Just a stone’s throw from the vibrant hub of Asheville, the charming town of Old Fort, North Carolina, often flies under the radar. But for those in the know, this historic locale is a treasure trove of outdoor adventure, authentic local flavor, and captivating history, making it the perfect destination for a refreshing 48-hour escape. While many of our luxurious Yonder vacation rentals are conveniently located within a 30-45 minute drive, offering easy access to Old Fort’s delights, for those who crave even closer proximity, Mountain Sanctuary is just 10 minutes away or the tranquil beauty of The Sanctuary at Table Rock in nearby Marion, approximately 20 minutes, a comfortable and luxurious base for your Old Fort explorations. Prepare to discover why this unpretentious mountain town deserves a spot on your next Western North Carolina itinerary.
Day 1: Waterfalls, Trails, and Craft Brews
Our Old Fort adventure began with the promise of invigorating mountain air and the soothing sound of rushing water. Early on a crisp morning, we set out for the magnificent Catawba Falls. This gem, known for its majestic multi-tiered cascade, offers a rewarding experience for all skill levels. The hike here is a delightful 3+ mile loop, winding through lush forest alongside the Catawba River. On the way to the lower falls, you’ll pass a structure built in 1924 and used as a pump house generating electricity for the 12 residents of Old Fort at that time! The path is well-maintained, gradually ascending as the roar of the falls grows louder, building anticipation. Reaching the impressive lower falls, with water tumbling over ancient rock formations, is a truly breathtaking sight, a perfect reward for our morning exertion. It’s a place where you can genuinely feel connected to the raw beauty of the Blue Ridge.
Continuing up the 580 stairs is a workout, but worth it when you get to the top to see the upper falls and the swimming hole if you’re ok with some chilly mountain water!
Keep the hike going in a counter-clockwise direction on a well-groomed and wide path for another 2 miles, which takes you down to the parking lot.
After working up an appetite and a thirst for caffeine, we made our way to Seekers Coffee. This cozy spot, with its inviting aroma of freshly brewed beans, was the ideal post-hike sanctuary. We settled in, savouring a perfectly crafted cappuccino and a delightful, moist blueberry muffin. The relaxed atmosphere and friendly service set a wonderful tone for the day, providing that quintessential small-town coffee shop experience that feels miles away from the hustle and bustle.
Lunch brought us to Black Beary’s Cafe, a local favorite with a classic diner feel. This unpretentious eatery hit all the right notes, and our cheeseburger was everything you’d want in a hearty midday meal – juicy, flavorful, and perfectly cooked. But the true highlight, of course, was dessert: a double scoop of ice cream featuring the timeless combination of vanilla and chocolate. It was the perfect sweet treat to fuel our afternoon activities.
With appetites satisfied, it was time to embrace Old Fort’s growing reputation as a mountain biking hub. We headed to the Old Fort Gateway Trailhead, a fantastic entry point to miles of scenic trails designed for various skill levels. The ride through the verdant forest, with the sun dappling through the canopy, was exhilarating. The trails offer a great mix of challenge and flow, reminding us why WNC is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts. Afterwards, there’s nothing quite like a well-deserved cold one, and Whaley Farmhouse Brewery was the perfect spot. Their relaxed outdoor seating and refreshing craft brews were exactly what we needed to unwind after our ride, soaking in the mountain air and reliving the thrills of the trails.
As evening descended, our hunger led us to Hillman Beer. This popular brewery and eatery, known for its excellent craft beers and hearty menu, offers a welcoming atmosphere that balances rustic charm with modern comfort. We indulged in some seriously delicious comfort food: a robust Corned Beef and Cabbage, a surprisingly delightful egg roll, and a fresh, vibrant rice bowl with avocado. Each dish was expertly prepared, and of course, no visit to Hillman Beer in Old Fort is complete without sipping on their crisp and satisfying Old Fort Original Gold Lager. It was the perfect end to a day packed with activity, good food, and great company.
Day 2: History, Local Flavors, and Community Charm
Day two began with another essential Old Fort coffee experience, this time at Go-Go’s. Named after the grandmother of the owner, Wendy. Mary Golden was her original name, and then it evolved into “Goldie” until everyone in town called he Gogo! This charming spot quickly became a favorite for its warm vibe and, importantly, its delicious offerings. Our morning started perfectly with a generously sized, wonderfully flaky cinnamon roll paired with a robust, aromatic coffee. It was the ideal sweet and caffeinated start, fueling us for a dive into the local history.
Our next stop was the fascinating Mountain Gateway Museum. As North Carolina’s official state-owned and operated museum of Western North Carolina history, it offers a deep dive into the region’s rich past. The museum’s expansive grounds feature historic log structures that transport you back in time, showcasing authentic pioneer life. Inside, the exhibits are thoughtfully curated, covering everything from the early Native American cultures to the arrival of settlers, the impact of the railroad, and the evolution of mountain communities. We explored tools, clothing, and everyday items that tell the story of resilience and ingenuity in the face of frontier challenges. The museum does an excellent job of illustrating how early mountain residents lived, worked, and thrived in this rugged landscape. And, of course, we couldn’t leave without getting a photo in front of the impressive arrowhead monument, a striking tribute to the area’s Native American heritage and its enduring history. The museum truly brings the past to life, offering valuable context to the beautiful region we were exploring.
For our second lunch, we sought out another authentic local experience at Davis Country Store and Cafe. This charming establishment embodies the spirit of a true country store, offering a delightful mix of local goods and a fantastic menu. Our choice for the day was a hearty Roasted Turkey deli sandwich, piled high with fresh ingredients – simple, yet perfectly executed. We pondered a scoop of their tempting ice cream for dessert, but after our satisfying meal, we were simply too full! While there, we also took the opportunity to browse their selection of locally made crafts and left with a couple of beautiful hand-carved wood bowls, a perfect tangible memory of Old Fort’s craftsmanship.
As evening rolled around, we opted for a relaxed and casual dinner at 27 Main, a local spot known for its delicious pizza. After two days of exploring, hiking, and soaking in the local culture, a classic pizza dinner hit just the spot. The atmosphere was laid-back and friendly, a perfect setting to reflect on our adventures in this unexpectedly captivating town.
Your Old Fort Adventure Awaits with Yonder
Our 48 hours in Old Fort proved that this hidden gem is far more than just a pass-through town; it’s a destination in itself. From the majestic Catawba Falls and thrilling mountain biking trails to the welcoming local eateries and a museum that vividly brings history to life, Old Fort offers a genuine taste of Western North Carolina charm and adventure.
Ready to uncover the magic of Old Fort for yourself? Start planning your unforgettable WNC getaway today. Give our local team a call today at 888-699-2987 or use this link to send us a quick message. We’d love to help you plan.
