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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 downtown 310 District, 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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Woodlawn Fitness Trail
Fitness Trail consists of 7 stations, two exercises per station on a 1/4 mile jogging path. Additional one mile loop…

Catawba Falls - TEMPORARY CLOSURE
BEGINNING MAY 2ND, THE TRAIL WILL BE CLOSED TO THE PUBLIC AS THE U.S. FOREST CONSTRUCTS IMPROVEMENTS. CLOSURE TIME IS…

Star Gap Trail
The Star Gap Trail is a great short trail for hikers and bikers alike! It is just under three miles long, beginning at the Old Fort picnic area.

Founders' Art Walk
The Founders' Art Walk in historic downtown Marion is a self-guided tour of the county's cultural heritage shared through collaborative outdoor art displays!

McDowell County Community College
Local, county community college located in Marion, NC. Offering a variety of courses, diploma and certificate programs and more.

Auria Manufacturing
Auria Manufacturing graciously offers their property to an annual fundraiser benefiting local charities, the Route 70 Cruisers Mountain Thunder Car…

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.…

Peavine Trail
The Peavine Rail Line, once an active Norfolk Southern Railway line, is included in the company's "rails to trails" program.…

Switzerland Cafe and General Store
For over 30 years, the cafe has been serving homemade sandwiches, soups and quiche. Their Applewood smoked, pulled pork BBQ…

South Creek Vineyards and Winery
Award winning, locally owned boutique winery offering a variety of red and white wines. Tasting and tours available mid-February through…

Hidden Creek Campground Resort
Welcome to Hidden Creek Campground Resort in Marion, North Carolina. Visit one of North Carolina's best campgrounds, featuring lake view…

North Fork Catawba River
Visitors to the North Fork Catawba River in the North Cove Community can find river access maps and the best fishing areas right here!

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.

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.…

Heartbreak Ridge
Avid bikers will love Heartbreak Ridge, an exciting two-mile bike trail that begins along the top ridge of the Blue Ridge Escarpment and descends 2,000 feet!