Old Fort North Carolina

Discover Old Fort, North Carolina

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Where History Meets the Great Outdoors – Gateway to the Blue Ridge

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Nestled just east of Black Mountain and only a short drive from Asheville, Old Fort, NC is more than just a mountain town—it’s a portal into North Carolina’s rich past and adventurous present. Often called the “Gateway to the Mountains,” Old Fort is a charming, historic community where trains once brought life, and where travelers now come to reconnect with nature, heritage, and small-town charm.

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A Legacy Built on Rails & Resilience

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Founded in the early 1800s, Old Fort played a key role in the expansion of rail travel across the Blue Ridge Mountains. When the railroad was extended in the late 1800s, Old Fort became the vital connection between Western North Carolina and the rest of the state, linking Asheville to the eastern Piedmont and coast. The famous rail line through the Swannanoa Gap required incredible engineering—some of which is still in use today—and the Old Fort Train Depot, now a museum, honors this powerful legacy.

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Small Town Vibes, Big Outdoor Adventures

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Downtown Old Fort may be small, but it’s packed with personality. You’ll find locally loved eateries, artisan shops, and a strong sense of community around every corner. Grab a pint at Hillman Beer Old Fort, relax under the mural-covered walls, or check out the latest updates on the second brewery under construction—a sign of the town’s ongoing revival.

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But the real treasure lies just beyond the town’s limits. Old Fort is a paradise for hikers, bikers, and outdoor lovers. Home to the Catawba Falls Trail, this area draws nature seekers from all over the region to enjoy one of the most stunning waterfall hikes in the Blue Ridge. New trail systems and biking parks continue to be developed thanks to dedicated local efforts.

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Art, Culture & Authentic Community

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Stroll through town and you’ll notice murals that tell stories, historic buildings that whisper tales, and locals who wave like they’ve known you forever. The area is building a name for itself in the arts and outdoors community, and organizations like Mountain Gateway Museum and G5 Trail Collective are helping fuel that growth.

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Ready for Your Custom Tour?

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Whether you’re looking to trace the footsteps of railroad history, capture the beauty of the Appalachian wilderness, or grab bites and brews in a town that’s quietly thriving—Old Fort belongs on your itinerary.

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We at To Asheville & Beyond offer custom-curated tours in and around Old Fort, including:

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• Historic walking & photography tours

• Hiking & waterfall experiences

• Mountain biking adventures

• Brewery & food crawls

• River & fly-fishing location scouting

• “Off-the-beaten-path” local favorite tours

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📍 Old Fort, NC – The Heart of History, Trails & Community
🎒 Let us help you explore it like a local. Contact us today to book your custom tour or experience in Old Fort.

See these other posts about Old Fort North Carolina

Kiddle – Old Fort North Carolina Facts for Kids

McDowell County Oral History – Old Fort NC

NC Tripping – Catawba Falls in Old Fort NC

When visiting Old Fort NC, you should definitely stay at the beautiful Inn on Mill Creek if they have any rooms available. This property is amazing and features gardens, a lake, and a walkway through the woods.

Restaurants are few but good in Old Fort NC. Hillman expanded from Asheville and opened a brewery/eatery downtown. Mustard’s Last Stand is a great place to grab a bite & then head to Catawba Falls. Dessert anyone? You must make a stop at Mr. Bob’s Donuts!

The great outdoors is one the main attractions of Old Fort NC. From hiking, to biking, to waterfalls. Make sure you see the Andrew’s Geyser landmark on your visit. The Old Fort Trails Project is also underway and we cannot wait for that to become a reality!

You will want to do a walking tour on the streets of downtown Old Fort as they are lined with street murals. The main installation is an Albert Joyner mural located on the side of an old silent theatre. Also see Arrowhead Gallery, which is a nice shop filled with amazing art.

Old Fort NC is a wonderful place to camp. Make sure you check out Catawba Falls Campground as they have spots for your RV, tents, and also these cute little cabins in the woods! Curtis Creek Campground is also nearby.

Check out our Old Fort NC Tours!

Catawba Falls is a beautiful waterfall, with a bunch of streams and waterfalls on the hike to get to it. It is always a great adventure on this hike. Our local team can also do a waterfall tour for you and your group, taking photos and videos along the way.