Loving A Mountain: How Community Cares for Max Patch

One of the most glorious spots our county has to offer is the beautiful bald that overlooks the gorgeous ridges of North Carolina and Tennessee. Max Patch offers a breathtaking network of trails, including the treasured Appalachian Trail, and a fishing pond. The...

Hot Springs NC Winter 2024 Newsletter

Find out about seasonal events, things to do and general news from town.

One of the Nearest and Dearest Hot Springs Restaurants: Smoky Mountain Diner

This little diner is one of the best hot springs restaurants, near and dear to the community’s heart! Discover its wonderful food, history and spirit!

The Story of Bluff Mountain Outfitters in Hot Springs, NC

My first memory of Bluff Mountain Outfitters is from over 20 years ago, when I happened upon Hot Springs, exploring the mountains with some friends from college. The store was a fraction of the size it is today, with mainly some hiking and boating related things...

The Hot Springs History of Gentry Hardware

If you have spent any time in Hot Springs, Gentry’s Hardware is likely a place you remember. Located in the center of Hot Springs, NC since the 1940s, the store is a community hub, standing proudly along the banks of Spring Creek. It has that trait many older places...

A Delicious and Beautiful Hot Springs Art Crawl

Hot Springs Art: Art galleries, studios and more in Hot Springs, NC Hot Springs, NC, known for its thermal waters and hiking adventures, has also become an intriguing hub for a wide range of artistic expression. For generations, Madison County’s inhabitants have...

A Walking Tour of Hot Springs, NC

Hot Springs, NC is the home of 600 or so permanent residents, breathtaking mountain scenery, hot mineral springs, multigenerational family shops, up and coming businesses, and a revolving cast of thousands of hikers, bikers, diners, and river enthusiasts that daily...

Eighth Generation Ballad Singer Donna Ray Norton Shares Life Growing Up Singing in Sodom and Her Upcoming Album Release This Summer

When young Byard Ray was all of seven years old growing up in the remote Madison County town of Revere, it’s said that he would sneak his mother’s fiddle away to learn how to “tease out a tune” while no one was looking. It should not have been a surprise when his...

4 Activities to Enjoy Around Hot Springs, NC This Winter

While spring and summer bring the hikers, paddlers, birders, and bikers through the winding roads into our river valley town, many pass over the opportunity to experience the adventures to enjoy in the stark beauty of winter. As a small town on the Appalachian Trail,...

PAGE Programs Offers Madison County Girls Experiences to Deepen Connection in Community

Madison County girls enrolled in Partnership for Appalachian Girls Education, aka PAGE Programs shared in powerful experiences together this summer despite the setbacks in COVID-- from gathering seeds saved from Cherokee and Madison County farmers to growing their own...

Local Nonprofits Work Together to Maintain Trails and Educate Visitors

Hot Springs, One of Over 40 Appalachian Trail Towns Hot Springs, North Carolina is one of over 40 trail towns recognized by the Appalachian Trail Conservancy that the 2,193 mile national scenic trail crosses through. While you’re outside of the forested foot path that...

Drive Through Tour of Hot Springs, NC in Summer!

This video was initially filmed and created as a part of the 2020 Barbecue for Books telethon broadcast to raise funds for the Hot Springs library building fund. The full telecast can be viewed Here on YouTube. Article by Stacey Geyer, Music in video titled ‘Hymn of...

StoryCorps Captures Stories of Hot Springs Residents

StoryCorps is a non-profit organization that began in 2003 to capture conversations and stories of people around the world to help build connections between people and create a more compassionate world. The StoryCorps Archive comprises one of the largest digital...

BBQ for Books 2020 – Livestream Concert Fundraiser

Hot Springs Library's amazing livestream fundraiser adapts to COVID curve ball Hot Springs Library is a cornerstone of our community. The Friends of Hot Springs Library, along with grassroots supporters and community partners like the Appalachian Trail Conservancy,...

Where the Appalachian Trail leads… Stories with Elmer Hall of the Historic Sunnybank Inn

Elmer Hall of the Historic Sunnybank Inn  Talks Life in the Time of COVID and How the Trail Led Him to Hot Springs On a warm October afternoon, I walk up to the side porch of Hot Spring’s oldest and most well-known home, The Sunnybank Inn. Having been closed all year...

