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Accommodations
:
Bed
and Breakfasts, Inns:
Alpine
Inn - Rustic mountaintop inn at 3500’. Awesome views and picnic area. Call 828-765-5380
http://www.alpineinnc.com
Barn House Inn - Rustic barn-style inn on nine acres with
walking trails, creek and a quiet, country setting. Accepts
pets. 866-690-9182 828-738-4526
http://www.creekmont.biz/
Inn On Mill Creek - Located between Old
Fort & Black Mountain.
Trout pond, orchards, hiking & biking trails. Accepts pets. 877-735-2964 or 828-668-1115
www.innonmillcreek.com
Robardajen Woods
Bed and Breakfast - Close to Lake
James in Nebo. 828-584-3191
The Inn At Blue
Ridge - Elegant rooms
with fireplaces situated adjacent to spectacular golf course and country
club. Pets Accepted. 828-756-7001
Cabins/Cottages:
Bear Den Cabins - Creekside, furnished cabins and
villas. Blue
Ridge Parkway between Linville
Falls and Little Switzerland. 828-765-2888
http://www.bear-den.com
Bear Haven Cabin – Riverside, authentically constructed log
cabin. Sleeps 6 located in Old Fort at Catawba Falls Campground. Call 828-668-4831 or go to http://www.catawbarivercamping.com
Bear
Cliff Marina at Lake James - Beautiful 3 BR/3BA townhome
in Bear Cliff Marina subdivision. Surrounded by Lake James and mountain
views. Walk to the marina and lake or enjoy a long hike on the wooded
trails throughout the property. Many outdoor recreation choices to
enjoy plus other amenities available on site. 828-659-7700 or 800-351-2606 http://www.catawbaproperties.com
Big Bear Cabin - 2BR/2BA w/loft (sleeps 6). Large front porch overlooks Humpback Mountain & is located off of the Blue Ridge Parkway between MP 315 & 330. Details are online at www.beardencabins.com or call 828-765-2888 .
Cottages At Spring House Farm - Secluded 92 acre farm with private, distinctive log cabins.
Main house on National Register of Historic Places. 877-738-9798
or 828-738-9798
http://www.springhousefarm.com
Eco-Cove
Wildlife Sanctuary - Private retreat on 117 acres joining
Pisgah National Forest with 2BR/2BA. Master suite includes hot tub.
Hiking trails, pond and boat are at your disposal. For details call
828 724-9757
www.ecocove-rental.com
Grand View Lodge - Pet friendly (request approval), 3BR/3BA log home with extensive amenities and open all year. Situated minutes from historical gold mining sites in addition to close proximity to historic Marion with easy access to I-40. For more information, call 407-463-2458.
Heather Grove Cabins - Rustic furnished
cabins alongside gold & gem panning operation. 828-738-3573
http://www.heathergrovegold.com
Rocky Falls Retreat - Rental home on the side
of a mountain with forest trails. 704-489-1559 or 704-641-9500
http://www.tcc-inc.com/retreat/
Hidden
Lake - A gated mountain community offering log home rentals.
Lakeside commons area with boardwalk, fishing pier, swimming pool
and picninc area. 10 acre stocked lake also for paddle boat or kayak
use. 828-460-8252
http://www.hiddenlakerentals.com
Lake James Cabin - 51 Bearcliff Drive -
Located in the Bear Cliff Community and Marina at 51 Bear Cliff Drive newly constructed 2 BR/2 BA log cabin. State-of-art kitchen, recreation room w/pool table and hot tub. Sleeps 8. 828-659-8363 www.CarolinaMountain.net
Lake
James Cottage – Unique cottage
on picturesque Lake James with three bedrooms, two baths, fully equipped
kitchen and covered boat dock. The cottage was completely remodeled
in 2004 and is convenient to Bear Cliff Marina and area attractions.
For information call 828-724-9333.
Lake James Vacation Retreats - Two luxury townhomes
on Lake James in the Bear Cliff subdivision. Each property sleeps 12
comfortably. A 21 ft. pontoon is also available for rent daily or weekly,
docked at the on-site marina. Tranquil retreat centrally located to
a host of outdoor activities. Call 828-775-LAKE (5253) www.LakeJamesVacationRetreats.com
Linville Lodge & Cottages - Fully furnished cottages beside Spear's Restaurant. Open year
round. 800-634-4421 or 828-765-2658
http://www.linvillefallslodge.com
Little Switzerland Vacation Rentals - Secluded mountaintop cabins with awe-inspiring views.
Fireplaces, full kitchens, pool & tennis privileges. 866-766-0611 or 828-765-7111
http://www.rickgonsorrentals.com
Log Cabin Lodging -
Fully furnished mountaintop cabins. Five miles
to
Blue Ridge Parkway
.
