idea for the gift to her family’s more than 50-year connection to Lake Junaluska and missing the metal pedalboats that her family used to enjoy at the lake during beloved family vacations.
“I began looking for a possible individual pedalboat for fun and exercise,” said Clark, who lives in Georgia and owns a vacation home at Lake Junaluska. “I stumbled on the amazing swan pedalboats and tracked down the factory in Indiana where they are made.”
She began to dream about swan boats at Lake Junaluska and the joy they could bring to friends and families. She also saw them as a way to support the lake through recreation revenue and a perennial attraction that would draw first-time visitors to the lake to experience what she describes as “the unmatched hospitality and sense of peace the lake provides.” That dream will be realized this summer.
Designed to look like oversized swans, the swan boats celebrate the lake’s actual swans, which were first introduced in the community in 1989. Crafted by Adventureglass, the 10-foot long boats are large enough to accommodate up to five guests and have optional Bimini-style sunshade canopies. They are powered by passengers pedaling in the front seats.
Lake Junaluska Outfitters will rent the swan boats for $30 per boat per hour and accept swan boat reservations online and in person at the Outfitters window near the lakeside pool at 77 Memory Lane. Personal flotation devices will be provided and required for all swan boat guests.
Kazandra Flesch, Lake Junaluska recreation supervisor, said they are a much-anticipated and exciting addition to the lake’s recreational activities this summer. Lake Junaluska Outfitters also offers a lakeside outdoor pool, guided lake cruises aboard the Cherokee IV pontoon boat, and rental kayaks, canoes and stand-up paddleboards. In addition, the Outfitters team rents equipment for pickleball, tennis, shuffleboard, bocce ball, volleyball, cornhole and other sports, all of which can be enjoyed in the lake’s recreation area nearby. The mini golf area will be partially open as the area undergoes renovation.
“Charitable gifts like Carol’s have a lasting impact on Lake Junaluska’s recreation ministry, helping create meaningful multigenerational experiences where people of all ages connect, learn from one another and build community together,” said Maranda Johns, Lake Junaluska director of development. “Through this generous support, Lake Junaluska continues to be a place of Christian hospitality where lives are transformed through renewal of soul, mind and body.”
LEARN MORE
Lake Junaluska Outfitters is open for the season. Hours are 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Friday and 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Learn more at lakejunaluska.com.
