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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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Catawba Falls - Reopening May 31, 2024
AS THE U.S. FOREST CONSTRUCTS IMPROVEMENTS. THE FALLS WILL REOPEN MAY 31, 2024 WITH CONTINUED IMPROVEMENTS THROUGH SUMMER 2024. BE…
Corpening Memorial YMCA
Visiting members of the Y will enjoy the indoor pool, indoor basketball & handball courts, and workout room. Located off…
Woodlawn Fitness Trail
Fitness Trail consists of 7 stations, two exercises per station on a 1/4 mile jogging path. Additional one mile loop…
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…
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…
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!
Young's Ridge
Trailhead begins inside the Old Fort Picnic Area with incredible views of Kitsuma Peak at trail end. Elevation is 3,165…
Green Flash Watersports Lake James
GreenFlash Watersports offers Waterski, Wakeboard, Wake Surf and tubing trips on Lake James. Our USA Waterski & Wakesports certified instructors…
All Things Geeky By 2 Nerds
Get your geek on at All Things Geeky By 2 Nerds, Marion's own comic book store. Find all kinds of comics, games, toys, collectors items, and more in one place!
Historic Carson House
Historic Carson House Museum is open between April and December, interpreting the story of Irish immigrant Colonel John Carson and…
Linville Falls
Visit Linville Falls, an amazing three-tiered waterfall along the Blue Ridge Parkway. With many ways to access the falls, it is one of the most popular spots!
Mountain Top Shuttles
You gotta get up to get down! Let Mountain Top Shuttle Service help you make the most of your day…
Camp Grier
Camp Grier is ideal for family and individual vacations! Enjoy adventures like horse riding and mountain biking on 600 acres of beautiful land in Old Fort!
Emerald Village
Discover Emerald Village, a group of real, historic gem, mining, and historical attractions in Little Switzerland, NC. There's so much to see and explore!
Peavine Trail
The Peavine Rail Line, once an active Norfolk Southern Railway line, is included in the company's "rails to trails" program.…
Curtis Creek
A rushing trout stream, stocked with Brook Trout, Rainbow Trout and Brown Trout, with handicapped access overlook on left side…