Rutherford County Tourism Development Authority

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.