
                         Roanoke Times
                 Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.

DATE: FRIDAY, May 25, 1990                   TAG: 9005260442
SECTION: SMITH MOUNTAIN TIMES                    PAGE: SMT-7   EDITION: BEDFORD/FRANKLIN 
SOURCE: 
DATELINE:                                 LENGTH: Short

PARK ACTIVITIES RANGE FROM HIKES TO CRAFTS

Smith Mountain Lake State Park, located in a wooded area on a hillside, away from the water front, offers a variety of activities. The park can be reached off Virginia 626 near Moneta in Bedford County.

Scenic hiking trails can be found throughout the park. They range from\ mile to 1 1/2 miles in length. In addition to a public picnic area, 50 campground sites are available.

The Visitor Center's Interpretive Program offers morning and evening hikes through the state park. The center also coordinates canoe trips and schedules public speakers.

This summer, the park will sponsor night hikes, canoe trips, children's programs, folk crafts, and evening programs featuring storytelling and guest speakers on astronomy and wildlife.

A man-made beach area, which opened to the public last year, is the first beach designated for public use at Smith Mountain Lake.

Boaters have a launching ramp located at the state park which gives access to the 20,00-acre lake. The boat ramp and hiking trails are open year round.

For more information on the Smith Mountain State Park contact the visitor's Center at 703-297-5998.

by CNB