See what other travellers are saying. The media manager of the utility company, American Electric Power, wanted to invite me and my wife as honored guests at a special July 9, 2016, celebration. Water flows down to the turbines through the dam’s distinctive, 26-foot-wide tubes. Nature & Wildlife Areas. 95 $ 14. 9. Beautiful Lake. There are 14 back-in and pull-through campsites with water and electric hookups for RVs up to 65 feet long and 11 tent sites. CACHALOT. – Swimmers are urged to avoid five small areas of Smith Mountain Lake due to high levels of bacteria after heavy rain. Washington National Monument, 540-721-2094), the Blue Ridge Parkway and Peaks of Otter, 540-857-2485. Smith Mountain dam holds water in the Smith Mountain Lake reservoir until releasing it to generate power. Bask in the magnificent views as you hike the local trails or while you take out a kayak and cruise along the waters of the lake! test. , Sandy Level, Virginia. From Greensboro, NC: Take US 220 North to Rocky Mount, VA and then take Route 40 East for about 1/2 mile to Route 122. Jason Dunovant. 626. That is 14 miles. I have heard several people talking about Stripers below the SML Dam. See all. Nov 2019. S. The dam walls were completed in September 1963 and the Blackwater and Roanoke Rivers began filling Smith Mountain Lake. A hydroelectric project by Appalachian Power Co. the adjusted reservoir elevation was 793. Under low in-flow conditions, the surface elevation at Smith Mountain Lake may fall below 793 feet. A generous fall of rain and good runoff from snow raised the level of the lake to an. 65 mi) Breathtaking views of Smith Mtn all year long! Perfect for families - sleeps 13! (1. 50 years after Smith Mountain Lake's creation, Franklin County is a changed place. The Smith Mountain Project is a pumped storage system, where Smith Mountain Lake serves as the upper reservoir and Leesville Lake as the lower reservoir. Construction crews work at the Leesville Dam site as well the larger Smith Mountain Lake Dam. 17 hours ago · “A new downstream fish passage facility at Howard Hanson Dam is the single most impactful project that (the US Army Corps of Engineers) can take to benefit Puget Sound salmon and orca recovery without negatively impacting other user groups,” Seattle District Commander Col. The lake was created in 1963 by the Smith Mountain Dam impounding the Roanoke River. Smith Mountain Lake Water Level. Reviewed August 6, 2023. Dining. 7 miles from Smith Mountain Lake Dam. Built on the Roanoke River and completed in the mid-1960s, the project’s two dams and reservoirs have added about 600 miles of new shoreline and about 24,000 surface acres of water for multiple uses. Take Bride’s Island at R4, the first of four islands that slip by on your left as you motor down the Roanoke River and turn north into the mouth of Craddock Creek. 3. Casey Fabris. Smith Mountain Lake Stripers are ferocious fighters and can be caught all year long. WATER LEVEL. Additionally, there is a picnic area on Leesville Lake below the dam that is open to the public daily. Closed now : See all hours. m. Harbortown Mini-Golf at Bridgewater Plaza is probably the most popular place, and there are many other activities to do and places to visit after playing. And if that isn't enough, it's surrounded by the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains, making it one of the most popular and. Smith Mountain Dam, built by a South Bend, Indiana, company, cost more than $60 million and was capable of. Dams. Scott Heath and his team stuck with the changes and made the best of it. Most striped bass are caught between the dam and buoy R80 of the Roanoke Arm and up to buoy B44 of the Blackwater. 2 on Tripadvisor among 3 attractions in Sandy Level. The center has exhibits explaining the history of the dam and how power is generated in the unique two-lake complex. Admission is FREE. 49 miles away . Part of the reason is that as you fish for walleyes, you’re also likely to catch. On September 11, 2023, at approximately 10:45 a. Review of Smith Mountain Lake State Park. See pricing and listing details of Smith Mountain Lake real estate for sale. Business and property owners at the lake found. It is 40 miles long and covers 20,00 acres. Evaporation rates at the lake are substantial – about 73M gallons a day. Enter dates to see prices. In such an extensive body of water, recreation abounds. 2. With its stunning natural surroundings and endless recreational opportunities, Smith Mountain Lake has become famous for its outdoor adventures,. m. 56°Sunny. com. Smith Mountain Dam, built by a South Bend, Indiana, company, cost more than $60 million and was capable of. That is 14 miles. Nov. There are many scenic coves dotted mostly with vacation homes but there are also some marinas, restaurants, hotels, and parks scattered along the shoreline. 