Hot Springs, NC
AT trail town — soak in the French Broad
🚗 ~2 hours from Johnson City · ~75 miles · Johnson City via I-26 W, US-25/70 to Hot Springs
Best season: Year-round soaks; fall color excellent
Getting there
Get driving directions from Johnson City ↗ · Open in Google Maps ↗
Map shows Hot Springs, NC. Times vary from Kingsport and Bristol.
Hot Springs is where thru-hikers resupply and weekenders come to soak — the French Broad runs through town and the AT walks Main Street.
A half-day soak plus riverside lunch is a complete trip; add a short ridge hike if you want more movement.
Highlights
- Hot Springs Resort & Spa — mineral tubs
- AT footbridge over the French Broad
- Mountain shops & hikers lodge culture
- Nearby Paint Rock or Lover's Leap short hikes
Sample one-day itinerary
Reserve tub time; arrive early for quiet slots.
Watch AT hikers come through; eat at a local cafe.
Easy riverside stroll or short trail before drive home.
Know before you go
- Book soaks on weekends — walk-ins may wait.
- Roads are winding west of I-26 — take your time.
- Marshall NC is a optional stop en route for Blannahassett Island Park.
Links & resources
More day trips
25–35 min 📖 Jonesborough, TN
25–35 min 🌊 Erwin & the Nolichucky Gorge
30–45 min 🛥️ South Holston Lake
30–45 min
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