Kayaking the Blue Ridge Parkway Lakes
Less than an hour from Lynchburg, the Blue Ridge Parkway hides two still mountain lakes made for slow paddling: Otter Lake at milepost 63 and Abbott Lake at the Peaks of Otter, sitting directly under Sharp Top mountain. We deliver boats so you can drive the Parkway unburdened.
The Parkway Lakes Day
Do both: Otter Lake is small, quiet, and rarely has more than a paddler or two on it. Abbott Lake is the postcard — Sharp Top reflected in still water, with the historic Peaks of Otter Lodge on the shore. Golden hour on Abbott is the best photo light in the region.
Pair it with a hike
Abbott Lake sits at the base of the Sharp Top summit trail, and a flat 1-mile loop circles the lake itself. Paddle in the morning, hike after lunch — or the reverse and finish with a sunset paddle.
Lunch at the Lodge
The Peaks of Otter Lodge restaurant overlooks Abbott Lake — the easiest post-paddle meal on the Parkway. Families: these lakes and Holliday Lake (no gas motors allowed) are the calmest kid-friendly water we serve.
Frequently asked questions
Can you kayak on the Blue Ridge Parkway?
Yes — Otter Lake at milepost 63 and Abbott Lake at the Peaks of Otter are both paddleable mountain lakes, and we deliver kayaks and SUPs to both.
How far are the Parkway lakes from Lynchburg?
Under an hour's drive. Most people make it a full day: paddle both lakes, hike Sharp Top or the lake loop, and eat at the Peaks of Otter Lodge.
Are the Parkway lakes good for kids?
Yes — still, sheltered water with easy shorelines. Along with Holliday Lake, they're the calmest family water in the region. Kids' PFDs available on request.
Ready to get on the water?
Kayak, tandem & SUP rentals from $49 with door-to-water shuttle, all around Lynchburg. Pick your launch and take-out on the map.
Book a float