Walking the Appalachian Trail through downtown Hot Springs
Max Patch
Mountain Magnolia Inn & Restaurant
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Hot Springs, North Carolina, is perhaps best known for its hot mineral springs. This small village in Madison County is located just 40 minutes north of Asheville at the junction of the Appalachian Trail (goes right through downtown) and the French Broad River. Recently voted the Best "Small Mountain Town" from Georgia to West Virginia and surrounded by the Pisgah National Forest, Hot Springs is a haven for those seeking outdoor adventure, healing and relaxation, or a quiet romantic getaway in a charming mountain village.
The romantic setting of Hot Springs is the backdrop to many weddings and honeymoons. Stay in a quaint bed and breakfast, mountain cabin or cottage, stroll through the shops, and dine in one of the local restaurants (no restaurant chains here).
Outdoor Adventure
It's definitely the place for outdoor enthusiasts, especially since hikers on the the famous Appalachian Trail walk through the middle of town and whitewater enthusiasts love the rapids on the French Broad River (see the whitewater rafting guide). Go mountain biking, take a llama trek, fish a while, or horseback ride. There's plenty of day-hike options on the Appalachian Trail. You can start the Lover's Leap Trail (see our guide) from downtown and enjoy the panoramic views from a cliff overlooking the town and river. Or hike the grassy meadow atop Max Patch (see our guide). And hike or drive to the Rich Mountain Lookout Tower.
Healing and Relaxation
As one of the few sources of natural 100-plus degree mineral spring water on the east coast, Hot Springs has long been a source of healing and relaxation. Soak in hot mineral water on the banks of the French Broad River or enjoy a relaxing massage.
Dining and Shopping
With dining that ranges from the gourmet lovers' fare to country cookin' to steak and seafood with adult beverages from local breweries, Hot Springs foods entice any taste bud. Specialty shops in town carry a variety of goods, from local arts and crafts at ArtiSun Gallery to outdoor provisions and fishing gear at Bluff Mountain Outfitters.
Lodging
A wide range of accommodations await the weary travelers in Hot Springs, nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Within this picturesque mountain town is everything from rustic camping to secluded log cabin vacation rentals to sumptuous bed and breakfast inns.
Directions from Asheville
From I-240 in the downtown area, take exit 4A onto Highway I-26W and U.S. 19/23 North toward Weaverville. Go 8.5 miles until you see a sign that says Hot Springs 2nd right (U.S. Highway 25/70). Follow Highway 25/70 north about 28 miles to Hot Springs, North Carolina.
Click here to go to the Hot Springs Web site.
Hot Springs Festivals
April 19-21, 2013: Trailfest celebrates the fact that the famous Appalachian Trail goes right through the main street in town, with bicycles, skateboarding, hoola-hooping, river rafting, soccer, Yoga, and more! Kick-off on Friday with a delicious (cheap) Spaghetti Dinner, play all day Saturday with a long list of downtown activities, and have pancakes, a float trip, and family soccer on Sunday.
May 3-5, 2013: French Broad River Festival in Hot Springs has grown steadily from a one night benefit party to an all weekend festival.
June 15, 2013: Bluff Mountain Festival, a free, family-friendly festival, features traditional bluegrass music, ballads, clogging and square dance, and a silent auction and raffle of regional art work, local crafts, vacation packages, and more. Begins at 10 AM with an array of delicious foods and ends with a square dance until dark on the grounds of the Hot Springs Spa.
August 8-11, 2013: Wild Goose Festival is a festival of justice, spirituality, music and the arts. Talk, listen, eat and camp together, captivated and challenged by the call of radical humanity, and who seek to celebrate diversity and promote the common good. Go to their Web site.
September 21, 2013: French Broad Fall Fest in Hot Springs where the French Broad River meets the Appalachian Trail. Features 12+ area breweries and music. More: www.FrenchBroadFallFest.com
Click here to go to the Hot Springs Web site.
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