Stepping Stone

Nestled deep in the Blue Ridge Mountains, 15 miles east of Asheville, North Carolina, you’ll discover a special town called Black Mountain.

With a population of just 7,500, the town has been ranked as “one of the 50 safest downs in North Carolina” as well as the “best small town in western North Carolina”. Boasting spectacular mountain views, Black Mountain was recently voted by Trip Advisor as one of the “prettiest small towns in America to vacation”.

Formerly home to renowned Black Mountain College, the town is nationally recognized for arts, crafts, furniture, and music. It’s currently home to over 200 businesses including restaurants, bed and breakfasts, specialty shops, four breweries, and a recently announced large manufacturing operation. Thanks to its warm hospitality for visitors and businesses alike, it has been designated as an “entrepreneurial-friendly community”.

The surrounding mountains offer walking, hiking, biking, trails, greenways, camping, trout fishing, lakes, and nearby waterfalls. The valley is home to six major conference centers, two colleges, and several well-known summer camps.

Visitors and residents adore strolling through Black Mountain’s attractive town square, admiring its beautiful landscaping and oversized rocking chairs, as well as numerous gift shops, galleries, antique stores, ice cream parlors, and craft stores. You’ll also find an authentic old-fashioned general store, an art center, Swannanoa Valley Museum, and a restored train depot selling arts and crafts.

After dining at one of the local 35 fine restaurants, enjoy a leisurely walk around Lake Tomahawk, which offers a well-lighted level path for safe strolling—during the daytime or evening. Of course, Black Mountain is a “pet-friendly community”.

A special place like Black Mountain is best enjoyed by leaning back into one of the many rocking chairs lining the streets of this “little town that rocks”. Take in the scenery and breathe in the majestic, rejuvenating mountain air.