Stanimals Around the Bend: Hiker Hostel in Hiawassee, GA

Located in the mountain town of Hiawassee, Georgia, Stanimals Around the Bend offers a uniquely tailored experience for thru-hikers and outdoor adventurers venturing along the Appalachian Trail and surrounding paths. This hiker-focused hostel combines practical amenities with a welcoming social atmosphere, making it a critical waypoint in the North Georgia wilderness. The hostel’s range of accommodations—from quiet bunk beds and semi-private cabins to private queen rooms and communal couches—caters to varied needs without compromising comfort or affordability.

What sets Stanimals Around the Bend apart is its emphasis on community and convenience. Guests speak highly of the friendly, attentive staff—especially Dob and Spotter, the shuttle driver—who provide timely rides to nearby trailheads, stores, and towns. The onsite amenities include a small outfitter store for last-minute gear, free laundry, and a meal option featuring hearty breakfast and famous all-you-can-eat pancakes. The shared living area with a large window frames views of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains, creating a perfect spot to unwind, connect with fellow travelers, and prepare for the trail ahead.

The property sits just off Dick’s Gap, a popular gateway for hikers tackling the Georgia section of the Appalachian Trail. The landscape around Hiawassee features rugged ridges, dense hardwood forest, and rushing creeks that characterize the Southern Appalachian ecosystem. With a combination of outdoor accessibility and robust hospitality, Stanimals has become more than a stopover—it's a home base for those pushing southbound or northbound along the trail. Guests also appreciate the quiet atmosphere during off-season stays, ensuring restorative rest before the next leg of their journey.

Whether passing through for a single night or staying longer to recover, Stanimals Around the Bend embodies the spirit of southern Appalachian outdoor culture by melding rugged adventure with thoughtful, trail-friendly services. It’s one of the premier hiker hostels in the region, valuable for any adventurer seeking dependable lodging and community in the midst of wild country.