Play
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.
Categories
Explore More
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…
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.
Newberry Creek Trail
Scenic trail ending at Blue Ridge Parkway. Top elevation is 4,300 feet. East of Old Fort, take Curtis Creek Road…
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…
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.
The Davis Country Store
Inspired by tradition, the Davis family invites you to stop by the "second generation" Davis Country Store located on Main…
Marion Lake Club
If you're looking for a special event venue, look no further than the Lake James Golf Course and Marion Lake Club House. It is the perfect spot for your event!
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…
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.
Historic Old Fort
Once known as the westernmost outpost in North Carolina, Old Fort has retained much of its original forest lands that…
Peavine Trail
The Peavine Rail Line, once an active Norfolk Southern Railway line, is included in the company's "rails to trails" program.…
Big League Camp
Big League Camp is a baseball and softball sports and lodging facility on Lake James, just outside Marion, North Carolina.…
Point Lookout Trail
Spectacular views of the Royal Gorge and 19th-century railroad tunnels. In 2022, the Point Lookout Trail was included as a…
Mountain Paradise Campground and Pool
Locally owned RV campground, open year round. Seasonal amenities include waterslide, pool, mini-golf, fishing and playground. Non-campground guests may purchase…
Historic Carson House
Historic Carson House Museum is open between April and December, interpreting the story of Irish immigrant Colonel John Carson and…
McDowell Arts Council Association
The McDowell Arts Council offers a variety of classes, hosts a unique gift shop filled with local artisans' works and…