Appalachian Trail Bears Den Snickers Gap
Rustic lodge and campground on the Appalachian Trail, offering dorms, tent sites, and stunning sunset views near Snickers Gap.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Prime time for sunset views
Appalachian Trail Bears Den Snickers Gap
Best Time
Prime time for sunset views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Rustic lodge and campground on the Appalachian Trail, offering dorms, tent sites, and stunning sunset views near Snickers Gap.
"A great place to stay for AT hikers, with comfortable bunks and friendly, helpful people."
🚗 Parking Contribution
A small fee ($3 suggested) helps maintain the facilities. Cash is appreciated!
🥾 Trail Navigation
Trail blazes can be subtle, especially during peak foliage. Pay attention!
Quick Facts
Rating
4.8 · 635 reviews
Type
Lodging
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Appalachian Trail Access
Directly on the Appalachian Trail
Hike a section of the iconic AT, with easy access from the lodge.
Sunset Rock Overlook
Short walk from parking
Catch breathtaking sunset views over the rolling hills.
Bears Den Lodge
Main lodge building
Rustic charm with communal living spaces, kitchen, and bunk rooms.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Access & Amenities
Parking & Sunset Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Overnight at Bears Den in Virginia
A quick overnighter at Bears Den, to scratch that winter camping itch. Was able to find some fallen wood sticking out of the snow to process and keep me warm. The snowshoes weren’t a necessity, but I did enjoy a little exploration in them.
🚗 Parking Contribution
A small fee ($3 suggested) helps maintain the facilities. Cash is appreciated!
🥾 Trail Navigation
Trail blazes can be subtle, especially during peak foliage. Pay attention!
Bears Den Overlook, VA
Beautiful! Was this at sunrise or sunset? There's also an amazing brewery named Bear Chase brewery right near there!
Hello Everyone, I'm thinking about going to AT for the first time in the Harper's Ferry/MD area next week. Any tips or cool spots?
Bears Den, Bluemont Virginia.
🍳 Communal Kitchen
Utilize the kitchen for cooking. Coffee and pancake ingredients are sometimes provided.
🛌 Bunk Room Comfort
Bunk beds are comfortable and the downstairs bathroom is convenient.
Camping in the area
I have some time off next week and was thinking about going camping/hiking. Any suggestions? Would be willing to drive 1-2 hours away
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Contribution
A small fee ($3 suggested) helps maintain the facilities. Cash is appreciated!
🥾 Trail Navigation
Trail blazes can be subtle, especially during peak foliage. Pay attention!
🍳 Communal Kitchen
Utilize the kitchen for cooking. Coffee and pancake ingredients are sometimes provided.
🛌 Bunk Room Comfort
Bunk beds are comfortable and the downstairs bathroom is convenient.
🏕️ Tent Camping Available
If you prefer camping, tent sites are available near the lodge.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Bears Den is highly praised as a welcoming and affordable haven for Appalachian Trail hikers and visitors seeking scenic sunset views. Guests appreciate the friendly staff, communal kitchen, and convenient trail access. While it's a rustic experience, the value and atmosphere make it a recommended stop.
"I was hiking the Roller Coaster section of the Appalachian Trail and found this place to be a great place to stay. The bunk was comfortable, and the price was good for a night. The people were friendly and helpful here. It was really close to the trail for me. Someone made coffee in the morning, and I made pancakes with the ingredients provided. I like the layout of this place. Lots of areas upstairs to gather with the bunk room downstairs. Bathroom in the bunk room area makes it convenient. I will stay here again when I am back in the area."
Dragonfly
"The historic trail isn’t blazed well which made it a little confusing giving the fall colors. Overall really nice trail with lots of rocks and great views. There is a rest area for backpackers, picnic tables and a privy. This is not a hotel, not sure why those questions are listed."
C R
"Been there to see sunset. Beautiful view.
You can reach the sunset view easily by walking towards right side after parking ($3 contribution for parking) or walk towards left and do a small hike to reach the rock overlook sunset view."
Sud U
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bears Den is located near Bluemont, Virginia, directly accessible from the Appalachian Trail. If driving, follow signs for the Bears Den Center. Parking is available on-site with a suggested contribution.
Public transportation options are limited in this secluded area. It's best to travel by car or arrange a ride.
The lodge is situated directly on the AT, making it a convenient starting or stopping point for hikers.
The nearest towns for significant resupply are typically several miles away. Some basic resupply items may be available at the lodge itself.
From I-66 West, take Exit 13 for VA-7 West towards Winchester. Turn right onto VA-601 S/Snickersville Turnpike, then right onto VA-704 S/Bluemont Road. Follow signs for Bears Den.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Bears Den operates as a hostel and campground. While there isn't a traditional ticket system, there's a parking contribution and fees for overnight stays.
The lodge and grounds are generally accessible, but specific check-in times for overnight stays should be confirmed with the caretaker.
Overnight stays in the dorms or tent sites are affordably priced. A small contribution is also requested for parking.
It's advisable to contact Bears Den directly to inquire about reservations, especially during peak hiking seasons.
While there's no strict entrance fee for day visitors, a parking contribution is requested.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Bears Den offers bunk rooms, tent camping, a communal kitchen, bathrooms, and common gathering areas. Fire pits are also available.
Yes, shower facilities are available for guests staying overnight, providing a welcome amenity for AT hikers.
Late afternoon is ideal for catching the sunset. You can walk to a rock overlook or take a short hike for elevated views.
While it's a rustic hiker's hostel, families can enjoy the natural surroundings and the opportunity for short hikes. The communal atmosphere is generally welcoming.
As you are in a natural setting, expect to see common woodland creatures. Proper food storage is important to deter bears.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Absolutely! Bears Den features a communal kitchen equipped for guests to prepare their own meals.
Some basic resupply articles might be available for purchase, but it's best to bring most of your food with you.
Dining options are limited in the immediate vicinity. Most visitors utilize the kitchen or bring their own provisions.
Yes, picnic tables are available, offering a pleasant spot to enjoy a meal outdoors.
Due to its remote location, food delivery services are unlikely to be available. Plan to bring your own food.
📸 📸 Photography
The sunset rock overlook offers stunning panoramic views. The surrounding Appalachian Trail also provides scenic hiking photography opportunities.
Yes, the designated sunset view area is easily accessible and provides a great vantage point for capturing the sunset.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions on photography for personal use. Be respectful of other visitors.
Golden hour, both sunrise and sunset, offers the most dramatic lighting. Midday can be harsh but still offers good views.
You can take photos inside the lodge, but be mindful of other guests and their privacy.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit