We've all seen the decorative signs in homes …

• Lake life is the Best Life
• The Lake is My Happy Place
• If you're lucky enough to have a house at the lake, you're lucky enough.

Sure, my husband, daughter, and I vacationed for many years at Smith Mountain Lake and we thoroughly loved the long boat rides, the glassy early morning water that reflected the sky and trees, the creaking sound of the dock slowly rising and falling as a boat went speeding by,
the sunrises over the mountain and the sunsets at the end of a fun-filled day. However, what I could not totally appreciate until we moved here full time was the sense of belonging that my husband and I would experience almost immediately after becoming year-round residents.

In my opinion, this is the friendliest place in the world.

Whether someone owns the most expansive mansion on the waterfront or quaint cottage, there is just an aura of kindness at Smith Mountain Lake. Neighbors become actual friends who want to spend time together and help each out when in need. The staff at your favorite restaurant becomes like family, and in our case, came to our grandson's first Birthday party!

It's this unexplainable camaraderie that makes SML truly my happy place and makes me "lucky enough" to have the best lake life ever!

Planning a visit? Here's five ways to enjoy the beauty and fun of Smith Mountain Lake …



1. Go Boating

One of the most popular activities at Smith Mountain Lake is boating. Rent a boat, pontoon, or jet ski and explore the 500 miles of shoreline. You can also fish, swim, and sunbathe while you're out on the water.

2. Hike

Smith Mountain Lake State Park has over 13 miles of hiking trails that offer stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. You can also take a guided hike with a park ranger to learn more about the area's history and wildlife.

3. Visit the Dam

Smith Mountain Dam is the tallest concrete dam east of the Mississippi River and provides hydroelectric power to the region. You can take a tour of the dam and learn about its history and operation.

4. Go Wine Tasting

The Smith Mountain Lake Wine Festival takes place every September and features over 25 Virginia wineries. You can sample wines, enjoy live music, and browse artisan vendors.

5. Take a Scenic Drive

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a scenic drive that runs through the Appalachian Mountains and offers stunning views of the surrounding area. You can stop at overlooks, hike to waterfalls, and explore charming mountain towns along the way.

So, like they say … Lake Life is the Best Life!