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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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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.
Turtle Island Pottery
Since 1980 Turtle Island Pottery has produced a very popular line of functional stoneware. The pottery has become very recognizable…
Sweet Betsy Farm
Visit Sweet Betsy Farm in Marion, NC, where no harmful chemicals are ever used! Shop their variety of honeys, plants, seeds, jewelry, and other gifts!
Joseph McDowell/Catawba River Greenway
The Joseph McDowell/Catawba River Greenway is located just outside downtown Marion, NC. This paved trail follows the flow of the…
Curtis Creek Campground
Curtis Creek Campground is open May-October for tent or RV camping in the beautiful Pisgah National Forest! The grounds include hiking trails and a waterfall.
Spacious Skies - Hidden Creek Campground
Welcome to Spacious Skies Campground in Marion, North Carolina. Visit one of North Carolina's best campgrounds, featuring lake view cabin…
Killough's Music & Loan
An array of guitar strings and musical instruments line the wall inside Killough’s Music & Loan on South Main Street…
Betsy Ridge
3160 Ft./9 Mile Trail. Black Mountains view, meets Little Buck Creek Trail ending at Woods Mountain Trail. US 221 North,…
Young's Ridge
Trailhead begins inside the Old Fort Picnic Area with incredible views of Kitsuma Peak at trail end. Elevation is 3,165…
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!
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.…
McDowell Arts Council Association
The McDowell Arts Council offers a variety of classes, hosts a unique gift shop filled with local artisans' works and…
Fishing Lake James
All Wildlife Resources commission regulations apply. A fishing license is required. Cool, deep waters and warm surface waters provide a…
Linville Falls
Visit Linville Falls, an amazing three-tiered waterfall along the Blue Ridge Parkway. With many ways to access the falls, it is one of the most popular spots!
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!
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…