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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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Indigo Nature Retreat - Event Venue & Lodging
Indigo Nature Retreat is located on Newberry Creek in the heart of the Pisgah National Forest, outside…

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!

Tom's Creek Falls
Tom's Creek Falls is accessible year round, located south of the Blue Parkway at Milepost 316/Hwy. 221 South, and a…

Historic Orchard at Altapass
The Historic Orchard at Altapass in Little Switzerland is a must-visit from May through October! Experience music, hay rides, treats, storytelling and more!

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!

Switzerland Cafe and General Store
For over 30 years, the cafe has been serving homemade sandwiches, soups and quiche. Their Applewood smoked, pulled pork BBQ…

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!

Setrock Creek Falls
This one includes four distinctive levels, totaling 50 feet of falling water. Refer to directions for Roaring Creek Falls…

Corpening Memorial YMCA
Visiting members of the Y will enjoy the indoor pool, indoor basketball & handball courts, and workout room. Located off…

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…

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.

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.

Kitsuma Peak
Breath taking views along Kitsuma Trail and Young's Ridge. This one is not for the faint of heart! Ten mile,…

Founders' Art Walk
The Founders' Art Walk in historic downtown Marion is a self-guided tour of the county's cultural heritage shared through collaborative outdoor art displays!

The Feisty Goldfish
Add this one to the list! This unique retro arcade and bar has something for everyone.You'll find classic games like…

Dragonfly Studio
Shop Dragonfly Studio in Old Fort, an incredible outdoor sculpture garden filled with custom metal sculptures, water gardens, mobiles, and more!