We hope you enjoy exploring the hikes, hot springs, and small shops of Hot Springs! Here is what we recommend.

Hot Springs is located on the Appalachian Trail, and there are several hikes you can do right from town.

Lover’s Leap Trail is the most popular nearby trail. The hike goes along the French Broad River and then turns up the mountain’s edge with switchbacks taking you to great views of the river and valley below. The hike then goes to the north slope of the mountain with lots of moss and tunnels of rhododendron.

Locals tell us you may also want to consider the Pump Gap Trail, the Laurel River Trail, and Betty Place. You can find area trail maps at the local outfitters store, Bluff Mountain Outfitters, or the town’s Welcome Center, which is just across the street from the Post Office.

This 5000 foot bald mountain with incredible long-range views is known throughout the region and is a great ½ day trip. There is a scenic 45 minute drive to the trailhead and some good hiking when you arrive as well. For those not into long distance hiking, there is a gentle walking path to the top which takes about 20-25 minutes.

The French Broad River, which runs right through Hot Springs, has great options whitewater rafting. Hot Springs Rafting Company is located in the center of Hot Springs and offers guided rafting trips along with self-guided tubing down a calmer section of the river, shuttles included.

Horseback riding is a 20 minute trip outside of Hot Springs and affords an opportunity to visit a garnet mine and enjoy beautiful scenic mountain views in route.

Navitat is a zip line course in the trees on 50 acres of wooded land about 40 minutes away. The nearest golf course is also about 40 minutes away and a beautiful course set in the mountains.

*Hot Springs Rafting Company -www.hotspringsraftingco.com

*French Broad Rafting Company (rafting and ziplines, 15 minutes from town)-

www.frenchbroadrafting.com

*Sandy Bottom Trail Rides - www.sandybottomtrailrides.net

*Navitat Zipline Canopy Tours - www.navitat.com

*Reems Creek Golf Course (beautiful course about 40 minutes from Hot Springs and just North of Asheville) - www.reemscreekgolf.com

Pamper yourself at The Hot Springs Resort and Spa. They offer private hot tubs to soak in the hot mineral springs native to the area. Reservations recommended.

www.nchotsprings.com

Artisun Gallery features the work of 50 area artists and craftspeople. You can also enjoy a latte or delicious local ice cream and baked goods along with a selection of wines by the bottle or the glass.

Bluff Mountain Outfitters is also located on the main street of downtown and has lots of wonderful things to look at, delicious snacks, and friendly staff.

Vaste Riviere Provisions is a gourmet food and beverage shop with a few gift items and prepared food and snacks.

Local vendors set up on most weekends along main street to sell different craft items.

We recommend swinging by Big Pillow Brewing and Grey Eagle Taqueria, which are right behind Magnolia House and offer some delicious local brews and tacos.

Locals recommend Smoky Mountain Diner, The Iron Horse Station Restaurant, and Spring Creek Tavern.

Highway 209 south out of Town is a Scenic Highway and heads to nearby Trust and Luck. Nearby Luck is an unincorporated spot on the map with a quaint old storefront reminiscent of the 1930’s. The scenic drive is about 30 minutes one way.

Consider taking a drive down River Road. The road goes along the river and turns to gravel at the entrance to the National Forest. There is a picnic area about a mile up the gravel road called Murray Branch Recreation Area. The road continues to an intersection with Paint Creek on the border of NC/TN. The area offers great spots to enjoy the great outdoors, hike, bike, and splash in the creek.

You could also take a quick trip to Marshall, NC. The county seat of Madison County is located about 20 minutes from Hot Springs and has a charming downtown with art galleries, several shops, brewery, restaurants, natural grocery store, and a delicious coffee shop called Zuma. We tried and enjoyed their local vegan restaurant!

Asheville is just 45 minutes away from Hot Springs and is full of amazing breweries, restaurants, shops, and artsy vibes.

The Biltmore Estate, vineyard, and grounds are an iconic Asheville destination. Tickets should be bought in advance.

www.biltmore.com

The Grove Park Inn is another fun destination in Asheville. The historic hotel has main parlors, porches, shopping, and dining that are open to the public.

www.groveparkinn.com

Downtown Asheville has a ton to offer for shopping, entertainment, and dining:

Biscuit Head- Serves biscuits as big as your head that Matt thinks could make world peace.

Sierra Nevada- Classic Asheville brewery with stunning views.

Early Girl Eatery- Accessible and down-to-earth brunch place with local meats and plant-forward options.

Ukiah- Incredible Japanese smokehouse that combines Japanese soul food with American BBQ. You can best enjoy their shareable small plates in a small group.

Antidote- Early 1900s Apothecary style craft cocktails with cozy indoor and outdoor seating options and a generous mocktail menu.

East Fork- Our favorite local ceramics company that features other Asheville makers in their downtown brick-and-mortar.

Whist- A charming card and gift shop.