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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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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!
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.
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!
DiamondbackNC - Driving Trail
DiamondbackNC is an alternate route, 12-mile driving trail with incredible scenery. It is one of western North Carolina's last great mountain roadways!
Mt. Ida Trail and Wilderness Area
The Mount Ida Wilderness Area includes a gravel access road and parking lot, picnic shelter and a one-half…
Bear Creek Marina
Bear Creek Marina is part of a 200+ acre combined residential and recreational facility located on picturesque Lake James. Boat…
Greenlee Park
Greenlee Park is the perfect spot to spend the day, with accesses to Lake James for water sports, covered picnic areas, and a 1.1 mile nature trail loop!
Historic Carson House
Historic Carson House Museum is open between April and December, interpreting the story of Irish immigrant Colonel John Carson and…
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…
Bad Fork
2940 Ft. /8 Miles. Primitive trail connects Woods Mountain & Armstrong Creek Trails. NC 226-A to Armstrong Fish Hatchery Rd.…
Betsy Ridge
3160 Ft./9 Mile Trail. Black Mountains view, meets Little Buck Creek Trail ending at Woods Mountain Trail. US 221 North,…
Big League Camp
Big League Camp is a baseball and softball sports and lodging facility on Lake James, just outside Marion, North Carolina.…
Mica Town Brewing
The first brewery in Marion, NC, is now open! Stop by Mica Town Brewing to enjoy a craft beer inspired by the geology and people of Western North Carolina.
The Box Factory NC - Municipal Event Center
Located inside the Larry D. Miller Building in the heart of downtown Marion, NC, the Municipal Events center is soon to be an indoor shopping venue.
Tom's Creek Falls
Tom's Creek Falls is accessible year round, located south of the Blue Parkway at Milepost 316/Hwy. 221 South, and a…
Mill Creek Park
Local event area, on Catawba Avenue in downtown Old Fort between Hillman Beer and Whaley Farm Brewery and bordered by…