THINGS TO DO

Lover's Leap

Lover's Leap is a rock outcropping on the Appalachian Trail in Hot Springs that offers a spectacular panoramic view of the French Broad River and Pisgah National Forest. Since the famous Appalachian Trail (AT) goes through the tiny town of Hot Springs, you can hike from the center of downtown for a very scenic 2-mile loop.

Lake Lure

There's a lot happening in this lake town! In addition to a beach to keep cool on hot summer's day, there's a wonderful Town Center Walkway that connects the beach to the beautiful Flowering Bridge.

Great Smoky Mountains Railroad

Take a scenic train ride on excursions along the Nantahala and Tuckasegee Rivers, over the mountains, across valleys, and through tunnels. Choose from a variety of train adventures departing from Bryson City. Many special event train rides including beer, wine, and Polar Express.

Rich Mountain Lookout Fire Tower

Drive to or hike the Appalachian Trail to enjoy the panoramic mountain views from atop the historic lookout tower near Hot Springs.

Max Patch on Appalachian Trail

(1.4 or 2.4 miles, moderate) Hike a section of the famous Appalachian National Scenic Trail (or AT) near Hot Springs. What a picnic spot with 360-degree mountain views! The 1.4-mile short loop crosses the summit. The 2.4-mile loop circles the mountain for outstanding views from all the sides. Or extend your hike in either direction of the AT.

Rare Bird Farm

A peaceful sanctuary cradled along the Tug Fork Creek in the Appalachian Mountains of Western North Carolina, on nearly 100 acres with miles of hiking trails between the townships of Trust and Luck. We are committed to creating an inclusive community of nature, music, and theatre lovers premiering new works, programming fresh and compelling music, and providing professional opportunities for established and emerging performers.

Blue Ridge Hiking

The Trail-er is a ten person bunkhouse located on the Appalachian Trail in Hot Springs, NC. True to its name, the Trail-er is a 1,600+ square foot converted double wide. It serves as a basecamp for Blue Ridge Hiking Company backpacking trips and a bunkhouse for hikers, backpackers, trail runners and paddlers.  Now offering guided day hikes out of our Hot Springs location!

Horseback Riding

We cater to First Time Riders, Families & Children, even the “Disabled”! The Little Pine Garnet Mine Cave -our most popular ride & was once owned by Tiffany & Company!

Whitewater Rafting

The French Broad River flows for just over 100 miles in the state of North Carolina. The French Broad is free flowing which means that the water level is determined by the amount of rainfall in the watershed. For all sections, but particularly the whitewater section the character of the river changes considerably depending on the water level.