Bass Lake Reviews

Went fishing and hiking in and around Bass Lake every day we were in BR. Just beautiful with easy parking and picturesque. Caught bass every day and had wonderful hikes.

This is a great place to stop and take a walk around the lake and take in all the beauty of the area and the wildlife. Swans are quite a site.

Flat loop trail around the lake with trails that you can take up to the Moses Cone house which you can see from the lake. One guy fishing in the lake said he caught a foot long bass. The ranger took a picture just to show folks there are fish in there. I could see a smaller bass along the bank.

A walk around Bass Lake is peaceful and scenic at any time of the year even in the winter when the trees have dropped their leaves! The lake is easily accessible and very close to the town of Blowing Rock. There are several hikes around the lake as well.

Walked up to Bass Lake from Chetola Resort daily while at the resort. Enjoyed the loop around the Lake, easy walking, and about 7 tenths to 9 tenths of a mile around the Lake. We also walked up to Moses Cone on one of the trails shared with horses about 2 miles. Bass Lake does not allow boating or swimming by people, but it's a nice quiet walk and it's free. Saw a couple of loons and ducks, along with a very large snapping turtle sunning near the lily pads that cover various areas of the Lake. Fishing is allowed from the shore with a license. Nice place to have a relaxing walk and enjoy the scenery. Restrooms near the entrance to the parking area are available. Pets can accompany folks around the loop, but the horses are not allowed around the Lake, only to it from the various trails (there is an area they can use to drink from).

We stopper here after a full day on Main St. and visiting the other parks/lakes and it was nice to just relax, take a short stroll and snap some pictures.

Beautiful setting, very easy walking with the possibility of taking other more strenuous hiking trails from the lake trail. Highly recommended!

The relatively flat carriage road around Bass Lake (.9 mile) is perfect for all levels of fitness whether walking or jogging. Good starting point for hiking up to Cone Manor; some people fish or just relax on a blanket. Parking can get crowded on weekends and during peak travel time. Restrooms available.

Bass lake is a great place to walk or just just sit on a bench and chill. Hikers and horses are permitted but no bikes. It is also wheelchair accessible. Saw a lot of ducks and a couple of swan. You can walk around the lake or you can add one of the loop trails if you want. Nice clean bathrooms.

Great picture taking opportunity of the lake, swans, geese and ducks. You can view the Moses Cone mansion up on the hill on a clear day.

March 24, 2018. We're in Blowing Rock for the very first time. Brought our three dogs. On a recommendation, we sought out Bass Lake Trail (which I have mistakenly been calling Bear Lake Trial) for a walk. What a find! First of all it had been snowing so the trail was blanketed. It runs along the lake in the beginning but initially the mist obscured the view of the lake so you felt like you were standing at the edge of a great precipice, as if the lake was not there but instead a vast, unknown, mystical expanse. Gorgeous. We followed along, over the bridge and into the woods. It was cold and the hike was about 2.5 miles. But it was worth every step. Don't miss it!

We walked from Trout Lake to Bass Lake and were pleasantly surprised how well maintained were Bass Lake's facilities and trails. It's a great place to stroll, picnic, or just hang out and enjoy the view. We will definitely return.

Bass lake is easy to get to with parking, the walk around the lake is flat and less than a mile, I didn't have time to take the longer hike up to the art gallery but I will in the fall, it was very peaceful nice breeze and benches to sit on along the way, great place for a picnic.

Nice little walk around the pond where you can see geese and swans and ducks. Be careful with the swans they are a little pushy and not very friendly when you are sitting on a bench beside the water. Great place to walk the puppy as well.

This is the perfect area for a nice walk around the lake. Some in our group went fishing. Many of us took two laps around the lake. The weather was awesome and we enjoyed strolling along and seeing the lily pads, viewing the Cone house on the hill, admiring the horses as they were ridden through and watching our kids have fun. This is a great walk if you have a stroller and with bathrooms there, you can't beat this spot!

This is a beautiful peaceful and serene walk around the beautiful Bass Lake. There are other trails that can be walked, but our group chose just the .9 trek around the lake. We were there during the peak season for fall colors, and it was absolutely gorgeous. We have the perfect day to take a walk. Blue sky, slight breeze and lots of trees. Will go back to make the hike to the Cone Mansion. Would love to see that house too. The parking lot was full, and we squeezed in a place that might not have been 'allowed' but got no tickets nor damage to our vehicles. Guess this was a busy time for the Lake walk. (And the ladies' room was out of order the day we visited. Had to take turns in the men's, but it was clean!!)