2. Save. > At the same time, Smith Mountain Lake and Leesville Lake are a focal point for residents, tourists, and outdoor adventure seekers. Smith Mountain Lake is known the world over as an ideal summer vacation destination. 9. Latest travel itineraries for Smith Mountain Lake Dam, Vistors Center in November (updated in 2023), book Smith Mountain Lake Dam, Vistors Center tickets now, view reviews and 2 photos of Smith Mountain Lake Dam, Vistors Center, popular attractions, hotels, and restaurants near Smith Mountain Lake Dam, Vistors CenterThe Smith Mountain Lake real estate market is the largest marketplace for lake property in Virginia. The staff is nice. The build-up – the anticipation – is as beautiful as the mountain lake known as Smith Mountain. 77. Bernard’s Landing. There are amazing bazillionaire mansions all over the shore of. Feel free to stop by the wildlife blind for a quiet moment of observation. 3. At run from noon – 2 p. Gills Creek District Supervisor Bob Camicia stands on the docks at. Jason Emmel, of Louisa, Virginia, broke the state record catching a 66-pound, 5-ounce blue catfish with a bow and arrow, according to the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources. Current level is 792. In addition to the largest houseboat rental fleet on Smith Mountain Lake, we also offer a full line of pontoon boats, runabouts, fishing boats, and Wave Runners. Local News breaking. General Information On the second largest freshwater lake in the state, this picturesque park is the water enthusiast's paradise. S. This story was originally published in The Roanoke Times on Sept. This reservoir is one of Virginia’s premier fisheries, offering outstanding fishing and other recreational opportunities. Easily apply *We are a growing company with lots of opportunities for people who love the hospitality industry. 362. Alexander L. Dam construction began in 1960. The state park has lots of amenities (beach, interpretive center, cabins, campground, marina, etc. Waller Mill Pond. . Appalachian Power has completed repairs to a floating boat barrier that flipped underwater near the Smith Mountain Lake Dam last month. Known as “the Jewel of the Blue Ridge” Smith Mountain Lake is 20,000 acres of pristine waters considered by many the most beautiful lake in the east. This property offers outdoor enthusiasts the opportunity to hunt, fish, hike, view wildlife and enjoy vistas overlooking beautiful Smith Mountain Lake. at SML State Park. The largemouth bass population is good with catch rates from DWR sampling rivaling nearby Smith Mountain Lake and Philpott Lake. Smith Mountain Lake in Virginia is not man-made, but that’s alright – it's stunning all the same. 2016 / 2017 Series. They have a nice museum type room that explains all the,history. Music, lunch, awards and door prizes. Smith Mountain Lake. Points of Interest & Landmarks • Observation Decks & Towers. Smith Mountain Dam Visitor's Center. N37°. . Smith Mountain Dam is a concrete arch dam located on the Roanoke River in Virginia, creating Smith Mountain Lake. Follow Rt. Plans are already underway for a 50-mile ultra marathon in the spring of 2016 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Smith Mountain Lake. I know they run a frequent generation which. The project boundary at Leesville is to elevation 620 feet. Franchise. 5 FT PER DAY, TO AN ELEVATION OF 1841 FT THROUGH NOVEMBER 12TH TO ALLOW PROPERTY OWNERS TO MAINTAIN DOCKS AND SHORELINE. Smith Mountain Lake State Park; Smith Mountain Dam; Public Notices; Home. It’s 235 feet tall and 30 feet thick at the base and houses five hydroelectric generators that can produce a combined 605 megawatts of power. The mountain area is covered with trees with lake access. The 2023 Smith Mountain Lake Wine Festival is returning to Crazy Horse Marina on Saturday, September 23rd and Sunday, September 24 th. Login/Register; Home; What’s New. North Shore is easily accessible from Virginia 220 and Virginia 460. The current state record for the fish is 53 lbs. In a contract brewing arrangement with Railhouse, Parnell has set out to create a locally brewed beer distinctive to Smith Mountain Lake. 773 Ashmeade Rd, Moneta, VA 24121-3272 +1 540-346-2205 Website. Up to 90 days of daily highs, lows, and precipitation chances. 