Barefoot Hills Motel

This is formerly "The Hiker Hostel" and has been renovated but holds true to its thru hiker roots. The closest crossing on the AT is at Woody Gap but they will shuttle you to and from most nearby crossings for an additional fee and will go as far down as North Springs MARTA station in Atlanta. There is a 6 bunk bunkhouse with beds for $35 a night and they have added small cabins, eco cabins, and a 2 br house. The place is well cared for, well marked, and very reasonably priced. This is a great place to meet up for support on the trail with a special someone. Dahlonega is a few miles down the road and there are lots of good eats. Think Guinness burger at Shenanigans. It's also a great getaway for couples as there are wineries and vineyards close by.

The room we stayed in was the deluxe hotel room for $95 (weekday rate). There was a Roku TV with Netflix, Hulu, etc. and a claw foot tub. There is a coffee maker in the room and actual real coffee for you to make, not any weird hotel coffee!

Breakfast is served in the morning in the communal eating area. They have coffee, cereal, muffins, toast and jam, as well as a menu where you can purchase more substantial food.

I spoke with the manager Justin Mizell, and he showed me around and told me that many thru hikers will stop here and go enjoy the nearby wineries. They also offer shuttles to town. They offer kayak rentals and shuttle to nearby Lake Swerner where guests can kayak up yahoola creek. A .5 mile hiking trail shows you around the property.

Lastly, I want to give a shoutout to the manager Justin. As we were talking he spotted a guest carrying her luggage and went to offer to help get it to the car. He later told me she had had knee replacement surgery. It's clear he takes the time to get to know his guests and the proof is in the details in the care of the property.