A non-contacting seal for sealing in high temperature applications includes at least one segment having an inner pad with a hydrodynamic/hydrostatic lift-off geometry enabling the seal to run in a non-contact mode, and at least one finger spring supported on the pad that aids in making the seal radially compliant while also being axially stiff, compared to the radial direction. In one embodiment, multiple segments are supported on a support member spaced from the pad to form a gap (g) therebetween. The pad preferably includes a wear resistant layer on its inner diameter (ID) which prevents excessive wear of the pad. In one embodiment, the hydrodynamic/hydrostatic lift-off geometry is in the form of a groove formed on the inner pad. A cover may also be provided between inner pads at the ID and the support ring at the outer diameter OD in order to prevent leakage through the gap.