Ever wanted a place to go where it's easy to get to and a pleasure to have readily accessible? Well, that's Bass Lake for us. As locals, we know that this wonderful .7 mile track around the lake (longer trails are available off the main track) can be SOOO crowded on weekends and during peak times in the Village. It's flat, has a restroom, is beautiful with amazing views in all directions, kid friendly, picnic friendly, handholding encouraged, leashed dog friendly, friendly people friendly, has benches to take a rest along the way, mini waterfalls in spots, a historical fish hatchery, lily pads, swans, fishing, horses, bird watching, optional trails to test the more advanced, but, when it comes to parking your car so you can enjoy all of this...not. We avoid the lake during those peak times I mentioned. But, we LOVE the lake every other day of the week! A treat and such a treasured moment of pleasure. Toughest decision on a good day is...do we go clockwise or counter-clockwise? Make a choice and enjoy! (There is a gate at the entrance/Hwy 221, not certain if/when the time it is closes/opened.)

We love walking around Bass Lake and on the Carriage Trails in Moses Cone Memorial Park. What a beautiful peaceful place to enjoy the outdoors.

It is good walk path, quiet and peaceful. The only thing is that in some areas there is bad smell around. I am not sure the smell comes from sewer around the bathroom area or horse's waste

Good parking area and easy to follow trail for nice loop walk around the lake. Quiet and peaceful. Well maintained.

Only found this spot while driving around one day when in blowing rock. You can take a long or short walk, we chose the short walk due to the very brisk temperatures and a small dog. Very relaxing walk, paved roadway....nice to take a country walk without dealing with sights and sounds from Florida where we live.

Iconic place, close to town. Take an easy stroll around the lake. Bring your dog. Gaze up at the Cone House. Greet the ducks and geese. No swimming, but fishing is permitted. Enjoy!

A short mile out of Blowing Rock you can find the road down to park close to the trail around Bass lake. There are restroom facilities here in the parking lot. You can also see some roadside parking and a horse trailer parking lot on each side of the turn off to the parking lot. Any time of the day makes for a good stroll around this .7 mile loop. Our mid morning stroll gave many rewards. Birds feeding in the lake, baby squirrels playing & peeking out of their nest, lily pad blooms, and the tranquil feel of being outdoors. It is a very smooth, sandy, flat walking trail.

The lake is a beautiful one with a trail all around it that is easy and pleasant. We enjoyed. The greenery and really needed to see some water. There were a lot of people walking their dogs and jogging. Quite picturesque.

Just a few minutes up the road from downtown Blowing Rock is Bass Lake which you do not want to miss. There is ample parking with easy access to some beautiful graded trails which loop around the lake perhaps a mile or more. The views of Flat Top Manor up above the Lake are not to be missed. There is a public bathroom located near the parking area. There are numerous benches to sit and enjoy the view all around the lake.

I went here 3 out of our 4 days here for my morning run. I ran both only around the lake and a combination of the lake and "The Maze" trail. It is perfect though parking can get difficult after about 9:00.

The "maze" says the trail is 2.1 miles but I found it to be closer to 3 miles.

This is a must easy hike for everyone (some wheelchairs included). The lake is one of the prettiest I have seen and the path/hike around the lake is flat and about a mile. The first sight is the breathtaking Lilly pads. Dogs are allowed on lead only.

Took the kids there to go fishing. We did not catch anything but it was a great walk and the bathrooms were extremely clean. I do not think the loop around the lake was huge as we saw the same people pass us many times. Plenty of people walking dogs and we saw a few people riding horses.

Great place for a morning walk. Then when you turn around and see Moses Cone house overlooking the lake, it's just perfection. Some days it's filled with walkers and runners, some days it's just a few, but it's always a beautiful site.

Easy walk around the lake.. never crowded .. beautiful view ..walked from Chetola area and it was easy

After dinner, I took my elderly parents for a walk around Bass Lake which is approximately .89 of a mile. There are off shoots that will make the trail a bit longer. Horses and dogs welcome (on a leash), and suitable for recreational fishing, joggers, speed walkers and those out for a peaceful stroll or meditation. Beautiful wildlife; swans, ducks, blue heron. My parents were so comfortable, even though guests of the area, they drove back the next day to spend more time. This park is easy to find with GPS, plenty of parking with bathrooms. This is a great way to slow down and take in nature.

