With its small-town charm and temperate climate year-round, the Smith Mountain Lake area presents many perfect opportunities to enjoy a day or two out in the great outdoors. Below, you’ll find my most recommended activities, sure to fit a variety of interests and preferences.
TOP ACTIVITIES IN SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE
Hiking
The Smith Mountain Lake State Park is a hiker’s paradise. It covers over 1,100 acres of land and includes 13 hiking trails that can be accessed throughout the year. They run through a number of breathtaking sights, such as pine barrens, undisturbed coves, and mixed hardwood forests. And with varying lengths and difficulties, hikers of different fitness levels have plenty of options– just choose your adventure for the day. You can even take your dog with you as long as they’re on a leash.
Trails at Smith Mountain Lake State Park, which are marked by different color blazes, include:
- Turtle Island Trail: A crowd favorite, the Turtle Island Trail is a 1.4-mile loop trail that takes hikers to Turtle Island, so named as it resembles a turtle if you view it from the air. The trail is rated as moderately difficult, but pleasant for wildlife viewing and bird watching. a crowd favorite at Smith Mountain Lake State Park. Rated as moderately difficult, expect minor changes in elevation. You’ll know you’re on the right path as long as you see green blazes along the trail.
- Buck Run Trail: Marked by white blazes, this 1.74-mile out-and-back trail of moderate difficulty is beloved among birding enthusiasts from both near and far. It takes hikers on a journey through the lakeside, offering fantastic views of the state park’s deepest cove, not to mention many types of waterfowl. It is highly recommended to bring a pair of binoculars to admire these beauties. If you are lucky, you might even get the chance to spot a great blue heron or a belted kingfisher.
The Buck Run Trail connects to two other trails– Chestnut Ridge and Beechwood– in the event that you would like a longer hike within the state park.
- Tobacco Run Trail: At only half a mile, Tobacco Run is one of the shortest trails within the state park. It is marked by cobalt blue blazes, with the trailhead located just a few steps from the Discovery Center Amphitheater. Although short and easy, the trail also grants hikers with some of the best views of Smith Mountain Lake. Should you find yourself with ample time and energy, consider combining Tobacco Run with either Beaver Den or Opossum Trot– two easy 0.40-mile trails.
- Striper Cove Trail: A favorite among cyclists and advanced hikers, Striper Cove is both the longest and most challenging trail within state park grounds. It runs for just over 3.1 miles– lined with gold blazes– from Turtle Island to the main picnic area. The trail has ample uphills and downhills, but for all the effort, hikers are rewarded with magnificent views of Smith Mountain Lake and the surrounding forest. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife openings along the trail.
If you’d like a slight change of scenery, head to Smith Mountain Lake Community Park in Moneta. This 37-acre park is open daily from dawn to dusk. Down along the lakefront, you’ll find a 1.7-mile trail that circles the peninsula. After your hike, you are welcome to relax at the beach area, swim a few laps on the designated swimming lane, or go for a leisurely soak on the lake.
More hiking information and tips can be found here.
Birding at the lake
As hinted earlier, Smith Mountain Lake holds myriad opportunities for avid bird watchers, no matter the season. Some large raptors, such as ospreys, turkey vultures, and bald eagles have been spotted in the area. It is also believed that ospreys nest locally, with chances of sighting them high between the months of March and October.
The water-loving ring-billed Gull is another frequent visitor. You’ll see them gathering in flocks along the shore. As for waterfowl, the white-billed American coot, the long-necked Canada goose, and the black and white-patterned common loon swim in the lake. Downy, red-bellied, and red-headed Woodpeckers can be sighted in the surrounding woodlands.
Other feathered friends you may see in and around Smith Mountain Lake include the chubby cedar waxwing with its crested head, the round and tiny Carolina chickadee, and the gray and orange-bellied American robin. In the summer or spring, you might get a glimpse of the sunny yellow and black-winged American goldfinch as well.
- When to go: Most birds are active during early morning, but if you are a late riser, before sundown is also ideal to go birdwatching as many species feed during this time.
- What to wear: Comfort is key, always. You will most likely be doing some level of hiking, so wear comfortable shoes. Choose neutral colors to blend with the surroundings and avoid wearing anything scented to increase your chances of seeing wildlife.
- What to bring: Field guides– in book or app form– are always handy as they can help you identify bird species. Do not forget to bring a pair of binoculars as well; these will enable you to see the birds without disturbing them. If you currently don’t own binoculars, you can rent a pair from the visitor center.
Even if you are only going bird-watching, please stick to the established trails for you and the local wildlife’s safety. Always keep a safe distance, use viewing blinds if they are available, and leave no trace.
Boating
With Smith Mountain Lake as the key attraction in the area, boating is naturally one of the most popular activities in the community. This can be enjoyed for most of the year, although summer provides the most ideal conditions.
Bridgewater Marina in Moneta is one of the best places to go if you are looking to rent a boat. It has been around since 1989 and operates four branches around Smith Mountain Lake: the flagship Moneta location, Bernard’s, State Park, and Mariners Landing. Some of the watercraft you can rent include fishing boats, canoes, pontoons, and jet skis. You’ll get an anchor, a full tank of gas, and life jackets with your rental.
