Safety measures for tourists in McDowell County are important to make your stay comfortable
and
secure. Here are a few recommendations:
1. Beware of pickpockets.
2. Avoid dark and deserted areas at night.
3. Use official taxis or ride-hailing apps.
4. Only use official exchange points or banks for currency
exchange.
5. Respect local laws and customs.
6. Drink bottled water.
7. Be cautious when crossing roads, as drivers may not always follow traffic
rules.
McDowell County is a scenic Blue Ridge Mountains destination filled with natural beauty, rich history, and small-town charm. Whether you're hiking to waterfalls, exploring mountain overlooks, or stepping back in time at historic sites, here are some must-see attractions:
A historic gravity-fed fountain built in 1885 to honor railroad workers, rediscovered and restored as a charming roadside park.
Stunning twin waterfalls (over 100 ft combined) in Pisgah National Forest with a family-friendly trail featuring bridges, stairs, and scenic views.
An easy 0.7-mile round-trip hike to a beautiful 60-ft cascading waterfall with an observation deck—perfect for families.
Iconic multi-tier waterfall along the Blue Ridge Parkway, with several viewing platforms and trails through Linville Gorge Wilderness.
A 70-ft cascade along the Blue Ridge Parkway; the trail includes a footbridge and wildflower meadows through a rugged gorge.
Gateway to mountain backcountry, offering access to serene forest paths and vistas within Pisgah National Forest.
A developing regional trail connecting communities via hiking and biking routes through the scenic Carborro Valley.
A riverfront trail in Marion that combines history and recreation, named after local pioneer Joseph McDowell.
Starting point for hiking into quiet woodlands with views of river bluffs and riparian habitats.
Trailhead leading to rugged mountain biking and hiking trails, suitable for moderate to experienced users.
Access point for scenic walking and biking trails along the Catawba River in the town of Marion.
A former railway corridor now repurposed into a gentle walking and cycling path through wooded countryside.
Convenient access point to the Tom's Creek Falls Trail—ample parking makes it ideal for families and easy hikes.
North Carolina’s iconic 1,175-mile trail traversing the state; the western segment passes through Pisgah National Forest near McDowell.
A community park in Old Fort offering walking paths, picnic areas, and river views—great for relaxation or a family outing.
Scenic mountain highway cutting through McDowell County, offering dramatic views and access to trails, towns, and overlooks. U.S. Route 321 runs through McDowell County, North Carolina. It enters the county at Swannanoa Gap and crosses the Eastern Continental Divide. The route then continues through the county, eventually reaching the Tennessee state line.
A family-run working farm and Airbnb guesthouse near Old Fort, in operation since 1788. Visitors can enjoy farm tours, interact with goats and chickens, and experience rural mountain life firsthand
The only show caverns in North Carolina, located just south of Linville Falls. Guided tours lead through limestone formations and an underground stream inside Humpback Mountain. Open year-round with informative guides
Built in 1812, this restored Federal-style brick home once belonged to Captain Charles McDowell, Jr. It portrays 19th-century plantation life and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places
Perched on the rim of Linville Gorge at about 3,400 ft elevation, this overlook offers breathtaking canyon views. Accessible via a short paved trail off a rough forest service road—best reached with high-clearance vehicles
Often called “America’s Favorite Drive,” the Blue Ridge Parkway winds through the mountains of western North Carolina, offering breathtaking overlooks, hiking trails, waterfalls, and picnic areas. In McDowell County and nearby regions, it connects travelers to Linville Falls, Crabtree Falls, and the Little Switzerland area. The Parkway is especially popular in fall for leaf-peeping and scenic drives, with access points near Marion and Spruce Pine.
A public display of life-size replicas of the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights—part of a national patriotic educational initiative
