Hillside Hideaway

A little planning goes a long way.

The same qualities that make Hillside Hideaway so serene and peaceful also mean that a little planning before your arrival can make your stay much more enjoyable.

Once you're here, you're about 40 minutes from a major supermarket, so we highly recommend picking up groceries and those must-have items before heading to the lake.

We've stocked the house with many of the basics, and you'll also have plenty of lake gear available to enjoy during your stay. Take a few minutes to review What We Provide, What to Bring, and Groceries & Supplies before packing.

Bringing or renting a boat? Be sure to read Boats & Lake Planning before you arrive—there are a few important things you'll want to know in advance.

Driving an EV? Check EV Charging for details about our private Level 2 charger and what you'll need to bring.

We provide many of the basics to help make your stay comfortable. Here’s what you can expect to find at Hillside Hideaway:

Bath & Linens

• Bath towels and washcloths
• Shampoo and conditioner
• Shower gel
• Hand soap
• Beach towels for the outdoor shower, hot tub, dock, and lake

Please note: Our white bath towels are for indoor use only. Please use the designated beach towels anytime you're outside.

Kitchen & Coffee

• Dish soap and dishwasher pods
• Starter supply of paper towels
• Cone-shaped coffee filters for the drip coffee maker
• A starter supply of Keurig pods
• French press
• Coffee bean grinder

Paper Products
We provide enough toilet paper and paper towels to get you started. Depending on the length of your stay and the size of your group, you may want to purchase additional supplies.

Laundry
A stacked washer and dryer is located on the lower level and is available for guest use. Laundry detergent is not provided, so please bring HE (high-efficiency) detergent if you plan to do laundry during your stay.

Lake Gear
You're welcome to enjoy the lake equipment provided at the property:

• 5 stand-up paddleboards (SUPs)
• 5 kayaks
• Inflatable swim pad
• Assorted floats and pool noodles may also be available from previous guests

Life Jackets / PFDs

We cannot guarantee that appropriately sized life jackets will be available for every member of your group. We have a collection of youth-size life jackets in the primary bedroom closet, but we strongly recommend bringing properly fitted PFDs for anyone who will need one—particularly children.

If you rent a boat, the rental provider should supply the PFDs required for the boat. We still recommend bringing properly fitted youth PFDs for children rather than relying on the rental company's available sizes.

Pack for a Great Stay

We provide many of the basics, but here are a few things you may want to bring:

For Your Stay

• Groceries, beverages, and specialty food items
• Your preferred coffee, K-Cups, or whole coffee beans
• HE laundry detergent if you plan to do laundry
• Personal toiletries and other specialty items you prefer

For the Lake & Outdoors

• Properly fitted life jackets/PFDs, especially for children
• Sunscreen and insect repellent
• Sunglasses and hats
• Cooler or insulated bag for drinks/snacks at the dock
• Fire starter and a lighter/matches if you plan to use the Solo Stove or outdoor fireplace. We provide firewood, but fire starter can be helpful if the wood is damp.
• Water shoes or lake-friendly footwear
• Fishing gear if you plan to fish

Important: We have a collection of youth-size PFDs, but we cannot guarantee the proper size or fit for everyone. We strongly recommend bringing properly fitted PFDs for children and anyone who needs one.

Smith Lake weather can vary considerably, so check the forecast before you pack, particularly during the cooler months.

Bringing or renting a boat? Be sure to review Boats & Lake Planning before your trip.

Stock Up Before You Arrive

We highly recommend making your grocery run before heading to Hillside Hideaway. Once you arrive, the nearest full-service supermarkets are about 40 minutes away, so a little planning will save you a trip back out.

Coming from Huntsville or Nashville?
Publix in Cullman is our recommended stop and is the most convenient option when approaching from the north.

Coming from Birmingham?
You can stop at Publix in Gardendale on your way up (about an hour before arrival), or continue to Cullman for Publix or Walmart before heading to the lake.

Coming from the Memphis area?
We recommend heading into Cullman for groceries first. It requires a little backtracking afterward, but gives you the best selection before heading to the house.

Other Options

Walmart Supercenter – North Cullman
A good option for groceries, household items, forgotten essentials, and other supplies.

Son’s of Arley
A local grocery option with an in-house butcher and a good selection of produce. A great choice if you'd rather shop locally.

Crane Hill / Nearby Markets
There are a few smaller local markets in the area, along with Dollar General in Crane Hill, which is convenient for forgotten essentials and last-minute items. Selection is more limited than the larger stores in Cullman.

Our Recommendation

For a multi-day stay, stock up before you arrive, especially for meals, beverages, snacks, and any specialty items. Once you're settled in at the lake, you probably won't want to spend part of your vacation making a grocery run!

Pontoon & Tri-Toon Rentals

Pontoon boats are available locally, and we strongly recommend reserving your boat soon after booking your stay—especially for weekends and holidays.

