Our Mission

We serve.

Our mission is to make your experience an adventure you won’t soon forget.

Our Journey

From vision and renovation to education and celebration, everything we do is rooted in one mission: supporting hikers and strengthening the outdoor community—one mile, one story, one experience at a time.

2018 | The Vision Takes Shape

In December 2018, the property at 49951 Hwy 280 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 hikers’ real needs in mind.

2019 | Laying the Foundation

After extensive renovations, the hostel side officially opened in Fall 2019, marking a major milestone in the growth of the Pinhoti Outdoor Center.

That same year:

• Shuttle services were introduced to improve trail access

• The groundwork was laid for expanded hiker services and community support

What started as a vision became a functional, welcoming basecamp for hikers from around the world.

2020 | Opening Our Doors

On September 27, 2020, the hostel and storefront officially opened, further expanding services for hikers and outdoor adventurers.

The space offered:

• 6 comfortable bunk beds

• Laundry facilities

• Hot showers

• A kitchenette

• Essential hiking gear and supplies

More than a place to stay, it became a place to rest, reset, and reconnect.

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 basics and sleep systems

• Trail cooking and food planning

• First aid and safety

• Trip planning and basic orienteering

The weekend concluded with a participant-planned group hike, allowing new hikers to apply what they 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.

From trip planning and shuttles to workshops, vendors, and a welcoming space to relax and recharge, Pinhoti Fest quickly became a cornerstone event for the hiking community.

2023 | Expanding the Mission

The Pinhoti Experience Foundation was 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, the journal helps hikers plan their hike, capture their story, and preserve their legacy—reflecting the heart of everything we do.