Smith Mountain Lake State Park Cabins

This quick 0.4-mile path, bordered by soft pine needle trees, connects to the longer Tobacco Run Trail, You'll be taken to the edge of the Smith Mountain Lake and can stop here for swimming, fishing, or just admiring the view and taking some enviable photographs to show friends back home.

A little longer at 1.7 miles, this route is just south of the Beaver Den Trail, where you can continue if you've not had enough walking after that brief hike. The trail brings you away from the water and further into the forest.

This winding path, the park's longest hiking trail at 3.1 miles long, zigzags up to and away from the lake, offering varied views and a slightly more challenging trek. If you'd like to cut it short, move on to the short, 0.1-mile White Tail Path, which follows State Park Road and leads to Walton Creek.

If visiting in the summer, catch the bluegrass concerts held in the amphitheater at the beach. This is an excellent way to sit back and unwind with live music after a day of hiking and swimming.

The lake is the place to be for a day of fun in the water or just sitting back and soaking up some rays. The 500-meter beach has guarded swimming between Memorial Day and Labor Day, and you can rent a range of equipment and take to the water, including kayaks, canoes, and hydrobikes.

Enjoy big lake fishing in the park, which is famous for its bass fishing. Rent a boat or fish from the shore. Also check at the park office for details on when fishing tournaments are held, if you feel like testing your skills against other park guests.