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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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Vintage Market
Antique mall and vintage store with a variety of vendor booths. You'll find custom-made furnishings and The Vintage Market offers…
North Cove Disc Golf and Leisure Club
North Cove Disc Golf & Social Club is 157 acres of awesome rolling hills situated in a rural valley, framed…
Davidson's Fort Historic Park
Davidson's Fort was once the western most outpost in Colonial America. The fort was originally constructed in 1776 with the…
The Blue Ridge Traveler Visitor Center
The information center is located in downtown Old Fort, NC. Stop by to pick up lodging information, hiking, waterfall, and…
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…
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…
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!
Catawba River Outdoors
Everything you need for an excursion on the Catawba River! Catawba River Outdoors offers tube rentals and river shuttle service to various locations.
Old Fort Picnic Area
This U.S. Forest Service property is an idyllic oasis with picnic tables scattered through the property. Listen to a babbling…
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…
Setrock Creek Falls
This one includes four distinctive levels, totaling 50 feet of falling water. Refer to directions for Roaring Creek Falls…
Andrews Geyser -Temporarily Offline
Update: The Andrews Geyser is intermittently working at this time. The Town of Old Fort announced plans to assess and…
Emerald Village
Discover Emerald Village, a group of real, historic gem, mining, and historical attractions in Little Switzerland, NC. There's so much to see and explore!
Corpening Memorial YMCA
Visiting members of the Y will enjoy the indoor pool, indoor basketball & handball courts, and workout room. Located off…
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!
Marion Lake Club Golf Course & Slices Bistro
The ONLY golf course on Lake James, dating back to 1923, when it was designed by famed golf course architect…