Linville

South of Boone and Banner Elk is the sleepy little village of Linville, NC. Situated along the pristine Linville River, the town was named after William and John Linville who were killed by Indians in 1766. Since the 1800′s people have come to the Linville area to escape the heat of the NC Piedmont and enjoy the cool summers found in our mountains.



Although the community is small, there is much to do in Linville. The Linville River with its source high on Grandfather Mountain has, by its tremendous scouring action, formed the Linville Gorge, one of Eastern America’s most scenic and rugged gorges. The steep walls of the Gorge enclose the Linville River for 12 miles. The river’s swift waters descend over 2,000 feet before breaking into the open levels of the Catawba Valley. Elevation averages 3,400 feet along the rim of the Gorge and 2,000 feet on Linville River.



The Linville Gorge Wilderness Area is part of the Pisgah National Forest. The terrain is extremely steep and rugged with numerous rock formations. Recreation opportunities include hiking,backpacking, rock climbing, fishing, and hunting.



While in Linville, don’t miss Grandfather Mountain — the highest peak in the Blue Ridge mountain range and a globally recognized nature preserve. Race across the Mile High Swinging Bridge, visit the museum and the wildlife habitats, or challenge yourself on one of the 11 hiking trails varying in difficulty from a gentle walk in the woods to a rigorous trek across rugged peaks.



Tucked into the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains you’ll find a jewel made more beautiful by the passage of time — the Eseeola Lodge. Built in 1926, the lodge has long provided a tradition of elegance and excellence in travel. Now as then, guests can enjoy the beautiful Linville Golf Club, take in the cool mountain air, and linger over four-course meals at a four-star restaurant.



Deep beneath Humpback Mountain south of Linville, nature has sculpted a veritable masterpiece in stone. Toiling many centuries, slowly moving ground water has been the primary artist for this creation of underground labyrinths. The water dissolved out an incredible series of rooms and passages — the Linville Caverns.



The caverns were discovered in the 1800′s by men intrigued by the mystery of fish swimming out of the mountain. Since then, extensive research has been done to acknowledge the history, folklore, geology and biology of Linville Caverns.



While exploring the area, take a short hike off the Blue Ridge Parkway to the Linville Falls. Trails lead to both the upper and lower falls. The falls and surrounding scenery are spectacular!
Community Links
The Eseeola Lodge
Linville Gorge Wilderness Area
Grandfather Mountain
Linville Caverns
Linville Falls