One of the more "upscale" places to spend a night at on the AT is in a Hostel near (or slightly near) the trail. For $25 or so one can get a roof over your head, a bunk bed to sleep on, sometimes a shower (hot shower were optional!) and depending on the hostel, a dinner and many times breakfast. These are welcomed breaks from sleeping on the ground or the wood floor of a shelter....but the "uniqueness" of these establishments (and the people that run them and/or the hikers that stay there) was also a key allure, as you will see on this page:

BEAR GARDEN HIKER HOSTEL

Owned and operated by retired school teachers Bob and Roberta from Michigan (they even knew where Swartz Creek was: home of the dragons!)

LICKSKILLET HOSTEL

Owned and operated by "Mongo", former thru hiker. Very cool place. An old church probably from the 50's turned into a hostel. Mongo was out hiking but he had some very good friends that helped him and us out (Mariette and Valerie). At night I swear we could hear the ghosts of the church choir singing.

Woods Hole Hostel

A great hostel that happen to be an organic farm.Stayed one night for a good night sleep and great breakfast!

4 Pines Hostel

This hostel, a converted garage, was a key stop off spot for many including  MacGyver and I to pick up food re-supply, and the outside surrounding evironment is impressive with wide open great views and a pleasant surrounding feel. The inside........certainly a "unique" lived in look and feel.

Stanimals

Stayed at Stanimals in Glasgow, VA and what a treat. The Manager, Charlie (trail name "Pilgrim" is a 2019 thru hiker, a Navy veteran and a great host, shuttle driver,  specializing in his great breakfasts AND desserts! Those of you hiking thru Glasgow needing a place to stay, try Stanimals.