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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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Mackey Mountain
Excellent views inside a BEAR sanctuary, hunting is illegal!! Hike this area with caution, particularly during spring and fall seasons.…
Shops at Switzerland Inn
The Shops at Switzerland Inn offers some of the best, most unique seasonal shopping in the area, with a wide selection of handmade goods from local artisans!
Lake James Antique Mall
Along with antiques & collectibles, you'll find a nice assortment of local organic products. Beautiful handmade wooden bowls, soaps, lotions,…
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!
Arrowhead Monument - Old Fort
The 14.5 foot pink granite arrowhead sits atop a river rock base of more than fifteen feet and is installed…
Mill Creek Park
Local event area, on Catawba Avenue in downtown Old Fort between Hillman Beer and Whaley Farm Brewery and bordered by…
Greenlee Park
Greenlee Park is the perfect spot to spend the day, with accesses to Lake James for water sports, covered picnic areas, and a 1.1 mile nature trail loop!
Mountain Top Shuttles
You gotta get up to get down! Let Mountain Top Shuttle Service help you make the most of your day…
Curtis Creek Campground
Curtis Creek Campground is open May-October for tent or RV camping in the beautiful Pisgah National Forest! The grounds include hiking trails and a waterfall.
Trout and Fly Fishing Regulations
Our region of the Pisgah National Forest hosts a variety of trout streams. Click on the links below to read…
Linville Gorge Wilderness Area
Visitors to the Linville Gorge Wilderness Area in the Pisgah National Forest can enjoy primitive, strenuous recreation in a wild and isolated terrain!
Bear Creek Marina
Bear Creek Marina is part of a 200+ acre combined residential and recreational facility located on picturesque Lake James. Boat…
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…
Mountain Gateway Museum
The Mountain Getaway Museum is a state museum in Old Fort that features lifestyle and pioneer-era history from the earliest inhabitants to the 20th century.
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…
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!