The Ultimate Smith Mountain Lake Spring Bucket List

Spring has a way of reminding us why Smith Mountain Lake captured hearts in the first place. The water wakes up. The docks come alive. Old routines return. New memories begin.

In honor of SML’s 60th anniversary, we’ve created a spring bucket list that blends lake classics, simple pleasures and a few fresh ideas worth trying this season. Some of these moments have been part of life here for decades. Others might become new traditions.

How many can you check off this spring?

1. Watch a spring sunrise from a dock
2. Take a boat ride beneath Hales Ford Bridge
3. Visit the region’s LoveWorks sculptures
4. Listen to live lakeside music
5. Cruise to one or more of SML’s public islands
6. Feed the fish popcorn at Bridgewater Marina
7. Flag down the Ice Cream Boat or SML Dawg House hot dog boat (starting Memorial Day weekend)
8. Take a sightseeing cruise on the Virginia Dare
9. Enjoy a sunset pontoon ride
10. End the day with dockside drinks
    

11. Spot ospreys and other native wildlife
12. Take an airplane ride above the lake
13. Photograph spring wildflowers
14. Kayak on calm early-season water
15. Hike or bike the trails at the state park or community park
16. Visit an area historical attraction
17. Hit the links at one of SML’s public golf courses
18. Identify three native birds
19. Pack a picnic and linger awhile
20. Visit an area alpaca farm

21. Try a restaurant you’ve never visited
22. Dine with your dog on a pet-friendly patio or lakeside deck
23. Attend a spring wine or food event
24. Stop at a local market or farm stand
25. Sample local wine, beer or spirits
26. Enjoy ice cream on the first truly warm day
27. Turn dinner into a mini road trip
28. Attend the open mic competition at Mango’s
29. Head out for a night of bingo, trivia, cornhole or poker
30. Discover a new favorite drink

31. Attend a local festival or fundraiser
32. Visit a gallery, exhibit or performance
33. Support a nonprofit event
34. Meet someone new at a community gathering
35. Catch a live show or concert
36. Explore a local library or cultural space
37. Support small businesses by shopping locally
38. Volunteer for Take Pride in SML Cleanup Days
39. Take a class or workshop
40. Learn something new about the lake’s history

41. Spend a quiet morning fishing
42. Take a scenic walk
43. Try paddleboarding for the first time (or the first time this year)
44. Sign up for a fun run or spring race
45. Try a group fitness class
46. Stretch or do yoga outdoors
47. Visit an area golf simulator
48. Play pickleball or mini golf
49. Go on a family-friendly hike
50. Spend an entire day outdoors

51. Read a book by the water
52. Check out a sailing regatta
53. Take a selfie with Smith Mountain in the background
54. Take a walk without your phone
55. Enjoy stargazing on a clear spring night
56. Write down a favorite SML memory or share a favorite lake photo
57. Revisit a longtime tradition
58. Start a new spring tradition
59. Return to a place you haven’t visited in years
60. Raise a toast to 60 years of Smith Mountain Lake