Very pretty and worth a stop! We hiked and explored all around the lake. We hoped to see a bear (at a distance) but saw none.

Nice easy walk around bass lake that was well stocked and full of lily pads. Gorgeous view and perfect for a family member in a wheelchair.

My Husband and I came here this morning. The restrooms are nice and clean. The lake is gorgeous. We seen some turtles, ducks, and geese. The walk around the lake was peaceful. There is many cool log benches to sit and relax. There were many people that brought their dogs there . I love the island in the middle of the lake. Great place to have a picnic.

We drive from 1 1/2 hours from Cornelius NC to Blowing Rock to have a late breakfast and a walk around the approximately .8 mile blacktopped walk around the lake. Even during the summer tourist season, there are still parking places to be found. There are also bathroom facilities. The lake is only a few minutes from downtown Blowing Rock and is worth a visit. Quiet and serene.

Bass Lake never fails to give a great time outdoors. We've hiked this area for years and love to go back there often.

Enjoy the .7 mile walk around the lake and take in the beautiful scenery while getting some good exercise. I always love to watch for the swans as we circle the lake. Plenty of walkers and their dogs will be around for you to greet as you walk. An added plus if you look up at just the right place while walking around the lake is a superb view of the beautiful Moses Cone mansion.

Take the whole family. This is a beautiful walk around the lake. A very nice easy walk or great place to jog. Wheel chair accessible. You won't regret this relaxing peaceful place!

We come here every year for the past five years in the fall and we always enjoy the walk around Bass Lake it is a 1 mile flat rock with a beautiful and no inspiring view on every angle I will recommend it to even young kids and couples young to know

The loop walk around the lake is flat and easy and is approximately one mile long. Because of this and the adjoining rest rooms, it is very popular. At times it is very difficult to find a parking space. Early morning (8-10) is usually busy with joggers and dog walkers.

Good level walk around the lake. Less then an hour unless you sit and enjoy view. Can extend the walk by adding The Maze Loop which is another hour or mor of slightly tougher - but not rougher- walking. No boots needed for either walk - not hike.

Bass Lake is a great spot for an easy walk that offers beautiful scenery! With access to slightly more difficult trails, it's a great starting point for either a leisurely walk around the lake, or a more involved trek up to Moses Cone and back.

My wife and I enjoyed an absolutely beautiful walk strolling around Bass Lake. It was obviously a popular spot, as many folks were doing the same - many with dogs in hand. There are multiple trails through the woods - though we didn't give them a try, as my 3 lower extremity replaced joints don't particularly like that kind of hiking. The walk around the beautiful lake is flat, much easier for me to handle.

Bring your chairs, a picnic table cloth to spread on the ground, finger foods, your camera, a frizz bee & old bread to feed the ducks. You can fish, read a book, and/or enjoy a beautiful one mile stroll around the lake. Bathroom facilities available, plus hiking trails...even one going to theMoses Cone house. Have fun!

Def worth a trip is you’re nearby! I feel like it’s an underrated gem that mostly locals only know about. I just did the 0.9 mile loop trail around the lake and it was beautiful. Many others do do here as well.

Path around lake very well kept up. Lots of shade and close to town. Parking was a bit crowded but it was August. A good place to walk or run.

We stopped to walk our dogs on the 0.9 mile loop around Bass Lake. The trail is flat and smooth. There are numerous other trails of varying length as well. The small, scenic lake had plenty of water lillies and a picturesque tree covered island in the middle of it. Plenty of benches are scattered along the trail. Good public bathroom facilities and free parking present. Lots of joggers, dog walkers, and horseback riders on the trails.

My wife and I walked around Bass Lake with friends. There were swans and ducks and a very long paved trail (@3 mile)
that goes uphill for a good view. It is in the woods so it is
cool in the summer.

I think this is the place locals and visitors go to get there walks in. You can walk around the lake, guessing about a mile.

This level and smooth stroll is perfect for people with limited hiking capacity, and for the other, more able folks, it connects to the other 25 miles of carriage trsils in the Moses Cone estate. Much of te path is shaded, which is nice in the summer, and there are pretty views across the lake (which Moses Cone had made) up the hillside toward the manor.
But the parking lot can be very crowded.

