You’re invited to the 4th annual Trails & Trains Festival this June 4-6, 2026! Mark your calendar and help us celebrate the Great Trails State by joining us in downtown Old Fort, North Carolina. Come celebrate with us the rich history of our Blue Ridge Mountain community by focusing on its pathways and connections through the town’s notable railroad and Pisgah National Forest history.
Donate towards the Old Fort Trails & Trains Festival to support outdoor recreation and all the fun, accessible events we host during the festival!
The US Forest Service celebrated the Catawba Falls with a public reopening celebration on May 31, 2024. Come rediscover Catawba Falls in Old Fort this summer! Shuttle Rides from downtown Old Fort to the Catawba Falls Trailhead will be available Friday and Saturday!
This year, live bluegrass music and live musical performances fill the town all weekend long. Friday evening, stop into your favorite shop, cafe, restaurant, and listen to local artists.
Saturday, June 6th join us in downtown Old Fort for a FREE concert with The Travelin’ McCourys, The Haley King Trio, Zoe & Cloyd and Backline. Music starts at 5:30 PM. Sponsored by Grier Village and Camp Grier.
Vendor Village on Saturday from 10AM – 4PM at the Mountain Gateway Museum. Fly Fishing Demos, Guided Hikes and Outdoor Exhibits.
Fun for the whole family (pets too), this interactive trail quest includes multiple trail stations set up along the Meadows Loop Trail in Old Fort encouraging curious minds and adventurous souls to explore our great outdoors. Your Trail quest starts at 10 am on June 6th, and is a free event for everyone. Donations to Friends of Fonta Flora State Trail are welcome!
Reflecting the rich rail history in Old Fort, we will have exhibitors and speakers sharing the growth, expansion and development of railroads in the region. Take part in a self guided tour of the Old Fort Train Depot at 25 West Main Street in downtown Old Fort.
Train Expo
Central Carolina NScalers Model Train
NC Transportation Museum
A live “Railroad Convict Story” presentation
Depot Tours
© 2026 Old Fort Trails & Trains Festival Committee.
