Escape your daily grind and bring the family to a vacation rental at Lake Martin for some fun and sun. Lake Martin spans three counties, 44,000 acres, and 750 miles of shoreline in the great state of Alabama. You can rent a cabin on the lake or look for a luxury home with a lake view in a Lake Martin vacation rental. Here are some of the top activities to enjoy over the course of your Lake Martin adventure.
1. Boating
Who doesn’t love a day out on the lake? If you bring your own boat, there are 19 boat ramps around the lake to launch from. There are also several local companies that offer boats for rent for an afternoon or all day. Don’t forget to pack your sunscreen and to wear your life jacket!
2. Visit Goat Island
Just north of Martin Dam sits a small island that has a history of wild goats. Many locals sail past the island hoping to get a glimpse of the goats. However, wild dogs have sometimes chased the goats into the water. You and the family can enjoy a day navigating this small island, bird watching, and enjoying a picnic lunch.
3. Hiking
Put on your sturdy shoes and load the family up in the car for a day of hiking. One of the popular places in the area is Smith Mountain. After reaching the summit of Smith Mountain, you are not only treated to stunning views but the chance to see the Smith Mountain Fire Tower.
4. Horseback Riding
After a couple of days on the water, take the family out to enjoy an afternoon of horseback riding. The Stables at Russell Crossroads provides several trade ride options from a sunrise ride, to a picnic lunch and afternoon ride. With trails surrounded by natural beauty, this stable can help you have a memorable vacation.
5. Fishing
If you go on a lake vacation, you have to take the family out for a day of fishing. Getting to fish from the dock of your vacation rental is just another perk of renting with Tripping. Another option is to book a fishing guide who knows all the best places to fish on the lake.
6. Check Out a Waterfall
Spend a day away from the lake and gaze upon the majesty of a waterfall. There are three local waterfalls within an easy driving distance of Lake Martin: Great Falls, Rendalia Water Falls, and Wetumpka Falls. Great Falls and Rendalia Water Falls are located in Talladega National Forest where your family can take in the breathtaking scenery on dozens of trails.
7. Horseshoe Bend National Military Park
Check out Horseshoe Bend National Military Park for a day of learning about American history. It was at this location that the final battle of the Creek War played out. The park offers a museum along with a trail lined with markers where you can learn as you go.
8. Wellborn Musclecar Museum
If you have a car lover in your group, then you might have trouble getting them to leave after you arrive at this museum. Spend a rainy afternoon learning more about American muscle cars at the Wellborn Musclecar Museum. With more than 60 cars on display, this museum has a car for everyone in your family to admire.
9. Catch a Movie
Take an evening out and enjoy one of the latest family films or action thrillers. In nearby Alexander City, you can take the family to Playhouse Cinemas for a flick. This small theater offers not only traditional digital movies but also the 3D version.
10. Swimming
Spend a day playing at the beach and swimming in the lake. Lake Martin has two public beaches for your family to enjoy: D.A.R.E. Park Beach and Wind Creek Public Beach. Bring along a picnic to keep the fun going all day. If you rent a lakeside cabin with a dock you can enjoy the day swimming off your private dock.