Madison County

Return to Mountains

Recreation, culture and history abound in the Western North Carolina county of Madison.  Visit the town of Hot Springs, an outdoor enthusiasts paradise, with the Appalachian Trail, whitewater rafting and canoeing on the French Broad River, and North Carolina's only hot mineral baths.  In Mars Hill, stop in at the Rural Life Museum on the Mars Hill College Campus or take in a play at the Southern Appalachian Repertory Theatre. And in the winter ski, snowboard or tube at the ski slopes.  In Marshall, the county seat, walk down historic Main Street or go to the Depot for traditional music and dancing on Friday nights. 

The Pisgah National Forest makes up nearly 1/4 of Madison County’s land and the Appalachian Trail runs through the county (at one time passing through the main street in the town of Hot Springs). Easy hiking on a former railroad bed which runs along the Laurel River to more challenging hikes in the Blue Ridge Mountains provides a myriad of opportunities to enjoy the beautiful vistas offered during every season. There are several other hikes that are described on the Appalachian Trail Access Points page of the website.

Madison County Visitors Center

72 S. Main St., Box 1527

Mars Hill, NC 28754

(828) 680-9031

Download "The Trails of the Appalachian District"

Campgrounds and Cottages