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A travel guide for Marion, Old Fort, Lake James, Linville Falls and Little Switzerland, NC.Book Your Stay
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Experience the Blue Ridge
Lower Heartbreak Ridge Trail
Music in the Mountains: Where to Listen in the Blue Ridge
The hills are alive with the sounds of traditional Appalachian and bluegrass tunes, as well as blues, rock n’ roll, and beyond. Here's where to find live music in the Blue Ridge Mountains.
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Responsible Travel in McDowell County
The Blue Ridge Parkway
Discover Little Switzerland, Linville Falls, The Orchard at Altapass, Crabtree Falls, and the spectacular views of America's Favorite Scenic Drive.
A Photographer's Dream →
Pisgah First: Exploring the Oldest National Forest in the East
With hundreds of miles of trails for hiking, biking, and forest exploration, you're invited to come experience this region first-hand. The possibilities are endless.
Discover Something New →
Waterfall Trails
Hike into Pisgah to find amazing waterfalls in a region with over 200 waterfall trails.
Western NC Waterfalls →Your Travel Guide To Little Switzerland, Lake James, Marion, Old Fort & Linville Falls
Welcome to McDowell County, North Carolina and the Blue Ridge Traveler's Towns and Trails! With cool mountain breezes, endless views and countless opportunities for outdoor adventure, summer is the perfect time to plan your next vacation to the Blue Ridge Mountains of western North Carolina.
Check out our guides to top local hiking trails and stunning waterfalls. Keep an eye open for native wildflowers and colorful bird species as you hike, bike and explore the region. Take a drive on the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, stopping to take pictures of mountain vistas and experiencing regional heritage at museums and historic attractions along the way.
Cool off at Lake James State Park where you’ll find fun for all ages including hiking, kayaking, biking and a swimming beach. Wade into chilly mountain streams to try your hand at fly fishing or rent a tube to enjoy a lazy float down the Catawba River.
Step back in time and imagine life in the Blue Ridge during the late 19th and early 20th centuries when you stop by the Historic Carson House, Emerald Village Museum, and Mountain Gateway Museum. Each site interprets different pieces of our region's historic puzzle.
Stroll the small-town streets of Marion, Old Fort, Little Switzerland and the Linville Falls community, where you will encounter the craftsmanship of local artists in shops and galleries. Check out the events calendar for a full line-up of happenings throughout the season.
When it’s time for a bite, pull up a chair at one of our delicious local restaurants. From barbecue to bakeries, burritos to bubble tea, and plenty of scrumptious Southern fare, you’re sure to find the local flavor you’re looking for. Enjoy a pint of locally brewed beer at one of several craft breweries, and look for local wine, mead and spirits along our High Spirits Trail.
At the end of the day, choose from numerous lodging options ranging from rustic campgrounds and mountain cabins to lakeside vacation rentals and national brand hotels. Not sure where to start? Explore our three-day Blue Ridge Mountains itinerary that includes our favorite things to do — plus more to discover on your own!
Note: All images are property of the McDowell Tourism Authority or tourism partners and are not to be copied, duplicated, re-printed, or shared electronically.
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