Local Outfitters

[Waitin 4 my trl name]

I am new to the hiking scene here in the Atlanta area and was wondering if anyone has any recommendations on local, reputable, outfitters that would be up to dealing with a lot of "new hiker" questions? :) There is a local REI that I've visited a couple of times but I am partial to supporting more local mom and pop type establishments. Any suggestions or thoughts would be much appreciated.

[Tuckahoe]

I am not from Atlanta, but here are a few possibilities

High Country Outfitters -- http://www.highcountryoutfitters.com/

Half Moon Outfitters -- http://www.halfmoonoutfitters.com/

Mountain High Outfitters -- http://www.mountainhighoutfitters.com/

I dont think you are really going to see too many mom and pop shops away from the trail. In suburbia you are either going to see regional or national retailers.

[yellowsirocco]

Go up to Mountain Crossings at Neel's Gap. It is one of the best outfitters out there. The AT even goes through the building. Make a trip of it and hike up Blood Mountain while you are there.

[Feral Bill]

If you can find good sales help at REI, they are a good organization to support. Ask about the sales persons outdoor experience before even considering their advice. Anywhere, buy in haste, repent at your leisure.

[Elder]

Outside World in Dawsonville. On 400 North before the outlet malls.

[upstream]

All the mom and pop shops shut down when REI came to town. I think there are 4 of them. Some really high priced shops have moved into high priced areas like Buckhead, Paces Ferry, and Virginia Highlands, The Avenue in Cobb. If you really want to support mom & pop, try the cottage industries online.

[daddytwosticks]

Go up to Mountain Crossings at Neel's Gap. It is one of the best outfitters out there. The AT even goes through the building. Make a trip of it and hike up Blood Mountain while you are there. Agree! :)

[blue indian]

Most of the local outfitters in Atlanta just don't carry that much great stuff. Most of the stuff they carry is clothing and some basic gear.

Although i don't buy much gear from REI anymore, I would still recommend it over the other guys. Ive learned alot from some of the folks at REI. If some of the smaller stores carried cottage manufacturers gear I would be all over it, but the only place ive seen in Georgia that does it mountain crossings.

So I agree with the other folks about making the trip up there

[Waitin 4 my trl name]

Thanks for all the info. It is much appreciated. Am anxious to try and get up to Mountain Crossings and check them out based on what I've read here.