Lake in the Sky, body of water
Lake in the Sky is a small man-made reservoir in Blount County, Tennessee, located in mountainous terrain with rolling hills and forested surroundings. The water body covers approximately 52 acres and is controlled by a dam constructed in 1966 at its northern end to hold back water from Flat Creek.
The lake was created in 1966 through dam construction on Flat Creek to regulate water flow in the region. Explorer Juan Pardo is believed to have visited the area around the late 1500s, possibly searching for minerals like silver, marking an early connection to the mountainous landscape.
The name "Lake in the Sky" reflects the high elevation of this reservoir, which sits at about 2,000 feet above sea level. The surrounding community of Top of the World Estates values quiet living, with residents using the lake as a peaceful retreat away from busier areas.
The area around the lake features simple docks and boat ramps for water access, with swimming and boating common in warmer months. Visitors should note that Flat Creek is not navigable by boat, and the area can be misty early in the morning, making it especially peaceful for a visit.
The lake is home to an unusual freshwater jellyfish called Craspedacusta sowerbii, a species not native to this Tennessee region but found in many lakes across the country. These transparent, harmless creatures drift quietly through the water, revealing the hidden biological diversity of this mountain reservoir.
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