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![Bikers at Gateway Trail System in Old Fort, NC.](https://www.blueridgetraveler.com/media/images/Stephan_Pruitt_Photography_McDowell_County_Out.width-500.jpg)
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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![geneva hall, little switzerland](https://www.blueridgetraveler.com/media/images/geneva_hall_little_switzerland_0HZmcLp.max-640x360_kIICKcp.jpg)
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!
![Blue Ridge Snorkel Trail -Catawba River Greenway](https://www.blueridgetraveler.com/media/images/BRST-10-Catawba-X3-1536x1536.max-640x360.png)
Blue Ridge Snorkel Trail -Catawba River at Marion Greenway
The Blue Ridge Snorkel Trail is made up of publicly accessible river and stream locations where people can safely snorkel…
![micatownbrewing](https://www.blueridgetraveler.com/media/images/micatownbrewing_X1r4of3.max-640x360_qpVT7fm.jpg)
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.
![woodsmountainloop](https://www.blueridgetraveler.com/media/images/woodsmountainloop_ChUzjZJ.max-640x360_IyAwQqX.jpg)
Woodlawn Fitness Trail
Fitness Trail consists of 7 stations, two exercises per station on a 1/4 mile jogging path. Additional one mile loop…
![Vic's Place.jpg](https://www.blueridgetraveler.com/media/images/Vics_Place.max-640x360.jpg)
Vic's Place Mini Golf
Vic's Place is an inclusive, ADA accessible, 18-hole miniature golf course that sits under the pleasant shade of pine, poplar,…
![catawbariveroutdoors](https://www.blueridgetraveler.com/media/images/catawbariveroutdoors_DK60Rw4.max-640x360_FuQjKBi.jpg)
Catawba River Outdoors
Everything you need for an excursion on the Catawba River! Catawba River Outdoors offers tube rentals and river shuttle service to various locations.
![setrock creek falls black mountain campground](https://www.blueridgetraveler.com/media/images/setrock_creek_falls_black_mountain_campgroun.max-640x360_2zLu8Jl.jpg)
Setrock Creek Falls
This one includes four distinctive levels, totaling 50 feet of falling water. Refer to directions for Roaring Creek Falls…
![oldfort mural 7wonders point lookout trail](https://www.blueridgetraveler.com/media/images/oldfort_mural_7wonders_point_lookout_trail_b.max-640x360_vJKSZyo.jpg)
Seven Wonders Trail
The Seven Wonders Trail is a collaborative art project depicting treasured Old Fort landmarks. Find them displayed on 7 businesses in downtown Old Fort!
![keeperscutoutside (1)](https://www.blueridgetraveler.com/media/images/keeperscutoutside_1_FQYLqSa.max-640x360_VBdfY0p.jpg)
Keeper's Cut Meadery
For traditional and flavored mead, try Keeper's Cut Meadery in Marion! Visit their tasting room or dog-friendly deck, where you can bring your own snacks.
![books and beans little switzerland](https://www.blueridgetraveler.com/media/images/books-and-beans-little-switzerland_lYzuAsz.max-640x360_zTOBPrE.jpg)
Little Switzerland Books and Beans
In downtown Little Switzerland, you'll find the most unique three-story bookstore and coffee shop! Explore the many shelves and treasures of this gem!
![Downtown Little Switzerland](https://www.blueridgetraveler.com/media/images/SamLittleSwitzerlandDowntownBikes.max-640x360.jpg)
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…
![Betsy Ridge.jpg](https://www.blueridgetraveler.com/media/images/iStockRhodoTrail.max-640x360.jpg)
Betsy Ridge
3160 Ft./9 Mile Trail. Black Mountains view, meets Little Buck Creek Trail ending at Woods Mountain Trail. US 221 North,…
![Roller Skate.jpg](https://www.blueridgetraveler.com/media/images/StockRollerSkates.max-640x360.jpg)
Marion Hot Wheelz - Skating Rink
Stop by downtown Marion's roller skating rink, offering special events, arcade games and birthday party packages. Click the link for…
![jacksmoutainpreserve](https://www.blueridgetraveler.com/media/images/jacksmoutainpreserve_kLUXMFz.max-640x360_78GWNnd.jpg)
Jack's Mountain Weddings
Jack's Mountain Weddings is a rural, scenic 40-acre community filled with rolling land, trees, and gorgeous mountain views. An idyllic…
![logopondlaurelcove](https://www.blueridgetraveler.com/media/images/logopondlaurelcove_sVZhzeb.max-640x360_4EV67Te.jpg)
The Pond At Laurel Cove
The Pond at Laurel Cove is owned by Patrick and Lisa Ellis and has been in the Ellis family for…
![greenway](https://www.blueridgetraveler.com/media/images/img_0734_KzeasyH.max-640x360_EIA5pFT.jpg)
Catawba River Park and Canoe Launch
Catawba River Park and Canoe/Kayak Launch is located within one quarter mile of the intersection of Highway 70 West and…