Hot Springs Resort & Spa, North Carolina

What it is

This is the only reliably soakable hot spring experience in North Carolina, but it is not a natural rock pool. The resort captures the town’s hot mineral water and pipes it into private, jetted soaking tubs set along Spring Creek and the French Broad River. You book a timed session, then soak in your own tub under a roofed cabana.

What it feels like in practice

Expect a quiet, contained soak with river sound and mountain air, not wilderness soaking. Privacy varies by tub location, and the setting is more rustic than luxury. The big advantage is control, you get a predictable, private soak after hiking, rafting, or a day on the Appalachian Trail, which runs right through town.

Plan around demand

Same-day walk-ins can be hit or miss on weekends and peak leaf season. If soaking is the main reason you’re coming, booking ahead is the smart move.

Where you’ll find it

The tubs are in the town of Hot Springs, NC, right on Bridge Street near the French Broad River. This is a paved, in-town arrival with no hike required, you drive in and park, then walk to your assigned cabana.

Getting there

Most visitors approach from Asheville via I-26 toward Weaverville, then follow US 25/70 through Marshall to Hot Springs. Cell service can be patchy in the valley, so download directions before you lose signal.

Road and seasonal notes

Access is typically straightforward year-round, but winter ice, heavy rain, and river flooding can affect travel in this narrow corridor. After major storms, operations can change quickly, check the property’s current updates before you drive up.

What to bring

Bring a swimsuit, sandals with grip, and a towel or robe for the walk between changing area and tub. Water is worth having in the cabana, especially if you plan to soak more than once.

Best for

This is a good fit if you want a private soak with minimal effort, couples, small groups, and hikers looking for a recovery stop tend to be happiest here. It also works well as a short add-on to an Appalachian Trail day or a weekend in Madison County.

Families and kids

Families can use the baths, but manage expectations. Kids cool down faster and overheat faster, so keep soak times short and supervise closely. If your crew wants room to splash, this is not that kind of place, it is built for soaking, not playing.

Mobility realities

Step-free access and ADA features are not something you should assume here. Expect uneven ground, wet decking, and steps or thresholds around some tubs. If you need a no-stairs route or specific transfer space, call ahead and describe what you need before booking.

Experience expectations

You are renting a private tub session, not entering a communal pool. If you want a social scene, you may find it quiet. If you want privacy, that is the point.

Soak safety

Hot mineral water can feel easy at first, then hit you fast. Start with a short soak, take breaks, and drink water. Avoid combining soaking with heavy alcohol, and skip soaking if you feel lightheaded, overheated, or unwell. If you are pregnant or have a medical condition affected by heat, get personal guidance from a clinician before using hot tubs.

Slip and fall risk

Decking and paths around the river can stay wet. Wear sandals with traction, move slowly, and assume surfaces are slick, especially in colder months when algae and mud can build up.

Etiquette that keeps it pleasant

Keep voices low, cabins and neighboring tubs can be closer than they look. Rinse off before you soak if you have sunscreen or bug spray on. Leave the area as you found it, pack out any trash, and avoid bringing anything fragile that could break near water.

Weather awareness

The tubs are outdoors. In thunderstorms, get out and shelter, and in cold rain bring a warm layer for the walk back to your car.

Do I need a reservation?

It is strongly recommended, especially on weekends and during fall color. If soaking is the goal, book ahead so you are not stuck waiting.

Is this a natural hot spring you can sit in?

No. The hot mineral water is captured and piped into private, jetted tubs. You are soaking in a managed setup, not a rock pool in the ground.

Are children allowed?

Minors can be on the property with a parent or legal guardian’s involvement, and children can be accommodated, but you should confirm any current age rules when you book.

What should I wear and bring?

Plan on a swimsuit. Bring sandals with grip, a towel or robe, and water. If it is cool out, a warm layer for before and after the soak helps.