Welcome to McDowell County, an area overflowing with mountain heritage, outdoor adventures, and notable craftsmanship among the North Carolina Foothills. Follow along as we travel through the heart of McDowell County — the towns of Old Fort and Marion — showcasing the exceptional artists, galleries, and studios that form a crucial part of the celebrated Blue Ridge Craft Trails.
McDowell is sometimes referred to as the “Gateway to the Mountains,” serving as a connecting point between the Piedmont region and the Blue Ridge Mountains. Before the Revolutionary War, settlers and pioneers often stopped in the area or chose to settle down. This itinerary is organized to flow naturally from town to town, guiding you through the charming towns of Old Fort and Marion, and up to Little Switzerland.
Old Fort—The Gateway to the Mountains
Your cultural exploration begins in Old Fort, a historic railroad and frontier town that is bursting with art, creativity, and music.
Begin your journey at the Arrowhead Artists and Artisans League (A3L). More than just a gallery, A3L is a thriving nonprofit that showcases works from local painters, sculptors, jewelers, and fiber artists. It presents exhibits and shows with changing themes, and it offers workshop space and classes for burgeoning makers. Anyone can drop by to find someone making or to browse locally handmade items for sale. Come for the art, but stay for the community and cultural immersion.
Next, take a scenic drive to Turtle Island Pottery, fueled by the creative passions of Maggie and Freeman Jones. The couple has been creating functional and fantastic stoneware since 1980, and they have developed a signature style — sturdy pieces with an opaque white glaze. You will often find hints of nature included on the pieces, such as hand-brushed blue flowers and delicate dragonflies. Their private studio provides visitors with a glimpse into the work of Appalachian potters.
Another potter lives up the road at Grove Hill Pottery & Farm. Leslie Bradsher moved to her historic family farm (established in 1839) after leaving a corporate job in 2005. Since then, Bradsher has not only expanded her pottery products but also her kiln collection and small farm, which features Nigerian dwarf pygmy goats, Angora goats, and Alpacas. In true craftsman form, one skill led to another, and the fiber from some of the animals is turned into handspun yarn and felted into accessories.
An artist’s surroundings often play a significant role in their creativity. The communities of McDowell thrive in part thanks to the active outdoor and historical aspects found all around. The G5 Trail Collective is based in Old Fort, with a significant presence of mountain bike trails within the Grandfather Ranger District of Pisgah National Forest. Nearby is also a favorite among hikers, Catwaba Falls, a gorgeous waterfall and the headwaters for the Catawba River. There are several trail options and routes that hikers can take to view both Upper and Lower Catawba Falls.
Outdoor recreation draws many visitors to the region, although initially, travelers came for different reasons. Discover more about the early settlements and travellers to the area while spending time at the Mountain Gateway Museum and Davidson’s Fort Historic Park. Both feature exhibits, historic buildings, and replicas, as well as occasional events. For even more art and history, follow the self-guided tour of the Appalachian Mural Trail, which features several murals that chronicle local history.
Marion—Culture and History on Main Street
Begin your Marion visit at the McDowell Arts Council Association (MACA), the town’s cultural hub, located on South Main Street. MACA features rotating exhibits, and it hosts and supports a variety of events, including theater productions and workshops. The on-site shop is a treasure trove of unique works by local artists, making it an essential stop for understanding the breadth of the region’s creative talent.
Following history throughout McDowell County is easy, thanks to the abundance of historical sites. The Historic Carson House is a beautifully preserved antebellum mansion dating back to the late 18th century. Guests can take guided tours throughout the house and property to learn about the domestic and political life of the Carson family, as well as notable visitors from the pioneer, revolutionary, and Civil War eras. The Carson House also hosts several events each year and is available for meetings and gatherings. It also serves as the Interpretative Center and Genealogical Research facility.
Before leaving Marion, complete your journey on the Appalachian Mural Trail by exploring the Founders Art Walk downtown. Then, explore the rural scenery by setting out on the McDowell Barn Quilt Trail. This self-guided driving tour showcases large, brightly painted quilt blocks displayed on barns and historic buildings, connecting you with the Blue Ridge Heritage throughout the area.
Little Switzerland and the Blue Ridge Parkway
Conclude your journey with a magnificent high-altitude stop along the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Head up to the second floor of Little Switzerland Books and Beans to find the Artisan League of Little Switzerland (ALLS). This gallery exclusively features handmade works from residents, including ceramics, fiber arts, jewelry, and paintings. The exceptional mountain views from this location provide a stunning backdrop that has inspired generations of mountain artists.
