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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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Old Fort Gateway Trail System
June 26th marked the opening of Phase I of the Old Fort Gateway Trail System. Phase I is six miles…
Young's Ridge
Trailhead begins inside the Old Fort Picnic Area with incredible views of Kitsuma Peak at trail end. Elevation is 3,165…
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!
Catawba River Park and Canoe Launch
Catawba River Park and Canoe/Kayak Launch is located within one quarter mile of the intersection of Highway 70 West and…
Downtown Marion Main Street
Historic Downtown Marion often hosts seasonal festivals, musical performances and events. Shop or dine with local retailers and foodies! Check…
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!
North Fork Catawba River
Visitors to the North Fork Catawba River in the North Cove Community can find river access maps and the best fishing areas right here!
Fishing Lake James
All Wildlife Resources commission regulations apply. A fishing license is required. Cool, deep waters and warm surface waters provide a…
Historic Old Fort
Once known as the westernmost outpost in North Carolina, Old Fort has retained much of its original forest lands that…
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!
Dragonfly Studio
Shop Dragonfly Studio in Old Fort, an incredible outdoor sculpture garden filled with custom metal sculptures, water gardens, mobiles, and more!
Mountain Top Shuttles
You gotta get up to get down! Let Mountain Top Shuttle Service help you make the most of your day…
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.
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…
Trout and Fly Fishing Regulations
Our region of the Pisgah National Forest hosts a variety of trout streams. Click on the links below to read…