Location matters, especially when you’re just finding your trail legs. Above the Clouds Hostel sits at mile 20.5 on the Appalachian Trail, making it the first NOBO hostel you’ll encounter, and the last stop for SOBOs before Springer Mountain. Located just 1.3 miles from Woody Gap and 2.4 miles from Gooch Gap, this hostel is perfectly positioned in Georgia’s Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest.
Why hikers choose Above the Clouds:
The historic location sets this place apart. The property includes Tritt’s Country Store, which served AT hikers since 1959 when Springer became the southern terminus. Owner Matthew “Lucky” Lee, a Navy veteran, section hiker, and former escapee of corporate America, restored this 100+ year old property specifically for thruhikers, preserving its trail heritage while creating modern comfort.
Essential amenities are all included: hot showers, laundry facilities, free Wi-Fi, and resupply options so you can clean up, stock up, and get trail-ready. Choose from co-ed bunk rooms with privacy curtains and clean sheets or private rooms with queen beds if you need solo recovery time. Both options include shuttle service to Woody Gap and Gooch Gap, eliminating the road walk back to trail.
Slackpacking opportunities let you hike Georgia’s challenging terrain without your full pack, ideal for beginners testing their endurance or experienced hikers nursing early blisters. The community kitchen and gathering spaces foster the trail family atmosphere that makes the AT journey special, not just solitary.
Practical planning: Book early during peak season (March-April for NOBOs). The hostel accommodates up to 14 guests, ensuring you won’t feel lost in a crowd. With two contact numbers (hostel and cell), you can easily arrange shuttles or ask questions before arriving.
Starting your thruhike means everything is new, your routine, your gear, your trail name. Above the Clouds gives you a welcoming first stop where you can decompress after those initial tough miles, make crucial gear adjustments, and connect with fellow hikers before tackling the rest of Georgia’s mountains.