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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 downtown 310 District, 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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Snook's Nose Trail
This is a rocky, single track path used by hikers and mountain biking enthusiasts. Trail crosses Slick Falls Branch climbing…

McDowell Arts Council Association
The McDowell Arts Council offers a variety of classes, hosts a unique gift shop filled with local artisans' works and…

Linville Caverns
North Carolina's only public caverns, Linville Caverns is a popular attraction. In the early 1800s, it was discovered during a…

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

Fishing Lake James
All Wildlife Resources commission regulations apply. A fishing license is required. Cool, deep waters and warm surface waters provide a…

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…

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!

Curtis Creek
A rushing trout stream, stocked with Brook Trout, Rainbow Trout and Brown Trout, with handicapped access overlook on left side…

North Fork Catawba River
Visitors to the North Fork Catawba River in the North Cove Community can find river access maps and the best fishing areas right here!

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

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…

Appalachian Trading Post
Individually managed vintage booths with "curiosity" pieces, used sporting goods, bicycles, electronics, antiques and so much more. Spend some time…

Mountain Laurel Antiques
Moutain Laurel Antiques has a little something for everyone, from furniture to jewelry, accessories, clothing, and so much more. They even buy, sell, or trade!

Heartbreak Ridge
Avid bikers will love Heartbreak Ridge, an exciting two-mile bike trail that begins along the top ridge of the Blue Ridge Escarpment and descends 2,000 feet!

Historic Marion Depot
The Marion Depot has been restored and functions today as a multiple-purpose site. Constructed in the 1860s, it is the…

Don Balke Wildlife Gallery
Known for his realism and unembellished nature paintings, Don Balke's wildlife images are revered and cherished. Now semi-retired, the Balke…