Getting to Springer Mountain

Springer Mountain is the southern terminus of the Appalachian Trail and is the starting point for a grand majority of AT thru-hikers. Compared to its surroundings, the 3,782’ peak is not remarkable, but it holds great significance for many generations of aspirant thru-hikers. The terminus is located within Chattahoochee National Forest roughly two hours north of Atlanta. In 2018 nearly 4,000 hikers began at Springer, and trends indicate 2019 to be no different. With such a high volume of prospective thru-hikers, it’s important to book your travels as soon as possible to ensure your journey starts off on the right foot. Here’s what you need to know to get it done. This guide allows you to work by your intended method of travel. Most options will require getting a shuttle or a hitch to the trail.

Shuttles to Springer Mountain

Ron’s Appalachian Trail Shuttle View

Additionally, you might only need a taxi. Here are some taxis serving the north Georgia area:



Paddy's Taxi - 706.300.7143 - Paddystaxi.com

Uni Taxi - 770.297.0255 - Serves Gainesville Friends and Family Some of us get lucky and can swing a ride to the trail free of charge. For those who will be depending on friends or family to drive you to the trailhead, you have two options. The first option is to get dropped off at the visitor's center at Amicalola Falls State Park and hike the approach trail to Springer. The second option is to park at the Springer Mountain parking area at AT mile one. To get there, the driver will need to take a dirt/gravel road that could be washed out and difficult to drive depending on weather conditions and road maintenance. The road may be accessible to low-set vehicles such as cars and mini-vans, but it certainly is a gamble and bottoming-out is a real possibility. Both drop off locations are indicated on the Google Map towards the beginning of the article, and navigation and/or directions can be generated for both. Atlanta, GA Many hikers take their journey to Springer through Atlanta due to the numerous transportation hubs located there. In addition to being a gateway to the AT, Atlanta features many amenities that can help you on your way. Near the Airport If taking a late flight, it's likely you'll want to stay near the airport so you can recharge before tackling your first day on the trail. There are plenty of hotels surrounding the airport: Near Sandy Springs/North Springs MARTA Stations Many shuttles are willing to pick up hikers at the North Springs MARTA Station. The stop prior, Sandy Springs Station, is located next to a shopping complex housing many restaurants and shops. The following are within walking distance of the station and should allow you to fill up on food, fuel, and any last minute gear needs: Gainesville, GA Gainesville is the closest town to the trail with access to bus and train lines. It has a number of hotels, grocery stores, and restaurants in case you need one more zero-day before starting on your adventure. Hotels Grocery J&J Foods - Coupon Page

Walmart Supercenter

Dollar General Dahlonega, GA If you find your way by Dahlonega (dah-LAWN-ih-guh) before hitting the trail, there are places to stay and resupply. Lodging Barefoot Hills Hotel - Will shuttle hikers staying at hostel as part of a package price. Bunks and private rooms available. Amenities on site including trail foods, concessions, complimentary breakfast, laundry, bear line, and canister fuel. Shuttles to town available for a fee.

Quality Inn Dahlonega Near University

Motel Inn

Days Inn by Wyndham Dahlonega

Holiday Inn Express Dahlonega Grocery Dollar General

Walmart Supercenter Amicalola Falls State Park/Springer Mountain Amicalola Falls State Park is home to the start of the 8-mile AT approach trail, a visitor's center and lodging options. Hiking the approach trail is the more common option for hikers to reach Springer and allows for a more scenic departure at the archway. While the approach trail is not technically part of the AT, many NOBOs opt to hike it. If you arrive late in the day or eight miles is outside of your comfort zone, there are shelters along the approach trail to help you break up your hike to the summit of Springer. Lodging Springer Mountain can also be accessed from a parking lot at mile one of the AT. To get to this lot, vehicles will need to drive a dirt/gravel road and may bottom out if low to the ground. Hikers will need to hike SOBO one mile up Springer to reach the start and then hike the same mile NOBO back to the parking lot in order to continue. I hope you’ve found this guide helpful. If you have any suggestions, clarifications, or updates, please submit them to hikerfeed@gmail.com.

About The Author

Hey There! Like the Guide? Connect with Us hikerfeed

In Partnership With