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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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Seven Wonders Trail
The Seven Wonders Trail is a collaborative art project depicting treasured Old Fort landmarks. Find them displayed on 7 businesses in downtown Old Fort!
Linville Gorge Wilderness Area
Visitors to the Linville Gorge Wilderness Area in the Pisgah National Forest can enjoy primitive, strenuous recreation in a wild and isolated terrain!
Kitsuma Peak
Breath taking views along Kitsuma Trail and Young's Ridge. This one is not for the faint of heart! Ten mile,…
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!
Curtis Creek
A rushing trout stream, stocked with Brook Trout, Rainbow Trout and Brown Trout, with handicapped access overlook on left side…
Mill Creek
Old Fort has the distinction of being a certified N.C. Mountain Trout Town! Why? Mill Creek runs through the downtown…
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…
Switzerland General Store
When you're enjoying the Blue Ridge Parkway and are looking for locally crafted foods and beverages, stop here! You'll find…
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.
Indigo Nature Retreat - Event Venue & Lodging
Indigo Nature Retreat is located on Newberry Creek in the heart of the Pisgah National Forest, outside…
Green Flash Watersports Lake James
GreenFlash Watersports offers Waterski, Wakeboard, Wake Surf and tubing trips on Lake James. Our USA Waterski & Wakesports certified instructors…
Dragonfly Studio
Shop Dragonfly Studio in Old Fort, an incredible outdoor sculpture garden filled with custom metal sculptures, water gardens, mobiles, and more!
Lake James Sunset Cruises
Experience beautiful Lake James from the luxurious top deck of a modern houseboat.Views for days, we will see Shortoff Mountain,…
Bad Fork
2940 Ft. /8 Miles. Primitive trail connects Woods Mountain & Armstrong Creek Trails. NC 226-A to Armstrong Fish Hatchery Rd.…
Tom's Creek Falls
Tom's Creek Falls is accessible year round, located south of the Blue Parkway at Milepost 316/Hwy. 221 South, and a…
Turtle Island Pottery
Since 1980 Turtle Island Pottery has produced a very popular line of functional stoneware. The pottery has become very recognizable…