Tourism
The spectacular Linville Gorge offers 39 miles of trails, primitive camping and family campgrounds. The Linville Falls is a beautiful series of dramatic falls that offer a breathtaking view of North Carolina at its finest. The possibility of finding emeralds, gold and other gemstones attract those seeking treasure. And the mysterious "Brown Mountain Lights" as seen from Wiseman's View or Flat Rock cause reason to stop and wonder at our natural surroundings.
Whether your interests tend toward exploring the great outdoors, receiving a historical education at national monuments, or simply appreciating the glorious beauty that is western North Carolina, you'll find it all right here.
State Parks & Natural Attractions | Art, Museums & History
Buried Treasures
State Parks & Natural Attractions
The North Carolina Mountains-to-the-Sea Trail runs through McDowell County and the Great Smoky Mountains. A few minutes away, it traverses through Pisgah National Forest along the Blue Ridge Parkway and over Table Rock within the Linville Gorge.
The New River offers peaceful canoeing trips while the Watauga River provides whitewater rafting and kayaking. Stop by Roan Mountain State Park and view the largest natural rhododendron garden in bloom.
The Linville Falls are a beautiful series of dramatic falls that drop to a deep gorge, accessed by a trail lined with rare virgin stands of white pine and hemlock. A campground and picnic area along the Linville River are among the most popular on the Parkway. The various trails here include the short walk up Duggers Creek and more strenuous walks along the Linville Gorge.
The Linville Caverns were discovered in the 1800's by men intrigued by the mystery of fish swimming out of the mountain. Since then, extensive research has been done to acknowledge the history, folklore, geology and biology of Linville Caverns. One can only marvel at the endless information this underground wonder has to offer. http://www.linvillecaverns.com 800-419-0540
Linville Gorge Wilderness Area: The "Grand Canyon of the East." Recreation in a wild and isolated terrain, as well as strenuous hiking, back packing, rock-climbing and fishing for native trout. Stretches of virgin forest, rare and endangered species, assortment of wild game and non-game species. Located in the Pisgah National Forest near Linville Falls. 828-652-2144.
The Brown Mountain Lights are the region's most popular mystery! On certain clear evenings, small but brilliant spherical lights or orbs can be seen bobbing up and down, disappearing and reappearing. This mystery has attracted thousands of phenomenon seekers over the centuries. Extensive scientific research has failed to explain the phenomenon. There are several vantage points along NC 181,and from Wiseman's View on the Kistler Memorial Highway (SR 138) near Linville Falls.
Andrew's Geyser is a gravity forced geyser that shoots a tall water plume in the air. It was constructed in 1885 to mark the railroad gateway to the Blue Ridge Mountains. Beautiful, wooded park along Mill Creek with picnic areas. State Road 1407 @ Mill Creek Road in Old Fort. 828-668-7223
Bear Creek Marina, located inside the Bear Cliff subdivision off Lake James Road at 61 Marina Drive. A variety of services including boat slips, full service marine/general store, tent camping and equestrian trails are coming soon. Outdoor grill serves lunch and dinner Tuesday - Saturday. Marina store open seven days a week from 7am until 7pm. Call 828-655-1400
Blue Ridge Parkway: A portion of the parkway runs through the northern section of McDowell County. Linville Falls, Altapass and Little Switzerland are communities with activities, shops, restaurants and beautiful views to enjoy. Wildflowers and wildlife complete this portrait of mountain treasures.
Lake James State Park: "Last of the Mohicans" and "Hunt for Red October" were filmed along the shores of this picturesque lake. A 565 acre park offers picnicking, swimming, canoe rentals, and hiking along spectacular Lake James. Ranger office, concession stand and bathrooms. For information on weekend events call 828-652-5047. http://www.ncparks.net Boat access is also found at Black Bear Landing on the north side of the lake, Hidden Cove Access Area near Lake James State Park off NC 126 and Canal Bridge at the McDowell-Burke county line on NC 126.
Art, Museums & Historical Attractions
Carson House: A story of an Irish immigrant who found fortune and prestige creating his own dynasty in the new world. Tales of dueling, Civil War skirmishes and stories of how a new government was formed. Colonel John Carson's home was built in 1793. He became a representative to the Fayetteville convention where the North Carolina delegates ratified the United States Constitution in 1789 and he served in the state's House of Commons in addition to his service here in county government. Other tales include his friends Davey Crockett and Sam Houston. To learn more call 828-724-4948. Visit the beautiful home at 1805 Highway 70 West in Marion.
