Atlanta Hiking – Southern Terminus of the Appalachian Trail 🥾🌄

Over the Labor Day weekend, I visited the southern starting point of the Appalachian Trail (AT), a symbolic spot for every hiking enthusiast along the East Coast. Stretching approximately 3,500 kilometers, the AT passes through 14 states, 8 national forests, and 6 national parks. Its southern terminus is located at Springer Mountain in Georgia. I started from the Springer Mountain Trailhead in the Blue Ridge Wildlife Management Area (northern access). Alternatively, you can begin from the top of Amicalola Falls State Park and hike the AT Approach Trail to reach Springer Mountain from the south. 🅿️ Parking: Springer Mountain Trailhead, Forest Service Road 42, Blue Ridge, GA 30514 Small gravel lot (fits ~15 vehicles) Free parking Final 6 miles are unpaved but manageable even for sedans (I drove a 4WD SUV, but cars can make it!) About 1 mile from the actual AT southern terminus 📍 Recommended Route: Springer Mountain Triple Loop Trail Length: 10.3 miles Elevation gain: 2,011 ft Type: Loop This trail combines sections of the AT and the Benton MacKaye Trail (BMT), named after one of the AT’s founders. To reach the iconic AT southern terminus sign, continue slightly past the AT-BMT junction. While the AT section tends to be busier, the BMT offers solitude and serenity 🌿🍄. The entire trail is moderately challenging with minimal steep sections. Winding through the shaded, lush forests of the Chattahoochee National Forest, you’ll enjoy cool temperatures and might even spot unique plants and mushrooms! Perfect hike for a long weekend — highly recommend for nature and trail lovers! #AtlantaHiking #AppalachianTrail #ExploreGeorgia #HikingTrails #SpringerMountain #OutdoorAdventure #NatureLovers #ATL