Play

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.
Categories
Explore More

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…

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…

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.

Catawba River at Joseph McDowell Greenway
Easy walk in access, handicap accessible fishing piers and canoe/kayak access available from three points along the greenway. This section…

Catawba Falls - TEMPORARY CLOSURE
THE TRAIL WILL BE CLOSED TO THE PUBLIC AS THE U.S. FOREST CONSTRUCTS IMPROVEMENTS. CURRENT ESTIMATE FOR THE TRAIL TO…

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…

Buck Creek
(Game land section) 200 yards along NC 80 also light fishing pressure.

Historic Old Fort
Once known as the westernmost outpost in North Carolina, Old Fort has retained much of its original forest lands that…

Old Fort Bike Shop
OFBS is a bicycle repair and service shop located in historic Old Fort NC. OFBS is owned and operated by…

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

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!

Lake James State Park
At the base of Linville Gorge you will find a 6,812 acre lake with more than 150 miles of shoreline.…

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…

Armstrong Creek
3640 Ft./6 mile trail. Primitive hiking on Armstrong Fish Hatchery Rd. Trail begins past hatchery parking lot. Easy-moderate.Including tributaries -game…

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

Shucks Pearls of Marion
Stop by to pick up custom, freshwater pearls fashioned into trendy necklaces, bracelets, rings, and more. You'll find additional items…