Irodguy --
I ride the SCT probably 2-3 times per week, we hub road rides out the Hiram area and use the SCT to start/finish our routes. Hiram is about at mile marker 15 for reference.
If you're looking for a 'character reference' about the SCT area you could start here:
http://atlbike.org/index.php?name=mGallery2
The Ladiga Trail section along Terrapin Creek is exceptional and I still enjoy riding the SCT from Hiram to the train tunnel. I also have some exceptional road routes that connect Piedmont, AL to Cerdartown or Rockmart, GA.
Rockmart or Cedartown both have local hotels.
HTH
Chris