Tour the Town

Pick up some special souvenirs of original art, clothing, and jewelry by local artists while enjoying fresh coffee at the Artisun Gallery and Café.

Learn about everything from Christmas trees and mushrooms to vegetables, heirloom apples, blueberries, perennials, and ferns, by visiting Elk Knob Farm. The farm uses all organic methods, and specially tailored educational visits and overnight accommodations can be arranged.

Be mesmerized by butterfly migrations. The amazing monarch butterfly migrates 2,000-plus miles each fall from the northeast United States to Mexico, going through the high passes along Blue Ridge Parkway in September and early October.

Gear up at Bluff Mountain Outfitters. The A.T. goes right past the shop and it’s a great spot for any type of hiker or adventurer.

Mountain Air Hunger and Thirst

Enjoy farm-to-table “casual fine dining” at the Mountain Magnolia Inn. A family-run country inn perfect for romantic getaways, weddings and celebrations, family vacations, or just a night out for a wonderful dinner.

Choose from an eclectic and tasty mix of lunch and dinner items at the Spring Creek Tavern, where you can relax and enjoy your meal on their shaded-porch dining area.

Stop by the Smoky Mountain Diner — a hikers’ favorite — complete with all that tasty diner fair in hardy servings to satiate a hungry hiker’s big appetite.

Stay a While

Iron Horse Station — newly renovated and directly along the Trail downtown — offers 15 cozy private guestrooms, a tavern with a wide menu and variety of beer and wine, and a coffee and tea bar.

Hikers of all kinds can try out the new Trail-er Hostel, surrounded on three sides by the A.T., this 1,600-plus square foot converted double-wide offers gear, meals, hiking itineraries, shuttle services, and makes hiking and backpacking accessible for groups and individuals who don’t have time to plan or folks who might not want to invest in buying all the gear.

Adventure, Rest, and Experience

Relax with a long, hot mineral bath after any number of outdoor adventures, an A.T. hike, or just for a soothing treat. Countless weary travelers and locals alike have been taking comfort from the naturally warm mineral waters at Hot Springs Resort and Spa for years. Quaint cabins (that are kid and pet-friendly) are also available for overnight guests.

Get adventurous — and possibly a little wet — during an invigorating whitewater rafting trip on the beautiful French Broad River with the Nantahala Outdoor Center or French Broad Adventures.

Visit the Hot Springs/Madison County Library, named “Best Small Library in America” by the Library Journal. Experience their top-notch customer service, read a book, and learn more about the local community, engagement, and educational events.

Lover’s Leap Loop Trail

2 Miles / Steep / Hike level: Moderate to Difficult

The Lover’s Leap Trail offers a dramatic view of the French Broad River and the town of Hot Springs. It ascends onto a rocky bluff overlooking the French Broad River directly across from town. It highlights not only the rugged beauty of the valley, but also the biological diversity that the area is well known for. The trail is a short walk from downtown, so the best parking can be found right in town. As you cross the Hot Springs Resort and Spa, then the river, and then ascend onto the rocky promontory, you will have excellent view of all the natural features the area is known for.

And enjoy an array music, art, and events throughout the year including the Hot Springs Annual Trailfest, Bluff Mountain Music Festival, Wild Goose Festival, and the French Broad River Festival.

Find out more about upcoming events, get involved with the local Hot Springs Hiking Club, and plan your trip at: WildEast.org/HotSprings and: hotspringsnc.org

Find out about all 48 A.T. Communities at: appalachiantrail.org/ATcommunities