Directions to Springer Mountain Trailhead

[buck]

Can anyone on here give me directions to "Big Stamp Gap" I have a copy of several versions from the internet, but would feel much better hearing directions from someone on here who has made the trip.

We will spend our spring break on the Appalachian Trail next week. On our first day we would like to drive to Big Stamp Gap and hike to Springer Mountain and back. The next morning we have a shuttle to the same trailhead. This would allow us to head north with no back tracking on our first full day.

[Cuffs]

Big Stamp gap is where the BMT crosses FS 42.  No parking there.  The AT crosses FS42 approx a mile west of here, plenty of parking.  Find and follow directions to Springer Mtn on FS 42. 

However as of about a week ago FS42 had still been closed due to wash out. 

Another option is to park just north at the Three Forks crossing and making a loop with the BMT.  Another one is to hike the approach trail from AFSP, great trail, challenging but do-able.   

AFSP and/or the Chattahoochee NF office at 770-297-3000 for the most current conditions. 

[Uncle Wayne]

Can anyone on here give me directions to "Big Stamp Gap" I have a copy of several versions from the internet, but would feel much better hearing directions from someone on here who has made the trip.

We will spend our spring break on the Appalachian Trail next week. On our first day we would like to drive to Big Stamp Gap and hike to Springer Mountain and back. The next morning we have a shuttle to the same trailhead. This would allow us to head north with no back tracking on our first full day.

Have you thought about staying the first night at the Len Foote Hike Inn?  It's about 5 miles from AFSP and an excellent "halfway" point to Springer Mtn.  It's only 2 or 3 miles to the start of the AT from there and much easier hike than the approach trail.  No backtracking that way.

Good luck.

[sam4msu]

Not 100% sure but last I heard FS42 was open but VERY rutted, questionable for a regular passenger car.  You can get probably the best info from Winton and the folks at Mountain Crossings.  They will be very busy right now working with thru-hikers but will let you know the road conditions and the best directions to the parking area.  I for one like the suggestion to start on the approach trail and go north from there.  Not sure how long you are looking to hike, but Neels Gap would be a good getting off point.

[southmark]

Cool Breeze at Mtn X reported that it was ok yesterday. Best route is from the west off Double Gap Road. Only seven miles to parking lot.

[buck]

Yes, I meant the trailhead for Springer Mountain. Thank you, Cuffs, for the phone number. I called the number and the lady transferred me to the actual district station and another lady gave me all the information I needed - including a link to a map that shows, in much detail, every road, turn, shelter, trail, etc., for this district. Using the map she gave me what she considered the easiest route to Springer. She also said FS 42 was never actually closed, but was rough in places due to the large amount of rain this year. She said, however, that the recent dry spell had helped the road conditions. I was very impressed with her knowledge, advice, and kindness.

I left the map link at work but will try to post tomorrow before we leave in case others are interested.

I appreciate the comments and other suggestions. Thanks to the info received on this sight and several emailed Q and A with "Uncle Wayne," I feel very confident that we have everything we need, nothing that we don't need, and will thoroughly enjoy our time together in the mountains.

[Uncle Wayne]

I feel very confident that we have everything we need, nothing that we don't need, and will thoroughly enjoy our time together in the mountains.

To quote Brother John Lennon: "having been some days in preparation, a splendid time is guaranteed for all."

Sounds like you've done that preparation and a splendid time awaits you in the North Georgia mountains.  Looking forward to the journal report, post trip. Good luck and enjoy.

The hikes my wife and I have done on the AT have been some of the best times of my life.  I hope the same for you.