Appalachian Trail Thru-Hiker's Guide to Hiawassee, Georgia

Appalachian Trail Thru-Hiker's Guide to Hiawassee, Georgia

Hiawassee is a popular stop for Appalachian Trail thru-hikers making their way through North Georgia. Located about 10 miles from both Dicks Creek Gap and Unicoi Gap, Hiawassee offers hikers an easy place to take a break, resupply, grab a hot meal, do laundry, and recharge before getting back on the trail. The Appalachian Trail Conservancy recognizes Hiawassee/Towns County as an official Appalachian Trail Community with a variety of hiker-friendly services.

What Can You Find in Hiawassee?

Hiawassee has many of the essentials hikers need during a trail stop:

  • Groceries and resupply: A large grocery store makes it easy to stock up on trail food and snacks.
  • Outdoor gear: Local outfitters offer hiking gear and supplies.
  • Restaurants: Take a break from trail food with local restaurants, coffee, and other dining options.
  • Pharmacies: Pick up personal-care items, medications, and other necessities.
  • Laundry: Take advantage of local laundry services while you're in town.
  • Post office: A convenient stop for packages and mail.
  • Medical services: Doctor and medical services are available in town.
  • Shopping: Find additional supplies and essentials before heading back to the trail.
  • Breweries and local attractions: When it's time to relax, enjoy some of Hiawassee's local food, drinks, and mountain-town atmosphere.

The Appalachian Trail Conservancy specifically highlights Hiawassee's grocery, outfitter, pharmacy, medical, restaurant, brewery, shopping, and other hiker-friendly services.

Getting to and From the Appalachian Trail

Transportation is one of the biggest questions for thru-hikers, and Hiawassee has options.

During peak NOBO season, Hiawassee offers a free hiker shuttle to and from Dicks Creek Gap and Unicoi Gap. Because shuttle schedules can change from season to season, hikers should check the current schedule before relying on the service.

Private shuttle drivers also serve the Hiawassee area for hikers who need transportation outside the town shuttle schedule or have specific pickup and drop-off needs.

Tent Camping at Hiawassee KOA Holiday

For hikers who want to stay close to the traditional camping experience, Hiawassee KOA Holiday offers tent sites with water and electric hookups on grass tent pads. The sites are centrally located near the campground’s amenities, fishing pond, and bath facilities, making it easy to shower, relax, and recharge after a day on the Appalachian Trail. Pets are also welcome at tent sites.

Need a Little More Comfort?

After days on the trail, a Deluxe Cabin with a full bathroom can be the perfect way to spend a zero day. Cabins offer comfortable beds, linens, a private bathroom, kitchen amenities, Wi-Fi, air conditioning, a patio, and a fire pit—giving thru-hikers a chance to rest and recover without giving up the outdoor camping experience.

Campground Amenities & General Store

Hiawassee KOA Holiday makes it easy for thru-hikers to take care of the essentials without leaving the campground. The General Store is stocked with camping supplies and other items you may need during your stay, making it convenient when you need a quick snack, forgotten camping item, or something for your next stretch of trail. The campground also offers Wi-Fi, a seasonal pool, fishing, mini golf, a dog park, pavilion, community fire pit, volleyball, playground, and a game room with pool, air hockey, arcade games, board games, movies, and streaming TV.

Plan Your Hiawassee Zero Day

Whether you need a full zero day or just an overnight break, Hiawassee makes a convenient Appalachian Trail stop. Take care of your resupply, grab a good meal, wash your clothes, rest your legs, and enjoy the North Georgia mountains before getting back on the trail.

Ready to get off the trail and recharge? Make Hiawassee KOA Holiday your home base during your North Georgia adventure.

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