About SML
Smith Mountain Lake is a large reservoir in the Roanoke Region of Virginia, with over 500 miles of shoreline. The lake is surrounded by mountains, providing gorgeous views for waterfront homes whether their property is located directly on the water or not. The lake is located southeast of the City of Roanoke and southwest of Lynchburg and was created in 1963 by the Smith Mountain Dam impounding the Roanoke River. It is the second largest freshwater lake in Virginia. An estimated 22,000 residents live at the lake full time in the three counties (Franklin, Bedford and Pittsylvania) that border our shores.
With stunning mountain and water views Smith Mountain Lake is a popular destination for retirement, vacations and recreation, including boating, fishing, water sports, camping and much more. There are also multiple marinas and resorts on the lake, as well as Smith Mountain Lake State Park. There are several wineries and breweries in the area, as well as opportunities for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
If you’re looking for a beautiful and relaxing place to live or vacation, Smith Mountain Lake Properties are a great option. There are plenty of things to do on and off the lake, making it a great place for families, couples, and groups of friends to enjoy the atmosphere and outdoors.
Here are just a few of the things you can do at Smith Mountain Lake:
- Boating: Smith Mountain Lake is a great place to go boating. There are several different types of boats available for rent, including pontoon boats, fishing boats, and speedboats. You can also rent a houseboat and spend a week exploring the lake.
- Fishing: People come from all over to fish at Smith Mountain Lake which is home to a variety of fish. This includes smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, blackmouth bass, crappie, catfish, walleyes, and muskellunge. There are also several fishing tournaments held on the lake each year.
- Golfing: Golfing Tournaments and the beautiful golf courses of Smith Mountain Lake are visited by many people each year.
- Swimming: There are several beaches on Smith Mountain Lake where you can swim. The water is usually warm and clear, making it a great place to cool off on a hot day.
- Water Sports: Smith Mountain Lake is a great place for all kinds of water sports including water skiing. The lake is long and wide, with plenty of open water for skiing. There are also several ski schools, sports shops and equipment rentals in the area.
- Camping: There are several campgrounds on Smith Mountain Lake. This is a great way to experience the outdoors and enjoy the beauty of the lake.
- Hiking: There are several hiking trails in the Blue Ridge Mountains near Smith Mountain Lake. This is a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the scenery.
- Biking: There are also several biking trails in the area. This is a great way to explore the lake and the surrounding mountains.
- Wine tasting: There are several wineries in the area, making Smith Mountain Lake a great place to go wine tasting. You can also visit a brewery and sample some local craft beer.
- Visit Alpaca Farms: Several alpaca farms in the area offer fun outings for the whole family.
- The Peaks of Otter: Less than an hour away this popular destination offers lodging, hiking, camping and fine dining.
- Shopping & Restaurants: There is a wide selection of varied types of cuisine at the lake and in the surrounding area.
Weather at SML
Smith Mountain Lake and the surrounding area has a little bit of everything when it comes to weather. There are 4 seasons but none of the extremes of northern or southern states. Temperatures can get pretty warm in the middle of summer, peaking in the 90’s occasionally or single digits in the dead of winter, but those are extremes. For the most part temps are moderate. See Average SML temps below:
- Winter Low 20 High 50
- Spring Low 40 High 70
- Summer Low 53 High 88
- Fall Low 45 High 75
If you would like more information on Lodging, Attractions and other relevant things to do at the lake please visit “Smith Mountain Lake Information.”
