Our Mission

We serve.

Our Journey

From vision and renovation to education and celebration, our journey has always been about one thing:
serving hikers, runners, cyclists, paddlers, and adventure riders along the
Pinhoti Trail in Alabama and Georgia—So that we are building a community that makes you feel at home,
one mile, one story, one experience at a time.

2018 | The Vision Takes Shape

In December of 2018, the property in Sylacauga, Alabama, just one mile from the Pinhoti Trail, was purchased with a clear vision:
to create a dedicated space that would truly serve hikers on the Pinhoti Trail.

The months that followed were spent renovating and reimagining the property—transforming it into a place designed with your needs in mind.

2019 | Laying the Foundation

In early 2019, Shuttle services were introduced to improve access and transportation along the Pinhoti Trail.

After months of planning and renovation, the hostel officially opened in Fall 2019—marking a major milestone in the growth of the Pinhoti Outdoor Center.

That same year:

• Expanded access to the Pinhoti Trail through shuttle services

• The foundation was laid for future hiker services and community support

• What started as a vision became a welcoming basecamp for adventurers from around the world

2020 | Opening Our Doors

On September 27, 2020, the Pinhoti Outdoor Center hostel and store officially opened.

Now offering:

• 6 comfortable bunk beds

• Laundry facilities

• Hot showers

• A kitchenette

• An amazing fire pit

• Ample tent space

• and basic essentials, resupply and merch.

2021 | Teaching What We Love

Backpacking 101 was introduced as a hands-on weekend course designed to build confident, capable hikers.

The experience included:

• Gear and sleep system basics

• Trail cooking and food planning

• First aid and safety

• Trip planning and basic orienteering

The experience includes a second weekend with a participant-planned group hike, allowing new hikers to apply what they have learned while supported by experienced hikers along the way.

2022 | Building Community

The inaugural Pinhoti Fest launched, bringing hikers together to celebrate trail life and outdoor adventure, quickly becoming a cornerstone event for the Pinhoti hiking community.

The weekend includes guest speakers, music, vendors, food trucks and a welcoming space to relax, recharge, and hang out with the most amazing people. It’s like a family reunion only better.

2023 | Expanding the Mission

The Pinhoti Experience Foundationwas founded by Kimm and Nathan Wright.

This long-held dream created a nonprofit path to expand outdoor education—taking over Backpacking 101 programs and spearheading the continued growth of Pinhoti Fest.

2024 | Preserving the Journey

In September 2024, Kimm released My Pinhoti Trail Hiking Journal.

More than a guide, this journal helps you plan your hike, capture your story, and preserve your legacy—mile by mile.

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Planning a trip on the Pinhoti Trail?

Whether you need help planning, a hostel, a shuttle, resupply, or trail support,
the Pinhoti Outdoor Center in Sylacauga, Alabama
is your go-to for Your Pinhoti Experience.

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