Kayaking Basics First

For the beginner, it might be best to learn some kayaking basics before shooting the rapids. For the well-seasoned kayaker, The French Broad River offers some of the most thrilling white water in the Western North Carolina area. From Marshall, Take 251 South and look alongside the right side of the road on the way to Asheville. There are multiple river parks with parking and picnic benches where a kayaker can gently put in and spend the day paddling.

There are also some excellent Whitewater Rafting companies in Marshall and Hot Springs, and quite a few to choose from. All of the Whitewater Rafting companies offer safe, fun rafting down the French Broad River. The rafting companies in the Marshall and Hot Springs area provide guides for rafting and float trips. These trips are typically four hours, eight hours, or overnight.

Rafting companies have different packages that appeal to a wide group of rafters. This includes people who just want to relax and enjoy “float” trip down the French Broad River. The Blue Ridge Rafting Company in Hot Springs offers a Float Trip on the calmer part of the French Broad.

Raft and Kayak Rentals

French Broad Rafting Expeditions also provides rentals. Rentals differ from raft trips and float trips because they are unguided. Without the guide, a person or group may rent a raft or duckie, which resembles a kayak, for a less expensive rate. For example, a half-day float trip will cost $45, while a duckie rental is only $25 for the same amount of time. All transportation and equipment is provided and rafters put in near relatively calm locations on the French Broad River, for maximum enjoyment.

Whitewater Rafting on the French Broad River

For those looking for a River Adventure designed for a group, Huck Finn Rafting Adventures, located in downtown Hot Springs, might be the place to try. They will design a custom Trip for a group, and make it a memorable trip down the river for all. The other rafting companies in the Hot Springs and Marshall area are Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC) and USA Raft. Both have locations on Highway 25/70, just south of Hot Springs, and very close to some of the best rafting on the French Broad River.

Tips for Rafting Near Marshall and Hot Springs

Some tips for whitewater rafting on the French Broad River include: wear sandals or shoes that can get wet, bring some water along for the trip, avoid bringing electronic devices (cell phones, ipods, cameras) that will be destroyed by water, pack a warm set of clothes and towel for the end of the trip.

Some of the most scenic sections of the French Broad River in Marshall and Hot Springs are best experienced on float trips and whitewater rafting trips downriver. Plan a day on the French Broad River with family and friends and experience the North Carolina outdoors in all of its splendor.

Hot Springs, North Carolina is one of the most pleasurable retreats in the Southern Appalachian Mountains. This quaint mountain village features a hot spring that was used by Native Americans before settlement, and was cultivated by the colonists, then local businessmen who understood the attraction of mineral springs. A dip in the mineral springs is a delightful way to improve health, relax, and take pleasure in nature.

A Short History of Hot Springs Spas

At one time the town of Hot Springs in Madison County was at the peak of popularity. When the Buncombe Turnpike opened, Hot Springs was a superhighway for drovers and other merchants headed for Charleston and Augusta to sell their livestock and wares. Weary travelers rested at Hot Springs to take in the healing waters. Two elegant and well-known establishments, the Warm Springs Hotel in 1837, and then the Mountain Park Hotel in 1886 were both built in Hot Springs. Warm Springs Hotel burned in 1882, and the Mountain Park Hotel burned in 1920, after serving as an internment camp for Germans during World War I in 1917. Hot Springs Today Although Contemporary Hot Springs is changed, it is still a treasured vacation spot for locals and tourists. It’ situated on the French Broad River just north of Marshall, and not more than 20 miles from Whisper Mountain and only 33 miles from Asheville. Luxury hotels are no longer in fashion in Hot Springs. Still, there are many fine establishments where one can take a mineral bath right in the room or in one of the nearby tubs.

Mountain Magnolia B&B

Featured in Southern Living , This Old House and on HGTV, the Mountain Magnolia Bed and Breakfast is a quaint authentic mountain home in Hot Springs that was built in 1868. Guests may stay at the Mountain Magnolia, or they may dine there. Make reservations keeping seasonal hours in mind. In February and March, the Mountain Magnolia B&B is open Thursday through Sunday from 5:30 to 9 PM. Beginning in April dinner is available nightly. For the day visitor to hot springs, enjoy the private, outdoor tubs with renewed mineral water for each visit.

Visit the Hot Springs Spa website. Make reservations for the Spa in advance, especially during high season in the summer and fall, and on weekends. Hot Springs Spa is a wonderful retreat and it’s just a drive over the mountains from Whisper Mountain.

White Water Rafting and Kayaking in Hot Springs North Carolina

The mineral springs are just a portion of what Hot Springs has to offer to the day visitor. Because of its proximity to the French Broad River, Hot Springs is a great destination for white water rafting trips, kayaking, or fishing along the banks. Depending upon the water level, the white water can be as high as class 4 or 5 and a real challenge to any outdoor sportsperson. Hiking in Hot Springs North Carolina Some of the best hiking on the Appalachian Trail (AT) is in Hot Springs. In fact, Hot Springs is known as North Carolina’s Appalachian Trail town. There are numerous places inside and outside of Hot Springs where visitors will find backpackers taking a break from the demands of the AT. The Appalachian Trail intersects with the main road heading out of Hot Springs, towards Asheville. Whatever an individual’s choice for relaxation or outdoor adventure, chances are that Hot Springs, North Carolina is the place to be.