Know of any hostels along the sounthern part of the trail for sale? Or where is there a need for one?
_furbag_Hostels - Appalachian Trail
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#1
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#3
Hot Springs is indeed a trail town without a hostel. I don't consider Elmers to be a hiker hostel.
Waynesboro, VA is another to consider. The Luthern church there is currently filling a need, but I think they have a 15 person maximum.
_Jim_
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#4
My husband and I do weekend section hikes and often look to hostels for shuttle rides from the end of our hike to the beginning. We are in southeast VA now and have been well-serviced by Mt. Rogers Outfitters. But we are getting out of the range that is feasible to use them anymore because of cost yet there is no one else until Pearisburg. So, if that is any indicator of a need, I would think somewhere between Damascus and Pearisburg.
_Michelle_
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#5
Too bad you don't want to go north. The White House Landing is up for sale. I was just there and it's in a great location for hikers.
_Whisper_
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#6
It is very commendable to open a hostel and more are sorely needed. I would just caution that a hostel is a very demanding thing and can get old fast! I would talk long and hard to current hostel owners before making the plunge. And I hope you decide to do it! Apple
_Apple_
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#7
Owning a hostel for hikers is a tough way to make a living. The hostels that are successful also do other things to supplement their income. Hostels in the south attract a lot of hikers, but many of these hikers are not always welcomed in a hostel. Many hostels have closed over the years, short season, hikers want cheap accommodations, and some just want to party. accommodations. Elmers in Hot Springs is a great place, he does it right and has been able to last longer than anyone. Check his place out, stay awhile and talk with him. He can give you more information than anyone.
_CanoeMan_