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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 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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Green Flash Watersports Lake James
GreenFlash Watersports offers Waterski, Wakeboard, Wake Surf and tubing trips on Lake James. Our USA Waterski & Wakesports certified instructors…
Davidson's Fort Historic Park
Davidson's Fort was once the western most outpost in Colonial America. The fort was originally constructed in 1776 with the…
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!
Marion Hot Wheelz - Skating Rink
Stop by downtown Marion's roller skating rink, offering special events, arcade games and birthday party packages. Click the link for…
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!
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!
DiamondbackNC - Driving Trail
DiamondbackNC is an alternate route, 12-mile driving trail with incredible scenery. It is one of western North Carolina's last great mountain roadways!
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.…
Old Fort Bike Shop
OFBS is a bicycle repair and service shop located in historic Old Fort NC. OFBS is owned and operated by…
The Davis Country Store
Inspired by tradition, the Davis family invites you to stop by the "second generation" Davis Country Store located on Main…
South Creek Vineyards and Winery
Award winning, locally owned boutique winery offering a variety of red and white wines. Tasting and tours available mid-February through…
The Heathen's Den -Axe Throwing and Ales
Heathen's Den is an axe throwing venue located in downtown Marion inside the Miller Building Complex. Customers may call ahead…
Sweet Betsy Farm
Visit Sweet Betsy Farm in Marion, NC, where no harmful chemicals are ever used! Shop their variety of honeys, plants, seeds, jewelry, and other gifts!
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.
Joseph McDowell/Catawba River Greenway
The Joseph McDowell/Catawba River Greenway is located just outside downtown Marion, NC. This paved trail follows the flow of the…
Linville Gorge Wilderness Area
Visitors to the Linville Gorge Wilderness Area in the Pisgah National Forest can enjoy primitive, strenuous recreation in a wild and isolated terrain!