Summer on Smith - 10 Backroad Stops

Earlier this summer we shared the Smith Lake Summer Bucket List featuring an on-water list of  some all time favorites around our lake! By request, we've compiled a list of 10 fun things to do should you desire a retreat away from our lovely waters. 

1. Take a trip back in time to the Frosty Mug  at the edge of the river below the Smith Lake Dam where there is plenty of outdoor seating and no shortage of burgers and shakes. 

{Tip: try the peanut butter milk shake.}

2.  See the Lewis Smith Lake's Dam by road. 

3. Visit  the old Houston Jail in Winston County which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and get out free.   Read more about the Houston Jail & what the Houston Historical Society is doing.

Photo Cred: Alabama Living

4. Snag some fresh fruit from Sweatmon's Produce & Garden Center in Crane Hill and make your own Smith Lake Crisp.

5. Partake in a treasure hunt at Highway Pickers right off I-65 ~ even your fur babies are welcome!  {Side note: this is a personal favorite of mine -- I've found many treasures there and have to avoid coming to Smith Lake via 278 out of temptation to go in and plunder! I may or may not have a small problem.}

Tip: Also check out the Alabama Antique trail for other Cullman stops here. 

6. Drive to the Natural Bridge of Alabama on Highway 278. Call (205) 486-5330 for details. 

7. Hike into the Sipsey Wilderness, part of the Bankhead National Forest which is home to a beautiful protected area on Smith Lake. The waterfalls you might find are small glimpses of the past as to what could be found below the surface of Lewis Smith Lake. Chasa Fulkerson has your covered with tips on her blog right down to directions to some great sights! 

8. Enjoy a pizza lunch at Cujo's. Cujo's is located on Curry Highway right before you turn onto Smith Lake Dam Road. It may appear to be a hole in the wall, but trust me when I say -- their pizza is where it's at! {I am presently craving it}

9. Browse the Riverside Fly Shop just below the Smith Lake Dam. Riverside Fly Shop is locally owned and operated by two avid fishermen who aim to make your experience the absolute best! They offer guided tours and all the accessories one might need for the sport of fishing. 

10. Breakfast at Chef Troy's Talk of the Town in Houston, always a crowd pleaser! Breakfast is served all day so no need to rush to get out the door! 

PS ... If you have kids along, stop in the fire station to the right of Chef Troy's and take a look at the firetruck! 

We ❤ Smith Lake!                                               #SmithLakeAlabama