Once known by some locals as the “sleepy town” down the mountain, Old Fort, North Carolina has begun to establish its mark in the Greater Asheville area—and with good reason.
The name “Old Fort” is derived from an actual fort that was present before the Revolutionary War. Davidson’s Fort was named after Samuel Davidson, who owned the land where the fort was located. A model of Davidson’s Fort is still viewable but only for special events that are held at the site (and as you drive by on nearby Interstate 40).
In terms of attractions, Old Fort has established itself as a great access point for outdoor excursions of all types. 
Outdoor Recreation
Catawba Falls (temporarily closed until 2024), is a 2.5-mile round-trip hike that meanders along the Catawba River which opens up to a stunning view of the 100-foot tall waterfall which includes both lower falls and upper falls. The trail is a fairly easy hike for most and includes no more than 300 feet of elevation gain.
Mountain bikers are a common sighting in Old Fort as the Kitsuma and Point Lookout Loop are frequented by bikers making the challenging climb up Kitsuma Peak in Ridgecrest, located at 3,195 feet. The trail is considered a Black Diamond and includes an over 600-foot climb, followed by an over 1,700-foot roller coaster ride descent over 4 miles as it ends at the Old Fort picnic area. While some bikers will shuttle between the Old Fort picnic area and the Kitsuma trailhead, many will opt to make the climb up the paved greenway, Point Lookout trail, which at the top is an easy pedal back to the Kitsuma trailhead.
The new (and nearby) Gateway trails also offer hiking and mountain biking and have over 6 miles of trails, many of which are considered to be
quite a bit easier than Kitsuma’s climb. Horseback riders are also welcome on the Gateway trails. These trails can be accessed by the same access road that leads to the Curtis Creek campground.
Where to Eat
Ready to grab a bite to eat after exploring the area? Hillman Beer’s Old Fort Taproom (recently ranked the number 1 brewery in North Carolina) is located on the scenic Mill Creek and includes over 10,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor seating. Hillman Beer has over 30 beers on tap, and the food, which ranges from burgers to salads, rice bowls, and wraps is also delicious. If you are in the area on a weekend, we also recommend visiting the neighboring Whaley Farm Brewery which specializes in Appalachian farm beers. They brew their beers with locally-sourced herbs, flowers, spices, and fruits, many of which they grow themselves.
In addition to a few fast food chains, Headwaters Kitchen and Whistle Stop Pizza and Subs offer some other food options. If you are in the area for breakfast, we highly recommend a stop at GoGo’s for the best.jpg)
cinnamon rolls–some fan-favorite flavors include Maple Bacon, Creamsicle, and Apple Pie, but you can’t go wrong with their Original.
Other Attractions
Other attractions in Old Fort include the Mountain Gateway Museum—an amazing place to learn more about Old Fort’s history. Many visitors also make a stop at the iconic Andrews Geyser, a man-made fountain that was built in 1879 as a tourist attraction for visitors that were traveling through Old Fort on the train. For more information on area attractions and activities, we recommend visiting the Blue Ridge Travelers’ Visitor Center (located at 91 South Catawba Ave in Old Fort).
Featured Neighborhood
Within 3,000 acres of protected forest that includes waterfalls and beautiful views is the Gateway Mountain Community. Located in Old Fort, Gateway Mountain has approximately 190 homes within its gates. There are also numerous land listings for clients that are searching for the
perfect property to build. The community offers two private lakes, hiking trails, and its very own waterfall with a picnic area.
GreyBeard Realty Old Fort Office
If you are looking for more information about real estate in the Old Fort area, our Old Fort agents are ready to assist you. Our Old Fort office, located in a renovated home that was built in 1907, is located at 243 S Catawba Ave, across the street from Hillman Beer and Whaley Brewery. Contact us today!