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Women’s-Only Springer Mountain Hike & Inn Experience

Guided ·
5.0
See all guided camping trips in Blue Ridge
Locally Owned
Small Group Sizes
Beginner Friendly
Free Cancellation
Instant Book
Multi-day

This adventure isn't instantly bookable online, but may still be available

Duration: 3 days

Pricing

Person
$800
Person
$0

All Prices

Person
$800
Person
$0

Description

Springer Mountain Women’s Backpacking & Hike Inn Experience!

There’s something powerful about standing at the place where it all begins. Springer Mountain marks the southern start of the Appalachian Trail—a place every northbound thru-hiker steps onto with months of trail ahead of them. On this 3-day women’s-only experience, you’ll follow that same path, hiking the iconic approach trail through Amicalola Falls State Park toward Springer Mountain, surrounded by waterfalls, forest, and ridgeline views that make this section of trail so memorable.
This trip is designed to give you the best of both worlds. One night, you’ll camp in the backcountry near an Appalachian Trail shelter, settling into the rhythm of life outdoors under the stars. Next, you’ll hike to the Len Foote Hike Inn, a secluded lodge deep in the forest that’s only accessible by foot. There, you’ll trade your tent for a real bed, enjoy a hot dinner and breakfast, and experience a kind of comfort that feels incredibly earned after a day on the trail.
With small groups capped at 6, this experience stays personal, supportive, and connected. Whether you’re coming solo or with a friend, you’ll share miles, conversations, and moments that make the trail feel special—from the first steps up the approach trail to standing at Springer Mountain itself. It’s a rare kind of trip that blends adventure, meaning, and just enough comfort to make it unforgettable.

Itinerary

  • Day 1: Your adventure begins at Amicalola Falls State Park. You’ll meet your guide mid-morning, where you’ll start with gear overviews and brief intros before we hit the trail and begin the most challenging hiking day of the trip. We’ll make our way toward an AT shelter area, where we’ll camp for the night. Once we arrive, your guide will walk you through setting up camp, using your gear, filtering water, and preparing your backcountry dinner. As the sun sets, settle in under the stars and enjoy a quiet evening in the forest.
  • Day 2: Wake up surrounded by morning light and enjoy a warm, trail-style breakfast before breaking down camp. From there, we’ll hike up to Springer Mountain, the southern terminus of the Appalachian Trail. After taking in the view (and snapping the classic first white blaze photo), we’ll descend and continue on to The Hike Inn, a cozy, rustic lodge only accessible by foot. Once we arrive, kick your boots off and enjoy the luxuries of trail life—hot showers, a family-style dinner, comfortable beds, and an evening conservation program hosted by the Hike Inn staff. Breakfast and a packed lunch are also included.
  • Day 3: After coffee and breakfast at the Hike Inn, we’ll pack up and make our way back down the trail toward Amicalola Falls to return to our cars. We’ll wrap up by late morning to early afternoon, leaving you with a full heart, tired legs, and a new appreciation for the first miles of the AT.

Duration of Adventure

  • 3 Days & 2 Nights

Location / Where to Meet

Ages & Requirements

  • The minimum age to participate is 18+ years old. This tour is for adults only!
  • This is a woman-only backpacking trip.
  • This experience is designed for intermediate-level hikers who are ready for a challenge but don’t need prior backpacking experience. We’ll take on significant inclines and sustained elevation gain, especially on Day 1, so a regular hiking or fitness routine is strongly recommended. If you’re comfortable being on your feet for several hours and excited to learn backcountry skills along the way, this trip is a great fit.
  • Guests must be able to hike approximately 15 miles (24 km) round trip.
  • There is a maximum of 6 hikers allowed on the tour and a minimum of 3. If the minimum number of hikers is not met, your guide will reach out to you within 2 weeks of your trip.

What’s Included

  • Wilderness First Responder Certified Expert Guide
  • High-Quality Backpacking Gear (Backpacks, Tents, Sleeping Pads)
  • Shared Gear (Stoves, Water Filters, First Aid Kit, Bathroom Trowels)
  • All Meals (Dehydrated Meals, Snacks, and Beverages)
  • Two-Person Tent (Single Occupancy Available at No Extra Cost)
  • We are able to accommodate a variety of dietary restrictions, however please keep in mind we are somewhat limited due to the nature of the activity. Dehydrated food is often used for the majority of meals, as it is lightweight and easy to carry (versus fresh food that is both heavy and perishable). When booking your trip, please note any allergies or dietary restrictions so we are aware and can adjust our food selection accordingly. 

Not Included

  • Gratuity - Never expected, but if you have a great experience, please consider gifting 10-25% to your guides!
  • Transportation to the meeting point / trailhead.
  • You will be provided a full detailed packing list after booking, some gear you will have to provide for yourself!

What to Bring / Wear

  • Sleeping Bag – 20 degree bags are recommended in April, May, Sept, Oct, and Nov time frames – the mountains are chillier than you think!
  • Clothing – One outfit to hike in, one to sleep in (you do not need extra changes of clothes), along with adequate layers for the weather. Avoid cotton if possible – if cotton gets wet it will stay damp and cold.
  • Sun / Rain Protection - Rimmed hat, sunglasses, neck covering (may attach to hat), and UV deflecting long sleeve shirts can all help to combat the harmful and strong sun rays. A poncho / rain jacket / rain pants is important to consider as weather can change quickly in the mountains!
  • Sturdy Hiking Shoes - Broken in/Used before with closed toes and grippy tread! 
  • Hiking Socks & Gaiters - Comfortable socks to prevent blisters and small shoe gaiters are helpful to keep rocks and sand from getting into the shoe and causing blisters or cuts!
  • Head Lamp
  • Mess Kit
  • Water Bottles/Water Bladder – 2 Liters recommended, one in a heat safe container (ex – Nalgene) to use as a hot water bottle on cold nights. Once your trip is booked your guide will reach out with route specific water guidelines.
  • Personal Medications – If you need certain medications along the hike, please be sure to have them with you.
  • Required Paperwork & ID Cards- Signed medical form if required, waivers, license, etc.