You can walk all around the lake. It’s only about a mile hike. Very beautiful! We took our dogs. They really enjoyed the walk. There were ducks all over. A lot of dog poop on the trail. I was surprised because they have doggy bag stations.

We hike from Moses Cone to Bass Lake on a rather hot day. It was a little steep coming back but a nice hike over all. Going down to the lake the view of the mountains is breathtaking.

We always go to Bass Lake on our annual trip to Blowing Rock. What a wonderful place to walk and see the ducks and horses.

We were very disappointed with Bass Lake. You can swim on a few selected beaches, but pay a $10 parking fee. The middle of the lake is reserved for loud roaring water sports fans. Everything around Bass Lake Resort is full of trash and nobody cares for days.

Bass Lake is a terrific place for people of all ages to walk, jog or people-watch. Beautiful and well-maintained.

We stayed at Blowing Rock Inn and really enjoyed our room. The Blowing Rock area is so beautiful and there are many shops there as well.

The lake is very scenic and the walking path around the lake is about a mile long and fairly level. There are benches to stop and rest and bathrooms are available. There are additional longer trails that have short inclines but overall the trails are an easy to walk. The parking is somewhat limited and we were lucky enough to snag the last spot but when we left a couple of hours later there were numerous spots available.

Great area for a morning run! Ran around the lake and the bridle trail routes up to the Moses Cone gravesite

Nothing special but cool that the town of BR had this as a place to go hang out. No fish but kids enjoyed the fun

This is a wow! The hike is gentle and rewarding. The photos will be magnificent. Not very strenuous but many options. Download map before you go to plan your route. I could have spent 5 days straight there.

We entered the Cone Manor Bass Lake parking from Yonahlossee Road out of Blowing Rock. It was the fifth of July and at 9:30 a.m. the parking lot was overflowing. However, a car backed out just as we were trying to decide our next move so we were set. Despite the number of cars, visitors were not abundant.
Bass Lake is a pretty man made lake with blooming water lilies covering one end. Some boys were fishing. Strictly catch and release; much of the Cone Estate was poisoned by the use of arsenic and lead pesticides for apples and other crops. We skirted one side of the lake and then chose to take a well graded gravel carriage road, the Deer Park Road, up to the Manor, and Duncan Road back to the parking lot. This loop looked a bit daunting on the map but actually was 3.8 miles total. The Bass Lake Loop itself is only 0.9. In early July the native rhododendron were at their peak. We did see a deer. The walk to the Flat Top Manor is a relatively gentle ascent, with one switch back near the end. From the Manor, the view over the estate is lovely. The walk back via Duncan Road was downhill with more frequent switchbacks. I am glad we chose the counterclockwise direction. We met a few fellow walkers but basically felt that we had the trail to ourselves despite the crowded parking lot. This is a great walk if you can handle almost 4 miles, half of which is a relatively gentle uphill slope.

How in the world did we miss a walk around Bass Lake in 2015 when we last visited? After reading a gal's recent review, we decided this was a must-see while visiting the Boone/Blowing Rock area.

Bass Lake is a heaven-on-earth respite from the busy, somewhat touristy town of Blowing Rock, and just a stone's throw from the downtown area. Most of the walk around this most picturesque lake is shaded, and is an easy, safe walk along the wide paved, and flat encirclement around the lake.

The lake is small, laden with beautiful flowering lily pads, with masses of lovely hydrangea bushes, shade trees, and rhododendrons everywhere. I can't imagine visiting here when the rhododendrons are abloom, as they're quite abundant! We enjoyed seeing many people walking, having picnics on the grass at waterside, and lots of people walking their dogs (leashes required). There was an occasional fisherman, practicing their fly fishing skills. You will undoubtedly see people riding horses in the area, although horses are not allowed on the immediate walkway around the lake. We watched a pair of white swans enjoying their day on the water as well.

Having spent a week in the area, and visiting most of the sites, I would say our walk around Bass Lake was the highlight of our entire trip! I am a photographer, and Bass Lake is certainly a photographer's paradise.

Do not miss this relaxing experience...great for all ages!

This is idyllic and worth the visit. Walk around the lake, about 20 minutes.... there are other things to see, we did not have time on this trip.

Bass Lake is located just outside Blowing Rock. It is an incredibly pristine and beautiful place. The lake itself is very nice and the walk around it is almost exactly one mile ...all flat. Just a cool place (:

There are many trails off the main loop around the lake to explore. Spectacular scenery. There are nice restrooms at
the parking lot.

