Outdoor Adventures in Hot Springs, NC

We fell in love with Hot Springs. Our dogs couldn't come. We fixed that!

Clinton and Theresa kept coming back to Hot Springs — the spa, the river, the restaurants. Every time they left their two dogs behind because nothing in town would have them. So they stopped searching and built The Bailey.

Hiking — From Your Front Door

Appalachian Trail

Hot Springs is the only town in North Carolina where the Appalachian Trail passes directly through the center of town. The iconic white blazes follow Bridge Street, cross the French Broad River, and climb toward Lover's Leap. You can step off the porch at The Bailey and be on the AT in minutes. Leashed dogs welcome.

Lover’s Leap Loop Trail

1.6 miles. Difficult. One of the best short hikes in Western NC. The trail climbs steeply through Pisgah National Forest above the French Broad River, rewarding you with views that explain exactly how it got its name. Dogs welcome on leash.

Pump Gap Loop

A moderate in-town loop that connects to the AT. Good warm-up hike, accessible from downtown. Worth doing before dinner.

Max Patch — The Must-Do

Twenty miles from The Bailey, Max Patch is a 4,629-foot mountain bald with 360-degree views of the Blue Ridge and Smoky Mountains. Easy 1.6-mile loop. Dogs welcome on leash (6-foot maximum). No camping or fires currently permitted. Closes 1 hour after sundown. Arrive early on weekends.

River Rafting — Something for Everyone

The French Broad River through Hot Springs is one of the most versatile river experiences in the Southeast. North of town the river narrows, the walls rise, and the rapids get serious. South of town it opens up into a gentle, lazy float through pastoral farmland. Two completely different rivers. Same base camp.

Whitewater — North of Hot Springs Section 9 of the French Broad runs 8.1 miles with Class II-III rapids throughout and two Class IV drops toward the end. Spectacular scenery, protected land on both sides.

Lazy Float — South of Hot Springs Class I water, slow current, wide open river. Bring tubes, bring a cooler, bring your dogs.

Local Outfitters

  • Hot Springs Rafting Company — right in town, tubes and guided raft trips on the French Broad. Walk there from The Bailey.

  • French Broad Adventures — guided whitewater trips, calm water floats, ziplines, and e-mountain biking. Hot Springs and Marshall outposts.

  • Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC) — one of the most respected outdoor outfitters in the Southeast, with a French Broad River outpost.

Tubing & swimming — A favorite way to unwind during warmer months

Fishing & riverside relaxation — Quiet spots for slowing down and enjoying nature

Whitewater rafting & kayaking — From beginner-friendly floats to more exciting rapids

Whether you’re chasing adrenaline or just floating through the day, the river is a central part of the experience.

Fly Fishing — World-Class Water at Your Door

The French Broad River through Hot Springs is one of the most versatile river experiences in the Southeast. North of town the river narrows, the walls rise, and the rapids get serious. South of town it opens up into a gentle, lazy float through pastoral farmland. Two completely different rivers. Same base camp.

Local Outfitters

  • Hot Springs Fly Fishing Company — the most complete fly fishing operation in Hot Springs. Guided wade trips, French Broad float trips, and mountain expeditions for all skill levels.

  • Bugs and Brews — local fly fishing guide service with deep knowledge of the area's best water.

The Bailey is the preferred accommodation for visiting anglers. Ask about our angler's rate when booking direct at baileyhs.com

Mountain Biking & More

French Broad Adventures operates e-mountain bike trips through Pisgah National Forest from their Marshall outpost — 17 miles from The Bailey. No experience necessary. Also available: ziplining and canyoneering for those who want to go deeper into the adventure.

Local Culture, History & Nearby Towns

Beyond nature, the area has a strong sense of local charm and history.

Hot Springs Historic District

Walkable downtown with shops, cafés, and small-town character. Everything within a 5-minute walk of The Bailey.

Paint Rock

A historic site featuring ancient Native American petroglyphs along the French Broad River. One of the most significant archaeological sites in Western NC.

Asheville & Biltmore Estate

Dine at one of Asheville's 15 Michelin-recognized restaurants. Visit the Biltmore Estate — the largest home in America. 35 minutes from The Bailey.

Marshall, NC

A nearby town with art galleries, independent restaurants, and a vibrant French Broad riverfront. 17 miles up the river from The Bailey.

The Bailey puts you at the center of it all — 35 minutes from Asheville, an hour from the Great Smoky Mountains, and within reach of the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Get early access to Bailey dates before they open to the public.