Spring Hikes in Madison County
April 10, 2022
Birds are chirping, flowers are blooming and your allergies are flaring up again. It must be spring!
What better way to enjoy spring and all it has to offer than by going for a beautiful hike in scenic Madison County, North Carolina. Below are some of our favorite hikes to do in the spring time that are perfect for an afternoon in the mountains. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a beginner, you’re sure to love one the fantastic hikes below.
Rich Mountain Fire Tower
5 Miles
The Rich Mountain Fire Tower near Hot Springs, NC is a fantastic out-and-back hike located on the Appalachian Trail. Getting to the fire tower is almost entirely an uphill climb but it is well worth the view.
This is a great hike to do if you’re looking for a challenge but also don’t want to be hiking in too remote of an area. Along the way, you’ll encounter small mountain streams on the Appalachian Trail and be surrounding by a canopy of beauty that is the Pisgah National Forest. When you ascend the fire tower and finally see the incredible 360 degree views of the Appalachian Mountains you will know that spring has indeed finally come.
Lover’s Leap
1.7 Miles
Lover’s Leap is a favorite among hiking enthusiasts in Hot Springs, North Carolina. This hike is short, sweet and provides stellar views of the mountains around Hot Springs as well as the French Broad River.
The biodiversity around Hot Springs is particularly remarkable. During spring, you’ll encounter gorgeous flowers along the trail and cheerful birds.
Big Bald
13 Miles
Big Bald is an out-and-back that starts at Sam’s Gap and is a popular hike among hikers as it takes you northbound on the Appalachian Trail and finishes with incredible views of the mountains.
Don’t be too intimidated by the 13 miles, this hike has lots of climbs and descending sections. This is a great hike for experienced hikers as well as intermediate hikers looking to try a longer distance.
In the spring time, you’re likely to encounter thru-hikers on the Appalachian Trail. These folks are hiking over 2,200 miles from Georgia to Maine and they say that Big Bald is one of the their favorite spots! Wow!