Discovering Biodiversity in Hot Springs, NC with the 2020 Madison County BioBlitz!

Hot Springs, NC residents & visitors join the county in the BioBlitz documenting 1150 species in 2 weeks! Working together with experts, a major biological inventory of Madison County was made. Hot Springs, NC — Madison Natural Heritage, a natural history program...

Birdwatching in the Appalachian Mountains: Raising Funds for Library by Birding in Hot Springs, NC for 2020 Birds for Books

  Birding in and around Hot Springs is incredible due to our diverse habitats and elevations.  Getting outside and quietly looking and listening for these colorful creatures can connect us to nature and create a profound sense of inner peace. Indeed, birdwatching...

Birds in Hot Springs, NC: A List of Birds in the Appalachian Mountains from Birds for Books 2020

Spreading out to all the corners of Madison County, in the Appalachian Mountains of North Carolina, Birds for Books observers counted 109 species on April 25, 2020.  The migration was strong and included ospreys, eagles, 18 species of warblers, 5 hawk species, 5...

What to See and Do in and around Hot Springs, an Appalachian Trail Community

Hot Springs, North Carolina is a small town right on the Appalachian Trail. It's no wonder the Appalachian Trail Conservancy's official magazine, A.T. Journeys, took the time to write an article about it in their Summer 2019 edition! "Whether you are searching for an...

A Ginseng Rhyzome Nexus in the Woods – Part 1

A submission written by Jim Hickey The mountains that nestle Hot Springs, similarly as a loving family ensconces a little one, contain some of nature's richest diversity, both of animal life and, especially, flora of different sorts. Included in this wealth of plants...

River Road Ride

Thundering down a slope is the thrill many of us need. The rush of adrenaline is the reason that many riders keep coming back over and over again to Madison County, pushing ourselves to the limit and then finding that release as we finish the hill and begin the...

Recalling ‘Songcatcher’, a Film that Touches Hot Springs History

If we conducted polls of what movies have used Madison County as a film location, we'd probably hear Hunger Games mentioned most. While its celebration of independence would certainly appeal to both longstanding Hot Springs residents and newcomers, the story's...

How to Fish the French Broad River around Hot Springs, NC

Hot Springs, North Carolina is well known for its naturally warm healing waters, the rugged scenery and the Appalachian Trail, the many hiking trails in the area and wonderful fine dining. Yet one of the best opportunities in Hot Springs, and the least known is the...

Pisgah National Forest

Hot Springs is a small mountain town nestled in the French Broad River Valley and surrounded by 3500-foot tall mountains which are part of the Pisgah National Forest. The mountains literally surround the town and are virtually undeveloped. There are excellent hiking...

The French Broad River

The River Runs North The headwaters of the French Broad River begin just west of the Eastern Continental Divide near Rosman, NC, about 60 miles south of Asheville near the South Carolina state line. One of several unique features of the river is that it flows north....

Hot Mineral Springs

Soak and relax in earth’s healing mineral waters For centuries the naturally warmed mineral waters of Hot Springs, NC have been cherished and enjoyed. Come experience the healing powers for yourself! From deep in the earth When you touch the warm mineral water flowing...

The Appalachian Trail

One of the World’s Longest Continuously Marked Footpaths The Appalachian Trail is one of the longest continuously marked footpaths in the world, measuring approximately 2,185 miles in length. The legendary footpath travels through wild places, rural communities of...

Appalachian Trail Hikers Resource Guide for Hot Springs

For the latest hours and information on services, also see our BUSINESS HOURS page. Places to Stay Food and Drink Hiking Supplies ATM/Post Office/Laundry Information Transportation Medical Care Relaxation Church Services Shopping/Gifts Places to Stay Camping If you...

Cycling & Off-Road Biking

Cycling in Hot Springs, NC A choice destination for road cyclists and off-road biking alike! Hot Springs, NC is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts - and it's not just the French Broad River's rapids and fish that draw them! The Madison County area and...

