Waterfall Hero Hikes: Hot Springs Pisgah

The town of Hot Springs was established around the confluence of Spring Creek with French Broad River, where a natural thermal spring existed. Due to the rumored healing benefits of the spring, the town has been a resort destination for more than 100 years. Today, the small town is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts with the French Broad River and Appalachian Trail running right through town. In addition, there are more than 40 miles of hiking trails 13 miles of mountain biking trails in Pisgah National Forest surrounding the town.

Map:

Trails:

Lover's Leap Trail (#308):

Length: 1.6 miles (loop with AT)

Difficulty: Difficult

Blaze: Orange Rectangle (White for AT)

Lover's Leap Trail makes a loop with the Appalachian Trail just north of Hot Springs. The trailhead is along Silvermine Road. The AT follows French Broad River then climbs up to Lover's Leap Overlook. Lover's Leap Trail descends back to Silvermine Trailhead from here.

Points of Interest:

Lover's Leap Overlook:

Lover's Leap Overlook is a rocky outcrop on Lover's Leap Ridge with scenic views of the town of Hot Springs. Lover's Leap Trail and the AT make a loop to access the overlook, starting from Silvermine Trailhead.