Smith Mountain Lake & Philpott Reservoir Hikes

Smith Mountain Lake Hikes

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Although it may be better known for water sports and fishing, Smith Mountain Lake also has great trails to explore. From hikes in the state parks in the Smith Mountain Lake area to more secluded options, you are sure to see plenty of wildlife and native plants with any of these options.

Try one of these:

  • Fairy Stone State Park is the largest of Virginia’s six original state parks, is home to its namesake “fairy stones.” These rare mineral crosses and the park’s scenic beauty, rich history and ample recreational opportunities make it a local and regional favorite. More than 9 miles of multi-use trails and a lake will keep you busy.
  • Smith Mountain Lake Community Park has a trail totaling 3 miles of pleasant lake and wooded view hiking. Entry and exit points are scattered throughout the park, with signs identifying each.
  • Waid Recreation Area has 7 miles of hiking trails. These trails travel through rivers, over hills, across farm lands, and atop abandoned dirt roads.

Find Your Hike

Smith Mountain Lake & Philpott Reservoir Hikes

  • Fairy Stone State Park Expand Collapse

    Fairy Stone State Park, the largest of Virginia’s six original state parks (4,741 acres), is home to its namesake “fairy stones.” These rare mineral crosses and the park’s scenic beauty, rich history, and ample recreational opportunities make it a local and regional favorite.

    More than 9 miles of multi-use trails and a 168-acre lake will keep you busy. The park is also just minutes from the Blue Ridge Parkway.

  • Franklin County Recreation Park Expand Collapse

    Franklin-County-Recreation-ParkFranklin County Recreation Park is a 150-acre park, located south of Rocky Mount (just 2 miles from Route 220). The park offers a variety of outdoor activities for all ages including, fishing in a 3-acre lake. It hosts various special events and athletic tournaments.

    Amenities include:

    • 2 picnic shelters (available for rent and drop-in)
    • Playgrounds
    • Lighted tennis courts
    • Basketball court
    • Sand volleyball court
    • Horseshoe pit
    • Disc golf trail
    • Hiking and biking trails
    • Baseball and soccer fields
  • Grassy Hill Natural Area Preserve Expand Collapse

    Grassy-Hill-Natural-Area

    Grassy Hill is a prominent landmark on the west side of Rocky Mount.

    This preserved parcel of the Virginia natural heritage program offers a pair of loops that run atop Grassy Hill, with oak and hickory forests (which are colorful in the fall) and rocky slopes. Three overlooks provide views of Rocky Mount and the area below.

    The trail includes 6.6 miles of hiking trails with signage. Parking for trail users is available adjacent to the preserve.

  • Philpott’s Dogwood Glen Trail Expand Collapse

    Philpott-Dogwood-Glen-TrailDogwood Glen Trail is a 5-mile hike with a scenic lake, wildlife, and wooded views. This trail stretches from Salthouse Branch Park at Philpott Lake to the Philpott Park Tailrace.

    There are some tough climbs and a few short downhill segments. Various stretches of the trail run along the shoreline of Philpott Lake. The approximately 7-foot wide trail can be accessed from Philpott Dam (Franklin County side) or Salthouse Branch Park. Parking is limited at Salthouse Branch Park ($4 day-use fee) and not accessible for equestrians at that location.

  • Smith Mountain Lake Community Park Expand Collapse

    Smith-Mountain-Lake-Community-ParkThe 37-acre Smith Mountain Lake Community Park opened in June 2007. It is a family-oriented facility providing swimming, fishing, and family recreation.

    The park is open year-round and offers a partly-covered handicap accessible fishing pier with seating, picnic shelters with grill, playground area, restrooms, hiking, jogging, and a beach with lifeguards on duty when open.

    The park includes 3 miles of pleasant lake and wooded view hiking. Entry and exit points are scattered throughout the park.

  • Waid Recreation Park Expand Collapse

    Waid-Recreation-AreaWaid Recreation Area is a 220-acre facility located near Rocky Mount, along the site of the Old Carolina Wagon Trail. The park is nestled near the Pigg River, which is home of the “Pigg River Ramble.”

    More than 400 acres of rolling terrain and creek crossings make this area great for beginners and more experienced hikers and bikers. The location also hosts various special events and athletic leagues.

    Amenities include:

    • Brand new flow and jump like mountain bike trails
    • 7 miles of walking and hiking trails
    • Disc golf course
    • 2 walking tracks
    • Equestrian trails
    • Covered picnic shelters, pavilions, and grills
    • 2 playgrounds
    • Fishing, canoeing, and kayaking
    • Soccer, baseball & softball fields

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