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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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Linville Gorge Wilderness Area
Visitors to the Linville Gorge Wilderness Area in the Pisgah National Forest can enjoy primitive, strenuous recreation in a wild and isolated terrain!
Point Lookout Trail
Spectacular views of the Royal Gorge and 19th-century railroad tunnels. In 2022, the Point Lookout Trail was included as a…
Linville Caverns
North Carolina's only public caverns, Linville Caverns is a popular attraction. In the early 1800s, it was discovered during a…
Camp Grier
Camp Grier is ideal for family and individual vacations! Enjoy adventures like horse riding and mountain biking on 600 acres of beautiful land in Old Fort!
Lower Heartbreak Ridge
Opening by spring 2024, the Lower Heartbreak Ridge Trail is part of the 42-mile trail expansion planned in the Old…
Blue Ridge Love Stories
We are Keicha & Josh-A husband and wife team! Photography is in our blood. It's what inspires us and what…
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!
Artisan League of Little Switzerland Art Gallery
Located in downtown Little Switzerland, the Artisan League of Little Switzerland Art Gallery features ceramics, jewelry, paintings, and more by local artists!
Historic Marion Depot
The Marion Depot has been restored and functions today as a multiple-purpose site. Constructed in the 1860s, it is the…
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…
The Heathen's Den -Axe Throwing and Ales
Heathen's Den is an axe throwing venue located in downtown Marion inside the Miller Building Complex. Customers may call ahead…
The Pond At Laurel Cove
The Pond at Laurel Cove is owned by Patrick and Lisa Ellis and has been in the Ellis family for…
Betsy Ridge
3160 Ft./9 Mile Trail. Black Mountains view, meets Little Buck Creek Trail ending at Woods Mountain Trail. US 221 North,…
Woods Mountain Trail
Woods Mountain Trail is not for the faint of heart! Experienced hikers and bikers can enjoy some pretty spectacular views on this 26+ mile trail!
Historic Orchard at Altapass
The Historic Orchard at Altapass in Little Switzerland is a must-visit from May through October! Experience music, hay rides, treats, storytelling and more!
Indigo Nature Retreat - Event Venue & Lodging
Indigo Nature Retreat is located on Newberry Creek in the heart of the Pisgah National Forest, outside…