Winter Activities

Winter weather doesn't really arrive in Hot Springs until January. The town might get some cold weather in December, but, generally, December weather is chilly (in the 50’s) but pleasant. Even in January the average daytime temperature is well into the 40’s and the...

Spring in the Mountains

You know Spring has arrived when the first group of northbound thru-hikers arrives on the Appalachian Trail from Springer Mountain, Georgia. They have been hiking for a few weeks and are ready to eat some good food, enjoy a cold beer and find provisions. And just as...

Summertime Fun

Hot Springs is a perfect oasis for relaxing and playing during the summer! Whether you are looking for a day or two retreat or a longer vacation, there are plenty of accommodations and activities nearby. We are centrally located in the...

Fall Splendor

Brilliant fall colors in Hot Springs and Madison County develop during September, as the nighttime temperatures in the mountains dip into the cooler digits.  The vibrant display of color lasts for over a month into early November. The higher...

Seasons in Hot Springs

Temperate Climate The Hot Springs, NC climate is very moderate, making for pleasant year-round living and comfort. The town is nestled in a mountain valley created by the French Broad River.  Surrounding town are the peaks and ridges of the Pisgah National Forest,...

Paint Rock Pictographs

A significant rock outcropping, known as Paint Rock, can be found in Madison County very near the Tennessee border. John Strother wrote about Paint Rock in his 1799 diary kept during his survey of the North Carolina-Tennessee boundary line: “Friday 28th. Set out very...

Massage Therapy

Treat yourself! Unwind from the daily grind and reinvigorate your body and mind with a massage. Make an appointment with one of our local massage therapists. The Hot Springs Resort & Spa is no longer offering massage and spa treatments. [businessdirectory-listings...

Max Patch

4,600+ Bald Mountain Max Patch is a 4,629-foot tall bald mountain with an incredible 360-degree mountain vista just 20 miles from Hot Springs. The Appalachian Trail crosses right over the summit running north and south. On a clear day, you can see from Mt. Mitchell on...

Hiking Trails

Appalachian Trail Town When people think of hiking in Hot Springs, NC, their first thought is of the Appalachian Trail.  Hot Springs is the only North Carolina town where the AT passes directly through the heart of downtown.  Visitors from all over the world travel...

Motorcycle Riding & Driving

You don't need to go with the crowds to the Blue Ridge Parkway or "Ride the Dragon" to experience some of the best roads in the entire country.  There are dozens of scenic backroads and highways that are perfect for motorcycling or driving in Western North Carolina...

Fishing

Hot Springs – N.C. Mountain Heritage Trout Water TownSpring CreekHot Springs is a high mountain valley at the intersection of Spring Creek and the French Broad River. Spring Creek, which runs straight through Hot Springs, is a designated N.C. Mountain...

Rafting, Canoeing and Kayaking

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, particularly the whitewater section, the...

Family Vacations

With our abundance of kid-friendly things to do, Hot Springs is a great place for a North Carolina family vacation. We are centrally located in the mountains of Western North Carolina so you can easily take advantage of regional attractions with just a short drive. If...

Horseback Riding

There’s even great horseback riding in Hot Springs!

Loving A Mountain: How Community Cares for Max Patch

Loving A Mountain: How Community Cares for Max Patch

One of the most glorious spots our county has to offer is the beautiful bald that overlooks the gorgeous ridges of North Carolina and Tennessee. Max Patch offers a breathtaking network of trails, including the treasured Appalachian Trail, and a fishing pond. The...

The Story of Bluff Mountain Outfitters in Hot Springs, NC

The Story of Bluff Mountain Outfitters in Hot Springs, NC

My first memory of Bluff Mountain Outfitters is from over 20 years ago, when I happened upon Hot Springs, exploring the mountains with some friends from college. The store was a fraction of the size it is today, with mainly some hiking and boating related things...

The Hot Springs History of Gentry Hardware

The Hot Springs History of Gentry Hardware

If you have spent any time in Hot Springs, Gentry’s Hardware is likely a place you remember. Located in the center of Hot Springs, NC since the 1940s, the store is a community hub, standing proudly along the banks of Spring Creek. It has that trait many older places...

