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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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Mountain Top Shuttles
You gotta get up to get down! Let Mountain Top Shuttle Service help you make the most of your day…
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…
Historic Carson House
Historic Carson House Museum is open between April and December, interpreting the story of Irish immigrant Colonel John Carson and…
Lake James Sunset Cruises
Experience beautiful Lake James from the luxurious top deck of a modern houseboat.Views for days, we will see Shortoff Mountain,…
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.
Historic Old Fort
Once known as the westernmost outpost in North Carolina, Old Fort has retained much of its original forest lands that…
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…
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!
Painters Greenhouse
Painters Greenhouse in Old Fort is your destination for any kind of plant you desire! Stop by to browse the homegrown plants, gardens, and picnic areas!
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!
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…
Copper Ridge Trail
A new section of the Fonta Flora State Trail is open, Copper Ridge Trail, located outside downtown Old Fort, NC.…
Curtis Creek
A rushing trout stream, stocked with Brook Trout, Rainbow Trout and Brown Trout, with handicapped access overlook on left side…
Dragonfly Studio
Shop Dragonfly Studio in Old Fort, an incredible outdoor sculpture garden filled with custom metal sculptures, water gardens, mobiles, and more!
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!
Corpening Memorial YMCA
Visiting members of the Y will enjoy the indoor pool, indoor basketball & handball courts, and workout room. Located off…