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Hikers making an attempt all the 2,200-mile Appalachian Path want high quality stops for a respite from the backcountry. Happily, the Blue Ridge portion of the well-known footpath, which runs from Georgia to Maine, has some simply accessible spots to seize new gear or an evening of relaxation with small-town attraction and blackberry milkshakes. Listed here are 5 thru-hiker favorites.
Dahlonega, Ga.
Dahlonega is a blip of the radar for people who find themselves passing by way of the area. Nevertheless, for Appalachian Path thru-hikers, it’s well-known for its proximity to Springer Mountain, gateway to the path’s southern terminus. This well-reputed resort was began in 2004 as The Hiker Hostel by former thru-hikers, Josh and Leigh Saint. It’s since expanded its lodging choices and develop into Barefoot Hills, however it’s nonetheless centered on accommodating Appalachian Path hikers, providing shuttles to sections of the path in Georgia.
Mountain Crossings at Neel Hole
Blairsville, Ga.
One of many first issues that guests to Mountain Crossings discover are dozens of pairs of shoes and sneakers hanging from a tree. Positioned just below 31 miles from the southern terminus of the A.T., Mountain Crossings is among the first massive milestones for a lot of long-distance hikers, and one of many first locations the place they will alternate their sneakers for a better-fitting footwear possibility. Most thru-hikers attain the shop after climbing Georgia’s tallest Appalachian Path peak, Blood Mountain. Once they make it, they’re greeted by a enterprise with nice hiker facilities: a hostel, a mail drop station, and retailer. And the enterprise has been identified to supply hikers “shakedowns” (help with lightening their packs by sending pointless gear house).
Nantahala Outside Heart
Bryson Metropolis, N.C.
After a steep descent, Appalachian Path hikers stroll proper into the Nantahala Outside Heart (NOC) about 136 miles after starting a northbound journey. This outside middle is a well-liked regional river clothing store however, for hikers, the NOC is usually used as a campsite or bunkhouse for a relaxation day. The premises characteristic various eating places, lodging choices, and actions like zip lining, tubing, kayaking and mountain biking. Guests typically move the day watching kayakers and different water adventurers whereas picnicking from the shore.
Woods Gap Hostel
Pearisburg, Va.
Woods Gap Hostel is a small mountain paradise with a promise of meals and shelter. As legend would have it, it was the late Thirties when a pair went on the lookout for a spot to reside in southwest Virginia and located Woods Gap. They fastened her up, finally purchased the place, and used it to deal with everybody from hunters to passersby. This apply continues, however it’s develop into predominantly a hiker haven nowadays. The property appears like an old-country farmstead with a country attraction. However it’s best identified for its group meals, which normally make the most of regionally grown greens, and Neville’s bread. Along with filling hikers’ stomachs, this hostel supplies all the essential path facilities: mail drops, showers, laundry, snacks, and wifi.
Shenandoah Waysides
Shenandoah Nationwide Park, Va.
Shenandoah Nationwide Park is house to 101 miles of the Appalachian Path. The park’s waysides, small, seize n’ go comfort shops with menus stuffed with American classics, are legendary amongst long-distance hikers. After spending months within the woods, miles away from civilization, these pit-stops present handy and simply accessible lunch choices. The most well-liked meals merchandise amongst Appalachian Path hikers is the blackberry milkshake that may be discovered at these places. It’s so memorable that some hikers vow to not miss a wayside for concern of dropping out on a milkshake.
All photographs courtesy of Woods Gap Hostel.