Tucked between the mountains of northern Georgia and western North Carolina, Lake Chatuge is one of the region’s most scenic and inviting bodies of water. Known for its clean, calm waters and spectacular mountain backdrop, it’s a favorite destination for locals, vacationers, and homeowners who love the lake lifestyle. But one of the most common questions new visitors ask is, how big is Lake Chatuge?

The answer is impressive — Lake Chatuge spans approximately 7,000 acres of surface water and boasts over 130 miles of shoreline, making it one of the largest and most beautiful mountain lakes in the North Georgia area. Its expansive size, combined with its peaceful setting, makes it ideal for boating, fishing, swimming, and lakeside living.

The Creation of Lake Chatuge

To understand how big Lake Chatuge is, it helps to know where it came from. The lake was created in 1942 when the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) built the Chatuge Dam across the Hiawassee River. The goal was to provide flood control and generate hydroelectric power for the surrounding region.

When completed, the dam flooded the surrounding valleys and created a vast reservoir stretching between Towns County, Georgia, and Clay County, North Carolina. The result was a breathtaking lake nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains — a destination that would soon become one of the most sought-after recreational areas in the Southeast.

Today, Lake Chatuge remains a vital part of the TVA system. The dam stands 144 feet high and 2,850 feet long, holding back billions of gallons of pristine mountain water that feed into the Hiawassee River.

Size, Depth, and Dimensions

So, how big is Lake Chatuge in terms of its physical dimensions? The lake stretches about 13 miles in length and varies in width depending on the area, with deep coves and wide open waters perfect for sailing and skiing. Its maximum depth reaches approximately 144 feet, while the average depth hovers around 30 to 40 feet depending on rainfall and TVA water levels.

The shoreline winds through forested hills and open meadows, creating a natural landscape that feels endless. With over 130 miles of shoreline, property owners enjoy plenty of opportunities for private docks, panoramic views, and easy access to the water. This combination of surface area and shoreline makes Lake Chatuge a perfect balance between expansive and intimate — large enough for adventure, yet quiet enough for peace.

How Lake Chatuge Compares to Other Lakes in North Georgia

When comparing how big Lake Chatuge is to other lakes in North Georgia, it ranks among the largest in the region. While Lake Lanier is significantly bigger at around 38,000 acres, Lake Chatuge offers a unique blend of size, serenity, and mountain beauty that Lanier simply can’t match.

For perspective:

• Lake Lanier: ~38,000 acres, 700+ miles of shoreline
• Lake Blue Ridge: ~3,300 acres, 60 miles of shoreline
• Lake Burton: ~2,775 acres, 62 miles of shoreline
• Lake Nottely: ~4,180 acres, 106 miles of shoreline
• Lake Chatuge: ~7,000 acres, 130+ miles of shoreline

That makes Lake Chatuge one of the most spacious yet peaceful lakes in the entire Appalachian region. It’s large enough to accommodate boats and water sports without feeling crowded, which is why many consider it the perfect blend of recreation and relaxation.

The Communities Surrounding Lake Chatuge

The area around Lake Chatuge is equally impressive. The Georgia side centers around Hiawassee and Young Harris, while the North Carolina side is home to Hayesville and other small mountain towns. These communities embrace the laid-back charm of lake living while offering excellent amenities, local dining, festivals, and easy access to outdoor recreation.

Homes near the water range from cozy cabins and log-style retreats to luxury lakefront estates with private docks. Because the lake is shared between two states, property options vary widely — from Georgia’s lively marinas and beaches to North Carolina’s quiet coves and rolling pastures.

Recreation on a Lake This Size

Because of its size and clean water, Lake Chatuge offers something for everyone. The wide open sections are perfect for boating, wakeboarding, and tubing, while the quiet coves provide ideal spots for kayaking, paddleboarding, or simply enjoying the sunset. Anglers love the diversity of fish species, including spotted bass, largemouth bass, hybrid striped bass, catfish, and trout.

The surrounding area also features miles of hiking and biking trails, campgrounds, and picnic areas managed by the TVA and U.S. Forest Service. The combination of water, mountains, and open sky makes Lake Chatuge a year-round destination for both adventure and relaxation.

A Lake Large Enough for Everyone

The beauty of Lake Chatuge’s 7,000 acres is that it never feels crowded. Even during peak summer months, there’s plenty of room for everyone to enjoy the water. Locals often say that Lake Chatuge gives them “the best of both worlds” — the size and activity of a big lake with the calm and friendliness of a small-town community.

Many homeowners appreciate that the lake’s size also enhances property values and investment potential. Larger lakes with extensive shorelines tend to hold their value well, especially when paired with protected mountain views and limited commercial development.

Why Homebuyers Love Lake Chatuge

For those looking to buy lakefront property, Lake Chatuge’s combination of beauty, size, and peacefulness makes it stand out. It’s large enough to offer privacy and space, yet small enough to maintain a close-knit community feel. Its size also allows for a range of property types — from cozy weekend cabins to grand custom homes with long-range views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Because of the lake’s elevation and layout, many homes enjoy panoramic views of both the water and surrounding peaks. Whether you’re boating, fishing, or sipping coffee on your deck, the scenery is unforgettable.

The Real Answer

So, how big is Lake Chatuge? It covers roughly 7,000 acres of pristine water, stretches 13 miles in length, and features over 130 miles of shoreline. It’s large enough to explore for days yet intimate enough to feel like home. This balance of size, beauty, and peacefulness makes it one of the most beloved lakes in North Georgia — a place where mountain living and lake life come together perfectly.

If you’re considering buying or selling a home near Lake Chatuge, our team at North Georgia Lake Homes can help you find the right property to fit your lifestyle. With deep local knowledge and Keller Williams Realty backing, we make every step of your lake home journey simple, honest, and rewarding