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Smith Mountain Lake History: A Decade-by-Decade Timeline

A aerial view of Smith Mountain and the lake

For six decades, Smith Mountain Lake has been shaped by vision, engineering, community and a deep love of life on…

Golden Moments: A Look Back at the 50th Anniversary of Smith Mountain Lake

Sailors compete in the 50K Around the Lake race, one of the most memorable on-the-water events of the anniversary celebration.

When SML turned 50 in 2016, the milestone was more than an anniversary. It marked a moment of collective reflection,…

How the Smith Mountain Dam Works: An Insider’s Guide

Water is released from the spillway at Smith Mountain Dam, emptying into Leesville Lake.

SML may be known for recreation and scenery, but its existence is rooted in hydro electric power generation. Most people…