About the Hike

Hike Description

Contact the leader by email for reservation. This shortened version of CMC hike 203 starts from the downtown Hot Springs parking lot and then crosses and follows the French Broad River on the Appalachian Trail. As we pass the USGS stream gauge, we?ll try to estimate how far above our head the water was on September 27, 2024 (over 22?). From there, the trail makes a short (less than half mile) but steep uphill to Lovers Leap. We?ll take it slowly, with time for resting and photos of the beautiful valley below before returning to town on the Lovers Leap Loop Trail. The last part of this hike includes a walk along Main Street to the Hot Springs Welcome Center to check out the historic displays as well as the original 1938 Walnut Mountain Appalachian Trail shelter that was disassembled and reconstructed by the CMC in 2025.Topos: Hot Springs

Scout Report

The hike up and around Lovers Leap never disappoints! Had a nice (albeit warm and humid!) afternoon hiking up Lover's Leap. The overlooks viewing back to Hot springs were great! The hike took about 2 hours as I was taking my time and enjoying the views. The trail is in good shape. There has been recent maintenance so at this moment neither blowdowns or weeds are an issue. I'm looking forward to the hike!

Hike Number
203
Hike Leader
Philip Walton
Hike Co-Leader
N/A
Canceled
No
Group
Leisure Hikes
First Meeting Place
Parking lot behind Big Pillow Brewery in Hot Springs at 10:00 AM
Second Meeting Place
N/A
Rating
C-C ?
Total Elevation Gain (Feet)
500
Challenges
N/A
Drive Distance
70