Mountain Lake Lodge is a beautiful retreat nestled in the mountains of Virginia. Many people visit this famous location because of its association with the film Dirty Dancing. Even if you’ve never seen this film, you’re most likely aware of the iconic scene where Patrick Swayze holds up Jennifer Grey in what’s described as “the lift,” which the two characters practice in the water. Intriguingly, this very body of water, known as Mountain Lake, mysteriously fills and empties for reasons which aren’t obvious. Recently, the lake has begun to fill up again, fueling the allure of this mountain retreat.
Welcome to Mountain Lake Lodge, a beautiful resort in the mountains near Pembroke, Virginia. Whether you’re a fan of Dirty Dancing or not, you can’t help but feel the magic of this corner of Virginia.
Mountain Lake Lodge / Facebook
And speaking of magic, there’s something utterly spellbinding about the phenomenon of the lake. In 2008, this body of water dried up and stayed that way for more than a decade.
Mountain Lake Lodge / Facebook This wasn’t the first time the lake had mysteriously emptied; it drained completely in 1999, then replenished in 2003. Then, in 2006, water levels dropped again and by 2008 had completely emptied.
Now, in the summer of 2020, the water has mysteriously appeared again. Scientists have agreed that this unpredictable phenomenon of the lake drying out and then filling up again makes Mountain Lake one of a kind not only in the region but in the world.
Mountain Lake Lodge / Facebook
According to Roanoke College professor Jon Cawley, it’s the only known lake on the planet to follow this cyclical and complex pattern.
Mountain Lake / YouTube
The cycle isn’t random, as it may appear to be, but rather part of a complex and astounding system where the water self-filters the sediment of its basin. Over time, this will make the lake even bigger.
Mountain Lake / YouTube
The water levels are currently at 2/3rd capacity, so visitors will have to wait to see if it fills up completely. In the meantime, Mountain Lake Lodge offers several must-see points of interest that will delight movie buffs and nature lovers alike.
Mountain Lake Lodge / Facebook
Curious to learn more about the science behind this phenomenon? Check out the brief YouTube video below, courtesy of Mountain Lake Lodge:
Mountain Lake Lodge / Facebook
This wasn’t the first time the lake had mysteriously emptied; it drained completely in 1999, then replenished in 2003. Then, in 2006, water levels dropped again and by 2008 had completely emptied.
Mountain Lake / YouTube
Mountain Lake / YouTube
Have you ever been to the Mountain Lake Lodge in Virginia? Was the lake dry or filled when you visited? Be sure to share your experience with us in the comments below! For more information on Mountain Lake Lodge, check out our previous article.
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Address: 115 Hotel Cir, Pembroke, VA 24136, USA
