There is a great (IMHO) new hostel between Franklin, NC and the NOC if you are northbound. It is owned by a thru-hiker (Wiggy) who charges non-hikers $200/ night for a luxury cabin or $20 if you are a thru-hiker. His place is gorgeous. His wife will cook pizza ($10) and laundry is $4 for 2 loads. He will pick you up at Tellico/Burningtown/Wayah Gaps for $5. He is Aquone, NC which is close to Burningtown Gap which I help to maintain. I have no financial connection to the hostel. So, if you are northbound you can spend a night with Ron Haven in Franklin, then a night with Wiggy, and then a night at the NOC. No tent needed! Note, the price is $20 per hiker, not per cabin. Wiggy is a retired Royal Marine. Burningtown Gap has Verizon coverage. Wiggy is at 828-321-2340. Great guy. He has internet. 5 thru-hikers stayed with hime last night and they were quite impressed too.
_Apple_New hostel at Burningtown Gap
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I met Wiggy during his thruhike in 2010 (???) Great guy and I am sure he knows exactly what a hiker needs for a good nights rest.
_Jeff - Green Mtn Hostel_