Discover Mitchell NC

06/04/2026

From world-renowned craft at Penland School of Craft to the mountain music and sweeping Blue Ridge views at Orchard at Altapass, the High Country of North Carolina is where creativity, culture, and community come alive. Spend the weekend exploring galleries and artist studios with Toe River Arts and taking home a one of a kind piece!

Creative inspiration flows naturally in the highest elevations of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Wander through galleries in the Toe River Valley, weave the Blue Ridge Parkway, and “wine” down in Surry County.

06/03/2026

Proud Supporters of the Great Trail State! What's your favorite hike or walk in Mitchell County?

Great Trails NC

North Carolina is The Great Trails State!

05/27/2026

👽✨ The aliens are landing in the mountains of Mitchell County!

Get ready for one of the most unique festivals in the Southeast at the Spruce Pine Alien Festival in downtown Spruce Pine.

From UFO sightings and cosmic costumes to live music, local vendors, food trucks, and family fun — this out-of-this-world event is unlike anything else in the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Whether you’re a believer, a skeptic, or just here for the vibes, this festival is your chance to experience mountain mystery, Appalachian creativity, and extraterrestrial fun all in one place.

Come explore the strange side of the mountains. 👾

Something strange is happening in the mountains of Spruce Pine — and thousands of visitors are flocking to experience it for themselves. The annual Spruce Pine Alien Festival has quickly become one of the most unique and talked-about events in the Southeast, transforming downtown into an out-of-th...

05/27/2026

Looking to explore the Blue Ridge Parkway this holiday weekend? Here is a handy sheet on Visitor Center hours, picnic areas, and campgrounds this season. Be sure to drive safely and stop to enjoy the overlooks. For the latest on road closures and construction projects, visit https://www.nps.gov/blri/planyourvisit/roadclosures.htm

05/22/2026

The start of summer is here and we hope you are too! Here is our 'Must Do" list for this weekend!

Spruce Pint
Emerald Village, Inc.
Town of Bakersville
Little Switzerland Orchard & Winery LLC
Switzerland Cafe and General Store
The Orchard at Altapass
CITY DRIVE IN

Memorial Day Weekend is the perfect time to kick off summer in beautiful Mitchell County, where mountain music, local traditions, outdoor adventures, and small-town charm come together. Whether you’re looking for family fun, live music, scenic drives, or unique Appalachian experiences, there’s s...

05/14/2026

Spend Memorial Day Weekend in Mitchell County exploring the beauty of the mountains — hike the Appalachian Trail, drive the Blue Ridge Parkway, shop local galleries, eat + shop at small businesses, and make unforgettable summer memories in our mountain communities. ⛰️🌿🛍️

Memorial Day Weekend is the unofficial start of summer, and there’s no better place to spend it than the cool mountain air of Mitchell County. Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Mitchell County offers the perfect blend of scenic drives, Appalachian adventures, local art, mountain sh...