“Rediscover the Unforgettable” this fall with scenic drives for spectacular leaf color, mountain biking, birding, disc golf, festivals and spooky season fun
Old Fort, N.C. (Aug. 19, 2025) - As the Blue Ridge Mountains come alive with shades of red and gold, McDowell County, N.C., invites travelers to experience the area’s unique and jaw-dropping displays of fall color, seasonal spooky legends, and fresh experiences throughout the heart of North Carolina's Blue Ridge Mountains and picturesque foothills.
Following a summer of resilience and regrowth post Hurricane Helene, N.C. Gov. Josh Stein’s statewide “Rediscover the Unforgettable” campaign reflects the momentum in McDowell County. With new sections of the Blue Ridge Parkway and trail development expanding in Old Fort and other areas of the county, fall 2025 promises not just scenic beauty, but true adventure.
Long fall color season and scenic drives
With fall stretching from late September to early November - thanks to Western North Carolina’s deciduous trees, diverse mountain elevations, and the vast Pisgah National Forest - those who seek brilliant fall color can easily find it in McDowell County. For fall travel planning, Destination McDowell will begin publishing a weekly Fall Color Report on Sept. 11 on its website.
McDowell offers some of the most beautiful roadways to explore while hunting for fall color. Its top scenic drives include:
- U.S. 221 to Wiseman's View in the Linville Gorge - This view offers a panoramic view where you can see some of the county’s most rugged landscape.
- Drive to Lake James - Start in Marion on Highway 221 and drive to Highway 221 North. Then hop on Hankins Road, which will point you toward Lake James along its hilly, winding road and sweeping turns around the lake.
- NC 226-A - also known as the Diamondback - is a favorite for motorcyclists and drivers chasing curves and fall color. Expect more than 190 curves, including numerous hairpins and switchbacks.
Fall fun indoors and out
Hiking, mountain biking, and waterfalls: These adventures are abundant in McDowell County, allowing for treks through lush forest trails to Catawba Falls or the serene Tom’s Creek Falls. Both offer a rewarding mix of natural beauty and accessible paths.
Mountain Biking: Mountain bikers who seek thrilling downhill rides, Kitsuma Peak over-delivers with sweeping views just outside Old Fort. Pisgah National Forest’s growing network of purpose-built trails promises fast-flowing fun for all skill levels. Hikers can also hit the scenic Point Lookout Trail, a paved greenway perfect for a peaceful stroll or bike ride with panoramic mountain vistas.
Bird watching: McDowell County’s location along the Atlantic Flyway makes it a prime destination for fall birdwatching. At Linville Falls, visitors can spot Osprey, Belted Kingfisher, and Wood Duck. The historic Orchard at Altapass hosts Indigo Bunting, Eastern Bluebird, Cedar Waxwing, Rose-breasted Grosbeak, and a variety of woodpeckers.
Antiquing: Antique lovers will enjoy exploring Lake James Antique Mall, a vast treasure trove of vintage finds. In Old Fort, Sheehan’s Estate Sales and Auction opens twice monthly with eclectic estate collections. Other favorites include Books and Beans in Little Switzerland and Time Travelers Trading Company in Marion.
Embracing North Carolina’s reputation as “First in Fright”
There’s a reason North Carolina is "First in Fright" - with places like McDowell County nestled in the eerily quiet shadows of the Blue Ridge Mountains, magic and mystery lurk in the valleys, forests and streams. In the heart of Southern Appalachia, folklore and spooky happenings are just a part of the county’s history. Home to one of the largest Bigfoot and cryptid festivals in the American south, McDowell has experienced numerous Bigfoot, Dogman (a large, bi-pedal cryptid possibly related to Bigfoot), UFO, and cryptid sightings over the past 100 years.
Strike out on a hunt to discover the county’s “weird” phenomena with Destination McDowell’s downloadable guide, Haunted Hollars: Monsters, Mysteries, and more in the Mountains of McDowell County, NC. It provides suggestions and a map to finding spooky locations, including a quest to see the Brown Mountain Lights, a long-standing mystery in the Linville Gorge, visible from Wisemans View. It also suggests traveling to Linville Caverns beneath Humpback Mountain to hear haunting tales of war. Numerous Bigfoot and Dogman sightings have been made in Lake James, and the Marion Train Depot, which was active through the Civil War and Industrial era, and is now home to a few curious spirits. In 2019, an alleged Dogman sighting occurred near the old mill structures next to Tom Creek Falls.
