Are you planning to hike the Appalachian Trail and wondering what hostels are like along the way? Hostels are a popular and affordable option for solo travelers who want to save money on accommodations. In this article, I want to share more about staying in hostels on the Appalachian Trail, including what to expect, and the pros and cons of hostel stays.
From bunk rooms to private rooms, shared bathrooms to kitchens, hostels offer a range of facilities and services. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly option or a sense of community with fellow hikers, hostels can be a great choice for your trail journey.
Key Takeaways To AT Hostels
- Hostels are a cost-effective option for solo travelers on the Appalachian Trail saving you vital resources.
- Facilities in hostels can vary, from bunk rooms to private rooms, shared bathrooms to kitchens.
- Some of the favorite hostels on the trail include Woods Hole Hostel, Mountain Harbor Hostel, and Shaw’s Hostel.
Understanding Hostels
When hiking the Appalachian Trail, hostels can be a great option for solo hikers or those on a budget. Hostels are similar to hotels but tend to be smaller and offer bunk rooms. Typically making it an affordable option for those who don’t want to spend a lot of money on accommodations.
However, there are some downsides to staying in a hostel. For one, you’ll be sharing a room with many other people, which means you may be exposed to snorers. Additionally, you’ll be sharing a bathroom with everyone in the room. That being said, you can often get private rooms in hostels for a higher fee, which can be a good option if you’re willing to pay a bit more for privacy.
One of the benefits of staying in a hostel is that many of them have kitchens that are accessible to anyone staying there. This can be a great option if you prefer to cook your own food rather than eat out. Additionally, some hostels offer shuttle services to nearby grocery stores or outdoor stores, making it easy to resupply if needed.
When choosing a hostel, keep in mind that there is a range of how nice they can be. Some hostels are built into old houses, while others may be more rustic. It’s important to do your research and read reviews before booking a hostel to ensure that it meets your needs and expectations.
Overall, hostels can be a great option for hikers on a budget or those who prefer a more communal living experience. Just be aware of the potential downsides and do your research before booking a hostel.
Cost of Staying in a Hostel
When it comes to staying in a hostel on the Appalachian Trail, one of the major draws is the cost. Hostels tend to be much cheaper than hotels, and you can save a lot of money by staying in a bunk room for a night. Typically, a night in a bunk room in a hostel on the Appalachian Trail costs around $30, though this can vary slightly depending on the hostel and the time of year.
Of course, there are some downsides to staying in a hostel. You’ll be sleeping in a room with a lot of other people, which means you might be exposed to snorers or other noises that could keep you awake at night. Additionally, you’ll be sharing a bathroom with everyone in the room, which could be a bit of a challenge if there are a lot of people staying there.
That being said, there are ways to mitigate these downsides. Some hostels offer private rooms for a higher fee, which can be a good option if you’re traveling with a group or if you just want a bit more privacy. Additionally, many hostels have kitchens that are accessible to anyone staying there, which means you can save money on food by cooking your own meals.
Overall, staying in a hostel on the Appalachian Trail can be a great way to save money while still getting a comfortable place to sleep and access to amenities like showers and kitchens. Just be aware of the potential downsides and plan accordingly.
| Hostel | Price (Approximate) | Amenities | Additional Services | Location |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Woods Hole Hostel | $30 per night | Communal kitchen, laundry facilities | Shuttle services, meals | Near Pearisburg, Virginia |
| Mountain Harbor Hostel | $30 per night | Access to a creek, shuttle services | All-you-can-eat breakfast | Near Roan Highlands, Tennessee |
| Shaw’s Hostel | $30 per night | Camping options, Maine blueberry pancake breakfast | Shuttle services, campfires | Near 100 Mile Wilderness, Maine |
Pros and Cons of Hostel Stay
When it comes to staying at hostels on the Appalachian Trail, there are both pros and cons to consider. On the positive side, hostels tend to be much cheaper than hotels, making them a great option for solo travelers or those on a budget. For around $30 per night, you can get a bed in a bunk room, which is significantly cheaper than a hotel room.
Another advantage of hostels is that many of them have kitchens that are accessible to anyone staying there. This can be a great option for those who prefer to cook their own meals instead of eating out. Additionally, some hostels offer shuttle services to nearby stores or outdoor shops, making it easy to resupply.
