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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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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…
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!
Blue Ridge Love Stories
We are Keicha & Josh-A husband and wife team! Photography is in our blood. It's what inspires us and what…
Vintage Market
Antique mall and vintage store with a variety of vendor booths. You'll find custom-made furnishings and The Vintage Market offers…
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…
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!
Blue Ridge Pinnacle
Prominent peak near Mt. Mitchell State Park, with awesome views. Begin at swing-bar gate on side road at Blue Ridge…
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.
Lake James Black Bear Boat Access Ramp
Universally accessible, you'll find Catfish, Crappie, Largemouth Bass, Muskellunge, Smallmouth Bass, Sunfish, Walleye and White Bass. Public boat access ramp.…
Mountain Top Shuttles
You gotta get up to get down! Let Mountain Top Shuttle Service help you make the most of your day…
Historic Carson House
Historic Carson House Museum is open between April and December, interpreting the story of Irish immigrant Colonel John Carson and…
Turtle Island Pottery
Since 1980 Turtle Island Pottery has produced a very popular line of functional stoneware. The pottery has become very recognizable…
The Pond At Laurel Cove
The Pond at Laurel Cove is owned by Patrick and Lisa Ellis and has been in the Ellis family for…
Mountain Gateway Museum
The Mountain Getaway Museum is a state museum in Old Fort that features lifestyle and pioneer-era history from the earliest inhabitants to the 20th century.
Auria Manufacturing
Auria Manufacturing graciously offers their property to an annual fundraiser benefiting local charities, the Route 70 Cruisers Mountain Thunder Car…
Big League Camp
Big League Camp is a baseball and softball sports and lodging facility on Lake James, just outside Marion, North Carolina.…