What’s New in McDowell County
- And speaking of Bigfoot, the new Bigfoot Books & Brews in Marion offers a one-of-a-kind hangout featuring craft beer, offbeat literature, and community events. Visitors can sip craft beer and swap cryptid stories at monthly author nights.
- Old Fancy, a retail boutique carrying clothing for men and women, hats, and home decor items, has opened in Old Fort in a historic downtown building at 66 E. Main St., home to Gibbs True Value Hardware for many years.
- Foothills Watershed in Old Fort is a new community gathering space with a network of bike trails (dirt jumps and pump tracks), a natural pond, an expansive yard with lawn chairs, picnic tables, and access to a meandering section of the Catawba River, the park offers with live music, food by Chef Luis Martinez and Culinary Director Eric Morris in a relaxed, outdoor setting.
Signature Fall Events in McDowell County, N.C.
Visiting McDowell County during the fall is a spectacular time to experience some of the region’s best festivals. Here are a few highlights, and more at this link.
Held at Camp Grier in Old Fort, this is the original and longest-running Onewheel gathering in the country. Riders of all skill levels participate in races, group rides and clinics with pros. This year's event will start with a “mass start” race from downtown Old Fort, with glow-in-the-dark disc golf, live music, and other lakeside activities.
Hosted by the McDowell Arts Council Association, this short-film festival spotlights independent filmmakers from the region and beyond. It prides itself on showcasing work that defies conventional categories and emphasizes authentic storytelling. The event is held at the Historic Marion Train Depot, 45 Depot Street in Marion.
A scenic footrace during peak leaf season, beginning in Black Mountain and finishing in Old Fort. Runners pass the iconic Andrews Geyser and end at Hillman Beer for hot soup and cold beer. Start time is 8 a.m. at Lake Tomahawk Park, Black Mountain
This third-generation family farm in Nebo opens its pumpkin patch every Saturday and Sunday beginning Sept. 28. A half-mile haunted trail and corn maze are available every Friday and Saturday night in October. Admission is $15 per experience. Activities include hayrides, inflatables, games, concessions, and more.
One of McDowell County’s longest-running festivals that celebrates mountain culture, the Morning Glory Festival in downtown Marion hosts more than 150 arts and crafts vendors, live music, a quilt show, food trucks, and a beloved pet costume contest. Family fun with a children’s play area and more.
- North Cove Leisure Club and Grey Eagle present Colors In The Cove, Oct. 25
Framed by the Blue Ridge Mountains of McDowell County, North Cove Disc Golf & Leisure Club in Marion plans a celebration of western North Carolina’s music and beauty with the 65 North Pickers and Suns of Stars. Visit this link for more information.
Camp Grier is hosting a lakeside concert series that blends mountain beauty with top-tier regional music. Come early, explore the trails, paddle the lake, then settle in for a laid-back afternoon of live performances in the heart of Old Fort. Gates open at noon, music begins at 3 p.m. Day Pass + Music tickets are available. Kids 12 and under enter free. Sept. 7: Alexa Rose + Blue Cactus; Oct. 19: Pink Beds + Sounding Arrow. Visit this link for tickets and information.
A preservation orchard with some trees nearly 100 years old and still producing heirloom apples, the Orchard at Altapass presents live music performances with Appalachian tunes and storytelling along the Blue Ridge Parkway on fall weekends.
Overnight stays? Book now for Fall!
Visitors have a variety of lodging options in McDowell County including vacation rentals, guest houses and cabins that range from rustic hideaways to waterfront homes or luxury rentals in gated communities. Log homes, B&Bs, campgrounds, locally owned motels and national brand hotels are also available near Interstate 40. Check out this Three-Day Itinerary in McDowell County for inspiration.
Free McDowell County Travel Guide
For more information about McDowell County and things to do while visiting, a free travel guide is available for download at this link.
For maps, lodging, trail updates, and event info, visit destinationmcdowell.com
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About Destination McDowell
Formerly known as Blue Ridge Traveler, Destination McDowell is the official tourism resource for McDowell County, dedicated to showcasing the beauty, culture, and outdoor adventure of this iconic Western North Carolina region.
About McDowell County, N.C.
McDowell County, N.C., is located at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains and Foothills of Western North Carolina. It is home to an abundance of natural beauty with nearly 200 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails, charming small towns, and cultural experiences that celebrate its rich Southern Appalachian history. With easy access to the Blue Ridge Parkway and the graceful bends and turns of the Catawba River, moments of awe and beauty are plentiful throughout the county. More information about McDowell County, N.C., may be found at www.destinationmcdowell.com.
