Winter Hiking in Hot Springs, NC: Peaceful Trails and Stunning Views
“Thousands of tired, nerve-shaken, over-civilized people are beginning to find out that going to the mountains is going home; that wildness is a necessity.” — John Muir
Winter in the mountains offers a unique and peaceful hiking experience. In Hot Springs, NC, the Appalachian landscape transforms into a serene escape filled with quiet beauty, crisp air, and unobstructed views.
Why Winter Is a Great Time to Hike
There’s nothing quite like a clear winter day in the mountains. With a thermos of hot chocolate in your pack and a chill in the air, the forest invites you to slow down and explore. The sky turns a brilliant blue, while the surrounding hills shift to deep shades of purple, mauve, and blue that are unique to this time of year.
Winter also opens up the forest. With leaves fallen and undergrowth gone, you can wander off-trail and take in the stillness of nature with little obstruction.
Mild Winter Weather and Wildlife Sightings
In Hot Springs, winter isn’t always cold. We often enjoy stretches of mild weather with temperatures in the 60s or even 70s—perfect for a spontaneous hike in short sleeves. During these hikes, it’s not uncommon to see wildlife such as:
- White-tailed deer
- Wild turkeys
- Foxes and coyotes
- Occasionally, elk
These encounters add a special touch to your winter adventure.
Hiking the Appalachian Trail in Winter
The Appalachian Trail (AT) runs along the ridge lines between North Carolina and Tennessee and is especially rewarding to hike in the winter. With fewer hikers on the trail, you can enjoy solitude and unobstructed mountain views.
One of the most memorable spots is where the local trail meets the AT—here, you can stand with one foot in each state. The views are expansive, and on the right day, you might even catch the moon rising as the sun sets.
Accessing the Appalachian Trail Near Hot Springs
The Appalachian Trail is easily accessible from multiple points near Hot Springs:
- Highway 25/70 access point (just outside of Hot Springs toward Marshall)
- Mill Ridge (reachable by gated road off 25/70)
- Rich Mountain Trail (great for afternoon sun and scenic views)
To reach the 25/70 access:
- Drive through downtown Hot Springs heading toward Marshall.
- After passing under the highway underpass, turn left.
- Park at the gated road that crosses back over 25/70.
- If the gate is open, you may also drive up to Mill Ridge for higher elevation access.
Our favorite route is hiking north from this point up Rich Mountain, where the afternoon sun warms the trail and creates ideal winter hiking conditions.
Experience the Quiet Beauty of Winter Hiking in Hot Springs, NC
If you’re looking for solitude, mild weather, scenic views, and peaceful forest trails, winter is the perfect season to hike in the Hot Springs area. Whether you’re exploring the Appalachian Trail or wandering the open woods, winter hiking in the mountains is an unforgettable experience. Try our Moondance cabin for a private and serene getaway!