Today we’re visiting a beautiful small town that’s been a big time destination in these parts for at least 5,000 years. And what better way to prep for a busy day of exploration than with a handsome hot breakfast? We’ve got hot coffee, hot pancakes, hot cinnamon rolls, hot eggs with hot sauce… are you picking up on a theme here? Time to spring into action.

OK, if you haven’t guessed by now, we’re in Hot Springs, North Carolina… fueled up and ready to go after a delicious start at Smoky Mountain Diner. This is a town on the comeback trail after Hurricane Helene. And it’s a trail that’s followed the banks of the French Broad River for thousands of years.

Just a few miles downstream pictographs have been carbon dated to the Archaic period – thought to be a signpost of sorts marking the way to the hot springs – the town’s namesake that still flow today.

Starting in 1837 a hotel of some form or fashion has welcomed visitors here from far and wide. Today that tradition continues with Hot Springs Resort and Spa – with beautiful private mineral hot tub pavilions and accommodations ranging from riverside campsites, to RV sites, to cabins.

Over the years the town of Hot Springs grew up into the quaint destination that exists today. The Appalachian Trail runs right down Bridge Street – making our next destination a great stop for through-hikers and day hikers alike.

Bluff Mountain Outfitters has been welcoming outdoor enthusiasts since 1997. It’s a great spot for camping and hiking gear… clothing, books, you name it. This is “Bluff 2.0” in a new location after Helene – and it’s a must-stop whether you’re hiking from Maine or just planning a Saturday adventure.

Finally, we’re wrapping things up raising a glass to a revitalized Hot Springs at Big Pillow Brewing.

The cozy indoor taproom and a large outdoor biergarten provide the perfect place to kick back with friends and family, enjoy some Latin-inspired fare from Grey Eagle Taqueria, and reflect on a day well spent in the beautiful and revitalized town of Hot Springs.