The Appalachian trail spans around 2,200 miles crossing through 14 states – with one of those being (of course) North Carolina. Yet, one unique part about the trail is that it actually crosses through the quaint mountain town of Hot Springs. With a year round population of just 563, adventurers, backpackers, and tourists flock to this hidden mountain town for a truly rugged yet refined experience.

Flickr / David Wilson
Here, Main Street is small and simple because the focus is on the nature and the rejuvenating effects of the mineral hot springs found in the area.
Town of Hot Springs
The town is surrounded by the Pisgah National Forest and takes the saying 'mountain life' to a whole new level. Everywhere you turn, you're surrounded by mountain and French Broad river views. Hot Springs is a place where you'll feel one with nature and completely away from the world.
Flickr / Chris Ballance
Flickr / G N Bassett
Every day, backpackers cross through the small town and hopefully take a minute to relax and rest in one of the mineral hot springs 'soaks' offered throughout the town.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Year-round, the Hot Springs Resort and Spa offers jacuzzi tubs for one, two or even more for a relaxing soak. There are also places to pitch a tent on the resort. Read about it here

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Flickr / GN Bassett
Lover's Leap is a popular, 1.6-mile loop hike that takes you to a breathtaking overlook with great views of Hot Springs and the French Broad.
Flickr / Edgar P. Zhagüi Merchán
Flickr / Alex Ford
If you're looking for more adventure, not too far from Hot Springs you'll find Max Patch. The grassy bald is a wide open field on top of a mountain and surrounded by 360 degree mountain views - even in the dead of winter it's still amazing!
Trip Advisor / Management Photo
Back in town you'll find the Mountain Magnolia Inn - a full service Inn and restaurant with Victorian Charm. Read more about it here
Yelp / Pearl S.
There's also Iron Horse Station. Dating back to 1929, the cozy hotel is set right on the Appalachian Trail and is also home to an amazing restaurant. Better yet, it's only 1.1 miles to Lovers Leap.

Hot Springs is truly an adventurer’s paradise. While a bit chilly this time of year, it’s always great to plan early, right? A trip here in early spring offers uncharted beauty minus the crowds. There’s so much more to do here, and you can always hop right on the Appalachian Trail for a day of adventure (or a week). Have you visited Hot Springs before?
The Mountain Magnolia Inn also made another one of our lists – 10 underrated places you should give a chance.

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