828-756-4339
The Mountain Majesty - New 4BR/3.5BA with recreation room, covered porch and decks. Available year round with private yet convenient location. Site is just south of historic downtown Marion in the Vein Mountain area. Details and amenities list are online at www.themountainmajesty.com or call 386-314-1158 or email to rentals.themountainmajesty.com@yahoo.com.
Mountain
Paradise
Rentals -Furnished log cabin and rental house located at
Mountain Paradise Campground. Golf discounts. 828-756-4085
or 828-652-9893
http://www.mountainparadisenc.com
Newberry
Creek Log Cabin - Sleep to the sounds of rushing Newberry Creek
in this 3BR/2BA log cabin surrounded by the Pisgah National Forest.
Close to the Blue Ridge Parkway, waterfall trails and more. Call 828-659-7700
or 800-351-2606 for details.
http://www.catawbaproperties.com
Old
Fort Historic Area – Upstairs apartment located in Historic Downtown
Old Fort. Recently remodeled this two bedroom/one bath location
is conveniently located with easy access to Marion, Asheville, Lake
James and other area attractions. The Trainwatcher Café is located on
the street level. For additional information call 828 668-7941
http://www.vrbo.com/44196
Sky Island Retreat
– Campground facility with 40 acres and several log cabins. Choose
from family cabins, couples retreat or primitive cabins all with beautiful
mountain views. To see photos and more information go to www.skyislandretreat.com
or call 828-668-4928.
Timberline
Properties - Private rental homes, cabins and cottages. Some accept pets. 828-766-8900
http://www.timberlinenc.com/
Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park, Camp and Resort -
1210
Deacon Drive -
Marion
,
NC
28752 -
828-652-7208 Open March – November Yogi Bear has something for everyone! Giant Triple loop water slide, Jr. Olympic Pool, Deluxe Log Cabins, Tipis, 50-Amp pull thru sites, full hook-ups. Facilities: restrooms & showers, public phone, general store, snack bar, RV supplies, laundry. Recreation: lake, fishing, tackle, boating, pool, waterslide, shuffleboard, horseshoes, game room, mini-golf, volleyball, and on-site manager. Convenient
to I-40, exit 86.
www.jellystonemarion.com
Motels, Lodges, and Retreats:
Big Lynn Lodge - Motor inn on mountain crest. Rustic with contemporary rooms, cottages and condos. Restaurant. Located
on Blue Ridge Parkway.
800-654-5232 or 828-765-4257
http://www.biglynnlodge.com/
Budget Inn - Small renovated motel in Marion. 828-652-7276
Comfort Inn - Indoor pool, hot
tub and meeting facilities. Executive suites
available. 877-424-6423 http://www.comfortinn.com
Days Inn – Located at the intersection of I-40 and exit 221 South,
the Days Inn offers convenient location, meeting room, laundry, outdoor
pool and more. For more information and to schedule a reservation
call 828-659-2567. www.daysinn.com
Hampton Inn - Suites with whirlpool tubs, conference rooms, pool and hot tub. 800-426-7866 or 828-652-5100
http://www.hamptoninn.com
Linville Falls
Lodge & Cottages - Lodge rooms, fully furnished cottages alongside
Spear's Restaurant. Open year round. 800-634-4421 or 828-765-2658 http://www.linvillefallslodge.com
Mountain View Motel - Motel and restaurant with spectacular views serving lunchand dinner. Panoramic view from balcony. Open year round near intersection of NC 226 and Blue Ridge Parkway. 828-765-4233
Round Knob Lodge
– Historic railroad lodge recently renovated on 11 acres with trout
pond, swimming pond, in-ground pool, hiking trails and gazebo. Built
with massive railroad timbers and local stone this property includes
6 bedrooms and 6 bathrooms, living room with rock fireplace, game
room with rock fireplace and spacious kitchen, fully equipped for
family use or catering staff. Contact them at www.roundknoblodge.com or 828-243-5769
or 828-669-4525.
Skyline Village Inn and Cavern Tavern - Open year round with 16 rooms and full service café and live entertainment.
Spectacular views at 3,000 ft. above sea level and constructed in
1948 this rock and wood structure includes secret caverns and an interesting
history. Close to Blue Ridge Parkway and Little Switzerland. 828-765-9394 or go to http:// www.skylinevillage.com
Sportsman Inn - Open
year round, features include cable TV with HBO and outdoor swimming
pool.
828-659-7525
Super
8 Motel - Convenient to I-40 and accepts pets. 828-659-7940
Switzerland Inn - Lodge rooms, views, private chalets and cottages
with complimentary breakfast with full service restaurant and bar.
