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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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Green Flash Watersports Lake James
GreenFlash Watersports offers Waterski, Wakeboard, Wake Surf and tubing trips on Lake James. Our USA Waterski & Wakesports certified instructors…
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!
Lower Heartbreak Ridge
Opening by spring 2024, the Lower Heartbreak Ridge Trail is part of the 42-mile trail expansion planned in the Old…
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!
Emerald Village
Discover Emerald Village, a group of real, historic gem, mining, and historical attractions in Little Switzerland, NC. There's so much to see and explore!
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.
Don Balke Wildlife Gallery
Known for his realism and unembellished nature paintings, Don Balke's wildlife images are revered and cherished. Now semi-retired, the Balke…
Vintage Market
Antique mall and vintage store with a variety of vendor booths. You'll find custom-made furnishings and The Vintage Market offers…
Big League Camp
Big League Camp is a baseball and softball sports and lodging facility on Lake James, just outside Marion, North Carolina.…
Historic Old Fort
Once known as the westernmost outpost in North Carolina, Old Fort has retained much of its original forest lands that…
All Things Geeky By 2 Nerds
Get your geek on at All Things Geeky By 2 Nerds, Marion's own comic book store. Find all kinds of comics, games, toys, collectors items, and more in one place!
Spillway Bridge & Company
The Spillway is Marion’s premier music venue with a state of the art sound system showcasing local and regional talent.…
Woodlawn Fitness Trail
Fitness Trail consists of 7 stations, two exercises per station on a 1/4 mile jogging path. Additional one mile loop…
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.
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…
Indigo Nature Retreat - Event Venue & Lodging
Indigo Nature Retreat is located on Newberry Creek in the heart of the Pisgah National Forest, outside…