Our Preferred Vendor: Smith Lake Boating Adventures

We’ve worked closely with Smith Lake Boating Adventures for several seasons, and they’ve earned our recommendation for their customer service, cleanliness, and reliability. They offer late-model tri-toons and, best of all, deliver your boat directly to our private dock and pick it up when your rental is complete.

Recent rates provided to us:

• Monday–Thursday: $400/day
• Friday–Sunday: $450/day
• Weekly: $2,500

Phone: 256-385-5482
Facebook: Smith Lake Boating Adventures, LLC
Instagram: @smithlake.boatingadventures

Rates and availability can change, so please confirm current pricing directly with the vendor.

Another Local Option

Our Point William HOA employee, Michael Barton, lives locally and also offers a pontoon boat for rent with delivery and pickup.

Phone: 205-542-6565

Other area rental companies include Pontoon Rentals of Smith Lake at Duncan Bridge Marina, Duskin Point Marina, Triple Creek Marina, and Squirrel’s Boat Rental.

Important — Launch Before You Arrive

If you’re bringing a boat, you MUST launch it before driving down to the lake house.

Boat trailers cannot be brought down the one-way drive to the lake-level homes. The road is extremely steep and includes a very tight turn around a large rock that cannot safely be negotiated with a boat and trailer. There is also a sign near the pool clubhouse reminding guests of this restriction.

Please do not attempt to bring a boat trailer down the hill.

We find it easiest to launch on the way in and put some of your luggage and gear in the boat. The dock is nearly level with the house, so unloading from the boat can actually be easier than carrying everything down from the parking area.

After launching, bring your empty trailer back to Point William and park it in the trailer storage/overflow parking area just beyond the pool clubhouse. Do not bring the trailer down the hill toward the house.

Recommended: Triple Creek Marina

Triple Creek Marina is generally our preferred launch location and is also our recommended stop for fuel.

The ramp itself is paved and relatively level, but the access road becomes tight and gravel. We recommend 4WD, particularly when retrieving a heavier boat.

For perspective, we launch our approximately 23-foot, 6,000-lb. wake boat here, but drivers uncomfortable with narrow/gravel access may prefer another option.

And don't miss the free freeze pops!

Arrowhead RV Park

Arrowhead is the closest ramp to us by land and has a nice launch ramp. However, it is farther from the house by water and sits well up Crooked Creek.

Because Smith Lake's water level drops seasonally, we recommend caution using this ramp during lower fall and winter water levels.

Duncan Bridge Marina

If you don't have 4WD, aren't comfortable with the access to Triple Creek, or water levels make Arrowhead unsuitable, Duncan Bridge Marina is your best alternative.

It's farther from Hillside Hideaway by both road and water, but it has one of the better boat ramps on Smith Lake.

Docking at the House

Guests are welcome to tie their boat up at our private dock throughout their stay. The water at our dock is deep year-round, and electrical power is available at the dock.

We also have a hydraulic boat lift that may be available with prior permission.

Finding the House From the Water

Save our location before heading out on the lake. You can use this link for Hillside Hideaway at Point William to navigate back to the house.

You can also spot us from the water by the eight white Adirondack chairs lined up on our dock.

Smith Lake is beautiful—but with all its coves, creeks and turns, it's surprisingly easy to get turned around. We recommend saving the house location on your phone before heading out on the water.

Smith Lake GPS

Another useful resource is the Smith Lake GPS app, developed specifically for navigating the lake and finding points of interest. It's available for both Apple and Android devices and includes Point William.

Know Before You Get on the Water

Alabama has specific requirements for operating a motorized boat, including requirements that apply to out-of-state visitors. If you plan to operate a boat during your stay, please make sure you meet Alabama's requirements before getting on the water.

Out-of-State Boaters

Effective October 1, 2024, non-Alabama residents operating a motorized vessel on Alabama waters generally must have either:

• A valid boater safety or vessel operator certification from their home state or country, or
• An Alabama Nonresident Boater Safety Certification.

The previous exemption allowing nonresidents to operate a boat in Alabama for up to 45 days without certification is no longer in effect.

Renting a Boat

Alabama provides a separate provision for qualifying rentals from licensed Alabama boat-rental businesses. Confirm the operator requirements directly with your rental company when you reserve your boat, as they can tell you exactly what you'll need before taking possession of the vessel.

Life Jackets / PFDs

Please make sure everyone has an appropriately sized U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket. This is particularly important for children. While we have a collection of youth-size PFDs at the house, we cannot guarantee that we have the correct size or fit for every guest.

If you're renting a boat, your rental company should provide the required PFDs, but we still recommend bringing properly fitted PFDs for children.

Before You Go

Boating laws and requirements can change. Please review the current Alabama requirements before your trip:

Alabama Law Enforcement Agency – Boating Education & Operator Certification

Out-of-State Boating in Alabama – Recademics

Level 2 EV Charging Available

Hillside Hideaway offers a private 240V, 40-amp NEMA 14-50 outlet located on our parking pad for EV charging.