Just off the Blue
Ridge Parkway. 800-654-4026 or 828-765-2153
http://www.switzerlandinn.com
Campgrounds :
Privately Owned Campgrounds:
Bear Den Campground -828-765-2888 - Full hook-ups, tents, trailer
sites and cabins.
http://www.bear-den.com
Buck Creek Campground
- 828-724-4888 - Full hook-ups and trailer sites.
http://www.buckcreekcampground.com
Burnette’s Landing - 828-652-3531 - Tent
sites and trailer sites. Catawba Falls
Family Campground – 828-668-4831
Full hook-ups and tent sites along the Catawba River and close to
Catawba Falls. Cabins including an authentically constructed
log cabin by the river. http://www.catawbarivercamping.com
Cove
Creek RV Park – Situated in a picturesque
country setting, Cove Creek is 5 miles from I-40 and the historic
town of Old Fort. Full hook-up, hot showers and bathrooms. Primitive
sites and storage sites available. 866-668-7505 or 828-668-7507. http://www.covecreekrvpark.com
Linville
Falls Trailer
Lodge and Campground - 828-765-2681
- Full hook-ups, tent sites and cabins.
http://www.linvillefalls.com
The
Lucky Strike: Gold & gemstone mine open year round. Campsites with hookups, Miner's Diner, restrooms, shower
facilities. Polly Spout Road and US 221,
south of Marion. 828-738-4893 http://www.luckystrikegoldandgem.com
Mountain Paradise Campground - 828-756-4085 or 828-652-9893 - Seasonal rentals only. Full hook-ups, trailer sites,
cabins, outdoor pool and waterslide. www.mountainparadisenc.com
Mountain Stream RV Park
- 828-724-9013 - Full hook-ups, trailer sites and
tent sites.
http://www.mountainstreamrvpark.com
North Star Campground -
828-724-4798 - Full hook-ups, tents and trailer
sites. Sky
Island Retreat – Large, 40 acre property with RV and
tent camping plus log cabins. Campsite amenities offer options of
with or without hook-up, electric and/or water. Located in the countryside
just outside of Historic Old Fort and I-40. Convenient to area attractions.
Contact them at 828-668-4928 or www.skyislandretreat.com
Tom Johnson's Camping Center &
RV Park - 888-266-0551
http://www.tomjohnsoncamping.com
Triple C Campground - 828-724-4099
or 888-747-2520 - Full hook-ups, trailer sites and tent sites.
Yogi Bear Jellystone
Water
Park -
1210
Deacon Drive -
Marion
,
NC
28752 -
828-652-7208 Open March – November Yogi Bear has something for everyone! Giant Triple loop water slide, Jr. Olympic Pool, Deluxe Log Cabins, Tipis, 50-Amp pull thru sites, full hook-ups. Facilities: restrooms & showers, public phone, general store, snack bar, RV supplies, laundry. Recreation: lake, fishing, tackle, boating, pool, waterslide, shuffleboard, horseshoes, game room, mini-golf, volleyball, and on-site manager. Convenient
to I-40, exit 86.
www.jellystonemarion.com
Public,
Private, and Primitive Camping: Be certain you
know facility rules and restrictions. Websites shown provide
details and fees, if any.
Black
Mountain Campground -
828-682-6146 - Full hook-ups, tent sites and trailer sites.
http://www.nps.gov
Carolina Hemlocks Campground - 828-682-6146 - Full hook-ups,
tent and trailer sites.
http://www.nps.gov
Crabtree Meadows Campground - 828-298-0398 - Tent and trailer
sites.
http://www.nps.gov
Curtis Creek Campground
- 828-652-2144 - Tent sites only.
http://www.nps.gov
Lake James State
Park - 828-652-5047 - Tent sites only.
http://ils.unc.edu/parkproject/visit/laja/home.html
Linville Falls Campground
- 828-298-0398 - Tent and trailer sites.
http://www.nps.gov
Linville Falls Wilderness
Area - 828-652-2144 - Tent camping only.
http://www.nps.gov
Mount Mitchell State
Park - 828-675-4611 - Tent camping
only.
http://www.enr.state.nc.us
Restaurants and Caterers:
Little Switzerland: Big Lynn Cafe
(828) 765-4257 Enjoy all of the spectacular mountain views as
you dine at this delightful, family restaurant at the Big Lynn Lodge.
Open daily for breakfast and dinner, April through October, group
menus, box lunches, catering, comp for driver & escort, coach
parking on-site. The Chalet (828)
765-2153 The beautiful restaurant, located at the Switzerland Inn,
offers an outstanding dining experience and stunning views of the
mountains. Open daily, April through October, group menus, catering,
private parties, coach parking on-site. Mountain View
Restaurant (828) 765-4233 Enjoy all three meals with a tremendous
mountain view from inside and outside this quaint restaurant. Open
year round, hours change seasonally. Call for information. Switzerland
Café (828) 765-9394 Picturesque café located in the heart of Little
Switzerland. Varied menu with local flavor. The new owners have received
kudos throughout the southeast. http://www.switzerlandcafe.com The Skyline
Inn and Café – Open year round with full service menu and weekend
entertainment. Spectacular views from outdoor deck areas and
an interesting history. Close to Blue Ridge Parkway. Call
828-765-9394 or go to http://www.the-skyline.com
Linville
Falls: Famous Louise's
Rockhouse Restaurant (828) 765-2702 A mountain landmark, Famous
Louise is a favorite with locals and visitors alike. Specializing
in fresh local seafood, grilled steaks and home-cooked specials. Open
daily 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM, group menus, comp for driver, coach parking
nearby. Spear's Restaurant
(828) 765-2658 Full service restaurant open for lunch and dinner.
