It began as a vision . . .

Hinton Rural Life Center began in 1957 with a vision, a building, and 4.5 acres of land in Hayesville, a small town in the mountains of Western North Carolina. The Center came into being as the result of a gift of property from J. Walter and Velma Moore of Hayesville; a financial gift from Alice Lanier Hinton in memory of her late husband, Harold H. Hinton, of Athens, Georgia; and donations of money, materials, and labor from individuals and churches interested in the development of a rural life center, under the auspices of the Methodist Church.

Today . . .

In 2021, Hinton Rural Life Center celebrated its 60th anniversary! Still offering scenic views of Lake Chatuge and the beautiful Appalachian Mountains, Hinton’s campus now consists of more than 15 facilities on 33 acres of property. Our lodging options include Hermitage cabins, Lodge rooms, retreat houses, and RV sites. Conference offerings include large and small meeting spaces and dining rooms, an executive chef, and fiber optic internet connections. There are also indoor and outdoor worship areas, including a labyrinth, as well as trails, disc golf course, fire pits, and a dock for boating, swimming, and fishing.

In addition to offering space and place for individuals, families, and groups to gather, meet, and retreat, Hinton continues to “walk alongside” our neighbors in this rural mountain community through a variety of ministries, including Safe & Healthy Home Repair, firewood, Sanctuary Trails & Gardens, and local youth and adult leadership development. Hinton  also continues our commitment to training and equipping clergy and congregations in new and engaging ways, to offer transformational ministries that “cultivate hope” in their own communities.