What You’ll Need

• Your own portable EV charging cable/EVSE
• A NEMA 14-50 plug or appropriate adapter compatible with your charging equipment

Please Contact Us in Advance

The EV charging outlet is kept locked when not in use, so please let us know before your arrival if you plan to charge an EV during your stay. We’ll make sure you have access when you arrive.

The outlet is conveniently located at the parking pad, allowing you to charge your vehicle right at the house.

Parking at the House

Our private parking pad is located directly beside the house and can accommodate two vehicles comfortably, or three smaller vehicles.

Please park completely on the parking pad and keep the roadway clear. The road in front of the house is part of Point William's one-way loop and is the only route residents and guests use to travel through the community.

Additional & Overflow Parking

If you have additional vehicles, please use the gravel overflow parking area located just beyond the pool and clubhouse.

Please do not park in front of neighboring residences or along the roadway.

Boat & Trailer Parking

Boat trailers cannot be brought down the hill to the house. After launching your boat, trailers may be stored in the overflow/trailer parking area just beyond the pool and clubhouse.

For detailed information about launching a boat and bringing a trailer to Point William, please see Boats & Lake Planning → Bringing Your Own Boat.

Three-Zone Climate Control

Hillside Hideaway has three separate HVAC systems and three smart thermostats serving the home's four levels. Because warm air naturally rises through the house, it's normal for temperatures to vary somewhat between floors—and during spring and fall, you may even find one zone heating while another is cooling.

Thermostat Locations

• Lower Level: Hallway outside the primary suite
• Main Level: Behind the curtain on the right side of the entrance to the inglenook, near the stairs
• Bedroom Level: Hallway beside the loft ladder

The lower and upper systems also use remote temperature sensors located in the primary bedroom and loft to help maintain more consistent temperatures.

Adjusting the Temperature

We've programmed the thermostats to settings that generally keep the different levels comfortable, but every group and every season is different. Please feel free to adjust the thermostats during your stay if needed.

Important: Please do not set the air conditioning below 68°F. Setting the temperature lower can cause the HVAC units to freeze up and stop cooling.

Because the home has multiple levels, we recommend making small temperature adjustments and allowing the system some time to respond before making additional changes.

Main Floor TV — Inglenook

The main-floor TV in the inglenook is a Smart TV with a simple remote and uses the Sonos soundbar below the TV for audio.

Press the Home button on the remote to access streaming apps such as YouTube TV, Netflix, and others.

YouTube TV is provided for our guests. For other streaming services, you may sign in using your own account. Please remember to sign out before departure.

Loft TV

The loft also has a Smart TV with a simple remote and soundbar. Press the Home button to access the available streaming apps.

The loft TV also has an HDMI connection available for gaming consoles or other devices—especially handy for kids and teens staying in the loft.

Sonos Music

The Sonos soundbar in the inglenook can also be used independently as a music system—the TV does not need to be turned on.

To use Sonos:

1. Connect your phone or device to the Hillside Hideaway Wi-Fi.
2. Open the Sonos app on your device (it can be downloaded if needed).
3. The app should recognize the Sonos system and allow you to control music and volume directly from your phone.

If you bring a compatible Sonos speaker, such as a Sonos Roam, you may also be able to group it with the house system while connected to our Wi-Fi.

Please be considerate with music volume, particularly outdoors and during community quiet hours.

Everything You Need to Settle In

The kitchen at Hillside Hideaway is well equipped for preparing meals during your stay, and we've stocked a few basics to help get you started.

Coffee, Your Way

Whether you prefer a quick cup or like to take your time, you'll have several options:

• Drip coffee maker — cone-shaped coffee filters are provided
• Keurig — we provide several K-Cup pods to get you started
• French press
• Coffee bean grinder

Bring along your favorite ground coffee, K-Cups, or whole beans, and you're all set.

Kitchen Basics

You'll find the usual cookware, dishes, glassware, utensils, and kitchen essentials for preparing and enjoying meals at the house.

We also provide a starter supply of:

• Dish soap
• Dishwasher pods
• Paper towels

Cutting Boards

Cutting boards are provided to the right of the dishwasher. Please use these rather than cutting directly on the concrete countertops.

A Quick Note About Indoor Cooking

Like the other homes at Point William, our kitchen does not have an exterior-vented range hood. The smoke detectors are also quite sensitive.

We strongly recommend avoiding stovetop cooking that produces a lot of smoke—particularly bacon (which, in our experience, is even better cooked in the oven!).

Otherwise, you may find yourself opening doors to clear the smoke, inviting bugs inside, and waking everyone in the house when the alarms go off.

Ask us how we know.

Relax & Enjoy

The hot tub is located on the lower deck, near the outdoor shower and fire pit. Please take a moment to review the instructions below before using it.

Before You Get In

• Please shower before entering, especially after using sunscreen or spending time on the lake. Sunscreen, lotions and perspiration can quickly affect hot-tub water quality.
• No glassware in or around the hot tub.
• Children under 18 must never be left unattended in or around the hot tub.
• Please use the hot tub responsibly and at your own risk. Refer to the Hot Tub Addendum for complete terms and rules.

