Exploring The Blue Ridge Parkway

Learn more about exploring the beautiful Blue Ridge Parkway in the Blue Ridge Traveler's Visitor Guide. Download a free guide!

Blue Ridge Traveler is now: Destination McDowell

McDowell County Adventure Map

Discover the beauty of our diverse landscapes and uncover the unique charm of each town with the McDowell County Towns and Trails Map as your guide.

Brown Mountain Lights: A Blue Ridge Mystery

Move over, Bigfoot — there’s more than one unexplained phenomenon in the Blue Ridge Mountains and that's the Brown Mountain Lights!

Area Hiking and Waterfall Trails

Pisgah National Forest has more than 67,000 acres for you to explore! For hiking and biking trails, as well as where to find amenities, download a map!

A Blue Ridge Traveler’s Guide to a Three-Day Mountain Escape

Whether this is your first trip to our neck of the woods or you’re returning to some of your favorite spots, this three-day Blue Ridge itinerary is sure to help you make some memories and discover something new.

Best Sunset Spots in McDowell County, NC

Discover the best sunset spots near Marion, NC, and across McDowell County's Blue Ridge Mountains - from Lake James sunset cruises to Hawksbill Mountain, Little Switzerland, and scenic Blue Ridge Parkway overlooks.

Why McDowell County, N.C., Belongs on Your Fall Travel Must-do List

"Rediscover the Unforgettable” this fall with scenic drives for spectacular leaf color, mountain biking, birding, disc golf, festivals and spooky season fun