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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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Lake James Black Bear Boat Access Ramp
Universally accessible, you'll find Catfish, Crappie, Largemouth Bass, Muskellunge, Smallmouth Bass, Sunfish, Walleye and White Bass. Public boat access ramp.…
Woods Mountain Trail
Woods Mountain Trail is not for the faint of heart! Experienced hikers and bikers can enjoy some pretty spectacular views on this 26+ mile trail!
Kitsuma Peak
Breath taking views along Kitsuma Trail and Young's Ridge. This one is not for the faint of heart! Ten mile,…
Lake James Antique Mall
Along with antiques & collectibles, you'll find a nice assortment of local organic products. Beautiful handmade wooden bowls, soaps, lotions,…
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!
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.
Setrock Creek Falls
This one includes four distinctive levels, totaling 50 feet of falling water. Refer to directions for Roaring Creek Falls…
Artisan League of Little Switzerland Art Gallery
Located in downtown Little Switzerland, the Artisan League of Little Switzerland Art Gallery features ceramics, jewelry, paintings, and more by local artists!
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!
McDowell County Community College
Local, county community college located in Marion, NC. Offering a variety of courses, diploma and certificate programs and more.
Woodlawn Fitness Trail
Fitness Trail consists of 7 stations, two exercises per station on a 1/4 mile jogging path. Additional one mile loop…
Geneva Hall
If you love to dance, just visit Geneva Hall, next to the Switzerland Inn in Little Switzerland, for square dancing every Saturday evening in July and August!
Historic Old Fort
Once known as the westernmost outpost in North Carolina, Old Fort has retained much of its original forest lands that…
Copper Ridge Trail
A new section of the Fonta Flora State Trail is open, Copper Ridge Trail, located outside downtown Old Fort, NC.…
Killough's Music & Loan
An array of guitar strings and musical instruments line the wall inside Killough’s Music & Loan on South Main Street…