Using the Hot Tub

The temperature and jet controls are located on the control panel and are straightforward to operate.

You'll also notice a large underwater jet/control just to the right as you enter the tub. Turn this control to redirect water flow between the different seating areas.

A shock ball floats in the hot tub to help maintain the water. Please leave it in the tub at all times.

Opening the Cover

There are four clips securing the hot-tub cover. All four clips must be unclipped before attempting to open the cover.

1. Unclip all four cover clips.
2. From the entry side, fold the cover back onto itself.
3. Slide the folded cover backward into the cover carriage.
4. The carriage will lower hydraulically and store the cover out of the way.

When You're Finished

Return the cover to the hot tub and secure all four clips whenever the hot tub is not in use.

This is especially important at the lake, where winds associated with storms can lift an unsecured cover.

Gas Grill

The gas grill is located on the lower deck and is available for you to enjoy during your stay.

Propane

A spare propane tank is located to the left of the outdoor fireplace.

If you need to swap the propane tank during your stay, please send us a quick message to let us know. That allows us to make sure the empty tank is replaced for the next guests.

When You're Finished

Please turn off both the grill burners and the propane tank valve when finished cooking. Once the grill has cooled, please clean the cooking surface and replace the grill cover.

Firewood

Firewood is provided for both the Solo Stove fire pit and outdoor fireplace and is stored in the built-in wood rack.

Please note: The indoor fireplace is not available for fires.

Solo Stove Fire Pit

Please use the aluminum fire ring/lip on top of the Solo Stove. It helps the stove burn efficiently and with very little smoke once the fire gets hot.

Please don't remove or misplace the aluminum ring.

You're welcome to roast marshmallows over the fire—just please clean up any food or residue that falls inside once the stove has completely cooled.

Never leave a fire unattended, and make sure all flames and embers are completely extinguished before leaving the area or going inside.

Outdoor Fireplace

You're welcome to use the outdoor fireplace with the same firewood provided for the Solo Stove.

After use, please clean out the fireplace once the fire and ashes are completely cool.

A Note About Ashes

Ashes and embers can remain extremely hot for many hours after a fire appears to be out.

• Never handle or empty hot or warm ashes.
• Ideally, allow ashes to cool overnight before cleaning either fire area.
• If you're unsure whether the ashes are completely cool, please leave them in place rather than attempting to empty them.

Before You Leave

Please make sure all fires are completely extinguished before leaving the area or going to bed.

For the Solo Stove, replace its cover only after the stove is completely cool.

Outdoor Lighting

Hillside Hideaway has several outdoor lighting systems. Some are automatic, while others are controlled by switches.

Landscape & Stair Lighting

• The landscape lights along the stairs are controlled by a dusk-to-dawn sensor and come on automatically.
• The lights on the steps leading to the dock are solar powered and automatic.

There's no need to turn either of these systems on or off.

Deck & Patio String Lights

There are two sets of outdoor string lights:

• Fire Pit & Hot Tub: Controlled by the switch on the exterior wall of the house just behind the swing.
• Grill & Outdoor Dining Area: Controlled by the switch on the outer corner of the deck near the outdoor table.

Dock Lighting

The main dock lights are controlled by a red switch on the right side of the walkway, a few steps down toward the dock.

You'll also find additional lighting controls on the dock itself.

When You're Finished

Please turn off the string lights and manually controlled dock lights when you're finished using the outdoor areas for the evening.

The landscape, stair and solar lighting can be left alone—they'll take care of themselves.

Washer & Dryer

A stacked washer and dryer is available for guest use on the lower level.

If you plan to do laundry during your stay, please bring HE (high-efficiency) laundry detergent, as detergent is not provided.

Trash During Your Stay

We know it isn't convenient to make a trip up the hill every time the trash is full, so we've provided a raccoon-proof, screw-top trash receptacle just outside the front door.

Please use it for bagged, non-liquid household trash only and make sure the lid is securely closed after each use.

Dock Trash

For your convenience, there is also a trash can in the cubby beneath the dock stairs.

Feel free to use it while enjoying the dock, but please don't leave trash in the dock bin overnight or after you're finished using the area. Move bagged trash to the secure receptacle outside the front door or take it directly to the community dumpsters.

A Word About Our Local Raccoon 🦝

We have an incredibly intelligent and opportunistic local raccoon, so please never leave unsecured trash outside—day or night!

If there's food in it, there's a very good chance he'll find it.

Community Dumpsters

Point William has two dumpsters at the top of the property, located on the left just before you exit the community gate.

Please use these for final disposal of household trash during your stay.

Before Checkout

Please take all trash—including indoor, outdoor, and dock trash—to the community dumpsters before departure.

Hillside Hideaway is a unique home with some special finishes and systems. A little extra care helps us keep everything looking and working its best for you and future guests.

Septic System

Our home is on a septic system, so it's very important that only natural waste and a reasonable amount of toilet paper are flushed.

Please do not flush feminine hygiene products, paper towels, wipes, or excessive amounts of toilet paper. These can cause serious problems with the septic system.