This was a highlight of our trip to Blowing Rock. Parking might be an issue, but otherwise, it is a peaceful place with some great views, plenty of shade, and a lot to help you relax. The trail around the lake is about .7 mile and is flat. There are plentiful birds, and it was well-maintained. If/when we return, this will definitely be a place we will come to.

We hiked down to this lake for some fresh air and exercise. On the way back, my daughter began to be frustrated and stomped her feet. Within minutes, it began to pour rain and we hiked a mile back to our truck in the downpour! We often tease her about her "rain dance". It is one of our best vacation stories to tell.

I arrived at Bass Lake and initially was going to do two or three laps around the lake itself, but the day was so beautiful I decided on the Apple Barn Trail. After a bad car wreck I can't run like I used to, but still the trails call so I do a really fast walk. I had the trail to myself except for a couple of joggers, and the wildlife was amazing. Squirrels, chipmunks, Towhees, Juncos, Woodpeckers, countless other birds and even two rabbits up at the barn. The greatest thing here is the peace and quiet when it's not crowded. It lets you forget that towns and people and cars are just a couple minutes away.

Bass Lake is beautiful anytime of the year however Spring and Fall is splendid. The walk around the lake is well paved, wide, flat and gentle - easy for youngsters and not so young alike. You will likely encounter walkers, joggers, Mom's and Dad's with strollers or toddlers and very likely at least a few dog walkers.

Should you decide on a bit of a longer walk the Apple Barn trail is a delight too. A few trails are open to horses however those trails are clearly marked and can be avoided if you so choose.

Very nice and always clean restrooms are available as are a few picnic spots. Take your camera along because there is always something to shoot/capture while walking around and near the lake. On especially nice weather days and weekends parking may be a bit of a challenge however adequate (and FREE) parking is available. Enjoy!

This 0.9 mile walk around Bass Lake is great for the entire family. You can take it at a leisurely pace or run around the level path. Horses, geese, fish - all can be spotted as you walk around the path. If you are an early riser .... crisp mountain air cannot be beat!

Very nice lake to hike around. You can walk to it if you're staying at Chetola & there are a couple of parking lots too. Flat area.

We would never have known about this lake if a lady in Blowing Rock hadn't mentioned it. The parking was easy and near the lake. The weather was beautiful and we walked all the way round. Enjoyed the peace and quiet as it wasn't very busy. It was also nice to see some wildlife especially the geese with their young. Horses are only allowed on part of the track.

great spot to just take a walk around the lake, but can also go up some trails. very beautiful and peaceful.

Nice place for a relaxed walk. Very small parking area though and lots of people parking off the side of the road which in one case of a very large SUV was blocking the traffic lane. Saw one SUV almost go over the edge of the bank trying to back out of a spot next to the road. Not sure if cars not parked in designated spots are towed here or not. Popular area without enough parking, like a lot of other areas but something to be aware of when you visit.

Lovely hiking trail near Blowing Rock (I walked there from downtown.). It’s an easy hike, but I still felt that I had a workout. There are places to sit and read or contemplate the lake.

After hiking a more strenuous hike in the morning, we walked around Bass Lake. It’s a paved easy path and made for an enjoyable leisurely walk. There were lots of runners and people walking their dogs on a beautiful fall day!

I just happened by this lake as the sun came out after a whole day of rain. It is a beautiful small lake with great walking paths. It was so peaceful, serene and to top it off, part of a rainbow appeared through the clouds just over the beautifully looted fall foliage! This is a must see place- spend as little as half hour or more if you have the time.

We enjoyed a nice walk around the lake. @ 1 mile, smooth, level path. Lots of water lilies. Bring your chair and a picnic lunch.

The lake itself is very picturesque with masses of water lilies around the edge. The trails around the lake are flat and very well maintained and there are plenty of benches and grass areas to sit and relax and enjoy the view. There is a 5mile loop trail which takes you up to the Moses Cone Mansion which you can see from the lake sitting high on the hill.

I have visited Bass Lake many times and it never loses that ability to make me feel good and at peace walking on the many trails. From beginners trails like walking around the lake to The Maze which is a little more challenging and a longer trail. You can so totally immerse yourself in the sights and sounds all around you that for just a little while, you can forget about your stress, your politics, and anything else that causes aggravation. The colors are amazing in the spring and summer, but the winter is my favorite time when everything is frozen and colored in grayscale. Everyone who goes there is there to enjoy the peace and serenity and Bass Lake has plenty to offer. You can relax by the lake, picnic, go fishing (weather permitting) bird watch, and get in some good hikes. It's my go to spot for leisurely walks and and I'm certain you'll enjoy it too.