5/8/1962. Gear Check; News; Fishing; Hunting; Regional ReportsSmith Mountain Lake is a large reservoir in the Roanoke Region of Virginia, located southeast of the City of Roanoke and southwest of Lynchburg. Shadow Mountain Dam is located approximately . There are no developed facilities. 45 reviews #1 of 4 Restaurants in Huddleston $$ - $$$ American Bar Pub. This is a huge lake with lots to do: boat, fish, swim, water ski, and hike. 9. Dept. Smith Mountain Dam Visitor's Center. This area is mainly used for hiking, hunting, fishing, watching wildlife and viewing the beautiful hidden gem of the Blue Ridge that is Smith Mountain Lake. Smith Mountain Lake, nestled in a broad valley of the Blue Ridge Mountains, covers 20,600 acres and has over 500 miles of shoreline. The majority of the south shore of the lake lies in Franklin County while a small portion, including access to the dam, lies in Pittsylvania County. 6-9 p. com We’ve Got The Place! Features & Benefits: Climate controled units and outside non. The two dams will form a hydroelectric power unit, with the smaller Leesville operation repumping water to the Smith Mountain Lake reservoir to be used again for power generation. By November 1962, Virginia roads and bridges that would be affected by the lake had been rebuilt. On September 24, 1963, the Smith Mountain Dam was closed and the lake began to form. In the Summertime, it's mostly shaded and very few views of Smith Mountain Lake along the way. 1 feet. Smith Mountain Lake State Park Picnic Shelter - One shelter is available for rent. This town was founded by a man known as Abner Anthony in 1818. 4 BR: LAKE ALLURE - Lake Front Home, Private Dock, Hot Tub, Fitness Area, Pet-Friendly. m. The scenery around the lake is jaw-dropping, making it a popular destination. Swimming, boating, jet skiing, wake boarding, and sailing are just the beginning. Smith Mountain Lake is tucked far away in rural SW Virginia but the long drive is worth it. Use them in commercial designs under lifetime, perpetual & worldwide rights. Close to the heart of energy-generation at Smith Mountain Dam. . Its deepest point is an impressive 250 feet, though its average depth is 55 feet. The lake was created in 1963 by the Smith Mountain Dam impounding the Roanoke River. The majority of the south shore of the lake lies in Franklin County whThe construction of a dam in the gap of Smith Mountain in Pittsylvania County, Virginia, had been considered as early as the 1920s. The Roanoke Times file. Share. The park includes a beach and almost two miles of walking trails, hiking, jogging, picnicking, a playground, and a partly covered, handicap accessible fishing pier with seating. Wakeboarding has become one of the most popular water sports in Smith Mountain Lake, and the area even hosts local competitions throughout the summer. Striped Bass - General Discussion and Reports. It can be rented from 8 a. The headwaters of Leesville Lake is a very harsh environment for most fish species due to the cold water temperatures, fast water currents, and poor forage resources. If you are looking to own property or simply visiting the Smith Mountain Lake area, you will find the condos here to be an excellent location in which to live, visit or begin the search for your dream home on the lake. Dissolved oxygen depth profiles for Smith Mountain Lake in 2020. Look at the photos. There is a picnic area located below the Smith Mountain Dam on Leesville Lake open to the public. With more than 20,000 acres of pristine waters and 500 miles of picturesque shoreline, Smith Mountain Lake is an outdoor lover’s paradise located at the foot of the magnificent Blue Ridge Mountains. Bernard’s Landing has an-site restaurant, beach, pools, fitness center and more, plus gorgeous views of Smith Mountain. Striper Mafia Tournament Series. The Smith Mountain Lake level can fluctuate up to two feet before Leesville Lake becomes full. Popular mentions. It has a number of exhibits about both the Smith Mountain Lake Dam (location of this visitor center) and also the Leesville Dam which is 19. By michaelaB3470SP. It will lead you up an improved but unpaved goat. S. Hotels near Smith Mountain Lake Dam, Sandy Level on Tripadvisor: Find 5,298 traveler reviews, 10 candid photos, and prices for 178 hotels near Smith Mountain Lake Dam in Sandy Level, VA. at Smith Mountain Gap in 1960. Smith Mountain Lake Community Park. 00 mi) Sleep Inn & Suites Jasper I-22 (3. Download Smith Mountain Lake Dam stock photos. Biking Trails • Hiking Trails. 