Natural-Fiber Rugs

The bedroom rugs are made from natural woven fibers that do not mix well with water.

Please be mindful of wet swimsuits, towels, and other wet items, and don't place them on the rugs.

Walnut Dining Table

The dark walnut dining table has a special connection to the home—it was crafted from a tree that grew on the property of the home's designer.

We keep the table well oiled to protect the wood. Please use coasters and wipe up spills promptly, especially water or other liquids that could stain the surface.

For everyday cleaning, simply use warm water and a soft cloth or paper towel. Please don't use household cleaners or chemicals on the wood.

Concrete Countertops

The kitchen and bathroom countertops are hand-finished concrete and are kept waxed and sealed.

A few simple precautions will help protect them:

• No hot pots or pans directly on the countertops. Heat can damage the protective wax and potentially damage the concrete.
• Please don't use the countertops as cutting boards. Cutting boards are provided to the right of the dishwasher.
• Don't place bar soap directly on the concrete.
• Don't use household or chemical cleaners on the countertops, as they can remove the wax and protective sealant.

For everyday spills, simply wipe them up promptly with a damp cloth or paper towel.

Brooms & Cordless Blower

An indoor broom is located in the laundry room, and an outdoor broom is in the primary bedroom closet.

You'll also find a cordless blower in the primary bedroom closet if you'd like to clear leaves or debris from the decks or outdoor seating areas. Please return the blower, battery, and charger to the closet after use.

Freezer Door — A Little Quirk

The freezer has a particularly strong door seal, especially during the first minute or so after closing it. This is normal.

If the freezer doesn't open easily, please don't pull hard on the handle. Wait a moment for the pressure to equalize, or gently break the seal with your finger before opening.

We've replaced the handle before, so your gentle touch is greatly appreciated!

The Story of Hillside Hideaway

Hillside Hideaway is part of Point William, a private 22-acre community created around a simple idea: build with the natural landscape rather than over it.

When Point William was developed, special care was taken to preserve the property's steep terrain, mature trees, massive boulders, and natural stone outcroppings. Working with Shepard & Davis Architecture, the homes were designed to settle naturally into their individual sites and complement their Smith Lake surroundings.

You'll see that philosophy throughout Hillside Hideaway—from the boulders and natural landscape surrounding the home to its stone-and-wood exterior, expansive windows, and vertical design that takes advantage of the hillside while capturing views of the lake.

A Little Design History

Point William and the home were featured in Birmingham Home & Garden in the 2012 article “To The Point,” which explored the architecture, interiors, and philosophy behind the development.

One of our favorite details from that story is still in the house today: the dark walnut dining table. The table was handcrafted from a fallen black walnut tree from the property of the home's designer—a truly one-of-a-kind piece that's been part of the house from the beginning.

As Seen in Architectural Digest

More recently, Hillside Hideaway was selected by Architectural Digest as its Alabama property in The Best Airbnbs in the US That Embody Thoughtful Design.

The feature highlights many of the things we love about the home: its contemporary architecture, walls of windows overlooking Smith Lake, two-story deck, private dock, loft bunk room, and spaces designed for gathering with family and friends.

We're proud that the design of Hillside Hideaway has been recognized over the years, but what we hope you'll remember most is simply what it's like to spend time here—tucked into the hillside, surrounded by the natural landscape, with Smith Lake just outside the door.

Read the Features

Birmingham Home & Garden — To The Point
Read the Birmingham Home & Garden feature

Architectural Digest — The Best Airbnbs in the US That Embody Thoughtful Design
Read the Architectural Digest feature

Lake Toys Are Ready for You

You'll find five kayaks, five stand-up paddleboards (SUPs), and an inflatable swim pad at the dock for your use during your stay.

Keeping Everything Secure

Please make sure kayaks, paddleboards, paddles, and the swim pad are securely stored whenever they're not being used. Smith Lake storms can arrive quickly and pack quite a punch—and we've had a few kayaks and paddles go on adventures by themselves!

Please help us keep the water toys and dock equipment secure during your stay. If weather is approaching, make sure everything is safely secured on the dock.

Storing the Kayaks & Paddleboards

When you're finished:

• Pull the kayaks completely up onto the jet-ski pad.
• Pull the paddleboards ALL THE WAY onto the jet-ski pad, leaving only the rear fin hanging beyond the edge.
• The boat-lift bunks may also be used for storing kayaks and paddleboards.

Please be particularly careful with the paddleboards. They can ding fairly easily, which can allow them to take on water, and the fins underneath can be damaged if they're dragged or placed incorrectly.

Life Jackets / PFDs

We keep a collection of youth-size PFDs in the primary closet, but we cannot guarantee that we'll have the correct size or fit for every guest.

Please bring properly fitted U.S. Coast Guard-approved PFDs, particularly for children and anyone who needs one for enjoying the lake.

Enjoying the Dock

The dock has plenty of seating with areas in both the sun and shade, so make yourself comfortable and enjoy the lake!

