It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always.
They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.
Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.
Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Hot Springs, NC is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.
Home Care Services
Service AreasSince 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.
Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.
The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.
“I am a current client of this provider I like my caregiver. They've made my experience positive”
“I am a current client of this provider I feel comfortable with them so far. I don't”
“ABC has provided care for my client for 5-6 years. They have been great! Melisa”
“Always Best Care for Seniors has served my clients well based on feedback received. They”
“I am a current client of this provider Belinda has done everything I have asked and”
“I am a current client of this provider They are courteous, polite, kind and hard-working. It helps”
“I am a current client of this provider I liked the intake interview lady. Mary, the”
“I am a current client of this provider I like that they are flexible and the”
“The team with Always Best Care were instrumental in the assistance with my mom during”
“I'm a new hire and the office staff is wonderful, informative and thorough. I feel”
“I am a current client of this provider I couldn't have a life without them. They”
“I am a current client of this provider This helps us both be more refreshed and”
“I am a current client of this provider They have helped tremendously with her sadness. I like”
“Always Best Care was always responsive to our family’s caregiving and respite needs. They created”
“I am a past client of this provider They have helped the most with just providing”
“I am a current client of this provider They help the most by talking to him. They're”
“I am a current client of this provider They provide me with company. They make you feel”
“I'm so happy to have such a professional and reliable agency that I can refer”
“Always Best Care Seniors Services provide the personal touch in-home care! From our initial”
“Highly professional and very caring. A great company”
“I love this company. They are always very responsive. They truly care about the ones”
“Wonderful service, very helpful, great communication.”
“All their caregivers are nice, show up, rarely late, and very helpful and kind. They”
“I am a current client of this provider They give me the peace of mind. They are”
“My husband has dementia. They have helped me continue to work and feel comfortable in”
“I am a current client of this provider I like my caregiver. They've made my experience positive by sending me Barbara.”
“I am a current client of this provider I feel comfortable with them so far. I don't have any problems getting things done when the caregivers show up.”
“ABC has provided care for my client for 5-6 years. They have been great! Melisa and Autumn have given extra effort and care to assist with managing my client's needs. I don't know how I would have made it without them.”
“Always Best Care for Seniors has served my clients well based on feedback received. They take the time to assess the needs of caregivers and care recipients alike and establish a detailed person-centered plan of care that addresses the care needs and wellbeing of the care recipient. This approach builds rapport and confidence with the caregiver and emphasizes respite for the caregiver while meeting the care recipients’ needs.”
“I am a current client of this provider Belinda has done everything I have asked and more. Belinda has gone above the call of duty.”
“I am a current client of this provider They are courteous, polite, kind and hard-working. It helps keep him interactive with people.”
“I am a current client of this provider I liked the intake interview lady. Mary, the nurse, is very encouraging. Their presence is helpful because I can't be there.”
“I am a current client of this provider I like that they are flexible and the people that they provide have been good so far. They have removed a lot of stress from my life.”
“The team with Always Best Care were instrumental in the assistance with my mom during her decline and eventual passing. They were thoughtful, kind, supportive, considerate and readily available. Mary, one of the nurse managers at the Asheville location, was so supportive it is as if she became family. She would come without hesitation as I navigated through this difficult time offering tremendous support. She not only foresaw what was needed, but understood what I needed and catered to that need. She is a tremendous asset to your team! I am forever grateful for her.”
“I'm a new hire and the office staff is wonderful, informative and thorough. I feel like this will be a most rewarding opportunity.”
“I am a current client of this provider I couldn't have a life without them. They do the cooking and everything for me. One was a poor caregiver and the other was good.”
“I am a current client of this provider This helps us both be more refreshed and get breaks from each other. I like the fact that they seem to be a Christian-based organization. That comes through with the care that is provided.”
“I am a current client of this provider They have helped tremendously with her sadness. I like how I can call, get a person and not just a recording.”
“Always Best Care was always responsive to our family’s caregiving and respite needs. They created a thorough and detailed individual care plan with us that addressed all of our concerns and caregiving requirements. Our caregiver Elaine was fantastic. She is genuinely caring, compassionate, friendly, and engaging. My father was always excited when Elaine came to the house. They would talk for hours, laugh, play games, do puzzles, look at photo albums, and watch all kinds of sports together including tennis, football, soccer, and basketball. He said that Elaine made the best peanut butter and jelly sandwiches too. She even stopped by to check on us after hurricane Helene to make sure that we were ok. I fully recommend Always Best Care to any family needing respite and caregiving services for their loved ones. They are truly the Best!”
