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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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Catawba Falls - Reopening May 31, 2024
AS THE U.S. FOREST CONSTRUCTS IMPROVEMENTS. THE FALLS WILL REOPEN MAY 31, 2024 WITH CONTINUED IMPROVEMENTS THROUGH SUMMER 2024. BE…
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…
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!
Arrowhead Monument - Old Fort
The 14.5 foot pink granite arrowhead sits atop a river rock base of more than fifteen feet and is installed…
Geneva Hall
If you love to dance, just visit Geneva Hall, next to the Switzerland Inn in Little Switzerland, for square dancing every Saturday evening in July and August!
Spillway Bridge & Company
The Spillway is Marion’s premier music venue with a state of the art sound system showcasing local and regional talent.…
Founders' Art Walk
The Founders' Art Walk in historic downtown Marion is a self-guided tour of the county's cultural heritage shared through collaborative outdoor art displays!
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.
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…
Young's Ridge
Trailhead begins inside the Old Fort Picnic Area with incredible views of Kitsuma Peak at trail end. Elevation is 3,165…
Sweet Betsy Farm
Visit Sweet Betsy Farm in Marion, NC, where no harmful chemicals are ever used! Shop their variety of honeys, plants, seeds, jewelry, and other gifts!
Andrews Geyser -Temporarily Offline
Update: The Andrews Geyser is intermittently working at this time. The Town of Old Fort announced plans to assess and…
Painters Greenhouse
Painters Greenhouse in Old Fort is your destination for any kind of plant you desire! Stop by to browse the homegrown plants, gardens, and picnic areas!
Big League Camp
Big League Camp is a baseball and softball sports and lodging facility on Lake James, just outside Marion, North Carolina.…
The Lucky Strike Gold and Gem Mine
Plan a stay at The Lucky Strike Gold and Gem Mine campsite in Marion and enjoy a recreational mine, diner, gift shop, concert hall and so much more!
Lower Heartbreak Ridge
Opening by spring 2024, the Lower Heartbreak Ridge Trail is part of the 42-mile trail expansion planned in the Old…