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FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Our Resort

What activities are available at Mountain Lake Lodge?

Mountain Lake Lodge offers various activities, including hiking, bird watching, fishing, and kayaking. Guests can enjoy guided nature walks. The lodge also provides access to archery, and scavenger hunts for family fun. Seasonal events and themed weekends add to the excitement.

Is Mountain Lake Lodge pet-friendly?

Yes, Mountain Lake Lodge welcomes pets in designated accommodations. A pet fee applies, and pets must remain leashed in common areas. With pet-friendly trails and plenty of outdoor space, your furry friend will enjoy the scenic surroundings. Advance reservations for pet-friendly rooms are recommended due to limited availability.

Are there dining options at Mountain Lake Lodge?

Mountain Lake Lodge offers diverse dining experiences. Enjoy fresh, locally sourced meals at Harvest Restaurant or relax with a cocktail at Stony Creek Tavern. The lodge caters to various dietary needs with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available upon request. Outdoor seating provides stunning views.

Can I host a wedding or event at Mountain Lake Lodge?

Absolutely! Mountain Lake Lodge provides a picturesque setting for weddings, corporate retreats, and special events. With indoor and outdoor venues, experienced planners, and customizable catering options, your event will be memorable. The lodge offers unique packages tailored to your specific needs and preferences.

What is the cancellation policy at Mountain Lake Lodge?

All reservations require a nonrefundable first night deposit. Reservations need to be canceled 14 days in advance to avoid a full stay charge. Special event packages and promotions have different policies, so review your booking details carefully.

What is Mountain Lake Lodge known for?

Mountain Lake Lodge is famous for being "Kellerman's Mountain House" in the 1987 movie "Dirty Dancing" and is known as the gateway to Southwest Virginia. Mountain Lake Lodge is about 25 minutes from Blacksburg, Virginia, in the mountains of Giles County. In the early 1800s, the property was a stop along the public stagecoach line providing lodging for passengers. Today, the lodge is a thriving resort and attracts those seeking to retreat and immerse themselves in nature.

What guided hiking opportunities are offered by Mountain Lake Lodge?

The resort upholds Mary Moody Northen’s vision of connecting the public with nature in its purest form by offering guided hikes with unparalleled views. Our hikes include trips to Cascade Falls in Pembroke, one of Virginia's most popular hiking destinations, attracting approximately 150,000 visitors annually. Explore Bald Knob Trail, the highest point on Salt Pond Mountain, traverse the lakebed, enjoy birdwatching on Lower Jungle Trail, and experience the Salt Lick Trail. For more details and to schedule your guided hike, call or Mountain Lake Outfitters or visit the Mountain Lake Nature Center.

What fishing activities can guests enjoy while staying at Mountain Lake Lodge?

Guests at Mountain Lake Lodge can enjoy exceptional fishing experiences through our local partnerships. The resort arranges guided fly fishing tours on the New River, where an Orvis-certified fly fisherman provides all the necessary equipment, including rods, flies, and refreshments. These accessible and immersive trips ensure a memorable experience for both seasoned anglers and beginners alike. To arrange your fishing adventure, call Mountain Lake Outfitters or let us know you want to schedule a fishing trip when you call to make your reservation.

What art experiences does Mountain Lake Lodge offer?

Known for its splendid views and picturesque hiking trails, Mountain Lake also features an immersive art studio. The studio offers various activities, including acrylic, clay, watercolor, oil pastel, and ink, all coming with a sketchbook and instructional manual, making the experience accessible for those looking for inspiration and kids of all ages. Guests can even book weekend classes with a talented local artist who guides them through creating their artistic vision on an 11x14 canvas.

What unique excursions does Mountain Lake Lodge provide?

Mountain Lake Lodge offers unique excursions that showcase the natural beauty and history of Giles County. Enjoy Expedition 4043' or Cool Down at 4043', both taking you to an elevation of 4,043 feet for breathtaking views from the Overlook. The latter includes a refreshing Italian Ice treat. Explore Clover Hollow Loop Tours, descending the mountain to see Appalachian farms and the historic 1916 covered bridge, one of only six remaining in Virginia. Or, experience Buzz Up to Bald Knob excursion, reaching the highest point on Salt Pond Mountain for panoramic vistas of Southwest Virginia and West Virginia.

