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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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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…
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!
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!
Young's Ridge
Trailhead begins inside the Old Fort Picnic Area with incredible views of Kitsuma Peak at trail end. Elevation is 3,165…
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…
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…
Lake James Antique Mall
Along with antiques & collectibles, you'll find a nice assortment of local organic products. Beautiful handmade wooden bowls, soaps, lotions,…
Setrock Creek Falls
This one includes four distinctive levels, totaling 50 feet of falling water. Refer to directions for Roaring Creek Falls…
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.
Andrews Geyser -Temporarily Offline
Update: The Andrews Geyser is intermittently working at this time. The Town of Old Fort announced plans to assess and…
Mountain Top Shuttles
You gotta get up to get down! Let Mountain Top Shuttle Service help you make the most of your day…
Copper Ridge Trail
A new section of the Fonta Flora State Trail is open, Copper Ridge Trail, located outside downtown Old Fort, NC.…
Shucks Pearls of Marion
Stop by to pick up custom, freshwater pearls fashioned into trendy necklaces, bracelets, rings, and more. You'll find additional items…
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…
Newberry Creek Trail
Scenic trail ending at Blue Ridge Parkway. Top elevation is 4,300 feet. East of Old Fort, take Curtis Creek Road…
Linville Caverns
North Carolina's only public caverns, Linville Caverns is a popular attraction. In the early 1800s, it was discovered during a…