Summer on Smith: Exploring the Backroads

Last summer we shared the Smith Lake Summer Bucket List featuring an on-water list of some all time favorites around our lake along with the first edition of "Backroads of Smith Lake". We've compiled a list of 10 fun things to do should you desire a retreat away from our lovely waters in 2019. 

1. Go waterfall hunting in the breathtaking Bankhead National Forest! The waterfall trails are documented here and are very popular particularly after a good rain. Dogs are welcome and certain trails have sandy areas perfect for taking a swim or taking a break!  

2. Stop by Cullman's Sportsman Lake Park and feed the fish! In addition, there are also bike and running trails, a playground and  pavilions for a picnic lunch. 

Hours: Wednesday-Saturday 
9:00 - 5:00 
 Sunday 1:00 - 5:00

3.  Stop by Arley's newest treasure, The Smith Lake Flea Market & Vintage Mall located at 6168 County Road 41 in the heart of Arley. Owned and operated by the Darby family, you'll find a little bit of everything from vintage tags to locally made pottery. This place has the absolute BEST selection of Smith Lake signs, cups, shirts, magnets -- I would venture to say it has more SMITH LAKE items than anywhere on the lake {and no, they are not all mine -- several vendors have Smith Lake items for you to take your pick from ~ I love Smith Lake and am happy to support others who feel the same!)

4. 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! 

5. Last summer, Smith Lake Marina welcomed Brother's on Smith Lake. Not only do they have food specials, but festive drink specials as well along with a fenced play area for children complete with sand & swingset. The gives Mom & Dad or Grandparents the perfect opportunity to have some adult conversation before enjoying some of the best food around! 

Tip: try the shrimp boil ~ the corn is quite worthy! 

6. 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. 

Professional Landscaping
on Curry Highway

7. Snag some flowers or greenery on Curry Highway at Professional Landscaping, they have a fabulous selection of not only plants, but some of the cutest LAKE signs we've seen {and we all know I love lake things}. Professional Landscaping is family owned and operated and they have some of the best prices around PLUS they are super helpful. They once waited after closing for my family to stop by and even helped us load the trailer ~ after hours. #goodpeople   

located in the heart of Arley

8. As stated in Smith Lake A to Z "Start your day at the Arley Coffee Shop". Don't get hung up on the name ~ yes, they have coffee, but it's not like the big city "coffee" shops. Their menu is more about the food. The Coffee Shop's breakfast hashbrowns are a crowd pleaser and my personal favorite is the burger served for lunch & dinner. 

Cullman's Frios

9. Explore Cullman's Warehouse District and cool off with a Frios Pop. Their handmade pops are consistently voted best-tasting pops in Alabama & they use the freshest, locally-grown, certified-organic ingredients when available.

Chef Troy's 

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! 

Special thanks to my contributors who shared some of their favorites with me, because like many of you, I am sure ~ I tend to stay in my own little "happy place" and not explore around me. I challenge you to get out & about find one of these places to explore this summer! Happy Summer! 

We ❤ Smith Lake!                                               #SmithLakeAlabama