Steaks, chops, ribs, sandwiches and more. Located at the corner of
US 221 North and NC 183 in Linville Falls.
Marion/Nebo/Old Fort: Bruce's Fabulous
Foods (828) 659-8023 Open for lunch only Monday-Friday. Variety
of unique wrap sandwiches, salads and daily specials. The largest
selection of homemade cheesecakes you'll find anywhere! Space available
for special functions and catering. Historic Downtown Marion Carolina Chocolatiers
(828) 652-4496 Specializing in homemade desserts, deli-style lunches
and hand-dipped chocolates. Serving breakfast and lunch, open daily,
year round, group menus, box lunches and catering,. Historic Downtown
Marion. Countryside BBQ (828) 652-4885 Open Tuesday - Saturday serving
breakfast, lunch and dinner. Wide variety of fresh deserts. BBQ, steaks,
chops, sandwiches, salads and more! Crooked Door
Coffee House (828) 652-6216 Located in the heart of downtown Historic
Marion on second floor of one of the oldest buildings in town. Unique
coffee and tea creations. Music each Friday and Saturday night. Dragon Lair
(828) 652-7585 Chinese cuisine with lunch and dinner buffet. Located
in the Bi-Lo Shopping Center. Dutchy
Deb’s Doughnuts & Coffee Bar - Freshly
made each morning, a variety of doughnuts, coffee and espresso.
Located at 242 North Main Street in Marion. Call 828-652-6172.
Eddie’s Pizza & Pasta – Authentic Italian “family food” shared with you by the Mehovic family.
Prepared fresh daily variety of pastas, salads, pizzas and desserts.
Open Monday – Saturday 11:00 a.m. until 10:00 p.m. and Sunday from
Noon until 9:00 p.m. 1284 Rutherford Road, Marion 828-652-4777.
Fatz Café – Extensive menu with large selection of appetizers,
salads and soups, burgers and sandwiches with entrees including specialty
items, double features, chicken, seafood and steaks. Located
at the intersection of N.C. Highway 221 and U.S. Highway 70 at 390
U.S. 70 West in Marion. 828-659-1364.
Four Oaks Fish Camp (828) 668-4929 Large selection of fried
or broiled favorites with large salad bar. Old Fort - convenient to
I-40. Golden Fried
Chicken (828) 652-8469 Fried chicken and fish dinners. Grilled
options, salads and desserts. Catering available. Marion - North Main
Street. Harvest Drive-In (828) 652-4155 Drive-in or eat in with "table phone ordering." Fifties atmosphere. Salad bar, sandwiches and a variety of entrees.
Marion - North Main Street Hook and Anchor
Family Seafood (828) 652-9467 Featuring a large variety of seafood
favorites, broiled or fried. Rutherford Rd., Marion Ivan's Restaurant
and Bar (828) 659-9151 Open daily for lunch and dinner. Sandwiches,
salads, pasta and a variety of entrees. Outdoor dining at the "tiki
lounge" in season. Located adjacent to Lightening Lanes in Marion. Jack Frost Dairy
Bar (828) 652-1178 Open May - October with hand made ice cream
and other treats. Sandwiches, and hot dogs. Marion - intersection
of Sugar Hill Road and Veterans Drive. Jalapeño’s Fresh
Grill – Fresh Mexican cuisine served Monday – Saturday. Located at 1700 North Main Street in Marion. Call 828 652-5154.
Little Siena
Restaurant (828) 724-9451 Mama came to the Carolina mountains
as a war-bride from Italy. Now she runs a kitchen that offers the
finest in authentic Italian and American cuisine. Open daily for lunch
and dinner, comp for driver, arrangements available for private parties,
group menus, catering, coach parking on-site. Marion - Pleasant Gardens
community. On Hwy. 70 West.
Maria's Mexican
Diner (828) 659-6376 Authentic Mexican dining. Eat-in, carry out
or delivery available. Rutherford Road.
Mi Pueblito
(828) 659-7788 Mexican cuisine offering a large selection of entrees
and specials. Uniue wine cocktails and traditionalfavorites. Marion
- Rutherford Road
Moondoggy's
Classic Diner (828) 655-1557 Burgers, shakes, pasta, salads and
more. Marion - North Main Street
Parlez
Vous – Intimate wine bar and restaurant. Open Thursday, Friday
and Saturday evenings. Adjacent to Carolina Chocolatiers in Historic
Downtown Marion. 828-652-4496
Sagebrush Steakhouse
(828) 652-8684 Steaks, chops, chicken, salads and sandwiches. Open
daily for lunch and dinner. Marion - Intersection of Hwy. 221 South
and I-40.