What Not to Bring

Don't bring many of the typical luxuries of everyday life that are not needed in the backcountry! Feel free to leave your makeup, deodorant, and other products at home. A toothbrush/toothpaste is the only recommended toiletry for your trip. Extra electronics and other forms of entertainment are not needed – take this time to disconnect and enjoy nature – screen free!

ADVENTURE PROVIDED BY Happy Hiking Company

FAQs

What is special about hiking at Springer Mountain and the Appalachian Trail? 

Springer Mountain is one of the most iconic locations in American hiking culture — the official southern terminus of the 2,198-mile (3,537 km) Appalachian Trail, where every northbound thru-hiker's journey begins. Reaching the summit and touching the bronze plaque and first white blaze is a meaningful moment for any hiker, regardless of whether they plan to continue north. The surrounding Chattahoochee National Forest offers beautiful hardwood forest, abundant wildlife, and the kind of quiet, remote feel that makes the backcountry feel genuinely far from everyday life.

What is the Hike Inn? 

The Hike Inn is a beloved eco-lodge located approximately 5 miles (8 km) from Amicalola Falls State Park — accessible only by foot. Guests spend their second night here in comfortable lodge-style accommodation with hot showers, a family-style dinner, and a relaxed evening program focused on conservation and the natural world. Breakfast and a packed lunch are included on Day 3 as part of the Hike Inn stay. The Hike Inn night is included in the trip cost.

When is the best time for this trip? 

Fall and spring are particularly popular for this trip, with mild temperatures and beautiful forest scenery in the Chattahoochee. Summer brings warm days and a full green canopy. Winter is quieter and has its own beauty, though temperatures can drop significantly at night — check the booking calendar for available seasonal dates and your guide will advise on appropriate gear.

Who is this for?

This experience is designed for intermediate-level hikers who are ready for a challenge but don’t need prior backpacking experience. We’ll take on significant inclines and sustained elevation gain, especially on Day 1, so a regular hiking or fitness routine is strongly recommended. If you’re comfortable being on your feet for several hours and excited to learn backcountry skills along the way, this trip is a great fit.

Can I join as a solo person?

Absolutely! Trips with We are very solo traveler friendly. 

We often have people join on their own. These backpacking trips are a great way to meet people that have similar interests – often one of the biggest hurdles in backpacking is finding others to go with you on a trip. 

If you are travelling solo, your guide will reach out to you about sleeping accommodations. You can choose to sleep in a 2 person tent by yourself, or partner up with other solo travelers in the group to save some weight in your pack. There’s no up charge for single occupancy on any trip. Your guide will reach out to you to coordinate sleeping arrangements prior to your trip.

How can I train for my upcoming trip?

Backpacking is an endurance activity that requires sufficient training for it to be safe and enjoyable. 

There are all sorts of activities that can help better prepare you for your upcoming backpacking trip. Hiking with a pack on (with weight in it) will be the best preparation for a big backpacking trip. Running, HIIT, strength training, and yoga will also help prepare you for your trip as well. 

A full training guide will be sent out to those that have booked a trip with us.

Do I need prior experience backpacking?

Nope! Absolutely no prior backpacking experience is necessary before booking a guided backpacking tour with us. 

Often, people choose to book a guided hiking tour with us because they are beginners in the backpacking world. Using a guided tour is a great way to build your wilderness skills in a safe way, and meet other people with similar interests! We encourage both first time backpackers and seasoned pro’s to join us.

Can I bring my dog?

Unfortunately, dogs are not allowed on our hiking trips.

We understand the desire to share the adventure with your furry friends, but to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all participants, we have a no-dog policy. This allows us to minimize environmental impact, maintain group cohesion, and comply with park regulations.

Can I use my own gear on a backpacking trip?

Absolutely!

We provide high quality, lightweight gear for you to use. However, sometimes your personal preference could be to use what you’ve already tried and own. You’re more than welcome to use your own gear if you prefer.

What if I have dietary restrictions?

We do our best to accommodate most dietary restrictions. Vegan, vegetarian, and gluten free options are available for those coming on our trips. Please note any dietary restrictions upon booking and your guide will reach out to you to coordinate food for your trip.

Do you practice Leave No Trace? 

Yes. Happy Hiking Co. is committed to Leave No Trace principles on all trips. Guides carry backcountry bathroom kits (trowels and toilet paper), pack out all waste, and teach guests proper backcountry ethics throughout the experience.

Cancellation Policy

To book a trip with Happy Hiking Co., a 20% non-refundable deposit is required. Trips are required to be paid in full within 3 weeks of your scheduled trip date. If needed, you can cancel for a full refund (minus the 20% deposit) prior to 3 weeks of your trip departure date.

More than 3 weeks prior to departure, if you need to transfer to another trip date there is a $30 transfer fee. Within 3 weeks of your departure date, transfers are not available.

Within 3 weeks of your trip date, a 50% refund will be issued. Within 1 week of your trip date, no refund will be offered barring cancellation of the trip by Happy Hiking Co.

Happy Hiking Co. runs tours rain or shine! Should extreme weather circumstances arise, your guide will reach out to coordinate the details and changes to your itinerary.

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Availability

October 2026

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There is no instant booking availability for this adventure. Drop us a line using the contact form below and we'll do our best to help you book this adventure or suggest some alternative options

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Location

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1904 Lees Chapel Rd

Greensboro, NC, 27405

US

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