Our Historic Town
Since 1869 travelers through these mountains looked for the familiar sight of a tall water plume, a manmade geyser, and a resort hotel tucked away at the base of the Blue Ridge this signaled the start of the long climb to Asheville through some of the most scenic terrain in North Carolina. The train no longer stops for passengers, but when you stop at the tall, hand-carved arrowhead next to the depot, you can take some time out of your busy life and visit our historic town. A town committed to preserving its heritage, and having some fun along the way. Originally a fort built by the colonial militia before the Declaration of Independence, the settlement served for many years as the western outpost of the early United States. The fort is now being rebuilt by the non-profit corporation "Davidson's Fort Historic Park, Inc." for current news on this project see their website. You'll feel a change the moment you arrive in Old Fort. Our down-home southern welcome can bring a smile to the weariest traveler. Our winding roads and mountain vistas are famous for untying knots in overworked shoulders, and we've yet to meet a pair of feet that could resist the toe-tapping sounds of our mountain music. In Old Fort, you won't find tourist glitz or overdeveloped sprawl. Just real people, real beauty and real fun.Our Festivals
Colonial Days Last weekend in April
The Thursday and Friday before the last Saturday of the Month of April. Leading up to Pioneer Day two days of exploring Old Fort for clues and treasures. Cash prize given during Pioneer Day.
Pioneer Day Last weekend in April
A festival celebrating the pioneer heritage with arts, crafts, entertainment and food, held at the Gateway Museum in town.
Spring Muster at Davidson's Fort in May
SPEND A DAY
IN 1776 ON THE CAROLINA FRONTIER AT THIS LIVING HISTORY
SITE. EVENT FEATURES: MILITIA SOLDIERS WEAPONS
DEMONSTRATIONS, INDIAN TRADERS AND CRAFTSMEN
North Carolina Gold Festival
First weekend in June, a celebration for the Gold history of the county. Arts, crafts and gold panning and mining information.
Off Road Assault on Mt. Mitchell and Jerdon Mountain Challenge
The Off Road Assault on Mt. Mitchell is a 60 mile mostly off road Bicycle route with 11,000 feet of climbing. From Old Fort you climb over the Blue Ridge Parkway two times and just below Mt. Mitchell on beautiful Forest Service roads and unbelievable N.C. single track. The Jerdon Mountain Challenge is warm-up to the ORAMM or just come out and ride a 30 mile course that doesn't have you riding in circles! This is backcountry racing at its finest with a shorter course and still all the amenities of a long distance endurance race.
Fall Festival Oktoberfest
A three day festival of food, crafts and entertainment. Hosted by the Chamber of Commerce every year on the first weekend of October.
Fall Muster at Davidson's Fort in Nov
SPEND A DAY
IN 1776 ON THE CAROLINA FRONTIER AT THIS LIVING HISTORY
SITE. EVENT FEATURES: MILITIA SOLDIERS WEAPONS
DEMONSTRATIONS, INDIAN TRADERS AND CRAFTSMEN
