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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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Woodlawn Fitness Trail
Fitness Trail consists of 7 stations, two exercises per station on a 1/4 mile jogging path. Additional one mile loop…
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!
Dugger's Creek Falls
Hike an easy .03 mile trail to Dugger's Creek Falls, a small but breathtaking waterfall in Linville Falls! The waterfall and swinging bridge are photo-worthy!
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…
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!
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…
Star Gap Trail
The Star Gap Trail is a great short trail for hikers and bikers alike! It is just under three miles long, beginning at the Old Fort picnic area.
Snook's Nose Trail
This is a rocky, single track path used by intermediate to experienced hikers. Trail crosses Slick Falls Branch climbing steeply…
Armstrong Creek
3640 Ft./6 mile trail. Primitive hiking on Armstrong Fish Hatchery Rd. Trail begins past hatchery parking lot. Easy-moderate.Including tributaries -game…
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…
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…
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!
Mountain Top Shuttles
You gotta get up to get down! Let Mountain Top Shuttle Service help you make the most of your day…
Lower Heartbreak Ridge
Opening by spring 2024, the Lower Heartbreak Ridge Trail is part of the 42-mile trail expansion planned in the Old…
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…