Sweet Shop
(828) 442-2225 Located in Historic downtown Old Fort featuring 16
flavors of ice cream, homemade fudge cake, brownie fudge cake, floats,
sundaes, milkshakes plus hot dogs and nachos. Open Tuesday - Sunday
open until 9:00 pm Thursday - Saturday. 23 East Main Street, Old Fort.
Trainwatcher
Café - In the middle of downtown Old Fort is this carefully restored
historic space showcasing railroad artifacts and memorabilia.
Serving breakfast and lunch. Old-fashioned ice cream bar sundaes,
sodas, floats and more. Daily specials, homemade soups and entrees,
salads and a variety of sandwiches and specialty drinks including
iced coffee, lattes and cappuccino. Open Monday – Saturday 9:00
a.m. until 3:00 p.m. 5
Main Street, Old Fort, NC 28762 - 828-668-7941
Western
Sizzlin Steak House (828) 652-6287 Traditional steak-house cuisine
plus daily lunch and dinner buffet. Breakfast served daily. Marion
- North Main Street
Wine Reuls - Located in Historic Downtown Marion, enjoy old world charm and eclectic
cuisine in this elegant bistro. Sample menus and wine list are
located on their website. Open for lunch and dinner Monday –
Saturday. 105
South Main Street, Marion,
NC 28752 - 828-652-2000 www.wineruels.com
Fishing
and Watersports:
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. Scenic vistas of the Appalachian
Mountains with 565 wooded acres for picnicking, swimming,
canoeing, camping and hiking. Boat Access -Black Bear Boat Access
Area, Linville Access Area, and Hidden Cove Access Area. 828-652-5047.
http://ils.unc.edu/parkproject/visit/laja/home.html
Fishing On Lake
James -
All Wildlife Resources commission regulations apply. A fishing license
is required. Cool, deep waters and warm surface waters
provide a variety of sport fishing. Large Mouth & Small
Mouth Bass, Walleye, White Bass, Bluegill, Robin, Catfish, Muskellunge,
Bream, Sunfish, Perch, Crappie, and Channel Catfish.
Public Trout
Streams - (stocked waters)
Little
Buck
Creek (game
lands portion) 4 miles with tight creek well stocked.
North Fork Catawba River (headwaters - go to North
Cove School
at S.R. 1569)11 miles very well stocked with easy access near headwaters,
nice holdovers in lower sections.
Armstrong
Creek (Cato Holler lower line downstream to Greenlee upper line)
2 miles with large holes.
Mill Creek
(upper railroad bridge to US 70 bridge ) 6 miles. Fished heavily due to easy access, lower section near
US 70 is posted.
Public Trout
Streams - (delayed harvest)
Curtis
Creek - 5 miles with easy access. Also, nice holes for swimming.
Public Trout Streams - (Catch and Release Artificial Lures Only Waters
-Season is year round. Fish may not be harvested or possessed. Lure restrictions are artificial
lures with one single hook only.)
Newberry Creek (game lands portion) 3 miles and has been stocked
for years with Brook Trout only with many still there.
Wild Trout Waters - No closed season. Daily creek limit
is 4 with minimum size of 7”. Lures are restricted to artificial
lures with one single hook only.
Mackey Creek (game lands section) Very light fishing pressure.
Buck Creek (game land section) 200 yards
along NC 80 also light fishing pressure.
Curtis Creek (including tributaries -game land section) Heavily fished along campsites.
Armstrong Creek (including tributaries -game land section is above
hatchery property) Can access via U.S. Forest
Service trail 223. Large numbers of fish.
Catawba River (head waters are on game lands) Above the water falls are some nice Brook Trout, stream is
tight but fishable. Public access is through the Catawba Falls
Preserve off I-40 - Follow signs. River is stocked from Catawba
Falls Campground through Old Fort picnic area.
Trout Ponds & Farms:
Buck Creek
Trout Farm - 2525
Buck Creek Road (NC 80)
Elliott’s Trout
Pond - Buck Creek
Rd. (NC 80) South of Mountain Stream RV
Park
Harris Creek
Trout Pond - On Huskins Branch Road, off US 221
North
Also, visit the
North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commision
for state guidelines.
Hiking:
For more information
on trails, contact our office for more local trails or log onto http://www.nps.gov/
Armstrong Creek - 3640 Ft./6 mile trail. Primitive hiking on Armstrong
Fish Hatchery Rd. Trail begins past
hatchery parking lot. Easy -moderate.
