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Your mom was right, playing outdoors is important, for everyone! Unplug and explore our region of the Pisgah National Forest. You'll find it's easily accessible year-round when you take the Interstate 40 exits at 73, 75, 85 or 86 in Old Fort and Marion. Exit 73 brings you to our visitor center at 91 South Catawba Avenue where you'll find free maps, directions, and answers to your travel questions.
Our region of the Blue Ridge hosts more than 200 miles of hiking, biking, and waterfall trails and the Blue Ridge Parkway serves as our northern border. A few favorite trails and rides are Kitsuma Peak/Young's Ridge, Jarrett's Creek, Heartbreak Ridge, Woods Mountain, Catawba Falls, and Crabtree Falls. Beginner and intermediate mountain bikers, check out the 15 miles of trails at Lake James State Park. Tom's Creek Falls is an easy hike for beginners with benches and a handicap viewing station.
Need a guide? Call The Catawba Angler or NC Outdoor Adventures. They're fishing, floating, and climbing experts!
Looking for a scenic drive? Follow the Lake James Loop, it's a quiet two-hour ride on scenic backroads joining the Parkway and circling Lake James. Along the way stop by Bear Creek Marina, the Orchard at Altapass, Little Switzerland, and Linville Caverns.
Rainy day ideas? Marion's Feisty Goldfish, indoor roller skating at Marion Hot Wheelz, Historic Carson House Museum and Old Fort's Mountain Gateway Museum.
What to do at night? Marion's Spillway Bridge & Music Hall spotlights regional musicians on the weekend. Wednesday nights are bluegrass jam sessions, check out the local talent. Visit Marion's 310 District, we have a map with details and locations. Old Fort options include tastings or dinner at Hillman Beer and walk a few yards down the street to visit Whaley Brewing and Farm Stand. Our event calendar features more ideas.
During the "age of COVID-19" always call ahead to indoor venues to ask about restrictions, hours, and options.
Need other ideas? Call us! 888-233-6111

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Linville Falls
Visit Linville Falls, an amazing three-tiered waterfall along the Blue Ridge Parkway. With many ways to access the falls, it is one of the most popular spots!

Woods Mountain Trail
Woods Mountain Trail is not for the faint of heart! Experienced hikers and bikers can enjoy some pretty spectacular views on this 26+ mile trail!

Lake James State Park and Campground
"Last of the Mohicans" and "Hunt for Red October" were filmed along the shores of this picturesque lake. Two park…

Painter's Greenhouse
For 4 decades Painters Greenhouse has suppied homegrown, quality plants at affordable prices. Come peruse over 800 plant varieties with…

Lightning Lanes Bowling Alley
Bowling Alley and game center. Call ahead regarding COVID-19 restrictions/requirements.

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

Downtown Marion Main Street
Historic Downtown Marion often hosts seasonal festivals, musical performances and events. Shop or dine with local retailers and foodies! Check…

Buck Creek Trout Farm
The catch-out pond is a wonderful place for family fun and group outings. Fishing poles, bait, and ice provided. Any…

Lake James Antique Mall
Along with antiques & collectibles, you'll find a nice assortment of local organic products. Beautiful handmade wooden bowls, soaps, lotions,…

Old Fort Mercantile
Locally owned general store inside the historic Old Fort Train Depot at 25 W. Main Street. The store features regionally…

Betsy Ridge
3160 Ft./9 Mile Trail. Black Mountains view, meets Little Buck Creek Trail ending at Woods Mountain Trail. US 221 North,…

Catawba River Outdoors
Everything you need for an excursion on the Catawba River! Catawba River Outdoors offers tube rentals and river shuttle service to various locations.

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!

Painters Greenhouse
Painters Greenhouse in Old Fort is your destination for any kind of plant you desire! Stop by to browse the homegrown plants, gardens, and picnic areas!

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.…

Catawba Falls Family Campground
Full hook-ups and tent sites along the Catawba River and close to Catawba Falls. Cabins including an authentically constructed log…