Why should I stay at Mountain Lake Lodge?

Mountain Lake Lodge offers a unique blend of historic charm, stunning scenery, and exceptional experiences. Famously known as the filming location for "Dirty Dancing," the lodge provides a special connection to the beloved film. Guests can enjoy breathtaking views from excursions like Expedition 4043', ride a Gator up to Bald Knob, the highest point in Giles County, or explore local history and culture through guided tours such as the Clover Hollow Loop Tours. Outdoor enthusiasts can partake in a variety of activities, including guided hikes to Cascade Falls and Bald Knob, tubing on the New River, and golf. Exciting fishing trips with an Orvis-certified fly-fishing partner are also available. Resort activities include Bubble Ball Soccer, Archery Tag, and art classes at the Art Studio. Guests can unwind at the outdoor pool and hot tub, indulge in farm-to-table dining at Harvest, and enjoy weekly events and live music at the Salt Pond Pub. Mary's Market & Café, featuring an ice cream parlor, is perfect for grabbing a treat. With its exceptional Southern hospitality and strong ties to the local community, Mountain Lake Lodge promises a truly immersive and unforgettable experience.

Was the Dirty Dancing filmed at Mountain Lake Lodge?

Yes, Mountain Lake Lodge is famously known as one of the primary filming locations for the iconic movie "Dirty Dancing." It's a well-known fact among fans, but many people are still surprised to learn that this beloved film was shot right here at Mountain Lake Lodge. (Yes, even the famous "lift" scene was filmed on our grounds!)

As a special treat, whether you're just visiting for the day or staying overnight, the resort offers a free self-guided tour map available at the front desk. This map will lead you through the property, showcasing the exact spots where memorable scenes were filmed, complete with fun facts about each location.

Meetings

Can we stage a corporate meeting or convention at Mountain Lake Lodge?

Yes, we host meetings, conferences, and social gatherings of all kinds. Our venues feature technology upgrades to provide the best user experience available.

What is included when renting an event space at Mountain Lake Lodge?

An event rental includes tables, chairs, linen, and places settings provided and set up by Mountain Lake Lodge staff. An event rental also includes the ability to customize the layout of the event space and an Event Manager to assist with planning every detail of the event.

Is a deposit necessary?

Events at Mountain Lake Lodge require a $500 non-refundable deposit along with a signed contract to reserve an event space. The deposit will go towards the final balance for the event cost and the remaining balance is due 30 days prior to the event date.

Weddings

What is included at your venue?

The On-Site Event Fee is $2,000 on Friday/Sunday and $3,000 on Saturdays; it includes: tan/metal folding chairs for your ceremony, padded banquet chairs for your reception, any tables that you may need for your ceremony and reception, place settings with flatware and glasses, professional banquet staff, and an Event Coordinator to help you plan every detail!

Can food or beverages be brought in from the outside?

Mountain Lake Lodge reserves the right to provide all food and beverage in private event space. No food service may be provided by any other caterer, or food service provider, and it may not be provided personally by the client. The exception to this is wedding cakes and similar specialty items. Outside alcohol and food is strictly prohibited and is subject to a $500+ penalty, per offense.

Location

How close is Mountain Lake Lodge to Virginia Tech and Downtown Blacksburg?

Mountain Lake Lodge is less than a 25-minute drive from Virginia Tech and a 28-minute drive from Downtown Blacksburg. This proximity makes it ideal for those who want to enjoy the serene mountain environment while being close to the campus for events and activities. Many guests appreciate the convenient access to Hokie sports games and other campus events.


Are the Blue Ridge Mountains close to the lodge?

Yes, the Blue Ridge Mountains are part of a range that is encompassed by the Appalachian Mountains, running from eastern Canada through the states of VA, NC, TN, GA, and MD. They are as beautiful as they are picturesque, and the vistas make for excellent pictures.

