Appalachian Trail

Hot Springs NC is one tiny town on a very very long trail!

Along the 2,181 miles of trail that weave through the ridges and valleys of the Appalachian Mountains there are two towns that hikers walk directly through. Our little town of Hot Springs NC is proud to be one of them! The AT passes directly through Hot Springs. Hikers of every shape, size, and smell come through here, with the peak season being early spring. Some folks are hiking the whole thing in one go, some use Hot Springs as a jumping-on or jumping-off point for a section hike, and many more simply want to wander for a few wistful steps on this famous trail!l

Little Bird Cabin Rentals are located directly adjacent to National Forest land and the southern entry point onto the Appalachian Trail. The cabins can provide an indulgence in creature comforts for those who have been camping out on the trail. Likewise if you are supporting a hiker but prefer a cabin door over a tent zipper for your front door, we may be the place for you! Enjoy people watching? The Laughing Heart Hostel is across the street and popular with hikers. If you dare (and we recommend that you do!), head on over and meet a few! We have met so many wonderful folks.

Visit our page about hiking in the area which details Max Patch and Lovers Leap, both of which are stunning nearby hikes on the Appalachian Trail! For the easiest way to hop on the trail, just head out of the cabin door and walk 100 steps to your left, away from town, and you will find the trail. Within a minute you will be immersed in the forest!

Learn more

The Appalachian Trail Conservancy has a great interactive map of the AT, as well as ways to get engaged with the maintenance of and interaction with the trail!

The National Parks Service is the primary agency charged with maintaining the AT. Look here for all information about weather, safety, passes, maps, current alerts and closures, and about pets on the trail.