You're welcome to use the dock furniture throughout your stay. We simply ask that you help us keep everything secure and in good condition.

Keep an Eye on the Weather

Weather on Smith Lake can change quickly, and summer storms in particular can bring strong winds with very little warning.

If a storm is approaching, please:

• Secure any loose cushions, furnishings, floats, or other items that could blow away.
• Make sure the kayaks, SUPs, paddles, and swim pad are safely secured.
• Don't leave personal belongings unattended on the dock when severe weather is approaching.

If you're unsure whether something needs to be secured, it's always better to bring it in or secure it.

Dock Lighting

The main dock lights are controlled by the red switch on the right side of the walkway, a few steps down toward the dock. Additional lighting controls are available on the dock itself.

Please turn off manually controlled dock lights when you're finished for the evening.

Dock Trash

There's a trash can in the cubby beneath the dock stairs for your convenience.

Please empty the dock trash can when you're finished using the area, and never leave trash in it overnight. Our local raccoon is remarkably resourceful! Move bagged trash to the secure screw-top receptacle outside the front door or to the community dumpsters.

⚡ Shock IQ — Dock Electrical Safety

Our dock is equipped with a Shock IQ monitoring system, which continuously monitors the water around the dock for potentially dangerous stray electrical current.

If the Shock IQ alarm sounds, DO NOT enter the water.

If anyone is already in the water, they should swim away from the dock and exit the water at a neighboring dock, rather than climbing out onto our dock.

The system is designed to automatically shut off electrical power to our dock if it detects potentially unsafe voltage.

Please contact us immediately if the alarm activates.

Bringing a Boat to Hillside Hideaway?

You're absolutely welcome to bring your own boat. In fact, having your boat at the house is one of the best ways to enjoy Smith Lake!

We strongly recommend launching your boat before driving to Hillside Hideaway. Loading some of your luggage and lake gear into the boat before launching can also make arrival easier—the dock is nearly level with the house.

⚠️ IMPORTANT — NO BOAT TRAILERS DOWN THE HILL

Do NOT attempt to tow a boat or bring a boat trailer down the one-way road to the lake-level homes.

The road is very steep and includes a tight turn around a massive rock that a vehicle towing a boat simply cannot negotiate safely. There is also a sign near the pool/clubhouse reminding guests of this restriction.

Boat trailers must remain at the top of the community.

After launching, bring your empty trailer back to Point William and park it in the gravel overflow/trailer parking area just beyond the pool and clubhouse.

Do not turn down the hill toward the lake with a trailer.

Where Should I Launch?

We have several nearby launch options, and the best choice can depend on your boat, tow vehicle, comfort level, and seasonal lake level.

We've put our recommendations—including Triple Creek Marina, Arrowhead RV Park, and Duncan Bridge Marina—in the Where to Launch & Get Fuel section under Boats & Lake Planning.

Docking Your Boat at Hillside Hideaway

Guests are welcome to tie up their boat at our private dock during their stay; we recommend the left side of the dock when looking out toward the lake due to waves and wind from the main body.

The water at our dock is deep year-round, so seasonal lake levels generally aren't an issue for docking. There are also no known navigation hazards immediately around our dock.

Hydraulic Boat Lift

Our dock has a hydraulic boat lift that may be available for guest use with prior permission.

Please do not operate or place a boat on the lift unless you've contacted us and received approval first. Boat size, weight, and configuration (V-hull boats only) can affect whether the lift is appropriate for your vessel.

If you'd like to use it, just reach out to us before your stay with information about your boat.

Power at the Dock

Electrical power is available on the dock for normal dock use.

A Quick Reminder

Please make sure your boat, lines, equipment, and personal belongings are secure before leaving the dock, particularly overnight or when storms are possible. Weather on Smith Lake can change quickly.

Navigating Smith Lake

Smith Lake is beautiful, but with its many coves, creeks, and winding shorelines, it can be surprisingly easy to get turned around—even if you haven't traveled very far.

We strongly recommend keeping your phone with you and using GPS while you're on the water.

Finding Your Way Back

Our home can be found in Google Maps by searching:

Hillside Hideaway at Point William

Using the house as a saved waypoint makes it much easier to navigate back to the dock after exploring the lake.

From the water, our dock is also easy to recognize by the eight white Adirondack chairs lined up along it.

Smith Lake GPS

Another useful resource is the Smith Lake GPS app, which was developed specifically for navigating the lake and includes local points of interest and communities—including Point William.

It's available for both Apple and Android devices. Consider downloading it before heading out on the water.

Weather & Storms

Keep an eye on the weather while you're on the lake. Storms can develop quickly and bring strong winds, lightning, and rapidly changing conditions.

If threatening weather is approaching, please return to the dock rather than waiting for conditions to deteriorate.

Life Jackets / PFDs

Please have properly fitted U.S. Coast Guard-approved PFDs available for each person and use them as appropriate for the activity and in accordance with applicable boating laws. Children should wear an appropriately sized PFD whenever required and whenever conditions warrant.

