Discover Bedford
23 carefully curated photography spots with GPS coordinates, shooting tips, and local insights
Blue Ridge Parkway
A scenic road that runs through the Blue Ridge Mountains, offering countless stops for capturing landscapes, sunrises, and wildlife. It's a photographer's paradise with diverse vistas.
Cahas Mountain Overlook
Situated along the Blue Ridge Parkway, this overlook offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, perfect for capturing panoramic landscapes.
Peaks of Otter
A scenic mountain location with hiking trails and lakes, offering opportunities for landscape and nature photography.
Sharp Top
A challenging but rewarding hike leading to one of the most prominent vistas in the Blue Ridge Mountains, with panoramic views of the valleys and peaks—a favorite for landscape and adventure photography.
Abbott Lake at Peaks of Otter
A serene mountain lake surrounded by walking trails and shaded picnic areas, perfect for reflections, waterscapes, and tranquil landscapes—epitomizing Blue Ridge beauty.
Peaks Mountain
Offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, perfect for capturing sweeping vistas or sunsets.
Private Docks on Smith Mountain Lake
Scenic private docks along Smith Mountain Lake offer picturesque settings for weddings and photography, with beautiful views of the lake and surrounding mountains. These docks are perfect for capturing intimate wedding moments or serene lake scenes.
Smith Mountain Lake Marina at Night
The marina takes on a different charm at night, with lights reflecting off the water and boats illuminated against the dark sky. It's ideal for practicing nighttime photography techniques.
Thunder Ridge Overlook
Offers panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains with a stone platform.
Cole Mountain
A scenic spot in central Virginia, known for its panoramic mountain views and hiking trails, ideal for landscape photography.
Smith Mountain Lake Marina
The marina is bustling with sailboats, fishing boats, and kayakers, making it a dynamic spot for capturing human interaction with nature. It offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
Blue Ridge Parkway near Wirtz
Scenic views of mountains and forests along the parkway, ideal for landscape and nature photography.
Bernard's Landing
A scenic waterfront area with beautiful views of the lake and surrounding mountains. It is ideal for capturing serene lake scenes and sunset moments.
Peaks of Otter Lodge
A historic lodge with scenic views of the surrounding mountains and lake.
Smith Mountain Lake State Park Trails
The park features extensive hiking trails that wind through dense woodlands, offering year-round opportunities for nature and wildlife photography. The trails are particularly vibrant during autumn.
Peaks View Park
Features a big red barn, playgrounds, and a disc golf course, offering a rustic setting for family photos and outdoor activities.
Smith Mountain Lake Golf Courses
Golf courses surrounding Smith Mountain Lake provide scenic views of the lake and mountains, making them ideal for capturing golfing action or serene landscapes during early morning or late afternoon.
Smith Mountain Lake Dam
The dam creating Smith Mountain Lake offers a unique perspective on the lake's hydroelectric history and scenic views of the surrounding landscape.
Smith Mountain Lake Wineries
Local wineries around Smith Mountain Lake offer scenic countryside views and vineyards, perfect for capturing wine-themed photography or serene landscapes.
Huddleston Public Beach
A public beach area along Smith Mountain Lake, offering opportunities for photography of beach activities, sunsets, and lake views. It is a great spot for family portraits or candid shots.
Moneta Public Access Ramp
A public boat launch area that offers opportunities for photography of boats and lake activities. It is a great spot for capturing candid moments of boating enthusiasts.
Interstate 122 Overpass
An elevated viewpoint offering aerial-like views of surrounding countryside and lake areas, perfect for capturing panoramic landscapes.
Smith Mountain Lake Public Parks
Public parks around Smith Mountain Lake provide scenic spots for family portraits, picnics, and casual photography. They often include playgrounds and walking paths.