Just down the Blue Ridge Parkway at Milepost 328.3, you will find The Orchard at Altapass. This non-profit historic heirloom apple orchard is a living testament to mountain heritage, dedicated to preserving local history, lore, and traditional Appalachian music. Spring through Fall, enjoy free live music on the pavilion stage, or take a scenic Storytelling Hayride to soak in the natural and cultural history of the area. It’s one of the best ways to round out a day in McDowell County.
Upcoming Additions to the Blue Ridge Craft Trails
The Craft Trails are constantly growing… faster than we can even keep up with. Western North Carolina is filled with creativity, and McDowell County is no exception. Here are a few destinations to keep an eye on.
Nanu Gallery (Old Fort): This contemporary gallery is the collaborative space and studio of artist Katie McWeeney (KMcW Studio). Nanu Gallery is dedicated to hosting curated exhibits and workshops.
Mackey Mud Creek (Old Fort): Jessie Mackey established her pottery studio, Macky Mud Creek, right in her backyard. Her wheel-thrown ceramics feature a rustic style with detailed designs.
Appalachian Remedies (Marion): This local shop offers a selection of natural products and traditional art, including stained glass and woven textiles. Visitors can also get the chance to weave their own items.
Looking for more? Learn about all of the events and news in McDowell County’s towns: Old Fort, Marion, Little Switzerland, Nebo, Lake James, and Linville Falls Community. Visit Destination McDowell for more information, and download the Mountain Made: A Guide to McDowell County Arts.
Address: 91 South Catawba Avenue, Old Fort, NC 28762
Hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm and Saturdays, 9:00 am – 2:00 pm
Email: info@destinationmcdowell.com
Phone: 828-668-4282
Not To Be Missed
- NC Gold Festival (June in Marion): The Lucky Strike Gold and Gem Mine holds this annual two-day event to celebrate North Carolina’s history as the site of America’s first gold rush. Activities include gold mining equipment demonstrations, panning contests, historic tours, live music, and craft and food vendors.
- Marion Livermush Festival (June in Marion): A unique celebration of a true regional delicacy—livermush (a loaf made of pig liver, cornmeal, and spices). Give yourself time to try livermush delicacies as well as other food truck plates while enjoying live music, local crafts, and Hog Calling and Pig Squealing Contests.
- Old Fort Trails & Trains (June in Old Fort): Celebrating Old Fort’s dual heritage as a vital railroad town and a major outdoor recreation destination, this festival highlights the combined histories of the town’s railroad and outdoor trails. The multi-day event features guided hikes, historic depot tours, a vendor village showcasing outdoor gear, and mountain bike film screenings, as well as yoga and more. And don’t miss the Rails & Rhythms Bluegrass Night! Join the community in an evening filled with free bluegrass music performed by some of the region’s favorite musicians.
- Juneteenth Freedom Festival (June in Marion): Organized by the West Marion Community Forum, this multi-day event commemorates the ending of slavery in the United States by celebrating African American culture, heritage, and freedom through education and entertainment. Some past events have included pageants, brunches, and a festival day with food trucks, local art, performances, and a community worship service.
- WNC Bigfoot Festival (August in Marion): This quirky annual festival attracts thousands of Bigfoot enthusiasts, skeptics, and the cryptid-curious. Started by local Bigfoot researchers, the festival features vendors, educational panels with experts, a Bigfoot Calling Contest, live entertainment, and food.
- Mountain Glory Festival (October in Marion): A premier autumn celebration, this long-running festival draws crowds to downtown Marion for three blocks packed with over 150 craft, food, and sponsor booths. It features two stages of local music, a popular “Kid’s Korner” with activities, and the annual Mountain Glory Quilt Show hosted inside the McDowell Arts Council. It is the perfect blend of small-town charm and authentic mountain craftsmanship.
- Fall Arts and Crafts Market – Artisan League of Little Switzerland (October in Little Switzerland): This annual market includes the work of the members of the Artisan League. The league closes up shop in November, bracing for the colder weather and wintry roads of the Blue Ridge Parkway. This is their last big event for the season.
- Appalachian Potters Market (December in Marion): This market has been hosted annually by the MACA since 1986. Each December, dozens of Appalachian potters sell their wares at McDowell High School. Styles and sizes of every kind — bowls, cups, plates, mugs, ornaments, and more — can be found at this beautiful display of clay creations. The event, which has a $5 entry fee, serves as a fundraiser for MACA.
Take a closer look at Blue Ridge Craft Trails locations and McDowell County by checking out this itinerary’s YouTube playlist.
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