0. See pricing and listing details of Smith Mountain Lake real estate for sale. Located about 10 miles off Virginia 40 in Sandy Level, Off the beaten path, the SM Dam is an educational adventureThe floating boat barrier that keeps boaters away from Smith Mountain Lake’s forebay between the Bedford and Pittsylvania County sides of the 800-foot-wide gap was broken Friday night by high. If you are interested in learning more about Smith Mountain Lake and how it generates power for Virginia and surrounding states, the visitor center at the dam is definitely a cool spot to stop. Rural Retreat Lake. Full pond is 795 feet above sea level. In addition to regular water exercise classes, lap swimmers and general pool use, 23 Westlake Wellness members swam the equivalent distance from the Hales Ford Bridge to the SML Dam. Smith Mountain Dam is a concrete arch dam located on the Roanoke River in Virginia, creating Smith Mountain Lake. The lake has many coves, perfect to spend the weekend or the entire week. SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE 127/138 13000 Moneta Rd. The 40-mile-long lake first reached its “full pond” level of 795 feet above sea level in 1966. The development, proposed by Willard Investment Properties, would include 30 single-family homes and a. April 13, 1965 - This photo shows the level of Smith Mountain Lake, behind the dam on the Roanoke River. In other words, a two-foot decrease in Smith Mountain Lake (from 795 to 793 feet) results in Leesville Lake increasing 13 feet (from 600 to 613 feet). Temperature depth profiles for Smith Mountain Lake in 2020. This was our second time visiting. Located in Penhook, Virginia at the base of Smith Mountain and near the Smith Mountain Lake Dam, The Sanctuary features over 135 acres of pristine properties boasting over 4 miles of. Browse Getty Images' premium collection of high-quality, authentic Smith Mountain Lake Dam stock photos, royalty-free images, and pictures. , Sandy Level, Virginia. Whether you seek days full of activities or more serene time spent relaxing, our region's amazing beauty and natural resources make for the. The primary inflows for the lake are the Roanoke River and Blackwater River. Population: 22,000 Lake Size: 32 square miles & 500 miles of shoreline Average Depth: 55 feet. This reservoir straddles the Pittsylvania, Campbell and Bedford County borders. Kerr. , Suite 1 Hardy, VA 24101. 1. Appalachian Power Company’s Smith Mountain Lake Dam Visitors’ Center is a popular attraction and is. April 13, 1965 - This photo shows the level of Smith Mountain Lake, behind the dam on the Roanoke River. The visitors center at Smith Mountain is open to the public with a view overlooking the dam. 7. Smith Mountain Lake, Moneta: See 333 reviews, articles, and 187 photos of Smith Mountain Lake, ranked No. Lakeview Trail: Yellow Blazes, 0. . comThe dam created Smith Mountain Lake as its reservoir, where recreation and real estate have become popular. 26'. “This is a clean but dated motel. , Huddleston, 540-297-6830. Now available as an Android and iPhone app! One Year One Month One Week. Held at the Smith Mountain Lake State. Children are welcome to participate in instructor-led pony carousel rides around the lake and pond. Part of the reason is that as you fish for walleyes, you’re also likely to catch smallmouth bass, largemouths, stripers and crappies as well. Created in 1963 by the impounding of the Roanoke River, Smith Mountain Lake is a large reservoir that sits in a valley in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Westlake Safari Miniature Golf off Virginia 616 and Hot Shots Family Fun Center off. L. Def. Smith Mountain Dam Visitor's Center 10 reviews #2 of 3 things to do in Sandy Level Dams Closed now 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM Write a review About Suggested. As the oldest commercial vineyard and winery at Smith Mountain Lake, a visit to Hickory Hill Vineyards is a must. The state park has lots of amenities (beach, interpretive center, cabins, campground, marina, etc. 626 to Rt. 45 Enterprise Ln, Smith Mountain Lake, Hardy, VA 24101-3973. Skip to main content. Filters. Napoli By The Lake. 34 Figure 6. Located on the ground floor facing the lake. The decision to increase power generation at the Smith Mountain Lake Dam is made by PJM, an organization of which Appalachian Power is part of that operates the power grid in 13 states. Lakefront development approved by supervisors. It’s only a few minutes in length. Very good. A couple days ago I tied a few orange ribbons to reveal hidden sections of the unmaintained part of the trail beyond the towers. Smith Mountain Lake State Park Is. Franklin County, 540. Putt Around Smith Mountain Lake! No one visits Smith Mountain Lake with the aspiration of playing mini-golf, but at Harbortown Mini-Golf at Bridgewater Plaza, Westlake Safari Miniature Golf off