Hot Springs Trail Information

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This is your guide to individual trails in the Hot Springs area.

Betty Place

Easy, 1.2mi

Passes several old homesites.

Golden Ridge Loop

More Difficult, 7.5mi

Loop follows old roadbeds.

Jack Branch

2.4mi

USGS Map Number: 299

Laurel River

Moderate, 6mi, Climbs Gently, Some Obstacles

USGS Map Number: 310
This trail follows an old railroad bed along the Laurel River to its junction with the French Broad river at the ghost town of Runion.

Lover's Leap

More Difficult, 0.8mi, Climbs Steeply, Moderately Rough

Blaze Color: Orange
USGS Map Number: 308
Climbs steeply from the Silvermine trailhead across the French Broad River bridge in Hot Springs to the Appalachian Trail near the top of Lovers Leap Ridge, which affords panoramic views of the French Broad River, the town of Hot Springs, and the surrounding mountains. Can be used along with the Appalachian Trail to form a nice, 1.6 mile loop.

Mill Ridge

More Difficult, 5.4mi

Scenic views of the Laurel River gorge.

River Ridge Loop

1.3mi

USGS Map Number: 281

Shut-in Creek

Moderate, 4mi

USGS Map Number: 296

Spring Creek Nature Trail

1.6mi

USGS Map Number: 312

Van Cliff

2.7mi

USGS Map Number: 313

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Appalachian Ranger District
French Broad Station Trailheads
Toecane Station Trailheads
  • Coleman Boundary
  • Black Mountains & Toe River
  • Roan Mountain
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