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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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Bear Creek Marina
Bear Creek Marina is part of a 200+ acre combined residential and recreational facility located on picturesque Lake James. Boat…
Betsy Ridge
3160 Ft./9 Mile Trail. Black Mountains view, meets Little Buck Creek Trail ending at Woods Mountain Trail. US 221 North,…
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…
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…
Copper Ridge Trail
A new section of the Fonta Flora State Trail is open, Copper Ridge Trail, located outside downtown Old Fort, NC.…
South Creek Vineyards and Winery
Award winning, locally owned boutique winery offering a variety of red and white wines. Tasting and tours available mid-February through…
Woodlawn Fitness Trail
Fitness Trail consists of 7 stations, two exercises per station on a 1/4 mile jogging path. Additional one mile loop…
Setrock Creek Falls
This one includes four distinctive levels, totaling 50 feet of falling water. Refer to directions for Roaring Creek Falls…
Big League Camp
Big League Camp is a baseball and softball sports and lodging facility on Lake James, just outside Marion, North Carolina.…
Crabtree Falls
The hike to the gorgeous Crabtree Falls waterfall in Little Switzerland is on a moderate 2.5 mile trail. It is located right off the Blue Ridge Parkway!
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.
Lake James State Park
At the base of Linville Gorge you will find a 6,812 acre lake with more than 150 miles of shoreline.…
Camp Grier
Camp Grier is ideal for family and individual vacations! Enjoy adventures like horse riding and mountain biking on 600 acres of beautiful land in Old Fort!
Blue Ridge Pinnacle
Prominent peak near Mt. Mitchell State Park, with awesome views. Begin at swing-bar gate on side road at Blue Ridge…
Mill Creek Park
Local event area, on Catawba Avenue in downtown Old Fort between Hillman Beer and Whaley Farm Brewery and bordered by…
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!