A Delicious and Beautiful Hot Springs Art Crawl

A Delicious and Beautiful Hot Springs Art Crawl

Hot Springs Art: Art galleries, studios and more in Hot Springs, NC Hot Springs, NC, known for its thermal waters and hiking adventures, has also become an intriguing hub for a wide range of artistic expression. For generations, Madison County’s inhabitants have...

A Walking Tour of Hot Springs, NC

A Walking Tour of Hot Springs, NC

Hot Springs, NC is the home of 600 or so permanent residents, breathtaking mountain scenery, hot mineral springs, multigenerational family shops, up and coming businesses, and a revolving cast of thousands of hikers, bikers, diners, and river enthusiasts that daily...

4 Activities to Enjoy Around Hot Springs, NC This Winter

4 Activities to Enjoy Around Hot Springs, NC This Winter

While spring and summer bring the hikers, paddlers, birders, and bikers through the winding roads into our river valley town, many pass over the opportunity to experience the adventures to enjoy in the stark beauty of winter. As a small town on the Appalachian Trail,...

Drive Through Tour of Hot Springs, NC in Summer!

Drive Through Tour of Hot Springs, NC in Summer!

This video was initially filmed and created as a part of the 2020 Barbecue for Books telethon broadcast to raise funds for the Hot Springs library building fund. The full telecast can be viewed Here on YouTube. Article by Stacey Geyer, Music in video titled ‘Hymn of...

StoryCorps Captures Stories of Hot Springs Residents

StoryCorps Captures Stories of Hot Springs Residents

StoryCorps is a non-profit organization that began in 2003 to capture conversations and stories of people around the world to help build connections between people and create a more compassionate world. The StoryCorps Archive comprises one of the largest digital...

BBQ for Books 2020 – Livestream Concert Fundraiser

BBQ for Books 2020 – Livestream Concert Fundraiser

Hot Springs Library's amazing livestream fundraiser adapts to COVID curve ball Hot Springs Library is a cornerstone of our community. The Friends of Hot Springs Library, along with grassroots supporters and community partners like the Appalachian Trail Conservancy,...

A Ginseng Rhyzome Nexus in the Woods – Part 1

A Ginseng Rhyzome Nexus in the Woods – Part 1

A submission written by Jim Hickey The mountains that nestle Hot Springs, similarly as a loving family ensconces a little one, contain some of nature's richest diversity, both of animal life and, especially, flora of different sorts. Included in this wealth of plants...

River Road Ride

River Road Ride

Thundering down a slope is the thrill many of us need. The rush of adrenaline is the reason that many riders keep coming back over and over again to Madison County, pushing ourselves to the limit and then finding that release as we finish the hill and begin the...

How to Fish the French Broad River around Hot Springs, NC

How to Fish the French Broad River around Hot Springs, NC

Hot Springs, North Carolina is well known for its naturally warm healing waters, the rugged scenery and the Appalachian Trail, the many hiking trails in the area and wonderful fine dining. Yet one of the best opportunities in Hot Springs, and the least known is the...

Pisgah National Forest

Pisgah National Forest

Hot Springs is a small mountain town nestled in the French Broad River Valley and surrounded by 3500-foot tall mountains which are part of the Pisgah National Forest. The mountains literally surround the town and are virtually undeveloped. There are excellent hiking...

The French Broad River

The French Broad River

The River Runs North The headwaters of the French Broad River begin just west of the Eastern Continental Divide near Rosman, NC, about 60 miles south of Asheville near the South Carolina state line. One of several unique features of the river is that it flows north....

Hot Mineral Springs

Hot Mineral Springs

Soak and relax in earth’s healing mineral waters For centuries the naturally warmed mineral waters of Hot Springs, NC have been cherished and enjoyed. Come experience the healing powers for yourself! From deep in the earth When you touch the warm mineral water flowing...

The Appalachian Trail

The Appalachian Trail

One of the World’s Longest Continuously Marked Footpaths The Appalachian Trail is one of the longest continuously marked footpaths in the world, measuring approximately 2,185 miles in length. The legendary footpath travels through wild places, rural communities of...

