This runner says being on the trails at Smith Mountain Lake State Park is like being in "an empty cathedral" 

At home on the trails

One runner's experiences at Smith Mountain Lake State Park

In July 2010, I visited my mother in Moneta and she kept telling me about the hiking trails at the Smith Mountain Lake State Park. Having grown up in Bedford, I had gone with Mom on numerous occasions to the park, where she volunteers regularly. But having lived in Connecticut for the past 13 years, I somehow missed these stunning trails as they were forged. Naturally, I was impressed when I saw how abundant, intricate and manicured they are, while blending into the landscape as if they had always been there.

The trails feel firm and soft because your feet land on fallen, mulched and moistened leaves. It is so silent at times that it’s like you’re in an empty cathedral, especially early in the morning. All you hear is the soles of your shoes touching supple ground, a sibilance broken only by the crunching of a stick underfoot. 

Read this interesting article in its entirety on Smith Mountain Lake.com from Laker Magazine here

The all natural setting of Smith Mountain Lake State Park

Cabins and campground for overnight lodging available year-round

Learn more about Smith Mountain Lake State Park:

Although situated on the second largest body of freshwater in the state, Smith Mountain Lake State Park is not just for water enthusiasts. In addition to a full range of water related activities, including swimming, fishing and boating, the park offers miles of hiking trails, housekeeping cabins, camping, picnicking, a visitor center and interpretive programs.

There are 13 hiking trails ranging from half a mile to three miles long. Trails meander through the park’s various features, including hardwood forests, pine forests, secluded coves and picturesque vistas. They are open year-round during daylight hours.

Where is Smith Mountain Lake State Park?

The park is on the north shore of Smith Mountain Lake in Bedford County, approximately 40 miles from both Lynchburg and Roanoke and 140 miles from Richmond. Click here for a Google map.

Smith Mountain Lake State Park, 1235 State Park Road, Huddleston, VA 24104-9547; phone, (540) 297-6066; email, smlake.