Navigating Your Journey: Directions to Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia
Nestled in the heart of Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains, Smith Mountain Lake beckons with its serene waters and breathtaking scenery. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a longer vacation, finding your way to this idyllic destination is the first step to a memorable adventure.
In this guide, we'll provide you with clear and concise directions to Smith Mountain Lake, a list of view points and roads to avoid to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey from wherever you may be coming.
Pine Tree Overlook. Photo courtesy visitroanokeva.com.
From Richmond, Virginia:
Take I-64 West towards Charlottesville.
Merge onto I-81 South towards Roanoke.
Take Exit 162 for I-581 South towards Downtown Roanoke.
Continue on I-581 South, which merges into US-220 South.
Follow US-220 South for approximately 30 miles.
Take the exit for VA-122 South towards Bedford.
Continue on VA-122 South for approximately 20 miles.
Turn left onto Smith Mountain Lake Pkwy.
Follow signs to your specific destination around the lake.
From Washington, D.C.:
Take I-66 West towards Front Royal.
Merge onto I-81 South towards Roanoke.
Take Exit 162 for I-581 South towards Downtown Roanoke.
Continue on I-581 South, which merges into US-220 South.
Follow US-220 South for approximately 30 miles.
Take the exit for VA-122 South towards Bedford.
Continue on VA-122 South for approximately 20 miles.
Turn left onto Smith Mountain Lake Pkwy.
Follow signs to your specific destination around the lake.
From Charlotte, North Carolina:
Take I-85 North towards Greensboro.
Merge onto US-220 North towards Roanoke.
Continue on US-220 North for approximately 100 miles.
Take the exit for VA-40 West towards Rocky Mount.
Continue on VA-40 West for approximately 15 miles.
Turn right onto VA-122 North.
Turn right onto Smith Mountain Lake Pkwy.
Follow signs to your specific destination around the lake.
Viewpoints Along the Way: As you journey towards Smith Mountain Lake, you can take advantage of the scenic viewpoints along the route. Please note these mountain roads have many sharp turns and bends and are not suitable for all vehicles or people prone to car sickness. If you do want to experience more of the Blue Ridge Mountains, look for designated overlooks or pull-off areas where you can pause and admire the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains. From panoramic vistas to cascading waterfalls, these viewpoints offer opportunities for stunning photographs and moments of awe-inspired reflection. Some notable viewpoints along the way include:
View from Sharp Top Mountain. Photo courtesy virginiatrailguide.com.
Blue Ridge Parkway overlooks: If your route takes you along the Blue Ridge Parkway, be sure to stop at overlooks such as Roanoke Mountain Overlook or Smart View Recreation Area for breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Peaks of Otter: Located along the Blue Ridge Parkway, Peaks of Otter offers multiple overlooks and hiking trails with stunning views of the Peaks and Abbott Lake.
Explore Local Trails: Many scenic viewpoints can be found along hiking trails near Smith Mountain Lake. Consider a short hike to places like Sharp Top Mountain or the Fallingwater Cascades for unforgettable vistas.
For a list of more iconic overlooks on the Blude Ridge Parkway, click here.
Avoiding Mountain Roads: When traveling to Smith Mountain Lake, it's important to note that some GPS systems may suggest taking mountain roads off of I-81, such as Route 221 or Route 43. While these routes may offer scenic views, they can also involve steep inclines, sharp curves, and narrow roads that may not be suitable for all vehicles, especially larger RVs or trailers or people that get car sick (like our children!) For a smoother and safer journey, we recommend sticking to the directions provided above, which guide you along well-maintained highways and roads without the challenges of mountain terrain. On our first visit to SML, we followed the GPS and went the shorter mountain route, and all of our kids ended up carsick. We had to pull off on the side of the road multiple times, do not recommend!
As you embark on your travels, take time to appreciate the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the scenic viewpoints along the way. Safe travels and may your time at Smith Mountain Lake be filled with cherished memories and moments to treasure!