Standing Bear Farm Hostel

05/24/2026

When your hikers dream of picking up snakes on the AT....well, you make it happen. Thank you to Curly, Pickleweed, and Trinkets for wrangling these egg-eating snakes out of our chicken coop!

03/25/2026

UPDATE: We've received reports that Google Maps is showing that Waterville Rd Exit 451 is CLOSED. This is incorrect as the exit is open except to through traffic. Please exit as usual and follow gravel road (Green Corner Rd) approximately 1 mile to our location. Below is a map with information for both trail and vehicular access via I-40.

03/19/2026

They say the mountains have a way of holding onto what matters. After the floods, we weren’t sure if this newly started structure would still be here—but she stood her ground.

Our Stargazing Dome is officially ready for the season. Come relax at the pinnacle where two creeks merge; the energy encircling this spot is nothing short of magical.

Huge credit to Jerrid for the artfully designed floor and the hidden details that make this space so special. We’ve leveled up the comfort with a brand-new, cozy bed, privacy window film for peace of mind, and a private campfire right outside your door.
The stars are waiting. Who’s coming to see them?

Tag someone in the comments for a chance to win a FREE STAY in our gorgeous Stargazing Dome! Winner will be announced for one night after May 15th! ⬇️

03/14/2026

What’s it like walking up to one of the AT’s oldest hiker hostels? It looks like resilience. 🥾
From the daffodils pushing through the soil to the bright yellow honeysuckle, Standing Bear Farm is blooming again! We’re a little rough around the edges, but we’ve come a long way since the floods that wrecked our holler. You’ll enjoy the heartbeat of our farm, the creek “Rio Dulce”. Certainly, you’ll be greeted with our friendly crew and a "hello" from our furry concierge, Mr. Houston. 🐶

🐾 Note: Open 375 but no reservations March 15 – May 15 to prioritize our thru-hiker family.

🐾The Goods: DiGiorno pizzas, cold beer, and a campfire that never goes out.

03/08/2026

Help support Matt Moline if you are able! He is an Army veteran from Key West, FL who will be hiking the Appalachian Trail starting this April 13th, NOBO from Springer Mountain. Matt is walking with a purpose: to raise awareness and funds to help prevent veteran su***de. He is fundraising for Irreverent Warriors, an international nonprofit leading the charge in veteran community support and mental health, through advocacy, humor and camaraderie. One of our founding members, Curtis Owen, was a Marine veteran (OOHRAH!) so serving those that serve for us is always something near and dear to our hearts! Happy hiking everybody! Check in on your friends and end the mental health stigma!

02/13/2026

Love at first flush! 🚽💩😍

We’re spending Valentine’s Day weekend giving you what you really want this season: a toilet that flushes! It’s still a work in progress, but we promise it’s worth the wait.

Coming soon to Standing Bear: Less "back to nature," more "thank goodness for plumbing!!!”

01/12/2026

Everybody check out Mile 666 on Amazon and be sure to leave a review after you do so! Filmed partially here on location with cameos from the owner and staff and other locals! Enjoy!

Fleeing her past, a troubled hiker and her dog traverse the Appalachian Trail, only to fall under the spell of a seductive, dangerous man. As obsession and visions mount, she's drawn toward Mile 666, where lust, death, and something ancient await.

01/05/2026

Shipping our Flood Recovery T-Shirts to Maryland, California, Maine & beyond! We still have a few in sizes S-2XL! Order yours today via Venmo: mahala-owen with a description of the 1.) quantity, 2.) size, & 3.) address! Thanks everyone for your support! We are looking forward to this 2026 hiking season! 🥾
$25 per shirt!

12/25/2025

The hikers are nestled all snug in their beds, while visions of summit views dance in their heads. Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good night from Standing Bear Farm Hostel! 🎄 Book direct: 423-608-0149

12/18/2025

Dear Santa, all we want for Christmas is a working flush!🎅🏽 We’re working hard to get the bathhouse finished before the AT hiker season kicks off. It’s currently a "work in progress," but the vision is officially in motion!