Bad Fork - 2940 Ft. /8 Miles. Primitive trail connects
Woods Mountain & Armstrong Creek Trails. NC 226-A to Armstrong
Fish Hatchery Rd. 3 miles to trail
head on left. Moderate
Betsy Ridge - 3160 Ft./9 Mile Trail. Black Mountains view, meets Little Buck Creek Trail ending at Woods Mountain Trail. US 221 North, left on Tom’s Creek
Road. Right onto first dirt road,
head is second road on left. Easy -Moderate
Kitsuma Peak - Short hike, 20 minute trail. Breathtaking
views and unusual Carolina hemlocks. Take I-40 west to Ridgecrest
exit. Turn onto Old U.S. 70, road is blocked. Park at
road end.
Lead Mine Gap – Mixed forest environment with long range views.
Highway 70 to Curtis Creek Road, east of Old Fort. Trailhead
approximately 8.5 miles. Trail ends at Hickory Branch Trail,
after 2 miles trail rejoins Curtis Creek Road at lower point. 5 miles, moderate hike.
Little Buck Creek – Excellent views of Marion, Lake Tahoma
and Black Mountain range. From U.S. 70, west of Marion, turn
right onto NC Highway 80, passing Lake Tahoma on right. Cross
bridge over Buck Creek, turn right onto dirt road. Take left
at first intersection and go 1.5 miles to trailhead (turnout with
USFS sign and gate). Distance 5.8 miles, moderate to strenuous.
Mackey Mountain – This trail is located in a bear sanctuary.
Take appropriate precautions on trail. Spectacular views.
U.S. 70, east of Old Fort to Curtis Creek road, turning left.
Trailhead is 9 miles at entrance of Sugar Cove Road. Distance
16 miles, moderate to strenuous hike.
Mountains to the Sea Trail – Two segments of this 700 mile route
are in McDowell County. The Craggy Pinnacle segment follows
the Blue Ridge Parkway from Asheville past Buck Creek Gap at NC 80
to Little Switzerland. The route includes a 14 mile steep downhill
grade. The Brown Mountains Light segment continues on the Parkway
to Linville Falls at the northern tip of McDowell County and onto
the foothills area via NC 181. Route includes several gentle
descents and easy climbs.
Newberry Creek - 4300 Ft/5
Miles. Scenic trail ends at Blue
Ridge Parkway. Take US 70 West to Curtis
Creek turning
right. Left at Newberry
Creek Road (FS 482-A). Go 4 miles
to end & trail head begins at end of road. Easy -moderate.
Overmountain
Victory National Historic Trail
- Historic trail covering four states and 300 miles
runs through McDowell County between Lake James and the Blue Ridge
Parkway. There are 57 accessible miles of trail. Begin
on the Blue Ridge Parkway at the North Carolina Mineral Museum, Milepost
331. Trailhead begins across NC 226 from the parking lot.
Head North on trail parallel to Parkway. Cross Parkway and follow
dirt/gravel road past Orchard at Altapass to McKinney Gap. Cross
under Parkway and enter wooded trail to Heffner Gap parking lot on
Parkway.
Go
to www.nps.gov/ovvi for more
trail information and access details.
Linville Gorge - 3400 Ft. Eastern
America’s most scenic and rugged gorge. Take US
221/226 North to Linville Falls Community turning right onto NC 183. Travel to Wiseman’s View
Road, turn right to U.S. Forest Service
Visitor Center. Multiple, strenuous trails. Trail maps
available at visitor center.
Woodlawn Fitness Trail – Fitness trail consists of seven stations,
2 exercises per station on a 1/4 mile jogging path. Additional
one mile loop surrounds exercise trail. Woodlawn Work Center
is six miles north of Marion on U.S. 221. Trail is behind picnic
area on left. 1.25 miles, easy to moderate.
Woods Mountain – Outstanding views of Black Mountain range,
Little Switzerland and Armstrong Creek watershed areas with views
of Table Rock from section of North Carolina’s “Mountains to Sea”
trail. Begins near Buck Creek Gap overlook at intersection of
Blue Ridge Parkway and NC 80. Trail may be exited on U.S. 221
at U.S. Forest Service Area rest area near Woodlawn. 13 miles,
moderate to strenuous.
Young’s Ridge – Begins in Old Fort at picnic area. Incredible
views of Kitsuma Peak at trail’s end. U.S. 70, west of Old Fort
onto Mill Creek, turn right. Old Fort Picnic Area is several
miles on left and marked by National Forest Sign. 7 miles, easy
to moderate.
Waterfall
Hiking Trails:
Catawba Falls – Headwaters of the Catawba River and protected
by conservation easements, this 340 foot cascade includes an upper
and lower falls with an upper 70 foot plunge. Exit I-40, #73,
turn left, travel under interstate and take an immediate right turn.
At fork, bear left onto Catawba River Road (behind McDonald’s) and
go 3 miles to road’s end. Park on gravel shoulder on left.
Trail begins across bridge and to right. Permission from landowner
required to proceed to trail from Catawba River Road. Alternate
routes are by permission only, Catawba Falls Campground on the same
road or begin at the Ridgecrest Conference Center just off of I-40
West above Old Fort. Moderate hike to lower falls, strenuous
hike to upper falls, 3 miles.
