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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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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!
English Farmstead Cheese
Visit English Farmstead Cheese in Marion, NC, a quaint shop that offers a variety of cheeses and local fare. All cheeses are crafted from milk produced on-site!
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…
Dragonfly Studio
Shop Dragonfly Studio in Old Fort, an incredible outdoor sculpture garden filled with custom metal sculptures, water gardens, mobiles, and more!
Green Flash Watersports Lake James
GreenFlash Watersports offers Waterski, Wakeboard, Wake Surf and tubing trips on Lake James. Our USA Waterski & Wakesports certified instructors…
Peavine Trail
The Peavine Rail Line, once an active Norfolk Southern Railway line, is included in the company's "rails to trails" program.…
Kitsuma Peak
Breath taking views along Kitsuma Trail and Young's Ridge. This one is not for the faint of heart! Ten mile,…
Mountain Paradise Campground and Pool
Locally owned RV campground, open year round. Seasonal amenities include waterslide, pool, mini-golf, fishing and playground. Non-campground guests may purchase…
Andrews Geyser -Temporarily Offline
Update: The Andrews Geyser is intermittently working at this time. The Town of Old Fort announced plans to assess and…
Connecting the Dots Fishing Guides
Connecting the Dots Fishing Guides share their lifelong passion and knowledge of fishing with exciting excursions that underscore the importance…
Marion Hot Wheelz - Skating Rink
Stop by downtown Marion's roller skating rink, offering special events, arcade games and birthday party packages. Click the link for…
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!
Setrock Creek Falls
This one includes four distinctive levels, totaling 50 feet of falling water. Refer to directions for Roaring Creek Falls…
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…
Old Fort Bike Shop
OFBS is a bicycle repair and service shop located in historic Old Fort NC. OFBS is owned and operated by…
Spacious Skies - Hidden Creek Campground
Escape to Spacious Skies Hidden Creek for the ultimate family adventure in the Blue Ridge Mountains! Located in Marion, North…