Bears Den Hostel (VA)

[Kerosene]

I stayed here during my October 2001 section hike. Unfortunately, I didn't have access to the upstairs kitchen and facilities because it was reserved for a corporate outing. Even so, it was a great break from a shelter.

The grounds are lovely, with massive stone walls surrounding the property. Bears Den overlooks the Shenendoah Valley and is lovely at sunset. The main house is built of stone. The hiker's hostel is downstairs around the back, entered through a door by the parking lot. There's a combination lock to get in that's pretty easy to figure out if you have an AT Data Book. Facilities include sheets, blankets, a thin pillow, shower, food box, reading desk, washer and dryer, and access to the upstairs kitchen for $15/night ($12 for ATC members). Primitive campsites are available for $6/night.

I had heard that the hostel was in danger of going out of business last winter, but that it had re-opened this season. I couldn't find the web page that used to be out there, but ATC still lists it at http://www.appalachiantrail.org/hike/plan/cabins.html#. Here's another, larger picture: http://www.jmclum.com/spring2000hike/050100b.jpg Reservations aren't needed, but the hostel can be reached at 540-554-8708.

[Hammock Hanger]

The great folks that run this hostel were Thru-hikers in 01. Great people. HH

[Jumpstart]

We stayed here during our thru-hike this year and loved everything about it. The place was warm, comforatble, inviting, and has a great upstairs area that just screamed for everyone to sit in a big circle and talk all night. Defintely recommend checking it out, it's worth the cash....