“I am a past client of this provider They have helped the most with just providing me really good care and there was a never struggle with them. I liked that Always Best Care was always very kind and worked with me very easily.”
“I am a current client of this provider They help the most by talking to him. They're very good about doing what they are supposed to be doing.”
“I am a current client of this provider They provide me with company. They make you feel comfortable.”
“I'm so happy to have such a professional and reliable agency that I can refer my caregivers to and know that they will receive the service they need to assist with the care of their loved ones with dementia,”
“Always Best Care Seniors Services provide the personal touch in-home care! From our initial call inquiring about services, to meeting the owner Jim Smeaton to discuss our unique family needs, to the caring compassionate and understanding caregivers we are thoroughly impressed. Its such a relief knowing our loved ones are receiving the care they deserve.”
“Highly professional and very caring. A great company”
“I love this company. They are always very responsive. They truly care about the ones that they care for.”
“Wonderful service, very helpful, great communication.”
“All their caregivers are nice, show up, rarely late, and very helpful and kind. They are reliable, and the caregivers are sweet and attentive.”
“I am a current client of this provider They give me the peace of mind. They are always able to be reached and are willing to work with you.”
“My husband has dementia. They have helped me continue to work and feel comfortable in knowing my husband is safe with excellent care. The office listens, really hears and is helpful to support and meet needs. Our caregiver, Chip, has become family. He was very personable, attentive to needs, brings extra in music, stories, making sure to pay attention to the patient and give accordingly. He is always kind and gracious. We are blessed to have them.”
Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.
When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.
The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.
At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.
To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:
If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.
Common personal care services include assistance with:
Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.
Common home helper care services include assistance with:
Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors.
Common companionship services include:
According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.
At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.
If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.
Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:
According to AARP, 9 out of 10 seniors prefer to age in place within the comfort of their own home. With in-home care, seniors have a way to stay at home, receive the care they need, and maintain a sense of independence, improving overall wellness.
If you or a member of your family have assumed the role of caregiver for your senior loved one, you know how stressful the job can be. Between caregiver burnout and constant worry, being a family caregiver is hard. In-home care relieves your burden and gives you peace of mind knowing that your older family member is in expert hands.
Unlike nursing homes, where the staff and residents rotate frequently, seniors can foster new friendships and build bonds with their caregiver. Seniors who socialize on a regular basis are often happier, which fosters positivity and leads to increased wellbeing.
No two seniors need the same kind of in-home care assistance. That is why each of our Care Plans is tailored to meet our client's individual needs. We offer plans that cover everything from light housekeeping to more involved duties like transportation to doctor's appointments. Our Care Coordinators will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan to ensure your senior's needs are exceeded.
Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.
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While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.
In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.
How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?
A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.
With the help of elderly care in Hot Springs, NC, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.
Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.
Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.
For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.
More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.
In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.
With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.
In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.
Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.
At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.
In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:
When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.
Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.
At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Hot Springs, NC understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.
Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.
Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.
While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.
Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.
At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.
Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:
At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.
Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.
For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.
The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:
A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way
A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive
Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider
Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.
If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.
At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Hot Springs, NC 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.
When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.
HOT SPRINGS - Hot Springs received $10 million from the state for Tropical Storm Helene-related repairs to its water and sewer infrastructure, the town announced.The funding comes from the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality and its Clean Water State Revolving Fund program.According to Hot Springs Program Manager Brad Guth, $5 million was allotted for the town's drinking water infrastructure, and $5 million for its wastewater system.The state loans included up to $5 million principle forgiveness. As such, ...
HOT SPRINGS - Hot Springs received $10 million from the state for Tropical Storm Helene-related repairs to its water and sewer infrastructure, the town announced.
The funding comes from the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality and its Clean Water State Revolving Fund program.
According to Hot Springs Program Manager Brad Guth, $5 million was allotted for the town's drinking water infrastructure, and $5 million for its wastewater system.
The state loans included up to $5 million principle forgiveness. As such, the town plans to keep each project under that $5 million threshold to avoid incurring costs, according to Mayor Abby Norton.
