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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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![orchard altapass blue ridge traveler](https://www.blueridgetraveler.com/media/images/orchard-altapass-blue-ridge-traveler_3K6eWH2.max-640x360_T9wjKvQ.jpg)
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!
![elkharicaddis](https://www.blueridgetraveler.com/media/images/elkharicaddis_BQ8jKuE.max-640x360_RB99ZQo.jpg)
The Catawba Angler
The Catawba Angler is conveniently located 25 miles from downtown Asheville.Matt Evans and Perry Bundy are two passionate guides that…
![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.
![Blue Ridge Snorkel Trail -Catawba River Greenway](https://www.blueridgetraveler.com/media/images/BRST-10-Catawba-X3-1536x1536.max-640x360.png)
Blue Ridge Snorkel Trail -Catawba River at Marion Greenway
The Blue Ridge Snorkel Trail is made up of publicly accessible river and stream locations where people can safely snorkel…
![curtiscreekroad](https://www.blueridgetraveler.com/media/images/curtiscreekroad_jkmP8lD.max-640x360.jpg)
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.
![English Farmstead Cheese](https://www.blueridgetraveler.com/media/images/English_Farmstead_Cheese_uIGUpLc.max-640x360_9zBH5k6.jpg)
English Farmstead Cheese
Visit English Farmstead Cheese in Marion, NC, a quaint shop that offers a variety of cheeses and local fare. All cheeses are crafted from milk produced on-site!
![North Cove Disc Golf College Champions.jpeg](https://www.blueridgetraveler.com/media/images/NorthCoveDiscCollegeChampions.max-640x360.jpg)
North Cove Disc Golf and Leisure Club
North Cove Disc Golf & Social Club is 157 acres of awesome rolling hills situated in a rural valley, framed…
![woodsmountainloop](https://www.blueridgetraveler.com/media/images/woodsmountainloop_ChUzjZJ.max-640x360_IyAwQqX.jpg)
Woodlawn Fitness Trail
Fitness Trail consists of 7 stations, two exercises per station on a 1/4 mile jogging path. Additional one mile loop…
![arrowheadEdit3.jpeg](https://www.blueridgetraveler.com/media/images/arrowheadEdit3.max-640x360.jpg)
Arrowhead Monument - Old Fort
The 14.5 foot pink granite arrowhead sits atop a river rock base of more than fifteen feet and is installed…
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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!
![Old Fort Arrowhead.jpg](https://www.blueridgetraveler.com/media/images/OLD-FORT-DEPOT2.max-640x360.jpg)
Historic Old Fort
Once known as the westernmost outpost in North Carolina, Old Fort has retained much of its original forest lands that…