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Smith Mountain Lake

Water sports have never known such a home. Nestled in the protective embrace of the mountains, this picturesque lake offers over 20,000 acres of playground for boaters, fishermen, swimmers, skiers, sailors, and water enthusiasts of all ages. The rolling shores are a haven for wildlife and are home to hiking, horseback riding trails, tennis and some of the most beautiful golf courses and resorts in the state.

Visit Smith Mountain Lake State Park, where a boat ramp and beach offer access to one of the Commonwealth's most beautiful bodies of water. The boat ramp, fishing pier, hiking trails and restroom facilities are open year round. Campsites and cabins are available. The park is open for day use from 8:00 a.m. to dusk daily. Interior gates to the hiking trails and picnic area close at dusk daily. Pets are permitted but must be kept in an enclosed area or on a leash. A fee is charged per pet/night for overnight guests. Smith Mountain Lake State Park, 1235 State Park Road, Huddleston, VA 24104, 540-297-6066. For reservations or more information on any of Virginia State Parks, call 1-800-933-PARK or visit www.dcr.state.va.us.

The Booker T. Washington National Monument
This monument honors the life and legacy of African-American leader Booker T. Washington. Born into slavery on this restored Burroughs tobacco farm in 1856, Washington rose to prominence as an educator, orator and founder of the Tuskegee Institute in Alabama. This historic site interprets Washington's life through exhibits, film, a living history farm, guided tours and special events. The park is open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Admission to the park is free. The Monument is located at 12130 Booker T. Washington Highway (Virginia 122), approximately 32 miles from Bedford and is a part of the National Park Service. 540-721-2094 E-mail connie_mays@nps.gov or www.nps.gov/bowa for more information.

For additional information on properties, businesses, vacation rentals, dining and shopping opportunities at the Lake, contact the Smith Mountain Lake Chamber and Visitor Center located at Bridgewater Plaza, Highway 122 just west of the Hale's Ford Bridge, 540-721-1203, visit www.visitsmithmountainlake.com.

Visit www.discoversml.com for a fun, entertaining and informative way to get to know what Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia has to offer.

Upcoming Events

• Jan 6 - Feb 29 - American Needlepoint Exhibit - Goose Creek Studio is exhibiting work members of the Seven Hill Chapter of the American Needlepoint Guild during January and February. A wide variety of needle arts, including cross stitch, crewel, needlepoint and others, is included in the exhibit. The ANG meets monthly to look at members projects and share new ideas. An opening reception with the artists will be held on Sunday, January 15, 2-5pm. The work will be exhibited through the end of February. - Goose Creek Studio, 302 Court Street, Bedford - 540-586-8482 - www.goosecreekstudio.com

• Jan 25 - Mar 17 - Bower Center for the Arts presents Black & White - Gallery Hours Wed-Sat 11:00am to 4:00pm - A judged theme exhibition of 2-D and 3-D art works based on the use of black and white (and shades of gray). - Bower Center for the Arts, 305 North Bridge Street, Bedford - 540-586-4235 - www.bowercenter.org

• Feb 11 - Star City Sounds and Smith Mountain Lake Harmeneers at Bower Center for the Arts - 7:30pm - Treat your sweetie, a friend or just yourself… champagne, chocolates and beautiful voices… the perfect evening in honor of Valentine’s Day! - Bower Center for the Arts, 305 North Bridge Street, Bedford - 540-586-4235 - www.bowercenter.org

• Mar 24 - National D-Day Memorial presents Run for Hope -5K - 8:30am to 10:00am - Participants must be registered for admittance - National D-Day Memorial, 3 Overlord Circle, Bedford - 540-587-3619 - www.dday.org

These events and more can be found in our event calendar.

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