Great accessible place to walk round the lake and if you are up for more a climb up to the Moses Cone Mansion. You could also walk around the lake and drive up for more trails, great place to see fall colors.

With skies threatening rain one morning, we opted for a short walk around Bass Lake.
This is a super easy walking path that is completely level. It was very scenic & peaceful. Highly reccommend!

Very easy hike with beautiful views. You can make the loop up to see the gorgeous house on the hill.

Bass lake sits below the Moses Cone house in Blowing Rock. You can walk the path surrounding the lake. The pathway is smooth and flat and an easy walk for most. Beautiful place to relax and if more adventuresome you can hike the paths UP to the house. Great place to visit.

This is a good place to go if staying in Blowing Rock. My only suggestion is staying away in weekends as lots of families and busy. We would up doing several laps as too short for our usual walks.

In the middle of the bleakness of fog and ice, a lap around Bass Lake can always remind you about the beauty in nature.

We enjoyed our carriage ride around the park and up to the Cone House. We enjoyed having lunch at Bass Lake after our ride. The park is used for horse riders and walkers, also.

Part of the Moses Cone Estate, this is one of the few level and flat walks in the area - situated around a lovely lake with amazing views back to the Manor House. Not to be missed

A very nice walk in the late afternoon when it is not as hot anymore. The path is very easy to access since the parking lot is only a few steps away. It is not a difficult walk around the lake, which by the way is incredibly gorgeous with lilly pads on it. Not very busy around sunset. Very pretty place. Free access and plenty of parking spots.

The lake is so beautiful! The pathway around it is well-kept and lovely. The variety of water fowl kept us busy trying our hand at identifications.

We like to come and walk around the lake. I always take pictures of my son here. It makes for a beautiful backdrop. This is a dog friendly place. Highly recommended for fishing, exercising, or taking a leisurely walk.

When in Blowing Rock take time to walk trail around Bass Lake absolutely beautiful saw geese with young ones, ducks, Moses Cone manor or hill overlooking lake top off atmosphere

An awesome lake with beautiful views.Great walking trail around lake.Lots of ducks and geese. A great place to fish!

A really beautiful walk around a historic lake without a lot of ups and downs. Fun but not strenuous.

This is a gorgeous place with a wonderful walking path. Lovely area and great views. Very relaxing and calming.

The walking/running trails are exceptional. Seems well maintained. Interesting Ranger talks offered from time to time. Great place to walk dogs.

Took my grand kids on this hike while visiting the Blowing Rock area. This is a 0.9 mile loop around the lake that was very level and paved with gravel. Easy hike for youngsters.

There are around 25 miles of carriage/hiking trails in the Moses Cone park so as the kids get older there, will be lots of opportunities for more hikes.

This was our second visit. We had a leisurely hike around the lake. The paths are wide and level. Loved seeing the swan family.

We pulled in to check out this lake because I thought I had seen that there was a walk path. We were so happy that we did because we took a nice walk along and around the lake on a pleasant afternoon! It felt good to have this spot by a lake to end our afternoon! Pleasant!

We took our dogs there every morning while staying in Blowing Rock. It's so close to downtown. Our dogs loved meeting so many other dogs. I just wish we had time to explore more of the many wonderful trails available.

We loved our trip to Bass Lake. We traveled with several families and one family rented a place right on the lake. The water was warm and fun for the kids. There is a lot of boat traffic so the water can be a bit choppy at the shoreline. My husband and kids enjoyed fishing!

Very nice and relaxing experience. Stopped in for an hour or so and got a good parking spot in the shade. There were restrooms but I never used them. I sat on the bench in front if the Lillie pads, due to a sore knee, while my spouse/pup walked around the lake. I enjoyed the lake and got some great pictures! It was a nice place and will definitely visit again.

Trail with locals running or walking dogs. A few geese in lake. Easy walk with pretty views. Maintained trail good for all ages. Nice place for picnic. Please take all your trash with you when you leave. Respect this beautiful place please

We enjoyed the short trail around the lake after rain. Loved the colors and the island. There are restrooms and banks to rest. Water lilies added another layer of beauty to already lovely scenery. Love to come back and discover the Maze trail that connects the trail around the lake.

