SYLACAUGA, Ala. – The Pinhoti Experience Foundation and the Pinhoti Outdoor Center have announced the return of Pinhoti Fest, a celebration of hiking, nature, and community, set to take place from Sept. 22-24 in Sylacauga’s picturesque Noble Park.
Drawing on average over 1,500 outdoor enthusiasts from across the United States, Pinhoti Fest ’23 will offer a range of activities, including mini-workshops, giveaways, mouthwatering food truck offerings, and an opportunity to shop and gain insights from more than 35 gear and hiking-related vendors.
The festivities are free and open to guests of all ages with attendees invited to camp in the park throughout the weekend. No reservations are necessary; just bring your tent and set it up in the park, starting at 9:00 a.m. on Friday, Sept. 22.
Friday evening will kick off with live music performances by local talents, Jason Geise and The Bluegrass Connection, starting at 5:00 p.m.
“We’re so excited to invite people to Sylacauga to kickoff this year’s hiking season,” said Nathan Wright, co-owner of the Pinhoti Outdoor Center. “If you love to hike, are planning a hike on the Pinhoti, or are just curious about the hiking world, come on out. It will be an incredible weekend for the entire family.”
Saturday’s lineup will feature musical acts such as Birmingham’s The Whistlebees and Nashville’s Golden Shoals, alongside local artists gracing the stage throughout the day.
The event’s keynote speaker, Dale “Grey Beard” Sanders, a world-record paddler and hiker, will share his inspiring journey. Additionally, attendees can catch a screening of a 30-minute version of his latest documentary, “The Man, the Myth, The Mississippi,” at the B.B. Comer Memorial Library at 10:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.
At 351 miles in length, the Pinhoti Trail offers a captivating hiking experience through Alabama and Georgia. Its southern terminus, near Sylacauga at historic Flagg Mountain, is an easily accessible location for plenty of outdoor enthusiasts.
Kimm Wright, CEO of the Pinhoti Experience Foundation and Event Director, emphasized the event’s significance, stating, “By celebrating the kickoff of hiking season, we hope to show all the communities that touch the Pinhoti Trail how important outdoor tourism is to our state and local economies, and do it in a fun way that educates and builds community.”
To learn more about Pinhoti Fest, click here. For inquiries, please email [email protected].
