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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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![arrowhead-gallery-old-fort.jpg](https://www.blueridgetraveler.com/media/images/September_133.max-640x360.jpg)
Arrowhead Gallery and Studios
Arrowhead Gallery and Studios features a unique collection of hand-crafted pottery, paintings, jewelry, woodworking, and more all crafted by local artists.
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Sweet Betsy Farm
Visit Sweet Betsy Farm in Marion, NC, where no harmful chemicals are ever used! Shop their variety of honeys, plants, seeds, jewelry, and other gifts!
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Davidson's Fort Historic Park
Davidson's Fort was once the western most outpost in Colonial America. The fort was originally constructed in 1776 with the…
![jam may 2016](https://www.blueridgetraveler.com/media/images/jam_may_2016_qtMFmwS.max-640x360_xN8zG6A.jpg)
Killough's Music & Loan
An array of guitar strings and musical instruments line the wall inside Killough’s Music & Loan on South Main Street…
![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…
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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,…
![Sky Island Retreat](https://www.blueridgetraveler.com/media/images/ec1f34e7aca5e0c12d66a6530a1c1ad0.max-640x360.jpg)
Sky Island Campground and Cabin Retreat
Campground facility on 40 acres with RV and tent camping plus several log cabins. Choose from family cabins, couples retreat…
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Turtle Island Pottery
Since 1980 Turtle Island Pottery has produced a very popular line of functional stoneware. The pottery has become very recognizable…
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Bear Creek Marina
Bear Creek Marina is part of a 200+ acre combined residential and recreational facility located on picturesque Lake James. Boat…
![MountainTopShuttleOne.jpeg](https://www.blueridgetraveler.com/media/images/_DSC3604-Enhanced-NR.max-640x360.jpg)
Mountain Top Shuttles
You gotta get up to get down! Let Mountain Top Shuttle Service help you make the most of your day…
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Camping World at Tom Johnson's Camping Center
Camp, eat, play, and stay at Tom Johnson's Camping Center in Marion, NC. More than just a campground, this site also serves as an event venue!
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Spacious Skies - Hidden Creek Campground
Escape to Spacious Skies Hidden Creek for the ultimate family adventure in the Blue Ridge Mountains! Located in Marion, North…
![Connecting Dots Fishing](https://www.blueridgetraveler.com/media/images/IMG_0890.max-640x360.png)
Connecting the Dots Fishing Guides
Connecting the Dots Fishing Guides share their lifelong passion and knowledge of fishing with exciting excursions that underscore the importance…
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Vintage Market
Antique mall and vintage store with a variety of vendor booths. You'll find custom-made furnishings and The Vintage Market offers…
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Mt. Ida Trail and Wilderness Area
The Mount Ida Wilderness Area includes a gravel access road and parking lot, picnic shelter and a one-half…
![linvillegorgeannette](https://www.blueridgetraveler.com/media/images/linvillegorgeannette_mDpQz1m.max-640x360_eYRBell.jpg)
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!