Appalachian Trail Hikers Resource Guide for Hot Springs

Appalachian Trail Hikers Resource Guide for Hot Springs

For the latest hours and information on services, also see our BUSINESS HOURS page. Places to Stay Food and Drink Hiking Supplies ATM/Post Office/Laundry Information Transportation Medical Care Relaxation Church Services Shopping/Gifts Places to Stay Camping If you...

Cycling & Off-Road Biking

Cycling & Off-Road Biking

Cycling in Hot Springs, NC A choice destination for road cyclists and off-road biking alike! Hot Springs, NC is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts - and it's not just the French Broad River's rapids and fish that draw them! The Madison County area and...

Winter Activities

Winter Activities

Winter weather doesn't really arrive in Hot Springs until January. The town might get some cold weather in December, but, generally, December weather is chilly (in the 50’s) but pleasant. Even in January the average daytime temperature is well into the 40’s and the...

Spring in the Mountains

Spring in the Mountains

You know Spring has arrived when the first group of northbound thru-hikers arrives on the Appalachian Trail from Springer Mountain, Georgia. They have been hiking for a few weeks and are ready to eat some good food, enjoy a cold beer and find provisions. And just as...

Summertime Fun

Summertime Fun

Hot Springs is a perfect oasis for relaxing and playing during the summer! Whether you are looking for a day or two retreat or a longer vacation, there are plenty of accommodations and activities nearby. We are centrally located in the...

Fall Splendor

Fall Splendor

Brilliant fall colors in Hot Springs and Madison County develop during September, as the nighttime temperatures in the mountains dip into the cooler digits.  The vibrant display of color lasts for over a month into early November. The higher...

Seasons in Hot Springs

Seasons in Hot Springs

Temperate Climate The Hot Springs, NC climate is very moderate, making for pleasant year-round living and comfort. The town is nestled in a mountain valley created by the French Broad River.  Surrounding town are the peaks and ridges of the Pisgah National Forest,...

Paint Rock Pictographs

Paint Rock Pictographs

A significant rock outcropping, known as Paint Rock, can be found in Madison County very near the Tennessee border. John Strother wrote about Paint Rock in his 1799 diary kept during his survey of the North Carolina-Tennessee boundary line: “Friday 28th. Set out very...

Massage Therapy

Massage Therapy

Treat yourself! Unwind from the daily grind and reinvigorate your body and mind with a massage. Make an appointment with one of our local massage therapists. The Hot Springs Resort & Spa is no longer offering massage and spa treatments. [businessdirectory-listings...

Max Patch

Max Patch

4,600+ Bald Mountain Max Patch is a 4,629-foot tall bald mountain with an incredible 360-degree mountain vista just 20 miles from Hot Springs. The Appalachian Trail crosses right over the summit running north and south. On a clear day, you can see from Mt. Mitchell on...

Hiking Trails

Hiking Trails

Appalachian Trail Town When people think of hiking in Hot Springs, NC, their first thought is of the Appalachian Trail.  Hot Springs is the only North Carolina town where the AT passes directly through the heart of downtown.  Visitors from all over the world travel...

Motorcycle Riding & Driving

Motorcycle Riding & Driving

You don't need to go with the crowds to the Blue Ridge Parkway or "Ride the Dragon" to experience some of the best roads in the entire country.  There are dozens of scenic backroads and highways that are perfect for motorcycling or driving in Western North Carolina...

Fishing

Fishing

Hot Springs – N.C. Mountain Heritage Trout Water TownSpring CreekHot Springs is a high mountain valley at the intersection of Spring Creek and the French Broad River. Spring Creek, which runs straight through Hot Springs, is a designated N.C. Mountain...

Rafting, Canoeing and Kayaking

Rafting, Canoeing and Kayaking

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, particularly the whitewater section, the...

Family Vacations

Family Vacations

With our abundance of kid-friendly things to do, Hot Springs is a great place for a North Carolina family vacation. We are centrally located in the mountains of Western North Carolina so you can easily take advantage of regional attractions with just a short drive. If...