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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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Arrowhead Gallery and Studios
Arrowhead Gallery and Studios features a unique collection of hand-crafted pottery, paintings, jewelry, woodworking, and more all crafted by local artists.
Dragonfly Studio
Shop Dragonfly Studio in Old Fort, an incredible outdoor sculpture garden filled with custom metal sculptures, water gardens, mobiles, and more!
Lake James Sunset Cruises
Experience beautiful Lake James from the luxurious top deck of a modern houseboat.Views for days, we will see Shortoff Mountain,…
Mill Creek
Old Fort has the distinction of being a certified N.C. Mountain Trout Town! Why? Mill Creek runs through the downtown…
Mill Creek Park
Local event area, on Catawba Avenue in downtown Old Fort between Hillman Beer and Whaley Farm Brewery and bordered by…
Roaring Fork Falls
Visit a beautiful waterfall in the Toecane District of Pisgah National Forest with a 30 foot rush down a narrow, zigzag slide.
Historic Old Fort
Once known as the westernmost outpost in North Carolina, Old Fort has retained much of its original forest lands that…
Mt. Ida Trail and Wilderness Area
The Mount Ida Wilderness Area includes a gravel access road and parking lot, picnic shelter and a one-half…
Mountain Laurel Antiques
Moutain Laurel Antiques has a little something for everyone, from furniture to jewelry, accessories, clothing, and so much more. They even buy, sell, or trade!
Refinery 13
Refinery 13 in historic downtown Marion is the perfect place for family-friendly dining and drinks! Stop in to taste local craft beverages and more!
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…
Jack's Mountain Weddings
Jack's Mountain Weddings is a rural, scenic 40-acre community filled with rolling land, trees, and gorgeous mountain views. An idyllic…
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…
Marion Lake Club
If you're looking for a special event venue, look no further than the Lake James Golf Course and Marion Lake Club House. It is the perfect spot for your event!
Big League Camp
Big League Camp is a baseball and softball sports and lodging facility on Lake James, just outside Marion, North Carolina.…
The Davis Country Store
Inspired by tradition, the Davis family invites you to stop by the "second generation" Davis Country Store located on Main…