What a pleasant surprise to walk Cooper around this beautiful lake, complimenting the grounds of the Moses Cone Estate Lots of trails meandering off the lake and all family friendly.

When I visited Bass Lake and parked in their lot, the first thing I saw was a group of art students with their easels painting various parts of the lake. I walked up and looked at their paintings while they continued to paint. There are many walkers around the lake, and I began my walk, then on the other side of the lake I saw a sign pointing uphill to the Moses Cone House, so I took the 2.5 mile uphill hike to the top, and then back down again. I was able to take many pretty photos during my hike, with gorgeous views. When I got back down to the lake from my hike it was nearing sunset, and there was such a beautiful glow around the lake. It was a very invigorating and lovely hike in a beautiful area!

Easy, beautiful place to walk around the lake. There’s also trails that where carriage trails years ago that you can walk. (we didn’t this day but, next time) We also saw a group of horse back riders not sure how that came about.

Bass Lake is a nice quiet place that you can drive to and make a casual walk around the Lake or you can make the challenging hike from Cone Manor; either one is time well spent.

Awesome place to escape the heat and be outside! View and fresh air are perfect for getting exercise, no excuses!! Perfect for families too!!

A level lake -good for beginner hikers or those who do not want to climb.You can park at the lake parking lot and walk around this very beautiful lake(small).Or you can park at the Cohn Mansion right off the parkway and walk down to the lake.Dependiing on side routes,this is about 5 miles overall-1/2 downhill-encircle the lake,and then another 1/2 back up to the mansion parking lot.Trail is shaded and cool in the summer.

Watch the ducks play and enjoy the lake as you walk the trail around it. You can see Moses Cone at the top of the mountain as you round the lake. Expand your walk and follow the trail to the ZigZagged one. Go by the Apple Barn on a side trail. See the old fish hatcheries. Lots of birds for bird watchers and in late spring and summer, flowering bushes to view. Take your dog for a walk if he/she is on a leash.

Absolutely LOVED this park for a quiet place to take the family. My husband tried fishing with no success, but the scenery was well worth it. Nice path around the lake for walking-I was able to easily use my double stroller on the path. There are bathrooms on site. Very very nice place to get away and enjoy nature!

Bass Lake is one of our favorite places for a walk or hike. There are multiple trails (really old carriage trails) to follow. The lake itself is beautiful and the surrounding area is simply stunning, with "babbling brooks", little waterfalls, geese, ducks, all sorts of birds, rhododendrum, and more. Last time we visited we were fascinated by Indian runner ducks! I haven't seen them yet on this visit. They are so adorably cute when they walk/waddle upright like penguins. The Cone Manor House that overlooks the lake is also a highlight, as well as the old apple barn. Be sure to bring your camera!

So beautiful and clean. We took lots of pictures. It was very restful and serene. We went on a Saturday and there were people there but I wouldn’t say it was crowded at all.

Great views, nice walk, wildlife is beautiful and the shrubs are breathtaking. Good flat walk around the lake.

The walk around Bass Lake is about .9 of a mile on a flat unpaved surface. There are numerous benches around the path for those who need to rest. There are restrooms available. The lake is surrounded by trees and there is usually a nice breeze. It is my favorite place to walk when in Blowing Rock. My husband likes to hike the trails that branch off from the lake trail.

Very well kept walking path around the lake. Took the kids and the dogs. Clean and serene, few people fishing, relaxing, walking dogs, getting some exercise.

We heard this lake was a good fishing area so we took the kids fishing. This is a very nice area with bathrooms and walking paths. They have a path that goes all around the lake. Tons of people were riding horses and walking dogs. Very peaceful and we will come back on our next visit.

This was our first time so we took the short .08 mile hike around the lake because we had a small child with us, parking was nearby with bathrooms, area was mostly flat, geese were flying in and out, birds singing, Sun shinning, wood benches to sit to rest or just take in the lake,perfect day, next time we will do the 3 mile hike up to the manor.

We stopped so we could have a good viwe of the lake on an early spring day impressive views. taking photos but all the area background is dark with no colour vet early march

There are several walking paths around the Bass Lake Area . . most people just go around the lake (just under 1 mile) but there are others . . including one that goes up the Cone Manor

Nice small man made lake. Best for walking around trail which goes around entire lake. Under a mile.
Dog friendly, clean restrooms.
Quiet and tranquil.
Low key for sure.