Route 616, or Hot Shots Family Fun Center on Route 122, you may find that playing a fun and exciting game of miniature golf might just be the. “The problem there was that the lake fluctuates too much so that you get a lot of shallow areas. Dogs are able to be on the trail but must remain on a leash at all times. Smith Mountain Lake Reaches “Full Pond”. Figure A. m. 2. With over 500 miles of wonderfully scenic waterfront property. Zillow has 6 homes for sale in Penhook VA matching Smith Mountain Lake. About Me. Zillow has 127 homes for sale in Moneta VA matching Smith Mountain Lake. Smith Mountain Lake has gained national attention for its striped bass fishery, which is the second most popular sport fish at Smith Mountain Lake. By: Va. Niburg says the lake is a great. Use them in commercial designs under lifetime, perpetual & worldwide rights. THE FLOW RATE AT THE USGS GAUGE AT BROOKNEAL WAS 714 CFS, STAGE 4. Arcadia is noted among history buffs for its richly illustrated texts. Ships from and sold by Amazon. $160 - 1/2 hour. Bullock said in a statement last year. It holds back a 20,000-acre lake, with more than 500 miles of shoreline. In Lynchburg, College Lake dam is listed in fair condition, but an extreme weather event in 2018 caused downstream residents to evacuate their homes when a storm dropped several inches of rain on the city in less than an hour. Residents who had land at higher elevations became lucky waterfront property owners when the new Smith Mountain Lake (known locally as SML) filled to capacity in 1966, forming a 22,600-acre body of water with 500 miles of shoreline that spans three Virginia counties—Franklin, Bedford, and Pittsylvania. A barrier preventing boaters from getting too close to the Smith Mountain Lake dam has flipped over into the water. Fatalities from boating related incidents also saw a slight drop statewide in 2021. Dams. Firstly, it's essential to know that Smith Mountain Lake State Park has six hiking trails which include the 1. 9-meter-diameter (26-foot-diameter) openings to channel water to tThe construction of a dam in the gap of Smith Mountainin Pittsylvania County, Virginia, had been considered as early as the 1920s. Permits now required to use area boating access sites. Additionally, there is a picnic area on Leesville Lake below the dam that is open to the public daily. Trails overlook the water as do campsites and cabins. Smith Mountain Dam closed the gap completely in 1963, and Smith Mountain Lake began to fill and form behind it. The lake and its surrounding area are best known as an ideal place for boating, sailing, flatwater paddling, fishing, swimming, hiking, golf, watersports, and camping. The fully recreational lake encompasses 32 square miles holds 20,600 acres of water and has over 500 miles of shoreline. #11 Best Value of 321 places to stay in Sandy Level. m. Karaoke: at Hot Shots Bar & Grill. So far, it’s done an excellent job of providing both power and pastimes to the state. Skip the crowds and still have all the lake fun, incl a boat-up marina with food, drink, music. Smith Mountain Lake also offers unique attractions, great parks, and premier shopping destinations. These tours can be conducted within a 25-mile radius of the airport and include sights of the Smith Mountain Dam, the Peaks of Otter, the D-Day Memorial or even your own lake house. Smith Mountain Lake is known as a recreation lover’s paradise, an ideal location for fishing, swimming, boating, tow sports, kayaking, paddle boarding and other fun things to do. Compare 8 available, short term cabins for rent, starts from $55. 7 miles from Smith Mountain Lake. 32 Figure 6. When hydroelectric power was of top priority about 50 years ago, the damming process began on the Roanoke and Blackwater Rivers. Smith Mountain Lake level graph, updated hourly. People come from miles just to feed the fish, grab a bite to eat and take in. The City of Roanoke and surrounding suburbs is 25 to 45 minutes away. Finished in 1966, the lake quickly became a hub of Virginia recreation. Weather conditions continue to contribute to wildfire concerns. This lovely lake is in Bedford, Franklin, and Pittsylvania counties. West of Smith Mountain Dam, the Blackwater and Roanoke Rivers covered 20,600 acres that had primarily been farmland, forming Smith Mountain Lake. for Smith Mountain Lake or landward of the 620 foot contour line projected into project waters for Leesville Lake. Temperature depth profiles for Smith Mountain Lake in 2020. Smith Mountain Lake State Park; Smith Mountain Dam; Public Notices; Breaking News. These three waterways filled into a main body that encompasses more than 500 miles of shoreline. 