However, there are also some downsides to staying at hostels. One of the biggest drawbacks is that you will likely be sharing a bunk room with several other people, which means you may have to deal with snorers or other noisy roommates. Additionally, you will be sharing a bathroom with everyone in the bunk room, which can be inconvenient.
Overall, hostels can be a great option for those looking for an affordable place to stay on the Appalachian Trail. However, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision. If you’re a light sleeper or prefer more privacy, a hostel may not be the best option for you.
Private Rooms in Hostels
If you’re not a fan of sleeping in a bunk room with a lot of people, private rooms in hostels can be a great option. While they do tend to be a bit more expensive than bunk rooms, they are still usually cheaper than getting a hotel room.
It’s important to note that even with a private room, you will often still be sharing a bathroom with other people staying at the hostel. However, having your own space to sleep can make a big difference in the quality of your rest.
When booking a private room in a hostel, it’s important to check ahead of time to see what amenities are included. Some private rooms may not have their own showers or toilets, while others may have a small kitchenette. It’s also worth noting that private rooms can vary in size, from just a single bed to a larger room that can accommodate several people.
Overall, if you’re looking for a more affordable option than a hotel room but still want some privacy, a private room in a hostel can be a great choice. Just be sure to do your research ahead of time to find the right hostel and room for your needs.
Facilities in Hostels
When staying in a hostel, you can expect to find bunk rooms where you can sleep in a bunk for a much cheaper price than a hotel room. Typically, a night in a bunk room at a hostel costs around $30, which is much more affordable than paying over $100 for a hotel room. However, keep in mind that you will be sharing the bunk room with other people, which may not be ideal if you are a light sleeper.
Most hostels also have shared bathrooms, which means that you will be sharing the bathroom with the other people in your bunk room. However, some hostels offer private rooms for a higher fee, which may be a good option if you want more privacy.
One of the draws of hostels is that they often have kitchens that are accessible to anyone staying there. This is a great option if you prefer to cook your own meals instead of eating out. Some hostels also offer add-ons like sodas or frozen pizzas that you can purchase when you arrive.
Additionally, many hostels accept packages for guests, which is useful if you need to order gear or receive a care package from someone. Some hostels may charge a small fee for accepting packages, so it’s best to call ahead and confirm.
Finally, some hostels offer shuttle services to nearby stores or attractions for an extra fee. This is a convenient option if you need to resupply or want to explore the area around the hostel.
Overall, hostels offer affordable accommodations with shared facilities. While they may not be for everyone, they can be a great option for budget-conscious travelers who don’t mind sharing a room with others.
Additional Services at Hostels
When staying at a hostel on the Appalachian Trail, you can expect to have access to a range of additional services. These services can make your stay more comfortable and convenient, and they can also help you save money. Here are some of the most common additional services that you can expect to find at hostels on the Appalachian Trail:
Kitchen Access
One of the biggest draws of staying at a hostel is that many of them have kitchens that are accessible to anyone staying there. This means that you can cook your own meals instead of having to eat out at restaurants. Most hostels have basic kitchen equipment like pots, pans, and utensils, so you can prepare a variety of meals. This is a great option if you’re traveling on a budget or if you have dietary restrictions.
Laundry Facilities
Many hostels also have laundry facilities that you can use for a small fee. This can be a lifesaver if you’ve been on the trail for a while and need to do some laundry. Instead of having to go to a laundromat or wash your clothes by hand, you can simply use the hostel’s washing machine and dryer.
Shuttle Services
Some hostels offer shuttle services that can take you to nearby towns or resupply points. This is a great option if you need to restock on supplies or if you want to explore the area around the hostel. Shuttle services usually come at an additional cost, but they can be a convenient way to get around.
Package Acceptance
Many hostels will also accept packages for you. This can be a great option if you need to have gear or supplies sent to you on the trail. However, be sure to call ahead to the hostel to make sure they are able to accept packages and to find out if there are any fees associated with this service.
Add-Ons
Some hostels also offer add-ons that you can purchase when you arrive. These can include things like meals, snacks, or drinks. While these add-ons will cost extra, they can be a convenient way to get the things you need without having to leave the hostel.