We have some youth-size PFDs available at the house, but we cannot guarantee the appropriate size or fit for every guest, so we strongly recommend bringing properly fitted PFDs for children and anyone who needs one.

Dock Safety

For everyone's safety:

• Do not climb onto the dock roof or jump from the roof structure into the lake.
• Fireworks are strictly prohibited anywhere on our property, including the dock.
• Children should be appropriately supervised around the dock and water.
• Please use the dock, watercraft, swim pad, and other lake equipment responsibly.

Enjoy the Lake

Smith Lake is one of the best parts of staying at Hillside Hideaway. Explore, swim, paddle, boat, relax—and please use good judgment so everyone has a safe and enjoyable time on the water.

Get Out on the Water

Obviously, the lake takes the cake for the best activity while you're here! We encourage you to get out on the water however you can—by boat, kayak, SUP, or simply floating off the dock.

Waterfalls in Our Cove

You don't have to go far to find something worth exploring. Our cove has multiple waterfalls that you can paddle right up to by kayak or SUP. They're especially impressive after periods of rain—when the water is flowing well, you can even hear them from the porch.

Looking for a Longer Paddle?

For a good paddle, head out of our cove and turn right into the main channel. You'll find the Silverock Cove development a little less than a mile away.

Remember that you'll have to paddle the same distance back, and conditions on the main channel can be different from the protected water in our cove, particularly when there's boat traffic or wind.

Exploring by Boat

With more than 550+ miles of shoreline, part of the fun of Smith Lake is simply exploring its seemingly endless coves and channels.

If you need fuel, Triple Creek Marina is our favorite stop. And if Ty is there, there's usually a freeze pop waiting for every kid on the boat!

Jumping Rock
A few turns up Rock Creek from Triple Creek Marina is the locally known "Jumping Rock," a popular Smith Lake landmark. Even if you don't plan to jump, it's a fun spot to see while exploring this part of the lake.

Water depth, submerged hazards and lake conditions can change. We don't evaluate or guarantee the safety of jumping or swimming areas, so please use your own judgment and appropriate caution.

Have Fun Exploring

Some of our favorite Smith Lake days have no particular destination at all. Pack a cooler, explore the coves, find a quiet swimming spot, and enjoy one of the most beautiful lakes in the country!

Need a Boat?

If you didn't bring your own, there are several local options for getting out on Smith Lake.

Our Preferred Rental Provider — Smith Lake Boating Adventures

Our first recommendation is Smith Lake Boating Adventures. We've worked with them for several seasons and have consistently been impressed with their customer service, cleanliness and reliability.

Best of all, they'll deliver your rental directly to our private dock and pick it up when you're finished.

📞 256-385-5482
Facebook: Smith Lake Boating Adventures, LLC
Instagram: @smithlake.boatingadventures

They offer late-model tri-toons. Contact them directly for current pricing and availability, as rates can change.

Another Convenient Local Option

Our HOA's on-site employee, Michael Barton, lives locally and also offers his pontoon boat for rent. He can deliver the boat directly to our private dock and pick it up when you're finished, making this another especially convenient option for our guests.

📞 Michael Barton: 205-542-6565

Contact Michael directly for current pricing and availability.

Other Local Rental Options

If our preferred providers are unavailable, other Smith Lake rental companies include:

• Southern Wake Rentals
• Pontoon Rentals of Smith Lake at Duncan Bridge Marina
• Duskin Point Marina
• Triple Creek Marina
• Squirrel's Boat Rental

We strongly recommend reserving a boat soon after booking your stay, particularly for summer weekends and holidays.

Our Go-To: Triple Creek Marina

For guests staying at Hillside Hideaway, Triple Creek Marina is our preferred stop for fuel on the water.

It's also one of our recommended launch locations if you're bringing your own boat.

And, of course, there's one other important amenity: Ty has been known to have a freeze pop waiting for every kid on the boat!

Other Useful Marinas

Depending on where your day on the lake takes you, other useful marina locations include:

• Duncan Bridge Marina
• Duskin Point Marina

For detailed information about launching your own boat, including the differences between Triple Creek, Arrowhead and Duncan Bridge, see:

Before You Arrive → Boats & Lake Planning → Where to Launch & Get Fuel

A Few of Our Local Favorites

You'll probably find yourself wanting to stay in and cook at the lake, but when you have an itch to get out, there are some great local options nearby.

The Grille at Trident Marina — Our Favorite Nearby

Our favorite nearby is The Grille at Trident Marina, which offers beautiful Smith Lake views from its shaded outdoor seating area and can be reached by both car and boat.

Hours can vary seasonally, and they're typically closed on Mondays, so check current hours before heading over.

Drifters Bar & Grill

A casual local option about 25 minutes away with outdoor/open-air dining. A good choice when you're looking for an easygoing meal and drinks.

Ethos Craft Brewing

About 25 minutes from the house, with a relaxed atmosphere and excellent outdoor/open-air space.

Bloom Winery

Located alongside Ethos, Bloom is a nice option if you're looking for wine and a laid-back outdoor setting.