If I drive to Mountain Lake Lodge, can I park my car?

Yes, we offer complimentary guest parking.

“Dirty Dancing” was filmed at a resort, which one was featured in the film?

We are proud to say Mountain Lake Lodge served as the backdrop for the film.

Contact

Is there an indoor pool at Mountain Lake Lodge?

The pool complex is outdoors. We have a zero-entry pool, a traditional pool, and a hot tub. The pool complex is open from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day.

Safety is paramount for me, what can I do to protect myself?

Our commitment to a clean safe facility is enhanced by our deep cleaning methods.

My plans have changed; can I reschedule my stay or cancel my reservation?

We work to accommodate our guests' needs and we want to provide flexibility wherever we can. If you need to make changes, please contact us.

Stay

Can I get an accessible room at Mountain Lake Lodge?

Mountain Lake Lodge is equipped to accommodate our guests’ needs and special requirements to ensure every guest has a comfortable and enjoyable stay.

Is Wi-Fi part of my package?

Yes, Wi-Fi access is included with your reservation package. Any associated fees are built into the cost of your stay so you can stay connected without additional charges.

Is there a pool for swimming?

Our heated pool opens Memorial Day weekend and runs through to September – weather permitting. As our guest you can enjoy complimentary towels poolside.

Are there hot tubs available at the resort?

We have a seasonal outdoor hot tub available for guests only from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Relax and unwind after a day on the trails with a soothing soak in the hot tub.

I’m a pet parent, can I bring my dog and is there a cost for doing so?

We love dogs! You can bring up to two dogs – under 75 pounds with you for your stay. We charge a non-refundable fee of $75 per dog per stay. Learn More

What rooms or cabins can I stay in with my dog?

We offer numerous pet-friendly cabins: Thompson, Radford, Spruce Run, Fincastle, and Narrows Cabin are available as is the lower level of Chestnut Lodge.

Can I get a room/cabin with air conditioning?

Yes, air conditioning is available in all cottages and cabins. The main stone lodge, being a historic building, does not have air conditioning, however, the cool mountain air provides a natural, refreshing atmosphere.

Is Baby’s Cabin available?

Certainly, the Virginia Cabin is the one made famous by the movie “Dirty Dancing,” known in the movie as Baby’s Cabin. Call the Front Desk to request Baby's cabin.

Can I watch TV at Mountain Lake Lodge?

TVs are available in most cabins. However, to preserve the historic charm of the Main Stone Lodge and Blueberry Ridge Mountain Homes, they do not have TVs.

Are elevators part of the amenities at Mountain Lake Lodge?

There are no elevators at Mountain Lake Lodge.

I need handicapped-accessible accommodations, can Mountain Lake Lodge provide me with what I need?

The Rimplemead Cabin is ADA compliant. It features a ramp, a roll-in shower, and lowered countertops. At Main Stone Lodge, room 114 has a wider doorway and lowered countertops. Consult our front desk staff for help with your specific requirements.

Can I get Wi-Fi in public areas at Mountain Lake Lodge?

Mountain Lake Lodge provides Wi-Fi internet connection in all public areas.

Dine

What restaurants allow dogs at Mountain Lake Lodge?

Well-behaved dogs on a leash are welcome in Stony Creek Tavern and Salt Pond Pub.

What options do I have for dining at Mountain Lake Lodge?

There are several dining options at Mountain Lake Lodge, each offering a unique culinary experience featuring fresh ingredients. Indulge in farm-to-table delights at Harvest, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner (reservations recommended). At Stony Creek Tavern, enjoy a craft beer in a cozy atmosphere. At Salt Pond Pub, savor hot and delicious pizzas, offering a mouth-watering dining experience. With such variety, there's something to satisfy every palate.

Conservancy

The lake is a source of curiosity, what is transpiring?

Please check out this video for an in-depth explanation: https://www.mtnlakelodge.com/the-lake