Garenflo Gap on the Appalachian Trail near Hot Springs, North Carolina
Garenflo Gap Access Point on the Appalachian Trail is an easy drive from the town of Hot Springs and then less than 2 miles off the highway. The hike north to Lemon Gap is somewhat strenuous but you will be rewarded with some breath-taking views at Bluff Mountain (about 5 miles from Garenflo Gap) when the leaves are gone. Hiking south into the town of Hot Springs affords some beautiful views starting with a fairly easy hike where you see Bluff Mountain in the distance and continuing as you hike down the last 3 miles and look down onto the French Broad River and the town. From Garenflo Gap on the Appalachian Trail, the town of Hot Springs is 6.6 miles and Lemon Gap is 7.4 miles. The parking access to Lemon Gap is pretty remote, however.
Driving Directions: GPS location: N35° 51.11’ W082° 52.31’
From Hot Springs: Take NC Highway 209 south for 6.5 miles and turn right on Gorenflo Gap Road. Continue on Garenflo Gap Road (which turns to gravel road after 1.3 miles) for 1.6 miles to parking for access.
Hiking the Trail:
- To hike north to Hot Springs (6.6 miles), go the direction of the triangular sign.
- To hike south to Lemon Gap (7.4 miles), go the direction of the white blaze.
To hike north to Hot Springs
To hike south to Lemon Gap
