Black Mountain North Carolina

A Historic Gateway to the Blue Ridge

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Just 15 miles east of Asheville, Black Mountain is a picturesque town nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Known as the “Front Porch of Western North Carolina,” this charming community offers a blend of rich history, vibrant arts, and stunning natural landscapes.

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Historical Roots

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Originally inhabited by the Cherokee people, the area now known as Black Mountain was later settled by European pioneers in the 18th century. The town was incorporated in 1893, named after the nearby Black Mountain range. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century transformed Black Mountain into a vital link between the mountains and the rest of North Carolina, fostering growth and prosperity.

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Downtown Charm

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Black Mountain’s downtown district is a delightful mix of historic architecture and modern amenities. Visitors can explore a variety of local shops, art galleries, and eateries. Notable establishments include the old-fashioned Town Hardware and General Store, which has been serving the community since the 1920s . The downtown area is also home to the Black Mountain Center for the Arts, housed in the former town hall building, offering a range of cultural programs and exhibitions.

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Natural Beauty

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Surrounded by the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains, Black Mountain is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Lake Tomahawk, located just a few blocks from downtown, features a scenic half-mile walking trail with views of Graybeard Mountain and the Seven Sisters range . The nearby town of Montreat offers additional hiking opportunities, including the popular Lookout Trail, which provides panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape.

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Culinary Delights and Local Brews

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Black Mountain boasts a diverse culinary scene, with options ranging from homestyle Southern cooking to international cuisine. Local favorites include Louise’s Kitchen, known for its hearty breakfasts, and Cousins Cuban Cafe, offering authentic Cuban dishes . The town is also home to several craft breweries and cideries, such as Pisgah Brewing Company and Black Mountain Cider + Mead, where visitors can sample locally produced beverages.

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Arts and Culture

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Black Mountain has a rich artistic heritage, influenced by the legacy of Black Mountain College, an experimental institution that operated from 1933 to 1957 and attracted prominent artists and thinkers. Today, the town continues to celebrate the arts through various galleries, studios, and cultural events. The Swannanoa Valley Museum and History Center offers insights into the region’s past, while the annual Sourwood Festival showcases local crafts, music, and food.

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Whether you’re drawn by its historical significance, artistic vibrancy, or natural splendor, Black Mountain provides a welcoming and enriching experience for all who visit.

Read these articles about Black Mountain North Carolina

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AHBI features Black Mountain in 10 Places You Must Stop In & Around Asheville

Southeast Discovery writes about 6 Reasons to Live in Black Mountain NC

Black Mountain NC has plenty of tasty restaurants to choose from. Our media team is out in this area regularly, but we will be touring the area in depth soon and bringing some amazing eats to your screen. Check out Que Sera for a fine dining experience, Fresh Wood Fired Pizza is so good, Cousin’s Cuban Cafe is a delicious lunch spot, and Louise’s Kitchen is a yummy comfort food cafe. And if you can get there before they sell out daily, the Black Mountain Doughnut Factory is WOW!

The Black Mountain brewery scene is pretty crafty. Their signature spot is Pisgah Brewing and has an outdoor venue area for concerts. Then you have Black Mountain Brewing which has a huge Roberta Flack mural on the side of the building. Lookout Brewing Company is another great spot with food trucks featured regularly. Other beer spots include the Black Mountain Ale House & Kitchen, and also Seven Sisters Tap Room.

Looking for a custom tour and a great experience in Black Mountain North Carolina? Our team is based in the area and can easily accommodate you and your group. The lake, hiking, shopping, fishing, eating, drinking, visiting landmarks, and even some nightlife at the White Horse. We can also take photos and videos during your Black Mountain NC tour. Contact us for pricing and availability.

Black Mountain is definitely a great outdoors community. Lake Tomahawk is right next to the golf course and has an open pavilion for gatherings, a playground, and a pool. There is also a dog park right next to the train tracks, with river access. We enjoy biking through the downtown area and then going up to Montreat, which features a bunch of great hiking trails, tennis courts, a baseball field, a playground for the kids, and beautiful Lake Susan featuring a dam waterfall.

Black Mountain is definitely an artsy community, and sprinkled with antiques. So many artists and crafters have businesses in the area and there are also many private studios. Looking to tour the art scene? See the Black Mountain Center for the Arts, Black Mountain Iron Works, The Red House Studios, The Dancing Dragonfly, and the Visions of Creations Gallery which features amazing jewelry.

Black Mountain has plenty of vacation rentals, bed & breakfast houses, and Airbnb properties to choose from. See the Black Mountain Inn, the Hampton Inn, the Monte Vista Hotel, and the Red Rocker Inn. Also check out these Airbnb properties in Blk Mtn. You can also stay at the Inn on Mill Creek, which is right over the mountain in the town of Old Fort NC, which is about 15 minutes away.