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Welcome to our destination travel blog

Each month we feature unique local experiences, upcoming events, and more about Smith Mountain Lake and surrounding Bedford, Franklin and Pittsylvania counties. Want to have updates emailed directly to you? Sign up for our monthly tourism eNewsletter!

9 Ways to Get onto the Water at Smith Mountain Lake

You don’t have to be an experienced boater or own your own vessel to enjoy Smith Mountain Lake. Here are nine fun and easy ways to enjoy our waters. Rent a boat. From zippy runabouts to luxury pontoons to high-performance wake boats, local marinas offer a number of options to accommodate groups of up to…

10 Top spots for hiking near Smith Mountain Lake

July 29, 2021 -Take a hike!  No, seriously. Hikes near Smith Mountain Lake are highly recommended when you visit our stunning lake in Virginia’s Blue Ridge.  Beyond the physical benefits, Smith Mountain Lake hiking is sure to soothe the soul. If that sounds like something you’re up for, keep reading for details on 10 hiking…

Jump into these fun-filled events at Smith Mountain Lake

June 1, 2021 – The summer season has arrived at Smith Mountain Lake and, like us, you’re probably itching to get out and enjoy some fun-filled events. We have plenty of annual events for you to experience but keep in mind, too, that many of our local restaurants have live music all summer long, as well…

16 warm-weather hidden gems to explore at Smith Mountain Lake

May 3, 2021 – As we gear up for our busiest (and warmest) season here at Smith Mountain Lake, it’s the perfect opportunity to create that summer bucket list. In this WanderLove blog post, you’ll find a breakdown of what we consider hidden gems, most of which are accessible by both land and water. Keep…

Tastes of Smith Mountain Lake: Explore our restaurant scene

March 31, 2021- The restaurant scene at Smith Mountain Lake is deliciously dynamic with dozens of spots to grab breakfast, lunch and dinner both off and on the water. At Smith Mountain Lake, you’ll discover cuisines ranging from American grill to Asian fusion to Mexican and Italian, plus quirky food trucks, mom-and-pop ice cream shops…

Smith Mountain Lake Fishing [It’s the Reel Deal]

March 1, 2021 – Smith Mountain Lake offers an abundance of activities both on and off the water, including a variety water sports such as boating, kayaking, wakeboarding, water skiing, jet skiing, and the most popular pastime, fishing. In 2018, Bassmaster Magazine voted Smith Mountain Lake the 18th best lake for bass fishing in the Northeastern Region of…

Bernard's Landing Resort

Get to Know Smith Mountain Lake’s Communities

Dec. 21, 2020 – The new year always brings exciting things to look forward to, including travel plans with family and friends. Scenic, relaxing and brimming with rural charm, Smith Mountain Lake is an ideal destination in all four seasons! Whether your plan is to cozy up in a cabin to potentially see some snow fall…

Make Smith Mountain Lake Your Home for the Holidays

Courtesy of Mindful Light Photography Nov. 23, 2020 – The holiday season is upon us and to make things a little easier, we’re providing a holiday guide for the Smith Mountain Lake area ranging from places to stay, dine with family, shop for the perfect gifts, pick up your tree and other Christmas décor, and…

Off-Season Hidden Gems at Smith Mountain Lake

Nov. 1, 2020 – As we wind down from what is regarded as the busy season at Smith Mountain Lake from the months of March through October, some may not recognize the multitude of exciting opportunities that await them in the cooler months ahead.  Whether you’re a full-time lake resident, a vacationer taking advantage of…

Fall wine tasting at Smith Mountain Lake

Fall in Love with Smith Mountain Lake

Oct. 7, 2020 – Fall at Smith Mountain Lake (SML) is the perfect season for camping, leaf peeping, and spending time with family and friends.  Stunning fall foliage and cooler temperatures create the ideal atmosphere for experiences such as sunset wine tastings, a variety of autumn-themed events and activities, and Halloween festivities. Whether you prefer a…

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