Upcoming Events in Old Fort
The town of Old Fort has been welcoming travelers to this corner of the Blue Ridge Mountains for more than 150 years. Named for the Revolutionary-era Davidson’s Fort, this charming mountain town is today surrounded by Pisgah National Forest — it’s the perfect place to start your next mountain adventure.
Hit the trail with your hiking boots or mountain bike to experience the rugged forest terrain. Take the whole family on a hike to see breathtaking Catawba Falls, or meander alongside Newberry Creek as it winds toward the Blue Ridge Parkway. The Point Lookout Trail offers a bird’s-eye view of the surrounding mountains and is a favorite among bikers, as is the nearby Kitsuma Peak/Young’s Ridge Trail.
Learn about area history at the Mountain Gateway Museum, which chronicles the lifestyles and traditions of local residents from the time of European settlement through the 20th century. Visit a replica of Davidson’s Fort, originally built in the 1770s as the westernmost outpost of the American Colonies. Enjoy scenes from Old Fort history as depicted by local artists and students on the Seven Wonders mural trail. And take a drive to visit Andrews Geyser, a man-made fountain built as a tourist attraction during the early years of rail travel in Western North Carolina.
After your adventure, kick back with a pint of local craft beer at Hillman Beer’s creekside patio or visit Davis Country Store. A number of vacation rentals, cabins and campgrounds are available for you to rest and recharge for another day exploring the Blue Ridge.
Explore Old Fort Attractions
Mackey Mountain
Excellent views inside a BEAR sanctuary, hunting is illegal!! Hike this area with caution, particularly during spring and fall seasons.…
Lower Heartbreak Ridge
Opening by spring 2024, the Lower Heartbreak Ridge Trail is part of the 42-mile trail expansion planned in the Old…
Historic Old Fort
Once known as the westernmost outpost in North Carolina, Old Fort has retained much of its original forest lands that…
Young's Ridge
Trailhead begins inside the Old Fort Picnic Area with incredible views of Kitsuma Peak at trail end. Elevation is 3,165…
Star Gap Trail
The Star Gap Trail is a great short trail for hikers and bikers alike! It is just under three miles long, beginning at the Old Fort picnic area.
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.
Curtis Creek
A rushing trout stream, stocked with Brook Trout, Rainbow Trout and Brown Trout, with handicapped access overlook on left side…
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!