Exploring the Rich History of Lake Toxaway: North Carolina’s Switzerland of America

The Birth of Lake Toxaway: From Vision to Reality

Lake Toxaway wasn’t always the serene mountain lake we know today. In fact, it’s the largest private lake in North Carolina—and entirely man-made. The story begins in the late 19th century when industrialist J.F. Hayes and the Toxaway Company saw potential in the rugged mountain terrain of Transylvania County.

In 1902, Hayes completed construction of a massive dam across the Toxaway River, creating what was then the largest artificial lake in the Appalachian Mountains. At 540 acres and surrounded by towering peaks, the new lake quickly earned its nickname as the “Switzerland of America” due to its alpine beauty and pristine waters.

The Golden Era: America’s First Millionaire’s Resort

The completion of the lake coincided with America’s Gilded Age, when the country’s wealthy elite sought exclusive escapes from city life. The Toxaway Company seized this opportunity and constructed the magnificent Toxaway Inn in 1903—a 250-room luxury hotel that became one of America’s first millionaire’s resorts.

The guest list read like a who’s who of American royalty: the Vanderbilts, Rockefellers, Fords, and Edisons all frequented Lake Toxaway. Henry Ford and Harvey Firestone were known to vacation here, while Thomas Edison reportedly found inspiration in the area’s natural beauty. The inn featured modern luxuries that were revolutionary for its time: electric lights, private bathrooms, an elevator, and telephone service—amenities virtually unheard of in such a remote mountain setting.

The Flood and Rebirth: Lake Toxaway’s Second Chapter

Lake Toxaway’s first golden era came to a dramatic end in August 1916, when a massive hurricane struck the Carolina mountains. After days of torrential rainfall, the earthen dam could no longer hold. In a catastrophic failure, the dam burst, sending billions of gallons of water rushing downstream, devastating communities along the way. The once-grand Toxaway Inn, now without its centerpiece lake, struggled to attract visitors and eventually closed.

For nearly 50 years, the former lakebed sat empty—until 1960, when a group of investors led by Reg Heinitsh Sr. purchased the property and embarked on an ambitious restoration project. By 1961, a new concrete dam was completed, and Lake Toxaway was reborn. The natural beauty that had once captivated America’s elite once again drew visitors and homeowners to its shores.

Modern Lake Toxaway: A Legacy of Luxury and Natural Beauty

Today’s Lake Toxaway honors its storied past while embracing modern luxury. The Lake Toxaway Country Club, established in 1963, continues the tradition of exclusive mountain recreation with its Tom Fazio-designed championship golf course and elegant amenities. Private homes and estates now line portions of the 14-mile shoreline, many embracing the classic mountain architecture that pays homage to the area’s golden age.

The natural beauty that earned the “Switzerland of America” moniker remains unchanged—pristine waters reflect the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains, creating postcard-perfect vistas in every season. Visitors can still appreciate the same views that captivated industrialists and innovators over a century ago, whether from boat tours on the lake or hiking trails in nearby Gorges State Park.

Experience Lake Toxaway’s History Today

History enthusiasts can explore the area’s rich past at the Toxaway Historical Society, where photographs and artifacts tell the story of the lake’s creation, destruction, and rebirth. The nearby Greystone Inn, built in 1915 as a private estate, now offers luxury accommodations where guests can experience a taste of the area’s golden age.

From Burlingame Country Club, members and guests are just minutes away from experiencing this historical gem. Whether enjoying a day on the water, hiking to nearby waterfalls, or simply taking in the mountain views that earned the “Switzerland of America” nickname, Lake Toxaway continues to captivate visitors with its unique combination of natural beauty and fascinating history.