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Sunset views are the best on Smith Lake.

Featured Article

Explore Smith Lake

Lake season is upon us!

Article by Missy Gurley

Photography by Missy Gurley, Smith Lake Alabama

Originally published in Cullman City Lifestyle

One of my most favorite times was when my family lived on Smith Lake. There is so much history and so many stories about Smith Lake. You are part of a community, whether you realize it or not. You are all neighbors regardless of which part of the lake you live on and whether you are a full-time or part-time resident. 

Smith Lake has 21,000 acres of shoreline and is considered to have some of the cleanest and deepest water in the United States. We have this beautiful huge water playground in our very own backyards, so why not explore it? Let us help you plan your Smith Lake trip.

My son loved to explore our shoreline. He climbed the rocks, looked for worms and spotted the various types of fish. We loved our boat rides! Smith Lake provides the most beautiful, scenic boat rides imaginable. 

We found a cool and creative “Smith Lake Summer Bucket List” for all ages on the Smith Lake Alabama Instagram page. I highly recommend using this fun guide on your boat rides. Smith Lake Alabama is a great resource for all the things Smith Lake. Check it out @smithlakealabama. Also check out "Smith Lake A to Z," a fun book you will want to buy for your little one.

A few top finds for our family on the lake include the “castle," not only because of its size, but also its beautiful design. It is definitely not something you see every day. This 5,500-square-foot lakefront beauty was built in the early 1980s. A quick Google search will give you an inside look at the exquisite home design and decor. 

One of my personal favorite spots is Indian Head Rock. Our lake home was just a few sloughs over. To jump from this 30-foot rock is just one of the many rights of passage on Smith Lake. Jumping from the spot is fun but watching others jump while you watch from your boat is just as much fun.  

Big Bridge on County Road 222 (the road that takes you to Trident Marina) is home to some popular artwork. Kurt-N-Cathy, Back Flips Rule and the Dragon are just a few of all things to see on the bridge. We love the history of Kurt-N-Cathy; it is a tale that will live on forever. Do you know the story? 

While you are floating under Big Bridge, be sure to stop by The Grille at Trident Marina for a delicious treat and drink. Be sure to check out the beautiful boats in the new showroom. During the summer months, the free lakeside Summer Concert Series is a must!  If you want to explore Smith Lake by boat, but don't own one, Trident Marina has pontoon boat rentals, with 24/7 gas for all boaters and boat servicing and maintenance.

Smith Lake Park is also another spot to check out, with an RV park, community swimming pool, public lake access, putt-putt golf, tent camping and paddle board and canoe rentals. The park also has cabins and pavilions available for rent. 

While at Smith Lake Park, check out Smith Lake Zip Line Adventures! Explore Smith Lake from the tree tops!  

There are many amazing adventures to be had on Smith Lake. We hope you go out and explore, wave at your fellow boaters, grab a popsicle from the Popsicle Princess and tell them we said hi! Be sure to pack your sunscreen!

Lewis Smith Lake was created in 1961 by the Alabama Power Company as a result of the company's construction of Lewis Smith Dam to produce hydroelectric power and improve river traffic conditions on the Sipsey fork of the Black Warrior River and provide recreational opportunities.

Construction of Smith Dam began on Nov. 25, 1957. The $29 million project was formally dedicated on May 23, 1961, and named for Alabama Power Company president Lewis M. Smith.

The lake is known for its deep, clear water and its good sport fishing. In recent years, it has served as the site of several major professional bass fishing tournaments. Largemouth, striped, white and spotted bass; black and white crappie; bluegill, longear and redear sunfish; and flathead and channel catfish may be found in the lake.

Source: Alabama Power Company

  • Big Bridge
  • Sunset views are the best on Smith Lake.
  • The Castle
  • Indian Head Rock
  • Smith Lake Summer Bucket List