The well traveled Appalachian trail, runs right thru the town of Hot Springs, where there is not a stop light to be found. The trail is extensive enough to spread from Main to Georgia.  There are several access points in and around Hot Springs, and Bluff Mountain Outfitters on main street is a good place to get your bearings. Lovers Leap takes you to a beautiful view of the French Broad River, which is the third oldest river in the world. The view from Max Patch is just stunning, and once there it is a great place to enjoy a picnic lunch.  You can hike on and around the bald, but need your four wheel drive to this reach this beauty.  If you are looking for a hike, just minutes from RiverDance, the Laurel River Trail will fit the bill.  Bring along your fishing pole,  enjoy a dip in a swimming hole, or find a rock to relax, and take in the sound of the water rushing over the rocks. You can also put your hiking boots to explore the Rich Mountain Lookout Fire Tower, with an elevation of 3,643 feet.  When you get to the top, what a view!  If you are looking for a waterfall, as part of your hiking experience, check out Margarette Falls which is just over the border in neighboring Greene County Tennessee.  It is a hike in to the falls, but well worth it!Perhaps you want to hike, but with a different spin.  How about Smokey Mountain Llama Treks,just across the border in Crosby Tennessee?  Llama’s are not built to ride, but certainly would enjoy a hike with you! There are various trails to choose from, as well as a visit to the Llama farm.A great way to enjoy the outdoors!