While the mountaintop village offers incredible views and dining, the heart of family summer fun at the resort is located at the bottom of the basin. Shavers lake snowshoe is a vibrant, action-packed destination that provides a perfect contrast to the rugged mountain trails. Accessible via a beautiful scenic lift ride, the lake area is transformed every summer into an aquatic playground. Whether your family wants to relax on the sandy beach, challenge each other on the inflatable obstacle course, or enjoy a lakeside lunch, shavers lake snowshoe has something for everyone. In this guide, we explore the top five activities that make a day at the lake an unforgettable part of your mountain vacation.
The Scenic Lift Ride to the Lake
The adventure to shavers lake snowshoe begins before you even touch the water. To reach the lake, guests take the Ballhooter high-speed quad lift from the Mountaintop Village down to the valley floor. This scenic lift ride is an activity in itself, offering sweeping, panoramic views of the Appalachian Mountains and the lush, green basin below. It is a fantastic opportunity for family photos and a relaxing way to start your day. Remember to purchase your summer activity passes in advance to access the lift.
Paddleboarding, Kayaking, and Canoeing
Once you arrive at shavers lake snowshoe, getting out on the water is a must. The lake features a fully equipped rental center where you can grab stand-up paddleboards (SUPs), kayaks, and canoes. The calm, flat water of the lake is perfect for beginners and children learning to paddle for the first time. Exploring the perimeter of the lake by canoe is a peaceful way to enjoy the surrounding forest and spot local wildlife.
For older kids and teenagers, the highlight of shavers lake snowshoe is undoubtedly the inflatable water obstacle course. Anchored just off the beach, this floating playground features slides, climbing walls, and balance beams. It is a high-energy activity that guarantees laughs and plenty of splashes. Life jackets are required and provided, ensuring a safe environment for everyone to burn off some summer energy.
Relaxing at the Swimming Beach
If you prefer a slower pace, the sandy swimming beach at shavers lake snowshoe is the perfect spot to unwind. You can set up your towels, build sandcastles with the little ones, and take a refreshing dip in the cool mountain water. The beach area is surrounded by
lakeside hammocks, offering a shaded retreat where parents can relax while keeping an eye on the kids in the water.
Dining at the Boathouse Restaurant
After a few hours of swimming and paddling, your family will definitely work up an appetite. Fortunately, you do not have to take the lift back up the mountain to find great food. The Boathouse restaurant is located right on the shores of shavers lake snowshoe. Featuring a large outdoor deck, it serves up family-friendly favorites like burgers, sandwiches, and salads, along with cold beverages for the adults. Eating lunch with a view of the lake and the mountain rising above it is a quintessential summer experience.
Where to Stay for Easy Lake Access
To make the most of your time at shavers lake snowshoe, we recommend booking a vacation rental in the Mountaintop Village. Properties like Rimfire, Allegheny Springs, and Expedition Station are located just a short walk from the Ballhooter lift. This proximity means you can easily head down to the lake in the morning, come back to your rental for a midday rest, and head out again for dinner without any hassle.
A: The primary way to access the lake during the summer is by taking the Ballhooter scenic lift from the Mountaintop Village.
Q: Do I need to bring my own kayak or paddleboard?
A: No, there is a rental center right at the lake that provides paddleboards, kayaks, canoes, and all necessary safety equipment like life jackets.
Q: Is there food available at shavers lake snowshoe?
A: Yes, the Boathouse restaurant is located directly on the lake, offering a menu of family friendly lunch items, snacks, and drinks with outdoor deck seating.
Q: Is swimming allowed in the lake?
A: Yes, there is a designated sandy beach area where swimming is permitted and encouraged during the summer months.
Q: Do I need a ticket to access the lake activities?
A: Yes, you will need a summer activity pass or lift ticket to ride the lift down to the lake and access the rentals and inflatable obstacle course.