Start from the center of downtown Hot Springs for this one. The hike is 45 minutes to 1.5 hours depending on how much time you take to enjoy the views, wild flowers, rhododendron and scenery. Individuals in moderate physical condition can enjoy this hike. Be sure to wear walking/running shoes or hiking boots. Stop at Bluff Mountain Outfitters, the Forest Service Office in the middle of town or the Red Caboose Welcome Center for a map and directions.
From town you walk north on Bridge Street and cross the bridge over the French Broad River. You are actually walking on the Appalachian Trail at this point as it runs right through town. The AT is marked with white blazes. Stay on the right side of the bridge and immediately after crossing the bridge there will be a guard rail with a path on the other side. Step over the guard rail and follow the path to the street below. Follow the street up river about 50 yards until you cross a wooden bridge.
Continue on along the river and you will see white blazes marking the Appalachian Trail every 100 feet or so. After a few hundred yards, just beyond Surprise Falls, the trail goes away from the river and does a number of switch-backs upward. The trail is well marked and well established.
There are two large rock promontories along the way with great views of the river, the valley and town. Lover's Leap is the first rock outcropping. At the 2nd one there will be a sign that says Silvermine Trailhead and points down or Appalachian Trail pointing up. Take the Silvermine Trailhead trail down through the rhododendron forest. After about 10-15 minutes you will see a campsite to your left and set of steps built into the hill going to the left. Take a left going down the steps. This will take you to Silvermine Trailhead and Silvermine Road.
Follow Silvermine Road about 150 yards downhill until you arrive back at the wood bridge and street you were on before. Walk up the road, up the bank to Bridge Street, over the guard rail, retracing your route to town.
