Looking for a multi-day hiking adventure, but not so sure about huffing all your things on the Appalachian Trail (and then scouting out a shelter)?
Check out the Len Foote Hike Inn, a magical backcountry inn near Amicalola Falls, in Dawsonville, GA.
Hiking: Len Foote Hike Inn
Preparations
Make sure you're physically prepared for the hike!!!
The Hike Inn is 5 miles out... and 5 miles back the next day
It's not a crazy treacherous trail... but it's also not totally flat
Practice hiking shorter trails closer to home in advance to see how everyone does!
Packing Do's & Don'ts
Things you'll need:
WATER!!!
Healthy snacks
"Incentive" snacks
Our "go to" incentive snacks are Sports Beans (jelly beans) and mini-Snickers bars
Hiking backpack
Headlamps
Mini-toiletries
Charger
DO NOT plan to use your phone the whole time you're there BUT know that there ARE outlets in the bunk houses, and you can use them to charge up your phones for the way home the next day (always smart - in case of emergency!)
Things you WON'T need:
Dinner / breakfast supplies
Sleeping bag / sheets / pillow
Towels
Make-up, hair dryer, curling iron
Unpopular opinion:
They don't provide them... and you don't need them!!!
Take pictures on the way in,
Leave your primping for when you get home
Additional Considerations
Bringing baby along?
It's DOABLE!
Consider baby wearing or a baby / toddler hiking backpack
We've used & loved these:
Ergo - great for babies & toddlers
LÍLLÉbaby CarryOn Airflow - great for older toddlers & up to 5 year olds
Deuter Kid Comfort Pro - frame backpack provides great support (but bulkier)
Pack it in, pack it out...
Be prepared to pack in (and out) diapers, wipes, etc
Bring spare clothes for baby (and you) in case of diaper / vomit accidents
ENJOY! Babies love the fresh air!
Bringing pre-school / elementary school aged kids along?
It's DOABLE!
We've had kids as young as 4 hike the entire way there & back without needing to be carried
For kids in the 3 - 5 year old range, consider bringing (and hiding, unless needed) and "piggy-back carrier" in case they get worn out and need a break
This thing is WAY better than using your arms for the piggy-back for long durations
I cannot emphasize enough how much snacks help!
Bring lunch for the trail. Sandwiches, trail mix, fruit.
When the kiddos get tired out... take a break! Hydrate. Have a snack.
Use small goals to earn rewards "if you can make it to the top of that hill you'll earn a jelly bean!!!"
Ask them questions and play games
"I'm imagining an animal..." 20 questions
"Hmmm... I bet you can't beat me to that trail marker at the top of this hill!"
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Don't miss these!!!
Hike Inn facilities tour
Yes - REALLY!
I've taken this tour three or four times over the years, and I always learn something new (and interesting)
In 2019 Len Foote Hike Inn achieved a major sustainability milestone - earning them a Platinum level LEED certification from the U.S. Green Building Council
Sunrise Room
The Sunrise room is a great place to hang out after you've arrived & showered, as well as after the family style dinner
There's a heater in the center of the room, so it's nice & cozy, even in the winter months
It's filled with books, puzzles, and games
No need to bring entertainment from home for the kids
There is plenty here to keep you busy
Evening Program
The Hike Inn frequently has knowledgable visitors who graciously volunteer time in the evening to put together an hour long program about the area, the AT, other local trails, and/or the environment
These programs are super interesting... BUT...
I would not recommend trying to bring small children
If you'd like to attend... have another adult from your hiking party stay with the kiddos in the Sunrise Room (or bunkhouse, if they're ready for bed)
Morning sunrise
WAKE UP FOR THE SUNRISE! Do it!!!
It's not always clear, but when it is - it is absolutely LOVELY
So wake up when you hear the morning sunrise drums (IYKYK), grab a blanket and some coffee, and high-tail it out to get a spot for prime viewing. You won't be sorry!
REMINDER:
Please tip the staff!
These folks are amazing & it really helps!
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