Hickory Branch Trail Falls – Views of 20 foot waterfall can
be seen from this trail at U.S. Forest Service campground, Curtis
Creek Recreation Area. Approximately 2 miles east of Old Fort
take U.S. 70 to Curtis Creek Road, turn left. Go 4 miles to
campground, trailhead is on edge of field to right of campground. 4 mile round trip, moderate.
Linville Falls - Most popular waterfall in the Blue Ridge
with three tiered waterfall plunging into Linville Gorge. Exit
Blue Ridge Parkway at Milepost 316.3. Falls trail distance 1.6
miles, easy; Gorge Trail is 1.4 miles and is strenuous; Plunge Basin
Trail is 1 mile round trip and is a moderate hike.
Tom’s Creek Falls – 7 miles north of Marion on U.S. 221, turn
left onto Huskins Branch Road, just before Woodlawn Motel. Go
1.5 miles and park on right at gravel lot before small bridge.
Trailhead begins at lot. Trail will fork, follow left creek.
Gentle falls in picturesque area. Fall height is approximately
100 feet. 2 mile, easy loop.
Cycling:
Blue Ridge Parkway - Designated bike route providing
challenging climbs, downhill plunges, gentle rides and breathtaking
scenery. The parkway offers 470 miles of picturesque travel
across North Carolina and Virginia. For more information contact the parkway office at 828-259-0701 or http://www.nps.gov/.
Mountains to the Sea Trail - Two segments of this 700 mile route
are in McDowell
County. The Craggy Pinnacle segment follows the Blue
Ridge Parkway from Asheville past Buck Creek Gap at NC 80 to Little Switzerland. The route
includes a 30 mile climb, gaining 3,000 feet in altitude and a 14
mile downhill ride. The Brown Mountain Lights segment continues
on the Blue Ridge Parkway
to Linville Falls
at the northern tip of McDowell
County and on
into the foothills via NC 181. The route includes several gentle
descents, easy climbs and a quick 15 mile downhill ride.
Lake James Road (NC 126) is a designated bike route circling scenic
Lake
James. Portions are infrequently traveled by motorists. Lake
James offers
150 miles of perimeter road and takes the rider through
wooded areas with occasional views of the lake.
Old US 70 - Gated to prevent access by motor vehicles, this unused
stretch of highway passes through national forest lands and offers
excellent views and quiet rides. Park in Old Fort and cycle
west on US 70 then right onto Old US 70. Follow along Mill Creek
until reaching a dead end sign. Continue past the gate.
For the next 3.75 miles you will enjoy panoramic views from places
like Point Lookout. For mountain bikers, turn right onto Old
#10 onto a state maintained gravel road which makes an excellent return
route to Old Fort.
Lake Tahoma Road (Hwy. 80) -was recently designated as a bike
route, however, riders should be cautious. Lake
Tahoma Road is a tough, steep climb heading
north to the Parkway, but the return trip is a rapid descent down
toward Marion.
For information on mountain biking, contact the US Forest Service
at 828-652-2144. You may call Fuller's Action Cycles to find out more
on local cycling activities at 828-652-5358 or visit http://www.fullerscycles.com
Golf:
Marion Lake
Club - Semi-private
facility located on the shores of scenic Lake
James overlooking
Linville Gorge. Par 70, 18 hole course. Club house and
pro shop. Located on NC 126 East of Marion. 828-652-6232
Old Fort
Golf Course - Public, 9 hole, Par 72 course. Western
North Carolina’s highest rated 9 hole course. Tee
times and carts not required. From I-40, exit 73 and turn south
on Bat Cave Road. Left onto Old Fort-Sugar
Hill Road and left onto Golf
Course Road. 828-668-4256.
Horseback
Riding:
Public Riding Trails - Horseback riding is permitted in many areas
within the Pisgah National Forest Lands. A few popular undesignated
areas in the Grandfather district include the Curtis Creek Recreational
Area off US 70 near Old Fort, the Woodlawn Work Center on US 221 North,
the Yellow Mountain Road near Altapass and the Kistler Memorial
Highway near Linville Gorge Wilderness Area. Two designated
areas in the Toecane District include the
Buncombe Horse Range Trail, a challenging trail for advanced riders
near the Black Mountain Campground and Victor Fields off the Blue
Ridge Parkway near Little Switzerland.
Call the US Forest Service for more information. 828-652-2144.
A-Patchy Stables - Trail rides, lessons, barrel racing, team roping. Overnight camping and grill facilities available.