Overall, staying at a hostel on the Appalachian Trail can be a great way to save money and meet other hikers. With access to additional services like kitchens, laundry facilities, and shuttle services, you can make your stay more comfortable and convenient. Just be sure to call ahead to the hostel to find out what services they offer and to make any necessary arrangements.
Types of Hostels
Hostels are a popular option for hikers and travelers who are looking for affordable accommodation. There are various types of hostels that you can choose from depending on your preferences and budget. In this section, we will discuss the different types of hostels that you can expect to find along the Appalachian Trail.
Most hostels on the Appalachian Trail are small and cozy, with bunk rooms that can accommodate several people. These bunk rooms are usually separated by gender, but some hostels offer mixed-gender rooms. If you prefer more privacy, some hostels also offer private rooms for an additional fee.
In addition to bunk rooms and private rooms, some hostels also offer camping options. You can pitch your tent on the hostel grounds for a lower fee than a bunk or private room. This is a great option for hikers who prefer to sleep outdoors.
Another type of hostel that you may encounter on the Appalachian Trail is a farm hostel. These hostels are usually located on working farms and offer a unique experience for hikers. You can expect to find fresh produce, farm animals, and a peaceful atmosphere at these hostels.
If you are traveling with a group, you may want to consider a hostel that offers group rooms. These rooms can accommodate up to ten people and are a great option for families or groups of friends who are hiking together.
Overall, hostels on the Appalachian Trail offer a range of options to fit your needs and budget. Whether you prefer a bunk room, private room, camping, or a farm hostel, there is something for everyone.
Favorite Hostels on the Appalachian Trail
If you’re looking for an affordable option for accommodation on the Appalachian Trail, hostels are a great choice. They offer bunk rooms for a fraction of the cost of a hotel room, and often have communal kitchens and laundry facilities. Here are some of the best hostels on the trail:
Woods Hole Hostel
Woods Hole Hostel, located near Pearisburg, Virginia, is a working farm run by a woman named Neville. The property is stunningly beautiful, and the hostel offers a large bunkhouse with comfortable beds and a gorgeous shower. One of the best things about Woods Hole is the community atmosphere fostered by Neville. You can order a smoothie upon arrival, and there are family meals that you can choose to participate in for an extra fee. The food is incredible, and you’re even asked to help out in the kitchen. It’s clear that Neville wants her guests to feel welcome and part of the family.
Mountain Harbor Hostel
Mountain Harbor Hostel, just north of the Roan Highlands in Tennessee, is another great option. The hostel offers a shuttle to nearby stores for resupply, and there’s a creek on the property where you can soak your feet. The bunk rooms are comfortable, and there’s an all-you-can-eat breakfast available for an extra fee. The property is beautiful, and the staff is friendly and accommodating.
Shaw’s Hostel
Shaw’s Hostel, located just south of the 100 Mile Wilderness in Maine, is run by two former thru-hikers named Poet and Hippie Chick. The hostel is in an old farmhouse with a large yard, and you can even camp on the property for a small fee. There’s an all-you-can-eat Maine blueberry pancake breakfast available for an extra fee, and Poet loves to give hikers advice before they head into the 100 Mile Wilderness. The atmosphere at Shaw’s is laid-back and welcoming, and it’s a great place to fuel up before heading into the wilderness.
Conclusion
Hostels are a popular and affordable accommodation option for hikers on the Appalachian Trail. They offer a range of facilities and services, from bunk rooms to private rooms, shared bathrooms to kitchens. Hostels can save you money, provide a sense of community with fellow hikers, and offer convenient amenities like kitchens, laundry facilities, and shuttle services.
While there are downsides to staying in hostels, such as sharing a room and bathroom with others, you can often find private room options for more privacy. It’s essential to research and read reviews to choose a hostel that meets your needs and expectations.
By taking advantage of the additional services provided by hostels, such as kitchen access, laundry facilities, shuttle services, and package acceptance, you can enhance your trail experience while staying within your budget.
Remember to prioritize safety by researching the hostel’s reputation, securing your belongings, being cautious with strangers, and following hostel rules. Trust your instincts and stay connected with others while on the trail.
Overall, hostels can be an excellent choice for hikers on the Appalachian Trail, offering affordability, convenience, and opportunities to connect with fellow adventurers. Enjoy your journey and make the most of your hostel stays along the way.
Leave a Comment