54 feet and rising (at a rate of 0. View listing photos, review sales history, and use our detailed real estate filters to find the perfect place. If you live in Penhook, North Shore or Union Hall you're less than 10 miles from Smith Mountain Lake. Smith Mountain Dam is a concrete arch dam located on the Roanoke River in Virginia, creating Smith Mountain Lake. At this park you can experience all the area has to offer with swimming, boating, hiking, fishing and more. Along with a marina, the Smith Mountain Lake Community Park also can be found in the North Shore area. Washington Highway Moneta 540-721-1203 Toll free 800-676-8203 With more than 500 miles of pristine shoreline, Smith Mountain Lake is the jewel of the Blue Ridge. 5. A hydroelectric dam was constructed by Appalachian Power Co. Striper Fishing in Smith Mountain Lake can be either relaxing or fast-paced, depending on your preference. 552 contributions. Created in 1963, Smith Mountain Lake is a large reservoir, impounding the Roanoke River to generate hydroelectric power through the dam. “This is a clean but dated motel. 76 mi) Best Dam View at Smith Mountain Lake!!! (1. to dusk. Anyone who has spent enough time at Smith Mountain Lake likely has spotted military aircraft passing overhead. September 24, 1963: The process of filling Smith Mountain Lake began. Fatalities dropped slightly to 19 after tying a ten-year high in 2020 of 21. Effective 11/20/2023 at 16:05. Biking Trails • Hiking Trails. Putt Around Smith Mountain Lake! No one visits Smith Mountain Lake with the aspiration of playing mini-golf, but at Harbortown Mini-Golf at Bridgewater Plaza, Westlake Safari Miniature Golf off Route 616, or Hot Shots Family Fun Center on Route 122, you may find that playing a fun and exciting game of miniature golf might just be the. Very quiet as opposed to9 Smith Mountain Lake which can be riotious on warm weekends. So far, it’s done an excellent job of providing both power and pastimes to the state. For the past two weeks, Appalachian Power has been conducting an inspection of Smith Mountain Dam. 6. This is quite a beautiful lake, we were camped in Smith Mountain Lake State Park and rented a runabout for a day to explore the lake. The Smith Mountain Dam is a double curvature, concrete arch spanning 816 feet and rising 235. One in particular, known as Monroe, would most likely be in the area where Vista Pointe Resort is now located (photographed above). Live music at The Dam Grill, 6724 White House Road, Moneta. 79 mi) Wind Family Estate-Setting A New Standard for Luxury Rentals! The Smith Mountain Visitor's Center overlooks the dam and is free and open to the public. In Stock. 22' and at altavista 618 cfs, stage 1. 43 reviews. The Visitors Center gives a great historical account of the lake's formation and the building of the dam, as well as an educational explanation of how the dam produces electrical power to the surrounding counties. The best largemouth bass population is from about mile marker 8 to the Leesville Dam. 2072 Ford Rd, Sandy Level, VA 24161-4238. Also near the park are the Booker T. F-15E Strike Eagle aircraft, many out of Seymour Johnson Air Force Base in North Carolina, can often be seen flying over Smith Mountain Lake and other points in the Roanoke region. 7100. A generous fall of rain and good runoff from snow raised the level of the lake to an. A Brief History of Smith Mountain Lake. Location: 2072 Ford Rd, Sandy Level, VA 24161: Phone: (540)985-25875. About Me. With over 500 miles of wonderfully scenic waterfront property, Smith Mountain Lake presents a myriad of ownership opportunities. It is the largest lake in the state and covers an impressive 20,600 acres. Rates on Smith Mountain Lake for Full day trip 8-9 hours, up to 6 people. A1. With 4 distinct seasons, low taxes, low crime, and traffic a non-issue, Smith Mountain Lake is a great place to live. The Blue Ridge Mountains provide a scenic backdrop for the lake, which spans 40 miles in length and more than 500 miles of shoreline. The two dams will form a hydroelectric power unit, with the smaller Leesville operation repumping water to the Smith Mountain Lake reservoir to be used again for power generation. 11. Smith Mountain Lake Although there is no hard evidence of the rumored town of Monroe beneath Virginia’s beloved Smith Mountain Lake, many still believe that the truth lies beneath the water. 2-5 p. Along the shores of this park is the Smith Mountain Lake State Park. US: 844-650-6000 | Local: 540-352-1100. The roads leading to the Smith Mountain Lake Dam meander through the farms of the Blue Ridge.