SPRINGER MOUNTAIN (VIA NIMBLEWILL GAP)

Springer Mountain is located in the Chattahoochee National Forest, and it is the southern terminus of the Appalachian Trail. Every spring, 2000-3000 thru-hikers (or individuals that plan to hike the entire A.T. in a single year) leave from the summit of Springer to attempt a 2100+ mile journey to the northern terminus at Mt. Katahdin in Maine. Springer Mountain (3,782 feet) has a bronze plaque (showing a hiker facing north) that is set in stone next to the first white blaze marking the Appalachian Trail. There is also a terminus plaque set in a rock behind the blaze that has a compartment with a trail register of entries from day hikers, backpackers, and thru-hikers that have visited the area. This hike approaches Springer Mountain from Nimblewill Gap at USFS 28 and makes a gradual climb to the summit passing the Black Shelter on the way at 3410 feet.