Max Patch — Local services in Hot Springs

Max Patch is absolutely breathtaking with rolling grassy balds and 360° mountain views that feel like you are standing on top of the world. But getting there is an adventure in itself! The last several miles of the drive are up a narrow, winding gravel road with blind curves and steep drop offs. My little sedan made it fine but I was gripping the wheel the whole time and it was definitely a white knuckle scary drive in spots. Take it slow and watch for oncoming cars.

Once you reach the trailhead the hike is short and moderate and the payoff is instant with panoramic Blue Ridge views perfect for a picnic or just cloud watching.

Tips: • Plan to leave before sunset unless you have a high clearance vehicle and nerves of steel. The road is even trickier in the dark. • Bring layers because the wind at the top can be surprisingly strong. • Pack out all trash since this fragile bald needs care.

Even with the hair raising drive I would do it again in a heartbeat. The sunset from the summit is unforgettable so make sure you are already headed down the mountain...

I’ve been here several times and I feel compelled to post a review. This bald mountain has stunning views from all sides. Sunrises, sunsets, you cannot have a bad view on a clear day. You meet hikers doing the Appalachian Trail and I love handing out water to them and talking about their adventures!!

But please let me emphasize this, up top it is not a great place to camp. First it’s not allowed, even though many many people do it. Second, even if you did, it would not be a great experience as the wind on top will not let you have a fire. On top of that, hiking up with your camp gear and then taking everything back down after is not ideal or easy. This is probably why it’s not allowed as there is trash left every time we visit. Campers realizing the hike up and down is tough carrying so much, including trash. If you want to see a sunrise then camp below & walk up early. But definitely visit this place in your lifetime....

Very nice trail to the top of a mountain bald. It was raining the day we hiked this so we didn't have great views. My grandson did find the shrouded views we did have interesting as it was a new perspective for him. The trail starting clockwise from the parking area is fairly easy. Springtime will have many blooms on the loop and on the bald. We saw black eyed Susans on our hike. This was my first time on the bald and I didn't really get the signage very well. Just follow the main dirt trail all the way to the other side of the bald to complete the loop. Making your way back to the parking lot doing the full CW loop, the descent starts out with quite a few steps with some having a large drop. Coming up this way would be rough. If you want a nice leisurely hike take the trail to the left to the bald and return on the same portion of the trail. Even with the rain it was a fun time. We had rain...