Since 1913, Lake Junaluska Conference & Retreat Center near Asheville, North Carolina, has been the home of thousands of enriching events and worship services. Each year over 150,000 people experience Lake Junaluska through the The United Methodist Church ministry programs, church retreats, annual conferences and countless other events.
Lake Junaluska is an unincorporated community under the direction of The Southeastern Jurisdictional Administrative Council (SEJAC) of The United Methodist Church. It is home to The World Methodist Council and the office of The Executive Director of SEJAC. All denominations are welcome to visit and live at The Assembly. The Lake Junaluska Assembly had its beginnings at the Laymen’s Conference of The Methodists Episcopal Church, South in 1908. The first conference was held and the first cottages were completed in 1913.
Today there are approximately 760 residential property owners and about half of these are year round residents. The total area of the Assembly Grounds is 1200 acres. Nearby is Maggie Valley and Waynesville, as well as the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Asheville is 25 miles to the east.
Events such as Elderhostel, Vesper Services, Concerts, and Festivals provide special opportunities for residents and guests. The Assembly Grounds also contain The Heritage Center, The World Methodist Museum, The Bryant Native Gardens, The Golf Course, Susanna Wesley Gardens, The Intentional Growth center, The Memorial Chapel, The Library, and many beautiful walking paths. Junaluskans are proud of the beauty, history, and unique nature of their community.
The Conference and Retreat Center
The Lake Junaluska Conference and Retreat Center is a year round facility operated by SEJAC. There are approximately 700 hotel rooms, apartments, varied food service, meeting rooms, camping and recreational facilities. Stuart Auditorium seats approximately 2000.
Recreational Facilities
The Youth Center, Gym, Pool, canoes, paddleboats, volleyball, shuffleboard, and tennis courts are managed by The Conference Center. Recreational Passes are required for the use of these facilities. Recreational Passes may be purchased on a daily, weekly, or seasonal basis at The Administration Building, Residential Services Office, or The Pool. Recreational Passes also entitle the bearer to discounts at The Golf Course.
The Lake
If you are just passing through, you can stroll around the lake and enjoy this peaceful mountain setting. Along the way you will enjoy the beauty of the Rose Walk, the tranquility of the Frances Asbury Trail as well as the spectacular butterfly garden and waterfall. Canoe and paddleboat rentals are available for further exploration of the 200-acre lake.
Directions
Coming from Asheville-25 miles:
- From I-40, take exit 27 onto US 19-23.
- Drive 3-4 miles.
- Do not take exit 104, it is easy to get lost.
- Take exit 103 and drive about 1 mile until you see Lake Junaluska Conference and Retreat Center front entrance gates on the right.
- Bear right and follow the main road to the Bethea Welcome Center.
