Museum Of North Carolina Minerals - Milepost 331

The Museum of North Carolina Minerals is open year-round, making it a convenient stop both in the heat of summer or the chill of winter. Vicki Dameron photo   The Museum of North Carolina Minerals highlights the area’s rich mineral resources and the mining heritage. Discover hands-on, interactive exhibits that explore the creation of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the 3,000-year-old saga of mining.   Explore interactive exhibits inside the museum. At a Glance: Visitor center and museum Points of Interest: Visitor Center: Talk to a ranger for information and to grab a map. Visitor center desk located inside the museum. Open seasonally. Museum: Explore hands-on exhibits about the creation of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the variety of minerals found here, and the rich history of mining. Check the schedule for opening dates and times. Sleeping and Eating: The Museum of North Carolina Minerals has no sleeping or eating options. See nearby towns for accommodations. On the parkway, Linville Falls (north) or Crabtree Falls (south) is nearby for camping. Things to Do: Step Back in History: Every year in mid-September, reenactors tell the story of the Overmountain Men, who crossed the Blue Ridge here on their way to the battle at Kings Mountain, South Carolina. Their trek was established as a National Historic Trail in 1980. Learn more about the Overmountain Men and the reenactments at the Overmountain Victory Trail Association website.