Top 7 Hiking Trails around Smith Mountain Lake
Hiking is a great way to spend a sunny weekend afternoon. You can go on a day hike or a short vacation to enjoy nature and breath fresh air. Even better is hiking on one of the many hiking trails around Smith Mountain Lake. There’s something for everyone on this list, from moderate family-friendly hikes to challenging terrain with stunning views and possibly some wildlife. Grrrrr!!
Check out this list of the spectacular hiking trails in this area so you’ll know where to go.
List of Hiking Trails Around Smith Mountain Lake
1. Smith Mountain Lake State Park
The hiking trails at Smith Mountain Lake State Park are ideal for a family outing. This location has seven trails, four of which are easy and range in length from 1.2 miles to 2.8 miles.
Hours: 8:15 a.m. to dusk
Location: Huddleston, VA
2. Smith Mountain Lake Community Park
Smith Mountain Lake Community Park is a 37-acre park in Franklin County and is open all year. The incredible lake views as you travel the 2-mile trail are fantastic.
Hours: Dawn to dusk
Location: Moneta, VA
3. Sharp Top at Peaks of Otter
As the name suggests, you’ve probably guessed that we’re talking about the highest peak in the area. Yes, the mountain is nearly 4,000 feet tall and is not for the faint of heart! But don’t worry, Sharp Top at Peaks of Otter provides transportation within 1,500 feet for everyone to enjoy the picturesque scenery of surrounding mountains and the famous Abbott Lake.
Hours: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Location: Bedford, VA
4. Smith Mountain Lake Cooperative Wildlife Trail
The Smith Mountain Lake Cooperative Wildlife Trail gives you the ultimate opportunity to go hiking while experiencing the breathtaking surrounding and wildlife watching!
Location: Pittsylvania County, VA
5. Falling Creek Park
Falling Creek Park is a fantastic place to explore various trails ranging from beginners to advanced. In addition to hiking, you can also go trail running or mountain biking!
Hours: Dawn till Dusk
Location: Bedford, VA
6. Booker T. Washington National Monument
If you love to dig into history, then exploring the fields of Booker T. Washington National Monument is the spot for you! This 239-acre park, named for Booker T. Washington, is great for hiking, and the museum speaks of black slavery and freedom. Experience the history and changes with the quarter-mile Plantation Trail. The Jack-O-Lantern Branch Trail, a 1-5 mile hike, is another scenic option.
Hours: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Location: Hardy, VA
7. The Cascades
The Cascades of Jefferson National Forest is a 4-mile round-trip hike that takes you through nature, along a shaded mountain creek and a stunning 66-foot waterfall. Please keep in mind that there is no overnight parking available here.
Hours: Sunrise – Sunset
Location: Pembroke, VA
Meet nature at its best! There is good news for all pet lovers. Your four-legged companions are welcome to all these hiking trails around Smith Mountain Lake but do not forget to keep them on a leash.
If you plan to move to Smith Mountain Lake, don’t hesitate to contact me. I have been working in the area for more than four decades! As an expert, I can help you make the right move. Please click here for a link to my contact page, and I’ll respond personally and promptly.
Thanks for visiting!
