It's no secret that Lake Martin is definitely a summertime destination,We love feeling that warm sun on our skin, and whether we are wakeboarding, skiing, boating, catching Friday on the Green at Russell Crossroads, chilling on the beach at Wind Creek State Park, or just hanging out at one of our favorite lakeside places sipping on a cold Bushwacker, summertime at Lake Martin is like no other place. But we think it's pretty great in winter, too. At Mistletoe Bough B&B, we love blogging about all the fun things to do at Lake Martin, and there are some great sights to see during the winter season. Much of the information in this blog was supplied by my friend, Brandy Hastings, and her friend Harold Banks.
She writes here, "One of my favorite people that I have had the opportunity to do some exploring with is Mr. Harold Banks. You have probably heard that name before, as he is the namesake of the Harold Banks Canoe Trail. In 2009, he became the first person to solo paddle the entire 258 miles of the Tallapoosa River from its origins in Paulding County, Georgia, to its end at Fort Toulouse near Wetumpka, Alabama. In 2015, the 25 mile stretch located in Tallapoosa and Chambers counties was named in his honor. Paddling that trail is an adventure in itself and you can learn more about that here.
Although Harold is probably most widely known for that paddling voyage in his little red canoe, he is a man of many adventures. When we were on one of those adventures last summer, I remember him telling me of the special significance of this winter. Knowing I am one that loves picking up rocks along my path and seeing the unique formations that can only be found in central Alabama, he explained to me the treasures that we would find as the water level started dropping. I’m not talking about lost treasure chests around Pirate Island, although that is actually a real place on Lake Martin. I’m also not talking about the lost diamond rings that Susie lost while skiing, although with the water level lower, those kinds of treasures exist also. It’s definitely the best time to take out the metal detector or go magnet fishing. The treasures that Harold explained to me are the things that us explorers appreciate most-new trails for us to hike and exposed geologic wonders that are usually hidden beneath the waters of Lake Martin. I couldn’t keep this all to myself, so I wanted to share two of this favorite things about this time of year."
Go Hike the Island Hop Trail at Smith Mountain.
The Smith Mountain hiking trails, cared for by the Cherokee Ridge Alpine Trail Association, offer a fantastic way to experience the exposed shoreline of Lake Martin. The Lakeshore Trail winds along the untouched, wild shoreline, leading to the Island Hop Trail, where land bridges connect you to four islands only accessible during the low winter pool. This seasonal change unveils endless miles of shoreline, perfect for exploring the natural beauty of the area. Along the way, you can discover unique pieces of driftwood, search for arrowheads, and even spot freshwater mussels as large as your hand, making it a true outdoor adventure.
Explore The Geology Of The Lake Martin Area
Collecting unique rocks is a fantastic winter activity at Lake Martin. When the water levels drop in winter, even more hidden treasures are revealed along the shoreline.
Lake Martin's geology is fascinating, shaped by violent upheavals over millions of years. The area sits on a historic collision zone where the ancestral continents of Africa and North America once met and then split apart. Volcanic eruptions and massive earthquakes dramatically reshaped the landscape, and three parallel fault lines still run through the region. It’s no wonder Tallapoosa County is nationally recognized as a rockhound super site, boasting an extraordinary variety of minerals.
Layers of rock have been twisted and folded into intricate formations rarely seen elsewhere. As the receding waters expose these ancient layers, they reveal a treasure trove of garnets, mica, quartz crystals, and more. Harold once told me he’s found garnets larger than marbles lying on the ground and gem-quality ones embedded in schist. In some spots, the colorful, patterned rock formations resemble abstract art, a natural masterpiece that’s hard to believe isn’t man-made.
More To Do Around Lake Martin
Lake Martin is surrounded by hundreds of miles of stunning shoreline, and according to Harold, you’ll discover nature’s miracles at every turn. Take your time to soak it all in—you might spot migratory waterfowl from distant places, observe fox squirrels and turkeys, or even see a deer swimming across a narrow, shallow channel. Harold’s advice is simple: just get out there and start walking. The water level will begin rising on March 1st, but it will do so gradually. You can always stay updated on the current water levels here. Right now, though, with the water at its lowest point in six years, it’s the perfect time to explore and uncover those unique treasures.
NOW, Where Should I Stay at Lake Martin?
The Mistletoe Bough Bed & Breakfast is one of the most charming places to stay in Alexander City, offering an unforgettable Alabama getaway. Housed in a stunning 1895 Victorian mansion, this historic treasure combines timeless elegance with the comfort of modern amenities. Its beautifully preserved architecture, from the intricate woodwork to the grand staircase, creates an atmosphere of warmth and nostalgia. Guests can choose from five uniquely designed rooms or suites, each full of character and charm. Whether you’re planning a peaceful retreat, exploring the beauty of Lake Martin, or hosting a special event under the 3,000 sq. ft. permanent tent on the property, the Mistletoe Bough provides the perfect blend of Southern hospitality and vintage decor. Visit our website or call 256-329-3717 to book your stay!
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