"Anything we'd have to pay back would have to come out of the water and sewer," Norton said. "You've seen our budget for water and sewer. We can't afford to pay it."
In April, outgoing Hot Springs Town Board member Jeanne Caldwell Gentry revealed Helene had wiped out its water and tax records and software. The software and tax records' erasure in the flooding caused a roughly $300,000 shortfall, forcing the town to seek out reimbursement of a bridge loan.
But even after reimbursement, Norton said there isn't nearly enough in the coffers to devote to major water or sewer repairs. Hot Springs' 2025-26 budgeted Water and Sewer Fund appropriations total roughly $366,000.
The town's anticipated revenues include $199,000 in water usage charges, $166,000 in sewer usage charges and $1,500 in other revenues.
Hot Springs' main wastewater treatment plant was temporarily inoperative as a result of Tropical Storm Helene's devastation in the town.
The News-Record received an email from Hot Springs Program Manager Brad Guth detailing the scope of the work for the water and sewer projects.
The drinking water system repair work includes:
The scope of the wastewater treatment repair work includes:
Norton said the town is very pleased to receive the state funding, as the town's water and sewer systems needed improvements even prior to Helene.
According to Norton, prior to Helene, the town typically hauled its wastewater sludge to Asheville's Metropolitan Sewer District roughly once a month. Since Helene, it now hauls its sludge roughly every two weeks.
Norton said the town likely will need to move its main wastewater treatment plant after the damages. The town plans to move to its package plants facility next month.
A sewer package plant is a self-contained, pre-engineered wastewater treatment system, typically housed in a single unit or modules, designed to treat wastewater on-site. These plants are pre-fabricated off-site and then shipped for installation, offering a compact, efficient, and often more cost-effective solution compared to traditional, field-erected plants.
McGill Associates, the engineering firm with which Hot Springs works, recommended the town accept Integrative Water Services' bid for two package plants totaling nearly $2.2 million.
At its April meeting. the Hot Springs Town Board approved the package, which includes $96,000 for technical assistance for one year.
According to Norton, the $2.2 million will be paid by the UNC Collaboratory.
Norton, who came on as mayor in 2019, said the wastewater treatment plant has been a top priority throughout her mayoralty.
Hot Springs water budget 'in very bad shape' after Helene ruins water bill softwareHot Springs approves budget; property tax rate to decrease againHot Springs working with American Flood Coalition to secure sewer plant fundingJohnny Casey is the Madison County communities reporter for The Citizen Times and The News-Record & Sentinel. He can be reached at 828-210-6074 or [email protected].
There’s a lot to like about Southern mountain towns, but there’s an extra special reason to love Hot Springs, North Carolina. The teensy tiny town (no really, the last census recorded fewer than 550 locals) is the ultimate place to travel if you want to adventure hard and relax harder. Located on the North Carolina-Tennessee border, about 45 minutes north of Asheville, Hot Springs is the only place in the state that has a natural hot spring—hence the town’s name. Thanks to its location on the banks of the French Broad...
There’s a lot to like about Southern mountain towns, but there’s an extra special reason to love Hot Springs, North Carolina. The teensy tiny town (no really, the last census recorded fewer than 550 locals) is the ultimate place to travel if you want to adventure hard and relax harder. Located on the North Carolina-Tennessee border, about 45 minutes north of Asheville, Hot Springs is the only place in the state that has a natural hot spring—hence the town’s name. Thanks to its location on the banks of the French Broad River and Spring Creek, Hot Springs (the town) has its own natural hot spring that bubbles with mineral water from deep in the earth—and visitors are invited to take a soak in the healing pools! Outside of the springs, there’s plenty more to explore in this historic town that’s tucked into a valley surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains. Here are the 13 best things to do in Hot Springs, North Carolina
You wouldn’t even think about visiting Hot Springs without taking a dip. You can experience the healing mineral waters of the town’s namesake in two locations: Hot Springs Resort and Spa and Broadwing Farm. At Hot Springs Resort and Spa the famous mineral waters are piped into modern, outdoor jetted hot tubs that are situated outside along the serene banks of the French Broad River and Spring Creek. Tubs are available to rent by the hour and are fully drained and sanitized between uses. Broadwing Farm offers a similar service but theirs is limited to guests who stay in their cabins.
