School buses, football schedules and crisper temperatures are making a reappearance at Smith Mountain Lake. It’s nearly fall, one of the most 
anticipated seasons for many here who appreciate its colorful Appalachian beauty. Soon, SML will host several of its most popular annual events – the antique boat show, the wine festival and the home tour. In between these exciting occasions is a perfect opportunity to take your family to an apple orchard.
The Fall 2011 issue of the Laker Magazine contains a useful guide for apple picking in the Smith Mountain Lake area. Its bordering Franklin and Bedford counties, along with slightly more distant Gretna, Roanoke and Botetourt locations are fantastic apple picking destinations complete with seasonal attractions such as corn mazes, apple pressing demonstrations, live music events and well stocked country stores. Check out virginiaapples.org to find an orchard near your SML home. Fall is truly a sight to behold here, make the most of it with a harvest time excursion such as apple picking.
