Places of interest in Old Fort North Carolina
Fish Hatchery
If you love fishing, then the fish hatchery in Old Fort is a must-visit! This is a great place to learn about different types of fish and maybe even catch one yourself.
The hatchery offers tours, so be sure to check it out when you’re in town.
Civil War Museum
Old Fort is home to a civil war museum that tells the story of the battles that took place in the area. The museum has exhibits on the soldiers who fought in the war, as well as the civilians who were affected by it. The museum also has a gift shop where you can buy souvenirs.
Trail Hikes
Fall is the perfect time to explore the many hiking trails in and around Old Fort, North Carolina. The cooler temperatures make for ideal hiking weather, and the changing leaves provide a beautiful backdrop for your hike. Here are a few of our favorite trails to explore in the area:
The Mountains-to-Sea Trail is a long-distance trail that runs from the mountains of western North Carolina all the way to the coast. This trail passes right through Old Fort, making it the perfect place to start (or end) your hike.
The trail offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, and is a great way to get some exercise while enjoying the outdoors.
For a shorter hike, check out the Catawba Falls Trail. This 1.5 mile out-and-back trail takes you to a beautiful waterfall near Old Fort North Carolina.
The trail is relatively easy, making it great for families or those looking for a leisurely hike. Be sure to bring your camera, as you’ll want to take plenty of pictures of the falls!
If you’re looking for a challenge, hike to the top of Table Rock Mountain. This 3 mile round trip hike will take you to the summit of Table Rock Mountain, where vernal pools and the remains of the old Table Rock Hotel can be found. To get to the trailhead, take NC Hwy. 261 up to Table Rock Ranger Station, then turn right onto NC Hwy. 215. Park in either lot and you’ll see the trailhead on your right.
If you decide to do a weekend backpacking trip in this area, be sure to camp within the Catawba Falls Wilderness Area or another designated campsite. The Mount Mitchell area has many dispersed camping areas; however, they are not set up for overnight stays so you will want to bring all necessary supplies with you (e.g., water, food, tent).
Visitor's Center
If you’re looking for things to do and places of interest in Old Fort, North Carolina, be sure to check out the Visitor’s Center. This is a great place to learn about the history of the area, as well as find out about current events and attractions. The Visitor’s Center is also a great place to pick up maps and brochures about the area.