One of the country’s most legendary hiker routes, the Appalachian Trail runs for more than 2,000 miles from Georgia all the way to Maine, and its path happens to cross right through Hot Springs. Known as North Carolina’s AT Town, the trail enters the edge of town at the base of Deer Park Mountain, then continues for a mile straight down main street until it exists the valley by traveling up Lover’s Leap. Be sure to get a picture of your walking shoes next to the granite AT markers you’ll find embedded in the sidewalks on main street.
Despite its size, there are several places in town to pick up a souvenir or find a one-of-a-kind good. Start at Hazelwood House Gift Shop, a locally owned business that’s been selling gifts including handmade crafts, art, home décor, jewelry, and antiques since 2004. Find works from owner Terry Thirion, as well as a host of other regional artists, at Gallery 339. The space also offers classes and workshops in several different mediums. Finally, head to Trust General Store & Café to sit in a rocker on the inviting front porch; shop for local crafts, outdoor goods, and artisan food; and savor a meal from their attached café.
Take advantage of the town’s location on the French Broad River by taking a rafting trip. Local outfitters French Broad Adventures and Hot Springs Rafting Co. can hook you up with a half-day trip, complete with a provided picnic lunch on a island halfway through your journey. If a leisurely float is more your speed, Hot Springs Rafting Co. also plans relaxing tubing float trips—no paddling required.
Find more outdoor adventure on the multitude of trails that start in and around Hot Springs. Popular options include the Laurel River Trail, a 3.6-mile easy route and Lover’s Leap Trail and Appalachian Trail Loop, a 1.6-mile moderate trail that travels along the French Broad River and then up a mountain for a bird’s eye view of town.
After suffering immense damage from Hurricane Helene, this beloved local restaurant is back up and running, dishing out their signature pizzas, salads, and desserts pizzas. Pies are served in either “album” or “45” sizes, and a full menu of craft beer and wine accompanies.
pizzaatvinylpies.com; 164 Bridge St, Hot Springs, NC 28743; 828-682-8850
This familiar restaurant is a magnet for hungry thru hikers passing through town since it’s located directly on the Appalachian Trail. Open six days a week for breakfast, lunch, and dinner (closed Sundays), look out for lunch specials like shrimp po’boys and country fried steak. Don’t leave a cathead biscuit off your breakfast order.
facebook.com/people/Smoky-Mountain-Diner; 70 Lance Ave., Hot Springs, NC 28743; 828-622-7571
This mobile food unit is all about serving fresh and foraged food straight from their forest farm and the surrounding widerness. Think fungi, wild roots and shoots, and game meat. An example or a recent special was venison stew with a chopped mushroom blend, oregano, wild sumac, and onion over root mash.
facebook.com/people/Hunt-and-Gather-Wild-Food; 704-334-0800
Part gourmet grocery store, part wine shop, and part café, Vaste Riviere is a neighborhood hangout that’s known for hosting live music, craft tutorials, and special events on almost day of the week. Stop in to enjoy a hot sandwich and cold beer on their outdoor patio, then peruse the shelves to find your new favorite food product.
facebook.com/p/Vaste-Riviere-Provisions; 158 Bridge Street Hot Springs, NC 28743; 828-539-0987
The town’s first and only craft brewery, Big Pillow is the place to go for cold beer, live music, and excellent tacos from The Grey Eagle Taqueria. The brewery boasts an expansive outdoor seating area, plenty of delicious flagship brews, and a rotating events calendar of open mics and karaoke. All pints are $1 off on Thursdays.
bigpillowbrewing.com; 25 Andrews Ave N, Hot Springs, NC 28743; 828-539-1939
Fully immerse yourself in the great outdoors by staying in a home perched in the treetops via Hot Springs Treehouse Cabins. These secluded retreats, situated on 13 acres bordering Pisgah National Forest and Spring Creek, are the ultimate place to unwind and unplug. Take in the views as you lounge in a hot tub on your private deck or fall asleep in a comfy bed to the sound of a rushing waterfall.
