This article originally appeared on The Trek, which you can read here.
Our annual AT Thru-Hiker Survey had 279 participants in 2025. We gathered data on a variety of categories: different types of gear, resupply strategies, budget on trail, and more. Year after year, one of our most compelling datasets is our ever-competitive hostel ranking.
When filling out our survey, hikers are asked to select their top three choices from a list of over 100 hostels along the trail. This is a tall order, but the 2025 class of hikers delivered. We’ve compiled a list of the top 11 most popular hostels on the Appalachian Trail, including approximate NOBO mile markers, price ranges, and unique touches that earned each one a spot on our list.
There has been some significant reordering compared to last year’s rankings. The top 4 places remain the same, but keep reading to learn more about new favorites.
All prices and mile markers are taken from the FarOut Appalachian Trail Guide unless otherwise stated and are subject to change.
Top Hostels on the Appalachian Trail
1. Shaw’s Hiker Hostel – Monson, ME
NOBO Mile Marker: 2083.3 (~3.7 miles east of the ME 15 trail crossing)
Price: ~$15 for tenting; ~$30 for a bunk; ~$70 for a private room
For NOBOs, Shaw’s Hiker Hostel is a final oasis before entering into the 100 Mile Wilderness. For SOBOs, it’s a breath of fresh air and a taste of civilization after a grueling start to the trail. Owned by beloved thru-hikers Poet and Hippie Chick, Shaw’s has been a staple on trail for years. With an ultralight gear shop on site, yurts for rent, and a breakfast to quell hiker hunger, Shaw’s makes for a memorable stay, no matter your direction.
2. Woods Hole Hostel – Pearisburg, VA
NOBO Mile Marker: 625.5 (~0.5 miles east of Sugar Run Gap)
Price: ~$30 for the bunkhouse; shared and private rooms and Safari tents also available (prices from Woods Hole website)
A charming and rustic experience made all the more memorable by the quirky and caring owner, Neville. Aside from tenting, hikers have the option to sleep in bunk beds nestled inside a cozy 1840s log cabin, or rent out a safari tent scattered around the sprawling property. A standout experience for many guests is the farm-to-table organic meals, primarily made from ingredients grown on the farm (meals available at an additional cost).
3. The Notch Hostel – North Woodstock, NH
NOBO Mile Marker: 1808.3 (~5 miles east of Kinsman Notch crossing)
Price: ~$30 for tenting; bunk ~$45-$60; private spaces start at $75
A respite from the challenging demands of The Whites, The Notch Hostel offers an inclusive place to land for all hikers. Owner Serena and staff work to keep this converted 1890 farmhouse running like a well-oiled machine. Despite the constant flow of thru-hikers, section hikers, and people working towards their NH48, quite and peaceful moments can be found lounging on the porch or exploring the garden.
4. Maine Roadhouse – Stratton, ME
NOBO Mile Marker: 2009.5 (~9.7 miles west of the ME 27 crossing)
Price: ~$45 for a bunk; private rooms from ~$69-$110 (pet-friendly options)
Run by 2023 thru-hiker mother/son duo Mamarazzi and Crigas, the Maine Roadhouse operates year-round and caters to hikers and skiers. Aside from the laid-back, relaxing atmosphere, hikers love the private bunks. Each bunk is complete with a 10″ twin XL memory foam mattress, lighting, privacy curtain, fan, and multiple outlets. While the hostel is a ways off the trail, shuttle pick up and drop off are included with each stay, along with town runs and laundry.
5. Hostel of Maine – Carrabasset Valley, ME
NOBO Mile Marker: 2009.5 (~3.4 miles east of ME 27 crossing)
Price: ~$45 for a bunk; private rooms start at ~$109+
With two iconic hostels just down the road from each other, hikers in Maine have the difficult choice between the #4 and #5 picks. The Hostel of Maine sits at the base of Sugarloaf Mountain and offers a tranquil place to recharge and relax. The included continental breakfast is a highlight, along with the free pickup/drop off shuttle. The cozy north woods feel and welcoming environment truly make this place feel like H.O.ME.
