Does anyone know if Rusty’s Hard Time Hollow in Virginia and Miss Janet’s in Erwin are still open? They are not listed in the '08 AT Companion. Appreciate any response.
Bacall
AT Hostels - Appalachian Trail
system
#2
Miss janets will not be open this year. As for rusty’s i am not sure i did not stay there on my thru hike.
youngndum
system
#3
Also not sure about Rusty’s but a new hostel has opened in Rural Retreat, VA six miles north on Route 11 from the Atkins crossing. It is operated by the (non-profit) Rural Retreat Historical Society. Since it is new, there is no charge but donations are welcome. More info is posted on Trail Updates on the AT Conservancy website. Mr. Wren (class of '91, '04) is now southbound from Partnership Shelter and since he started in Harper’s Ferry this spring, he may know and respond. He did say the hostel in Pearisburg is currently closed for major repairs but hopes to open by April 15.
Shady
system
#4
Rusty’s is not open to new hikers this year. Rusty’s is only open to “Rusty’s Alumni”. Plus, he charges 20 bucks a night now.
Big Timer
system
#5
According to the 2008 Thru-Hikers Companion, Regarding Rusty’s
“Section-Hikers, thru-hikers, long-distance cyclists, and weekenders welcome (no groups). Minimum $20.00 donation per person per night up front. Unlimited snacks and soft drinks included. No alcohol or illegal drugs allowed. Mail drops not accepted”
I knew about the $20.00 per night thing, but hadn’t heard that he was closed to all buy alumni. There will probably be signs posted on the trail or at Maupin Field Shelter.
If rusty is open, you should aboslutely go. It was one of my favorite hostels on the entire trail last year.
-lakewood
lakewood
system
#6
The AT is always changing… thees two will leave a big void this hiking season…
:oh ~Ktr
Ktr