Located off NC 226 South of Marion. 828-652-7977 http://www.horserentals.com/
Springmaid
Mountain - Scheduled
rides led by an experienced. Guide. Children under 9 years of age must be accompanied
by parent/guardian. Located in Altapass near Little Switzerland. 828-765-2353 http://www.leroysprings.com/SpringmaidMountain.html
Activity
Centers:
Marion Skate Park - Outdoor
park adjacent to the McDowell County Recreation Center on E. Court
Street in downtown Marion. 828-652-3001
Lightning Lanes Bowling Alley
- Next door to Ivan’s Restaurant and McDowell Sports Complex at
622 Finley Road in Marion. 828-652-2626
Mountain Paradise Campground - includes a waterslide, miniature golf, swimming
pools, arcade, playground, fishing pond and stream. Picnic area
available on site. Located north of Marion
on US 2212 North. 828-756-4085.
www.mountainparadisenc.com
Recreation Center - Outdoor pool, basketball court, gymnasium
located on E. Court Street in Marion across from the Marion Library.
828-652-3001
YMCA of Western NC
- Visiting members of the Y will enjoy the indoor
pool, indoor basketball & handball courts, and workout room.
Located off Sugar Hill
Road in Marion.
For more information call 828-652-9622 Yogi
Bear’s Jellystone Park - Swimming pool and children’s pool, waterslide,
fishing lake, pedal boats, miniature golf, nature trails, horseshoes,
volleyball, shuffleboard, pool tables, game room/arcade and snack
bar. In Marion, off NC 226 South,
turn onto Fairview
road and follow signs. 828-652-7208
www.jellystonemarion.com Shopping Shoppers
can enjoy a variety of unique stops in the county. Historic
downtown Marion
includes a bookstore, home décor shop, antiques, regularly scheduled
auctions, flowers and local artisans works at the arts council and
coffee house. Local
and regional artisans works may be purchased and enjoyed in Marion
and Old Fort. The McDowell Arts Council, located at 50 South Main
Street in Historic Downtown Marion (828-652-8610) or visit the Appalachian
Artisans Gallery in downtown Old Fort (828-668-1070. The
quaint town of Old Fort
offers antiques, railroad paraphernalia, museums with books and items
for sale and an auction house. Along
the Hwy. 221/226 By-Pass you will find an eclectic mix of antiques,
pottery, natural foods and “home grown stands.” The Business
221 route through Marion
offers more traditional shopping centers and stores with gift shops,
a “home-grown and hand-made” shop, and discount shopping.
Traveling Highway 70 between Marion and
Old Fort enjoy picking up everything from locally grown fruits and
vegetables to shoes. Two
flea markets are in the county, Country Market is located at the corner
of the Highway 221/226 By-Pass and Hankins
Road and one located on Highway 70 East
(East Court Street) between downtown Marion and Nebo.
The
Little Switzerland community includes unique boutiques, children’s
shops, bookstore, arts and crafts, jewelry and more. Enjoy a
walk through a truly unique part of western North
Carolina just off the Blue
Ridge Parkway.
Historic Sites
Historic
Carson House - Built in 1793 by Irish immigrant John Carson, the home has
a rich history serving as the first county courthouse, a stagecoach
inn and receiving guests such as Davey Crockett and Daniel Boone.
The home is included in the N.C. Civil War Trails guide and the Blue
Ridge National Heritage Area. Located at 1805 Highway 70 West
in Marion and open May 1st through October 31st. For more information
call 828-724-4948.
Mountain Gateway Museum - Located on Mill Creek this branch of the
N.C. Museum of History interprets the area's history from the earliest
inhabitants through the settlement period and into the twentieth century.
The property includes a picnic area, amphitheater, two pioneer-era
log cabins and the museum itself. Visit them 102 Water Street
in Old Fort. 828-668-9259.
Old Fort Train Station and Museum - 25 West Main
Street, Old Fort. Constructed in 1881 the recently renovated depot
includes the McDowell County Tourism Authority and Visitor Center,
a railroad museum and the Old Fort Chamber of Commerce. Exhibits
and artifacts include a map of the seven hand-dug tunnels and nine
miles of track positioned between the town of Old Fort and the top
of Swannanoa Gap and the Eastern Continential Divide. One tunnel
once held the record as the longest tunnel at 1800 feet. Open
Monday - Saturday 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. 888-233-6111 or
828-668-4282
Joseph P. McDowell House - Built in 1787 by a son
of "Hunting John" McDowell the founder of McDowell County.
Joseph McDowell played a key role in the defeat of the British at
Cowpens in January 1781 as well as serving as a member of the North
Carolina Constitutional Convention in 1788 along with his service
as a member of the 3rd U.S. Congress. Located at the intersection
of Highway 70 Business and the Highway 221/226 By-Pass in Marion. The home is not open to the public at this time.
Andrews' Geyser - An Old Fort landmark, the geyser
park commemorates its role during the peak of railroad history in
western North Carolina. Once part of a popular tourist resort
the park is listed in the N.C. Civil War Trails map noting one of
the last skirmishes of the Civil War taking place close by at the
base of the Swannanoa Gap. Today, the park is operated by the town
of Old Fort with picnic areas along the picturesque Mill Creek.
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