Welcome to McDowell County, North Carolina! With mild weather, warm Southern hospitality and mountain vistas that stretch for miles, every season is the perfect time of year to plan your next vacation to our corner of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Cozy up beside the fireplace in a picturesque mountain cabin, lakeside vacation rental or one of our numerous local lodging options. Enjoy the warm welcome of small-town main streets in Marion and Old Fort, where you can stop for a cup of coffee or peruse the craftsmanship of local artists in shops and galleries. Check out the events calendar for a full line-up of happenings throughout the season.
Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains as you explore the hiking and mountain biking trails that weave through nearly 70,000 acres of Pisgah National Forest. Enjoy stunning views and breathtaking waterfalls, as well as treks through lush Appalachian forests and alongside clear mountain streams. From family-friendly greenways and easy, well-trod paths to strenuous backcountry trails, there’s a hiking adventure perfect for every Blue Ridge traveler. Download a map of area hiking trails for driving directions and more recommendations.
When it’s time for a bite, pull up a chair at one of our delicious local restaurants. From barbecue to bakeries, burritos to fine dining, and plenty of scrumptious Southern fare, you’re sure to find the local flavor you’re looking for. Enjoy a pint of locally brewed beer at one of several craft breweries, and look for local wine, coffee, mead and spirits, too.
As you plan your 2024 mountain vacation, be sure to take a look at our Blue Ridge Traveler’s Visitor Guide. Add some of our historic attractions to your itinerary to get a glimpse of mountain life in the late 19th and early 20th centuries and find fun things to do for the whole family.
Visit us online at www.destinationmcdowell.com or call 828-668-4282.