Andrews Geyser

McDowell Tourism Development in Old Fort, NC is a local organization dedicated to promoting the natural beauty and outdoor adventures of McDowell County. With a focus on the Pisgah National Forest and the Blue Ridge Parkway, they offer a range of alternative waterfall and hiking trails for visitors to explore. From cozy winter getaways to high spirits tasting experiences, McDowell Tourism Development provides a variety of activities and attractions for travelers to enjoy in this mountain community. As a trusted resource for travel inspiration and information, McDowell Tourism Development offers a free travel guide that showcases the top 25 things to do in the area, including lodging options and upcoming events. Whether visitors are seeking breathtaking views, outdoor adventures, or a taste of local craftsmanship, McDowell Tourism Development is the go-to source for discovering the hidden gems of McDowell County.Generated from the website

Our visitor center provides free visitor guides, maps, magazines and area attraction, lodging and tourism related service information detailing properties and trails inside our region of the Pisgah National Forest. Of the more than 500,000 acres, our region includes approximately 67,000 acres of protected forest lands. The Blue Ridge Parkway borders our northern region, between Linville Falls and Mt. Mitchell State Park. Visitors enjoy stops at the Orchard at Altapass, Little Switzerland, Crabtree Falls and other attractions. This section of the county is best enjoyed between April and the end of December. Due to its higher elevations, outdoor recreation may be a challenge. Check with us on current conditions. Old Fort, Marion and Lake James offer year-round activities and outdoor recreation. You'll find local museums, state parks, historic downtown areas, art galleries and more. Hiking, waterfall and mountain biking trails are accessible during the majority of the year, due to mild winter weather. Our website provides a local event calendar, a variety of lodging properties ranging from larger, national chains to individually owned motels, B&Bs, inns, cabins and cottages. Plus, we offer a variety of public and private campgrounds. Call us with questions and visit our website.