In order to rent a boat with any of Bridgewater Marina’s four locations, you must be over 16 and with a valid driver’s and NASBLA boater’s license. In case you have yet to obtain a boater’s license, you can sign up for a boat safety course with Bridgewater Marina, which will earn you a temporary license.
If you prefer to be a passenger rather than a driver, how about taking a cruise around Smith Mountain Lake? The Virginia Dare has been offering cruising tours of the lake for over 33 years, making it an iconic sight in the community. Tour prices start at $25 for a two-hour cruise, which is offered from spring through fall. You can also rent The Virginia Dare for a private cruise or board a specialty tour, which are usually scheduled on major holidays.
Golfing
For those who prefer to have their feet firmly planted on the ground while still enjoying views of the lake, try golfing. And with several golf courses to choose from, It is easy to see why this is one of the top activities in the Smith Mountain Lake area.
- Mariners Landing Country Club in Huddleston is home to an 18-hole championship golf course designed by legend Robert Trent Jones, Sr. It sits right on the edge of the lake, giving players lovely views of the water during tee times. Members and their guests can also enjoy a number of amenities, including a renovated pro shop and a driving range.
- Copper Cove Golf Club in Hardy is highly recommended for advanced golf players as the facility features a challenging course designed by Virginia native Russell Breeden. After playing, head to the Copper Cove Grille for apres-golf snacks and drinks.
- The Water’s Edge Country Club in Penhook is another highly recommended golf course in the Smith Mountain Lake area. There, you can play on an 18-hole PGA championship course and try to score some of its famous holes, including Hole #18, which is famed to be among the hardest golf course holes in the region. The country club also features equestrian facilities and dining options.
Lovers of miniature golf also have options, such as Hot Shots in Moneta. This bar and grill hosts an outdoor par-40 putt-putt course with six ponds and an artificial two-ton waterfall. Children ages 3 and below can play for free, while the fee for adults is $10. The course is open-year round, so feel free to visit any time.
Check out our ultimate guide to golf at Smith Mountain Lake here.
Outdoor events
On the subject of top activities in the Smith Mountain Lake area, one shouldn’t forget its line-up of community events, which include:
- Smith Mountain Lake Triathlon: This decades-old event is the first open-water swim triathlon in West Virginia. It’s held at Smith Mountain Lake State Park and involves a 750-meter swim, 20 kilometers of cycling, and a 5-kilometer run.
- Smith Mountain Lake Pirate Days: This pirate-themed annual event will be celebrating its 11th year this 2024! It is typically held over a long summer weekend, where participants get to dress as pirates and set sail on decorated boats. Pirate Days also host water cannon boat battles, as well as a costume competition and a ball complete with live music entertainment.
- Smith Mountain Lake Antique and Classic Boat Show: Now on its 32nd year, this beloved lakeside event is the place to see carefully restored vintage wooden boats along with their lovely owners. Take this opportunity to go cruising down the lake, see boats on display, and meet fellow antique boat enthusiasts.
Find more seasonal outdoor recreational activities in the Smith Mountain Lake area here.
HANDY TIPS FOR AN ENJOYABLE TIME OUTDOORS
Exploring the outdoors will expose you to rough terrains as well as the blazing sun in the summer and chilly air in the winter. Here are some tips to keep in mind as you participate in outdoor activities in Smith Mountain Lake.
During the colder months:
- Watch out for extreme weather conditions and heed the local advisories.
- Wear warm clothing like waterproof boots and windproof jackets.
- Regardless of how well you know the area, it helps to have a map and a whistle with you when exploring the local trails.
- Once you or your companions start to experience signs of coldness or exhaustion, do not hesitate to end the excursion and return home.
- Always hike with a partner, especially in the winter.
- Avoid hiking in the late afternoon because the trip back down may take longer than expected. It gets significantly colder in the nighttime.
During the hotter months:
- Stay hydrated and pack a water bottle or two.
- Wear breathable fabrics like cotton and linen. Choose light colors as well because these absorb less heat.
- Choose a broad-spectrum (blocks out UVA and UVB rays) sunscreen that has at least SPF 15, and apply it 15 minutes before going out to give your skin time to absorb it. Then, reapply every 2 hours and after swimming.
- Wear adequate sun protection, such as a wide-brimmed hat or a visor cap. Using an umbrella or sunglasses also helps.
- Wear a life jacket when you go boating or participate in any water sports. Make sure to pick the right size and wear it properly.
- If you’re traveling with kids and the young at heart, make sure that the surface of playground equipment (swing, monkey bars, and etc.) is not too hot for play.
MAKE SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE YOUR PLAYGROUND
One of the best ways to relish and appreciate all of the outdoor activities in Smith Mountain Lake is to call it your home, whether on a permanent or temporary arrangement. I can help you there.
I’m Jane Horne, a specialist on Smith Mountain Lake real estate since 1986. As a resident, let me be one of the first people to welcome you to the community. Let’s get in touch to discuss your local real estate opportunities, including primary residences and vacation homes.