6. The Green Dragon – Hiawassee, GA
NOBO Mile Marker: 52.7 (~7.5 miles north of GA 75 at Unicoi Gap)
Price: ~$60 per bunk
Opened in 2024, The Green Dragon is a must-stop for Tolkien lovers as the name was inspired by the famous Shire pub. One of the first hostels NOBO hikers come to, The Green Dragon offers comfortable beds in a clean and restful environment. A stay here includes free pick up from either Unicoi Gap or Dick’s Creek Gap, along with a free shuttle into Hiawassee for resupply.
7. The Grove – Franklin, NC
NOBO Mile Marker: 109.6 (~11.3 miles east of Winding Stair Gap)
Price: ~$45 for a bunkbed; ~$95-$105 for a private room
After passing the 100-mile marker, hikers can celebrate at The Grove Hostel. Ownership of the hostel has changed hands repeatedly in recent years, but it continues to rank as a favorite. Known for its homey feel and central location in Franklin, hikers can expect a relaxing atmosphere with down-to-earth thru-hiker hosts. The Grove also caters to hikers along the Bartram Trail in addition to the AT.
8. The Om Dome – Andover, ME
NOBO Mile Marker: 1950.9 (~16.4 miles south of South Arm Road)
Price: ~$25 for tenting; ~$30 for a bunk; ~$40 for private loft
Hikers say this is one of the most unique places you can stay on the trail. This timber-framed geodesic dome sits on 42 acres of land tucked in the rugged southwestern mountains of Maine. With views to boot, the atmosphere is one of healing and tranquil energy, as the Om Dome also doubles as a nature retreat center. Hikers rave about the all-you-can-eat blueberry pancake breakfast and home cooked dinners, which are available for an additional fee.
9. Boots Off Hostel and Campground – Hampton, TN
NOBO Mile Marker: 429 (~0.1 mile west of Shook Branch Road)
Price: ~$17.50 for tenting; ~$35 per bunk; ~$70 for a private room (+ an extra fee for more people)
Situated close to Watauga Lake, Boots Off is known for its laid-back summer camp vibes. The property has multiple campsites with picnic tables dotting the landscape, along with a bunkhouse that was inspired by a train sleeper car.
The hostel has adequate resupply options, but also runs daily shuttles to the nearby town of Hampton. A memorable offering at Boots Off is the boat rentals. Whether you’re spending a zero day on the lake or want to aqua blaze, Boots Off has it all.
10. Quarter Way Inn – Atkins, VA
NOBO Mile Marker: 556 (~0.3 miles west of VA 610 crossing)
Price: ~$2o for tenting; ~$35 for a bunk; ~$75-$90 for a private room
A charming renovated 1910 farmhouse makes for this idealistic hostel setting in the rolling hills of Virginia. Hikers can expect warm hospitality in a quaint and comfortable environment. For an additional $15, hikers can partake in a buffet-style breakfast that’s been called one of the best on the entire trail. The Quarter Way Inn also has a substantial resupply selection. Aside from the hostel, owner Tina is known for creating Bead by Bead adventure necklaces and jewelry.
11. The Sterling Inn – Caratunk, ME
NOBO Mile Marker: 2046.4 (~1.5 miles south of US Route 201)
Price: ~$50 for a bunk, ~$60-$160 for a private or shared room, depending on the number of people
After the famous Kennebec River crossing, hikers can relax in style at the Sterling Inn and Cartunk Country Store. The Inn caters to tourists and hikers alike and offers a substantial resupply and shuttle services. Rates include laundry, shower, and the breakfast buffet. In the summer, hikers can be found lounging around on the spacious porch with a pint of ice cream from the general store.
Curious to see if these rankings hold up during the 2026 season? Check back to see what our 2026 thru-hiker survey reveals later in the year.
Magic in the Mountains 
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