A few hours north of Atlanta, the Len Foote Hike-Inn lies nestled in Georgia’s Chattahoochee National Forest. The Hike Inn is one of the few backcountry lodges in the United States, and I was lucky enough to have reservations on a beautiful, sunny day. Still early enough in the season to escape the scorching summer heat and humidity the region is known for.
The Len Foote Hike-Inn can only be reached on foot – hence the name.
Guests follow a well-marked easy to moderate five-mile trail that begins atop Amicalola Falls in the state park bearing the same name. Hardy adventurers can begin the hike at the bottom of the falls, adding 600-plus quad-busting stairs alongside the waterfall to the trek. For everyone else, there’s a pull-out on the drive to the trailhead that offers an excellent vantage point to see the falls; only a short walk along a paved path is required.
The trail is well-marked. Hikers will find themselves traversing a lush forest with several small stream crossings. Wildflowers are abundant, and the trees occasionally give way to overlooks offering magnificent views. Log benches offer rest for weary walkers or those who wish to take in the beauty of their surroundings.
The getaway offers the ability to relax in a rustic setting while still enjoying some of the comforts of home.
A hot shower, comfortable bed, and warm meal await guests upon check-in. Twenty guest rooms offer bunk beds – surprisingly comfortable, complete with linens, ample lighting, and fans and heaters. Don’t miss the fascinating nightly tour highlighting the features of the property along with conservation efforts.
After a delicious dinner served family-style, I joined fellow travelers at the StarLab, which consists of Adirondack chairs set up in a clearing facing toward a magnificent view of Yonah Mountain and offering an unobstructed look at the night sky.
In the morning, if skies are clear, a staff member walks alongside the guest rooms softly beating the sunrise drum, giving guests ample time to make their way to the StarLab or the Sunrise Room for a cup of coffee and a gorgeous sunrise.
After a hearty breakfast – think eggs, biscuits and gravy, sausage, and grits – it’s time to hike out. Sack lunches are available for purchase.
They include one of Len FooteHike-Inn’s famous cookies – highly recommended. Hikers can go back the way they came, but many choose to return via the Appalachian Approach Trail – the HIke-Inn is less than five miles from Springer Mountain, the southern terminus of the Appalachian Trail.
If you’re looking for an easy way to enjoy nature and the beauty of God’s creation, the Len Foote Hike-Inn is a perfect choice. Guests are encouraged to unplug and reconnect during their stay. A selection of books and board games are available in the Sunrise Room and the lobby.
For more information or to make reservations visit Len Foote Hike-Inn.
As always, thanks for reading! Check out my new book Stuff I Wish I Knew Before I Went Hiking: Tales and a Few Fails From the Trail.
