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Smith Mountain Lake History
The lake itself was created in the the 1960's when the Roanoke and Blackwater Rivers were dammed to create a sustainable energy source. Initial construction on the Smith Mountain Dam begun in 1960 (roughly 40 years after its first proposal) and was completed in 1963. The "Lake" itself did not reach full pond until 1966 however. Smith Mountain Lake has transformed from a practical energy production project in the 1960's to what is now a resort destination that draws visitors from around the world. It was not really until the late 70's and early 80's that Smith Mountain started shifting towards the lake centric community it is today as this was the time residents began acquiring land and rushing to build on the waterfront. Currently the area's immediately surrounding Smith Mountain Lake, especially the Westlake Area, are experiencing both residential and commercial booms with new homes and business being built at what seems daily.
Smith Mountain Lake Statistics
Smith Mountain Lake's biggest attraction has to be its size. At full pond, which is managed to stay near 795 feet above sea level, the lake body is actually just over 20,600 acres of water surface. That is right 20,600 acres of actual water surface. Combine that with more than 500 miles of shoreline and roughly 40 miles in length and Smith Mountain Lake is easily the second largest fresh water lake in Virginia and truly amazing to behold.
Smith Mountain Lake Pictures
Here are a few really nice photographs from the Smith Mountain Lake area to help you get a better idea of how the area looks. More coming soon in our Picture Gallery!
The view from Bridgewater Marina - 2008
The view from Parkway Marina - 2008
Looking from Smith Mountain Lake Community Park towards the beach at the SML State Park - 2008
Smith Mountain Lake Dam These are just a couple examples of the beauty that this area has to offer its visitors. If you happen to have any you would like to share we would love to see some of your photographs too. If you have any Smith Mountain Lake Pictures please share them with us in our Photo Gallery. Things To Do At Smith Mountain LakeI am constantly asked about what all there is to do here at Smith Mountain Lake so I thought I would add a little something about it here.
Water Sports : 20,600 acres of water equals tons of boating and sailing opportunities, as well as water skiing, jet skiing, wake boarding and about whatever else you can think of. You will find everything from small one person kayaks to gigantic house boats that are bigger than many peoples regular homes floating around here. Jet skis are also a big attraction here as well since the water surface is typically smooth and allows for enjoyable cruising.
Fishing: Fishing at Smith Mountain Lake is fantastic. You have tons of species to choose from and you can reasonably expect to be able to catch the following species at any given time.
Hiking: There are plenty of hiking opportunities at Smith Mountain, must notably at the State Park. Camping: Again plenty of opportunities, of which again the Smith Mountain Lake State Park is one of the most common destinations.
Golf: Smith Mountain Lake has a total of 5 amazing golf courses to choose from. 2 are private while 3 are open to the public.
Lake Cruises: One of the must do attractions while vacationing at the lake is to take a cruise on the Virginia Dare. This 19th century side wheeler replica was built in 1989 and has since been a mainstay at the lake providing cruises from April through December for up to 135 guests.
And Much More!
GovernmentFor more details regarding the governing bodies of Smith Mountain Lake please visit our Local Gov't page.
Smith Mountain WebsitesComing Soon a complete directory of the most interesting and exciting Smith Mountain Lake Websites.
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