The Castle
Photo courtesy: MTOT
At the heart of the Smith River Valley lies White Sulphur Springs. For centuries the namesake hot springs have drawn people to the region and justifiably so, as the Spa Hot Springs Motel can boast to having untreated spring water comparable to the famous springs in Baden Baden, Germany. The area was used for years by Native American tribes and was referred to as the Valley of Peace. The hot springs are located within the Spa Hot Springs Motel but you don't need to be a guest to soak. White Sulphur Springs sits in the midst of Lewis and Clark National Forest, with unlimited opportunities for hiking, camping, fishing, bird watching and hunting. White Sulphur Springs is the ideal starting or ending point for excursions into the Smith River Canyon and Smith River State Park. The Smith is a permit-only float. If you come during the winter, be sure to check out Showdown Ski Area known for all natural snow and no crowds. Vertical drop at Showdown is 1,400 feet and ski runs offer a variety of challenges. Amenities at the lodge include ski and snowboard equipment rentals, a restaurant, coffee bar and lounge.
Be sure to check out the Castle Museum and carriage house in White Sulphur housed in a century old castle-esque stone mansion. Don't miss the annual Red Ants Pants Music Festival held the last weekend in July in a pasture two miles from town. Top musicians and bands have headlined past festivals along with vendors and craftsmen.