hotspringstreehousecabinsnc.com; 138 High Mountain Rd, Hot Springs, NC 28743
The 162 acres that make up Paint Rock Farm are as idyllic as they come. Located on the French Broad River and overlooking the Pisgah National Forest, the stunning property supports a full working produce farm, as well as 11 glamping cabins. Each cabin is outfitted with real beds (featuring memory foam mattresses), as well as a private deck, fire pit, and picnic table so you can enjoy the surrounding beauty. Want to have a real farm experience? Paint Rock offers farm stay exchanges for those interested in working the land.
paintrockfarm.com; 295 Paint Rock Rd, Hot Springs, NC 28743; 828-231-0296
Cabin and cottage rentals are the primary form of lodging in Hot Springs, and there’s a home away from home to suit any traveler’s needs or preferences. From the stunning, 7-bedroom Victorian home known as Magnolia House to quaint stone cottages big enough for just two—and everything in between—it won’t take much searching to find your perfect stay.
hotspringsnc.org/lodging/cabins-cottages-and-vacation-homes
One year after Hurricane Helene’s devastating impact, the resilience of Western North Carolina is as clear as the crisp mountain air. As the Blue Ridge Mountains prepare for their annual autumn display, this season is special: We’ll visit not only to see the fall leaves but also to celebrate the spirit of our mountain towns.For travelers across the Carolinas and beyond, visiting this season is a powerful way to support local communities in their rebuilding efforts.To help you plan your trip, we’ve confirmed wh...
One year after Hurricane Helene’s devastating impact, the resilience of Western North Carolina is as clear as the crisp mountain air. As the Blue Ridge Mountains prepare for their annual autumn display, this season is special: We’ll visit not only to see the fall leaves but also to celebrate the spirit of our mountain towns.
For travelers across the Carolinas and beyond, visiting this season is a powerful way to support local communities in their rebuilding efforts.
To help you plan your trip, we’ve confirmed what’s open and what remains closed at top Western North Carolina tourist attractions for September 2025.
Status: Partially open
Notes: Before you make plans to visit the mountains, check the National Park Service’s real-time road closure map ahead of planning any travel along the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Status: Open
Notes: At 5,506 feet and the highest town in the Southeast, Beech Mountain is typically the first in the area to receive fall color. It’ll be ski season soon enough, but before you start checking the slope reports, you can visit for the autumn views. Here are a couple of restaurants to visit on your trip:
Status: Open
Notes: Downtown Hot Springs sustained massive damage as a result of Helene, but a year later the town is celebrating its rebuilding efforts. The local tourism commission is hosting an event on Saturday, Sept. 27, which invites people to explore the town one year after the hurricane. Check the town’s calendar for more events, including movie nights and live music. A couple of restaurants to check out:
Status: Open
Location: 315 Bridge St, Hot Springs, NC 28743
Notes: Hot Springs Resort & Spa has limited available units to rent, according to its website, so you’ll want to plan ahead for your spa vacation that includes access to its naturally occurring hot springs. You can stay at the resort or just book time for a mineral bath.
Status: Open
Notes: After a section of the Blue Ridge Parkway reopened between Asheville and Mount Mitchell recently, Mount Mitchell State Park was finally able to reopen after almost a year. At 6,684 feet, Mount Mitchell is the highest point east of the Mississippi River. Its hiking trails are mostly open.
Status: Open
Notes: Chimney Rock State Park reopened in June. Reserve your tickets online at chimneyrockpark.com and make sure to allow for extra travel time, the park suggests.
Status: Lake drained / closed for recreation
Notes: The lake was partially drained after the hurricane and the Town of Lake Lure has announced a tentative timeline that includes Lake Lure reopening in May 2026.
Status: Open
Notes: Many of Lake Lure’s shops and restaurants are open for business and welcoming visitors. Check individual places before you go.
Status: Open
Notes: The Lake Lure Inn & Spa, the historic inn that was used in filming of “Dirty Dancing”, reopened in October, but its spa remains closed.
Status: Open
Notes: The historic Biltmore Estate is open and recently hosted “Good Morning America” as part of the show celebrating the best in each of the 50 states.
Status: Open
Notes: Asheville’s shops, restaurants, galleries, artist studios and restaurants are open, according to Explore Asheville.
Status: Open
Notes: The Omni Grove Park Inn, a historic hotel known for its luxurious spa, reopened in November. Entries for its 2025 Annual National Gingerbread House Competition are now being accepted, after it the event was canceled last year — though the inn put gingerbread displays all around Asheville instead.
