Explore the Best of the Blue Ridge Mountains
Sitting in the center of Western North Carolina, the Appalachian Dream Cabin gives you quick and easy access to the best this area has to offer, so you can have an unforgettable experience. Wake up to the scent of fresh mountain air, spend your day hiking to hidden waterfalls or kayaking on Lake James, then top it off by sitting next to the ones you love, enjoying the quiet crackle of the warm fire under the stars.
Outdoor Adventures & Hiking Trails
If you love the outdoors, then there’s certainly no limit to the amount of adventure you will find in Marion, NC. The Blue Ridge Mountains are packed with refreshing nature trails, breathtaking waterfalls, and scenic overlooks just minutes from the cabin.
- Blue Ridge Parkway (25 min)
- One of America’s most (if not the best) scenic drives, with stunning overlooks, hiking trails, and picnic spots.
- Mount Mitchell State Park (45 min)
- The highest peak in the Eastern U.S.
- (6,684 ft). Hike to the summit or enjoy an easy scenic drive!
- Catawba Falls (20 min)
- A beautiful waterfall hike with an easy-to-moderate trail—perfect for families.
- Linville Falls & Gorge (40 min)
- This is one of the most photographed waterfalls in North Carolina, with multiple scenic viewpoints.
- Pisgah National Forest (30 min)
- Over 500,000 acres of hiking, waterfalls, and breathtaking mountain scenery.
- Tom’s Creek Falls
- A beautiful, short nature trail that leads to a stunning 80 ft. waterfall.
Lake James & Water Activities (15 min)
Perfect for a day on the water, Lake James offers boating, fishing, and swimming in a gorgeous mountain setting. (There is a lifeguard on duty most of the time)
- Lake James State Park – Swim, kayak, or enjoy a warm lakeside picnic.
- Canoe & Kayak Rentals – Rent from Lake James Marina or Catawba River Outdoors.
- Fishing – Cast a line for bass, walleye, and catfish.
- Paddy’s Creek – (15 mins from Lake James)
Wineries, Breweries & Local Eats
After a fun day of adventure, unwind with quality wines, craft beers, and amazing local food.
- Nearby Wineries
- Silver Fork Vineyard (20 min) – Gorgeous vineyard with wine tastings & live music.
- South Creek Vineyards (25 min) – Elegant estate winery with rich Bordeaux-style wines.
- Craft Breweries
- Mica Town Brewing (5 min) – Cozy brewery with rotating craft beers & a great local vibe.
- Hillman Beer (15 min) – Laid-back brewery with a creekside beer garden & delicious food.
- Amazing Local Restaurants
- Bruce’s Fabulous Foods (5 min) – Famous for their homemade cheesecakes & comfort food.
- Crabby Abby’s Bar & Grill (10 min) – Casual spot for seafood, steaks & Southern dishes.
- Jalapeño Fresh Grill (7 min) – Highly rated Mexican restaurant with fresh flavors.
- Countryside BBQ (5 min) – Really good southern BBQ restaurant.
- Starbucks inside Ingles market (10 min) – For fresh morning (or afternoon) coffee!
- Las Salsas (5 min) – Another amazing Mexican restaurant nearby.
- Mi Morelia (5 min) – A restaurant with Americanized and Mexican plates, plus has a salsa bar and full bar.
Explore Downtown Marion (5 min)
Enjoy historic locations, boutique shopping, and delicious local eats in downtown Marion, NC.
- Historic Main Street – Antique shops, coffee spots & fun small-town vibes.
- McDowell Arts Council – Showcasing local artists & unique handcrafted gifts.
- Marion Tailgate Market – Local farmers’ market with fresh produce & handmade goods.
Seasonal & Family-Friendly Activities
Looking for a special experience during your stay? Here are just a few activities that will give you the best experience possible depending on the season:
Spring & Summer:
- Ziplining at The Gorge (50 min) – One of the steepest zipline courses in the U.S.
- Berry Picking at Perry’s Berry Farm (25 min) – Fresh blueberries & family fun.
Fall:
- Pumpkin Patches & Corn Mazes – Local farms offer fun fall festivals & hayrides.
- Blue Ridge Parkway Fall Foliage Drives – Late September to early November will show you breathtaking leaf colors.
Winter:
- Snow Tubing at Jonas Ridge (40 min)
- Snow tubing at Hawk’s Nest (55 min)
- Biltmore Estate Christmas (55 min) – Magical holiday lights & decorations at America’s largest home.
Plan Your Stay & Start Exploring!
From beautiful hiking trails and waterfalls to delicious local food & top-notch wineries, your Blue Ridge experience at the Appalachian Dream Cabin is guaranteed to be one for the books! Whether you want thrill, relaxation, or a bit of both, you will find everything you are looking for here in Marion, NC.
Book your dates today and see for yourself just how much you’ve been missing out on!
Appalachian Dream Cabin 