A Solo Walk to Len Foote Hike Inn

There is joy in sharing experiences with others, but there is also something magical about going it alone.  Experiences had while solo are like having a secret all to yourself.  There’s something powerful in that.

Sunrise at Len Foote Hike Inn. Note: If there is going to be a pretty sunrise, the staff will come by the rooms beating a drum so that you don’t miss it. The best place for the show is the porch of the Sunrise Room. (The name should give it away, but somehow I missed the best part of the show by sitting in the star-gazing area instead.)

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My dad and I frequently talked about hiking the Appalachian Trail together when I was in high school. One fall day, we decided to get a taste of the trail by hiking the Approach Trail from Amicalola Falls to Springer Mountain, the southern terminus of the Appalachian Trail.  We took a detour on our hike and stopped by The Len Foote Hike Inn.  I was fascinated by the concept of an inn that was assessable only by foot.  I always wanted to go back.

When I was trying to figure out where to go for my 40 Before 40 bucket list item of “going on a solo trip”, I had a hard time figuring out a place.  I wasn’t excited about any of the options I had come up with.  I kept thinking “wouldn’t this location be more fun with someone” or”there will be so many people around, will I really be alone?”.  I then woke up one morning with the Hike Inn on my mind.  It was perfect!  Its remote location and the five mile hike required to get there provided the solitude I was after.

The hike to the Inn did not disappoint.  The trail is well worn and frequently marked with lime green blazes.  The walking was easy to moderate.  I seemingly had the woods to myself.  I had time to think. It felt like no time at all had passed before I came upon the Inn in the woods.

Let me tell you, The Len Foote Hike Inn is something special.  There is an elegance in its simplicity.  When you check-in, you are given a linen bag containing sheets for your bed, a towel and a wash cloth. It is explained that the Inn is a zero waste facility.  You are expected to pack out any trash you produce, clean your plate at meals (not a hard task- the meals were delicious), and label/reuse your drinking cup during your stay.  Meals are communal, and there’s an unspoken emphasis on bringing guests together in a relaxed, unforced way.

Rooms are simple and practical. There is a fan for warm temperatures and heat for colder days.

During my stay, I had time to read and journal in one of the many nooks on the property.  I had time for a nap.  I had time to just sit and stare at the beautiful mountain scenery.  But, I also chatted with several other guests.  There was a feeling of community throughout the group by breakfast.

I decided to take a different trail on my hike out.  I took the Approach Trail that my dad and I had started walking that fall morning.  I walked the same path we had walked, just in reverse.   I was amazed how memories came flooding back.  I stopped and ate an apple in the very spot my dad and I snacked on apples 20 years ago and discussed how we were going to have to get in better shape before conquering the AT.  I crossed a stream that I remember sticking my feet in all those years ago.  My walk was full of nostalgia and sweet memories.

As fate would have it, my dad is buried in the North Georgia mountains not that far from Springer Mountain.  On my way home, I stopped by to tell him that he still owes me a walk in the woods.  One day, I will tackle the AT in its entirety.  I know he will be with me.  He certainly has been the last couple of days.