Status: Open
Location: 75 Gashes Crk Rd, Asheville, NC 28805
Notes: The Gashes Creek Bridge was destroyed during Hurricane Helene, so take note of the alternate route listed on Western North Carolina Nature Center’s website. The wildlife refuge is taking donations for a new quarantine space, as its prior one was washed away in the storm.
Status: Open
Location: 20 Frederick Law Olmsted Way, Asheville, NC 28806
Notes: The North Carolina Arboretum reopened in October after sustaining monumental storm damage, with many its 10-mile trail network reopening in the months following. Check out the Arboretum’s website for current events and displays, including a Bonsai Exhibition Garden.
Status: Check water safety advisories; some companies are closed for 2025 season
Notes: Water safety advisories offer different recommendations based on whether you plan to go swimming (full immersion) or tubing/paddleboarding on the French Broad River. E.coli levels are being monitored after Hurricane Helene, as well as the potential for submerged debris. The cleanup efforts have been strong: More than 3 million pounds of debris was removed from around the river after the storm, according to John Stamper, MountainTrue’s river cleanup coordinator. “We’re excited to welcome folks back to the region,” he recently said in a video interview with Explore Asheville.
Some outfitters may offer tubing put-in spots that are away from the storm’s damage, including Zen Tubing, which opened its Flagship South location and not in the RAD area this past season. However, Zen’s tubing is now closed at all locations for the 2025 season. A full list of local water activity operators is available at exploreasheville.com.
Visit frenchbroadwaterquality.com for the latest water safety advisories and frenchbroadpaddle.com for details about the French Broad Paddle Trail access locations.
Status: Partially open
Notes: Grandfather Mountain is worth a visit, and you don’t have to take our word for it: the state park was recently named one of the best in the country. The Grandfather Mountain nature park and preserve are open, including its Mile High Swinging Bridge, several trails and visitor facilities. Note the nature park’s new hours due to the fall season. At the state park, The Profile Trail remains closed due to unsafe conditions; other trails have reopened.
Status: Open
Notes: Tweetsie Railroad, which closed for longer than expected after Hurricane Helene, reopened in time for Tweetsie Christmas last year. Visit this fall season for a ride on its Ghost Train on Friday and Saturday nights or regular operating hours on Sundays.
Status: Open
Notes: Downtown Boone worked to quickly to reopen many of its restaurants and shops in the weeks after Hurricane Helene. A couple of restaurants to check out:
Status: Open
Notes: None of Blowing Rock’s infrastructure was destroyed in the storm, calling itself extremely fortunate. Local restaurants and shops are open and welcoming visitors, including:
Status: Partially open
Notes: The Linville Falls overlook trails have partially reopened after the storm. As of last month, Chimney View, Erwin’s View and Gorge View trails are accessible and The Upper Falls Trail remains closed. An updated trail map can be found on the National Park Service website.
Status: Open
Notes: The family run Sky Top Orchard is not only open, it recently ranked among the nation’s best apple orchards, according to USA Today. Visit the orchard for seasonal varieties of U-pick apples, fresh pressed apple cider, hard cider, apple cider doughnuts and hayrides and other attractions are available.
Status: Open
Notes: Downtown Hendersonville began welcoming back visitors last autumn, just a few weeks after the storm. Local restaurants to visit include:
Status: Open
Location: 100 Sierra Nevada Way, Fletcher, NC 28732
Notes: Sierra Nevada Brewing Co., along with its taproom and restaurant, are open and welcoming visitors to its Mills River location. Reserve your spot ahead of time on the brewery’s website or join a live waiting list if you’re making last-minute plans.
Status: Partially open
Notes: Many of DuPont State Recreational Forest’s trails are still closed after Hurricane Helene, according to the N.C. Forest Service. The Friends of DuPont Forest website has a list of waterfalls to explore and the trails you’ll need to use to get there.
Status: Officially closed for the season
Notes: Sliding Rock officially closed for the season on Labor Day weekend and will reopen Memorial Day weekend 2026. Until then, the site is available but at your own risk — no lifeguards will be on duty or restrooms will be available. Water conditions can be unpredictable, so it’s safest to go during the official season when they will be monitored.
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