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Welcome to the Blue Ridge Mountains, where forests, waterfalls, mountain peaks and welcoming small towns await.
Outdoor adventure is all around. This area is home to more than 200 miles (and counting) of trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding, plus lakes and rivers for paddling and fishing. Pisgah National Forest — the first national forest unit in the U.S. — is a wonderland of rushing waterfalls and breathtaking mountain vistas.
Take a scenic drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway as it winds north from Mount Mitchell to Linville Falls, or bring your motorcycle to experience the thrill of The Diamondback. Or trade your car for a canoe as you explore the cool waters of Lake James.
Learn about the natural and cultural heritage of the region at one of our historical attractions, or try your luck at an historic gem mine. Enjoy shopping for unique and handcrafted souvenirs along Main Street and Catawba Avenue in Old Fort and in Marion's historic and vibrant downtown, where you’ll find antique shops, independent boutiques and art galleries. Or wander out to Little Switzerland or the Orchard at Altapass to peruse old-fashioned general stores.
Spend the evening sampling flights of craft beer at a local brewery, or drink in the rhythms of live music at an area venue or winery. And don’t let the rain dampen your spirit of adventure — check out local bowling alleys, arcades and skating rinks to keep the whole family entertained.
Check out the listings below to plan your next Blue Ridge Mountain vacation.
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Lake James State Park
At the base of Linville Gorge you will find a 6,812 acre lake with more than 150 miles of shoreline.…
Woodlawn Fitness Trail
Fitness Trail consists of 7 stations, two exercises per station on a 1/4 mile jogging path. Additional one mile loop…
Buck Creek Trout Farm
The catch-out pond is a wonderful place for family fun and group outings. Fishing poles, bait, and ice provided. Any…
Dugger's Creek Falls
Hike an easy .03 mile trail to Dugger's Creek Falls, a small but breathtaking waterfall in Linville Falls! The waterfall and swinging bridge are photo-worthy!
Tom's Creek Falls
Tom's Creek Falls is accessible year round, located south of the Blue Parkway at Milepost 316/Hwy. 221 South, and a…
Camping World at Tom Johnson's Camping Center
Camp, eat, play, and stay at Tom Johnson's Camping Center in Marion, NC. More than just a campground, this site also serves as an event venue!
Armstrong Creek
3640 Ft./6 mile trail. Primitive hiking on Armstrong Fish Hatchery Rd. Trail begins past hatchery parking lot. Easy-moderate.Including tributaries -game…
Lake James State Park - Visitor Center
"Last of the Mohicans" and "Hunt for Red October" were filmed along the shores of this picturesque lake. Two park…
Little Switzerland Books and Beans
In downtown Little Switzerland, you'll find the most unique three-story bookstore and coffee shop! Explore the many shelves and treasures of this gem!
Heartbreak Ridge
Avid bikers will love Heartbreak Ridge, an exciting two-mile bike trail that begins along the top ridge of the Blue Ridge Escarpment and descends 2,000 feet!
Historic Carson House
Historic Carson House Museum is open between April and December, interpreting the story of Irish immigrant Colonel John Carson and…
Trout and Fly Fishing Regulations
Our region of the Pisgah National Forest hosts a variety of trout streams. Click on the links below to read…
The Box Factory NC - Municipal Event Center
Located inside the Larry D. Miller Building in the heart of downtown Marion, NC, the Municipal Events center is soon to be an indoor shopping venue.
Lake James Black Bear Boat Access Ramp
Universally accessible, you'll find Catfish, Crappie, Largemouth Bass, Muskellunge, Smallmouth Bass, Sunfish, Walleye and White Bass. Public boat access ramp.…
The Davis Country Store
Inspired by tradition, the Davis family invites you to stop by the "second generation" Davis Country Store located on Main…
Vintage Market
Antique mall and vintage store with a variety of vendor booths. You'll find custom-made furnishings and The Vintage Market offers…