We always enjoy walking around bass lake. The only issue is that it is so popular it is difficult to find parking.

As a Boone local, we hike Bass Lake a lot. The lake is beautiful & the trails strong it are flat & then slightly graded. Since all of Moses Cone trails were originally made from carriages, they are graded so well! You can ascend 800 feet and not feel it. Love this area to walk, hike & run. No bikes allowed. Dogs allowed on leash. Best in fall IMO. The Park Service does a great job maintaining this area, even with their unfortunate limited budget. Come on out & have some good family fun!

We walked this in a nice light rain. Great view of the lake on all sides. A very peaceful time. Benches are there to sir and really take in the view. Parking lot could be 3x on the weekends! Great fishing, as we saw folks leaving with a stringer of 30 fish!

Walked around the Bass lake on the Cone property. Lovely fall day with reflection of clouds in the lake. .7 miles around.

My wife and I walk the lake at least once a week. Many people walking with families and dogs. No bikes. Very relaxing and beautiful within easy reach of downtown Blowing Rock and the Blue Ridge Parkway.

The hike from the Cone manner to the lake and back was beautiful and rewarding. The lake and stream were relaxing and the large groomed grass areas were perfect for a picnic.

The walk around Bass Lake is perhaps the heart and soul of anything you could do in Blowing Rock. Locals are there every day, and wouldn't be if it weren't magnificence defined. Lots of cars on holidays, but they let you create your own spot if slots are all full. Bring your dogs and kids! When you enter the walk, a very wide perfectly maintained flat sandy circle around Bass Lake, you can go left or right and not miss the glory either way. This is the kind of lake that appears on calendars and post cards. Oh, don't forget to take pictures and make your friends jealous! All in the shade, but for a short part at the far end of the lake. It's less than a mile, with plenty of resting benches if you need to sit down and figure out if you're dreaming. At the part of the lake nearest the Cone Manor (which you can see for part of the walk), you can see and often even watch beavers swimming and working on their beautiful dams. A few folks will be fishing from the shore as you stroll. A small island in the middle of the lake is home for Canadian Geese in the summer. Lily pads fill Bass Lake's corners, and in one part of the lake, you'll likely pass horses and riders, walking slowly along, or drinking from the lake. For a longer walk, find the map at the entrance, next to the wonderful new bathrooms, and look at all the trail options. I've connected to trails that were from 15 minutes to 4 hours long (Apple Barn is the #1 favorite side trail but it's a full hour walk, half gently uphill, half down, all in deep shade, all trails in perfect, smooth, sandy condition). Nothing steep about ANY trail, but the side trails gently slope. Bass Lake trail has NO slope and will be a highlight. Right now, do a Google Image search of "Bass Lake, Blowing Rock, NC" and you'll see what I mean.

.09 mile around the lake and two-2 mile treks to walk/run/hike while visiting. If you take the 2 mile trail to the Flat Top Manor, the Cone mansion, it is well worth the view once you get there. Take some cash. There is a nice craft/gift store at the top.

What an awesome lake and surroundings! Simply loved walking here. Walked and enjoyed on 2 different days.

We loved this so much, we did it again the next day. It is just a short hike from our room at Bob Timberlake Inn at Chetola. We loved seeing the horses and the gorgeous fall leaves on the water. It is an easy, flat, gravel loop around the lake. The path is wide enough for all and there are benches every now and then.

Beautiful place to walk, with a path from Chetola. You can look up and see Moses Cone Manor... the beautiful forest. You can do the very level loop around the lake or take the gentle sloping horse carriage roads up to MCM. A beautiful way to start the day--- does it get better than this?

We walked around the lake before heading home and it was so nice to finish our trip this way. Perfect for slow and young walkers too.

Took a walk/hike around lake and Maze and was lovely. Spotted some warblers and had a delightful time!

Only a quick stop this time, during a rainy day. But still worth a moment of relaxation and tranquility. Will come back later to enjoy the hiking of short walking path.

This was a very easy walk for my kids (3-7yo) and their grandparents. It is paved with little to no incline. For a simple walk on a nice day I would recommend this spot.

I live two hours away but love to come here and watch the wildlife.....beavers, swans, geese, ducks, birds. It's a peaceful beautiful spot. Nice trails all around.