Fall at Smith Mountain Lake
Autumn months are here and as the weather is getting cooler that means days ON the lake tubing, swimming, and fishing are decreasing but there is still so much fun to be had AT Smith Mountain Lake located in Southwest Virginia along the Blue Ridge Mountains! I’m here to share with you all of my favorite fall lake activities. Read on to be inspired to come enjoy my favorite fall activities at SML.
With school back in session and, while many local restaurants utilize high school and college students as a big majority of their staff, there are still plenty of great eateries in the area that are open to patronage. I’ve noticed, as with most areas, Mondays and Tuesdays are slower with less available options but there is still something for just about every palette. I highly recommend calling or checking Facebook and websites before any stop into a restaurant, so you aren't disappointed with an unexpected closure!
I highly recommend that you visit a wonderful wine shop at Westlake called SML Fine Wines that offers a variety of different local and international choices. Not sure what you are shopping for? The knowledgeable staff is MORE than helpful when offering suggestions.
Speaking of wine….the SML Wine Festival happens every year on the third weekend in September! Fall offers the most perfect days to walk around Crazy Horse Marina and sample local and regional Virginia wines and shop the many vendors that are on site!
As we head into the cooler months, there are several really fun events that happen at the lake! The SML Chili festival is on the first weekend of November each year and is always a hit with locals and visitors. It’s a great opportunity to come taste the best chili from local restaurants, businesses, and civic groups each hoping to secure the titles of Best Overall Winner, People’s Choice’ and Best Showmanship. Other local vendors are also on site as well providing additional food options for this fun, tasty event!
In November, you won’t want to miss the annual Lighted Boat Parade with Virginia Dare Cruises. I love this event because you don't need to be a boat owner to enjoy this fun time out on the water. The Virginia Dare offers a cruise and leads the lighted parade which goes from the Virginia Dare Marina to Bridgewater Marina and back down again. There are options to ride on the Dare (with Santa!), join the parade in your own boat, or watch from the shore. This yearly festive event is the perfect way to get into the Holiday spirit.
With so many fall activities at Smith Mountain Lake to look forward to, there’s no time to mourn the end of summer. I hope to see you at one of these great events!