McDowell Arts & Crafts Association: Gallery exhibits include local and national artists' works. Local craftsmen show and sell pottery, woodwork, photographs, original paintings and sculpture. Free admission. Call 828-652-8610 for current gallery information and special events.
Meadowbrook Nursery/We-De Natives: Unique agri-tourism destination for plant and history buffs. Located on Polly Sprout Road, the site touts a colorful past including stories of Polly and her descendants. Plan a tour of this nursery/tree farm, which specializes in native and heirloom varieties of flora and fauna. Picnic by the lake after walking through the 25+ year old display gardens. For a guided tour, call 828-738-8300 for appointments or email info@we-du.com. More information is available at http://www.we-du.com.
Mountain Gateway Museum: Old Fort is home to the state run museum exhibiting mountain lifestyle and history from the earliest inhabitants to the twentieth century. Summer muse programs, festivals and a variety of other activities are held here and at the outdoor, amphitheater on Mill Creek. Exhibits include handmade musical instruments and artifacts used during the expansion of the railroad. 828-668-9259
Old Fort Arrowhead Monument: Built in 1930 in the center of Old Fort, built in 1930 this hand chiseled granite monument served to honor the peace finally achieved between the pioneer settlers and the Native Americans. At the unveiling, over 6,000 people attended including chiefs from both the Catawba and Cherokee tribes. These two tribes had never smoked a pipe of peace together until that day. More historical information is at the Mountain Gateway Museum. 828-668-9259.
The Orchard at Altapass: Legendary Charlie McKinney made his home here. Now, the site is much more than a century old apple orchard, rather visitors can take home unforgettable memories of bluegrass music, hay rides, clogging, mountain cooking, area artists and craftsmen, original plays, storytelling and much more. www.altapassorchard.com 888-765-9531
South Creek Vineyards and Winery: Quaint, locally owned winery offers a variety of red and white wines. Tasting and tours available Thursday, Friday, Saturday 11:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. and Sunday from 2:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. Details are online at http://www.southcreekwinery.com or call 828-652-5729 or 828-4600-8120.
The Marion Depot: A 1860s building currently under renovation. It is the oldest surviving depot on the western rail line. Take the "Walking Tour of Historic Marion" and stop by the depot. Watch for the announcement to re-open the depot soon. For details contact the Marion Downtown Business Association at 828-652-2215.
Old Fort's train depot: Located in the heart of town directly behind the historic "Arrowhead" this depot is also undergoing renovations. The bright yellow building is hard to miss. Park the car, enjoy the view and visit local shops. More information is with the Old Fort Chamber of Commerce at 828-668-7223.
Buried Treasures
Carolina Emerald Mine & Vein Mtn. Gold Camp: Unsalted gold & gemstone mine plus campground, fishing lake and gift shop. Open April-October. Polly Spout Road, south of Marion. 828-738-9544 http://www.home.wnclink.com/gemmine
Emerald Village: Emerald Village and the N.C. Mining Museum are located at the Big McKinney and Bon Ami mines in Little Switzerland. Forty-five different rocks, minerals and gems have been found here. 828-765-6463
Heather Grove Mine: Gold and gem panning facility with sluicing, dredging and high banking. Family oriented fun open year round with heated facilities, camping and cabin rentals. Polly Spout Road, south of Marion. 828-738-3373 http://www.heathergrovegold.com
Linville Mountain Gem Shop: Professional stone cutters, lapidary machines and lessons, gold smithing and repair. Gem panning available. Open year round. US 221 in North Cove, one mile south of Linville Caverns. 828-756-7206
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 www.theluckystrike.com
Thermal City: Gold mine, riverside camping, hot showers, panning, dredging, sluicing, detecting, gem mining. US 221, south of Marion on the McDowell/Rutherford County line. http:// www.HuntForGold.com 828-286-3016
Sources: http://bannerselk.com/attractions.php and http://www.mcdowellnc.org/attractionsdir.htm |
|
Grand Opening Fall 2008
Special pricing and privileges available for early reservations.
Contact us or use the online property map to check availability.
Inquire now! 828-756-GOLF
Directions (only 90 minutes from Charlotte) |
|
|
