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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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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…
Killough's Music & Loan
An array of guitar strings and musical instruments line the wall inside Killough’s Music & Loan on South Main Street…
Bear Creek Marina
Bear Creek Marina is part of a 200+ acre combined residential and recreational facility located on picturesque Lake James. Boat…
The Catawba Angler
The Catawba Angler is conveniently located 25 miles from downtown Asheville.Matt Evans and Perry Bundy are two passionate guides that…
Andrews Geyser -Temporarily Offline
Update: The Andrews Geyser is intermittently working at this time. The Town of Old Fort announced plans to assess and…
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…
North Cove Disc Golf and Leisure Club
North Cove Disc Golf & Social Club is 157 acres of awesome rolling hills situated in a rural valley, framed…
Founders' Art Walk
The Founders' Art Walk in historic downtown Marion is a self-guided tour of the county's cultural heritage shared through collaborative outdoor art displays!
Marion Lake Club Golf Course & Slices Bistro
The ONLY golf course on Lake James, dating back to 1923, when it was designed by famed golf course architect…
Peavine Trail
The Peavine Rail Line, once an active Norfolk Southern Railway line, is included in the company's "rails to trails" program.…
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…
Downtown Marion Main Street
Historic Downtown Marion often hosts seasonal festivals, musical performances and events. Shop or dine with local retailers and foodies! Check…
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.…
Curtis Creek
A rushing trout stream, stocked with Brook Trout, Rainbow Trout and Brown Trout, with handicapped access overlook on left side…
English Farmstead Cheese
Visit English Farmstead Cheese in Marion, NC, a quaint shop that offers a variety of cheeses and local fare. All cheeses are crafted from milk produced on-site!