Hike to Springer Mountain

Begin your journey from Amicalola Falls State Park. Despite the steep climb, you should park at the base of the falls and climb the steps for a great view of one of the grandest falls in the South. (For more on that hike, see: "Climb the Stairs to Amicalola Falls"). From the top of the falls, follow signs to the Appalachian Approach Trail.

The trail is clearly marked by blue blazes on rocks and trees until you reach Springer Mountain. The trail rolls with a gentle increase in elevation over the first 6 miles. The last 2 miles of the trail have a decidedly unyielding upward climb, but the incline is also gentle enough for an intermediate hiker to surmount. The Appalachian Approach Trail terminates at the summit of Springer Mountain (3780'), where the famous white blazes of the Appalachian Trail begin.

On the return, you have two options. First, you can take the exact route from which you came. However, it is recommended that you go left at the 12-mile split for the Lenn Foot Hike Inn to check out the hikers-only hotel in the woods and grab a great view of Atlanta, about 70 miles to the south. From the Hike Inn, follow the signs and green blazes back to Amicalola Falls. The vista of Atlanta is on the left side of the trail.

In total, the hike with the detour to the Hike Inn clocks just under 19 miles, roundtrip. If you're just looking to make it to Springer Mountain, the out-and-back comes to just under 17 miles.