Many Smith Lake-area businesses operate seasonally or reduce their hours during the offseason, so we always recommend checking current hours before making the drive.

Breakfast, Biscuits & Tex-Mex

A few other local spots are worth knowing about:

Crane Hill Food Mart

Don't let the name fool you—hands down, our favorite country biscuits in the area. A great local stop when you're looking for a simple Southern breakfast.

Chef Troy's Talk of the Town

A local favorite for a good country breakfast and another great option when you're ready to venture a little farther from the house.

La Plaza Bonita — Arley

A surprisingly good Tex-Mex spot in Arley and a nice change of pace after a few days of grilling and cooking at the house.

Downtown Cullman

If you're heading into Cullman, you'll find a much larger selection of locally owned restaurants, shops, and bars, along with the familiar chains.

Explore the “Land of a Thousand Waterfalls”

Just beyond Smith Lake lies Bankhead National Forest and the Sipsey Wilderness—one of our favorite places to explore when you're ready for an adventure away from the lake.

Bankhead is known as the “Land of a Thousand Waterfalls,” with waterfalls, sandstone bluffs, rock shelters, clear creeks, and miles of forest and wilderness trails. Many waterfall routes are remote and are not maintained as official trails, so good footwear and navigation are important. The Forest Service recommends being prepared for changing conditions and carrying a map/GPS in the wilderness.

Looking for an Easy Waterfall Stop?

Kinlock Falls is one of the easiest waterfalls to experience. It's only about a ¼-mile walk from roadside parking to the falls and is a great option if you want the scenery without committing to a long hike.

Our Classic Waterfall Hike

Caney Creek Falls is one of Bankhead's signature waterfalls—a beautiful approximately 30-foot waterfall dropping into a turquoise pool. The hike is roughly 2 miles round-trip and is a great choice if you want a true Bankhead waterfall experience without making it an all-day expedition.

Want More of an Adventure?

Sougahoagdee Falls is one of the area's most impressive destinations, reached by an approximately 4.5-mile round-trip hike along Brushy Creek. Sougahoagdee Falls Parking provides access to this popular waterfall hike.

Find Your Waterfall

For more ideas—from short hikes to challenging backcountry adventures—we recommend this excellent guide:

9 Waterfalls to Explore in Alabama's Bankhead National Forest — TravelAwaits

A Little Planning Goes a Long Way

Cell service can be limited, trails may be unmarked or unofficial, and conditions can change considerably after rain. Download your maps before leaving the house, bring water and appropriate footwear, and don't rely solely on cell service for navigation. The Forest Service specifically notes that many well-known waterfall routes are remote and not maintained as official trails.

Beyond the Lake

As much as we love staying put at Smith Lake, there are several worthwhile places to explore when you're ready for a change of scenery.

Clarkson Covered Bridge

Just outside Cullman, Historic Clarkson Covered Bridge is a beautifully restored 1904 covered bridge spanning Crooked Creek—the same creek our home sits on farther downstream.

The surrounding park includes walking trails, picnic areas, a historic log cabin, and a working grist mill. Admission is free, making this an easy stop when you're already heading toward Cullman.

Downtown Cullman

Downtown Cullman has experienced quite a renaissance in recent years and is well worth exploring. You'll find locally owned shops, restaurants and bars, along with the historic downtown and Warehouse District.

It's also home to many of the area's biggest festivals and seasonal events, so it's worth checking what's happening while you're here.

Whitewater Adventures

Looking for something a little more adventurous? The Mulberry and Locust Forks of the Black Warrior River offer some of North Alabama's best opportunities for whitewater kayaking.

Conditions and difficulty vary significantly with water levels, so this is best suited to experienced paddlers or those going with a qualified local outfitter.

Make a Day of It

Cullman is easy to combine with groceries, lunch or dinner, shopping, and sightseeing. If the weather isn't cooperating for a lake day, it's also a great backup plan.

Worth Planning a Trip Around

Smith Lake and Cullman have some fantastic annual events. If your stay happens to line up with one of these, they're well worth checking out.

🍓 Alabama Strawberry Festival — Spring

The Alabama Strawberry Festival takes over Depot Park in downtown Cullman each spring with live music, food and craft vendors, carnival rides, kids' activities, and—of course—plenty of strawberries. 

🎃 Spook the Lake — October

One of Smith Lake's most unique traditions! Spook the Lake turns trick-or-treating into a boating adventure, with families traveling from participating dock to participating dock around the lake.

Check Spook the Lake for the current year's date, registration information, and participating-dock map.

🎄 Cullman Christkindlmarkt — Holiday Season

If you're visiting around the holidays, the Cullman Christkindlmarkt is absolutely worth the drive.

Downtown Cullman transforms into a German-style Christmas market with traditional food and drinks, artisan vendors, live entertainment, ice skating, a giant Ferris wheel, carousel, kids' activities, and plenty of Christmas atmosphere. 

Always check the event websites for current dates, hours, tickets or registration before heading out.