Hosteling Across the Rockies & Beyond
A Road Trip Guide to 6 Epic Stays for Budget Travelers, Bunkmates & Big Sky Dreamers
From the high country of Colorado to the mystical deserts of New Mexico, this hostel-powered road trip is all about connection, cozy beds, and unforgettable stops. Whether you’re chasing powder, chasing sunsets, or just chasing a little peace of mind—these six hostels have your back.
Stop 1: Bunkhouse Hostel | Vail, CO
Trailhead by day, ski town by night
Your road trip kicks off in style at this minimalist, design-forward hostel smack in the middle of Vail. Think modern bunks, a quiet vibe, and easy access to everything from mountain biking to après ski beers. Don’t expect party vibes—this is where you rest up before the real wild begins.
📍 Why Stop Here: Steps from world-class skiing, coffee shops, and trailheads
🛏️ Best For: Solo adventurers, hikers, and low-key luxury lovers
Stop 2: Dolores Bike Hostel | Dolores, CO
Built for bikers, but welcoming to all
This one’s a hidden gem in the high desert. Right on the edge of McPhee Reservoir and the San Juan National Forest, Dolores Bike Hostel is your two-wheeled paradise—but even if you don’t ride, you’ll love the cozy setup, community vibe, and serious stargazing.
📍 Why Stop Here: Biker amenities, hiking galore, and a sleepy, small-town charm
🚲 Best For: Cyclists, nature nerds, and road trippers who hate crowds
Stop 3: Pintler’s Portal | Anaconda, MT
Your warmest welcome into the Montana wild
Tucked at the base of the Anaconda-Pintler wilderness, this boutique hostel is where Montana magic hits different. Hike by day, lounge by fireplace at night. Add hammocks, hot showers, and new friends around every corner, and you’ve got a recipe for pure mountain bliss.
📍 Why Stop Here: Nature access, cozy vibes, and local charm in walking distance
🔥 Best For: Trail junkies, hammock dwellers, and fireplace philosophers
Stop 4: Shady Spruce Hostel | Missoula, MT
Bikes, brews, and the best of Missoula
Located in a historic Victorian house just blocks from downtown, Shady Spruce is a favorite for adventurers, cyclists, and chill-seekers. With three leafy courtyards, privacy pod bunks, and an on-site bike shop, it’s a vibe-heavy hostel that makes Missoula feel like home.
📍 Why Stop Here: Great location, bike-friendly, and killer brewery scene
🛏️ Best For: Cyclists, creatives, and anyone who likes their nature with a side of espresso
Stop 5: Cloudcroft Hostel | Cloudcroft, NM
Southern New Mexico’s best-kept secret
Mountains, starry skies, and White Sands just down the road—Cloudcroft Hostel is your dreamy desert retreat. Surrounded by trails and overflowing with laid-back charm, it’s a place to unplug, hike all day, and meet fellow nomads by the fire pit at night.
📍 Why Stop Here: Nature immersion with a sky full of stars
🌌 Best For: Hikers, dreamers, and anyone escaping the noise
Stop 6: Ember Hostel | Denver, CO
Boutique beds + big city buzz
Wrap your road trip with a dose of Denver cool at Ember. This upscale hostel is decked out with velvet-curtained bunks, a giant hot tub, and design details that make you forget it’s technically "budget" lodging. Located in a historic mansion, it’s the perfect mix of style and social.
📍 Why Stop Here: Free parking, hot tub hangs, and 420-friendly back patio
✨ Best For: Digital nomads, city wanderers, and hostel-luxe lovers
🧭 Final Notes:
🔑 Most of these hostels have group-friendly options, private rooms, and full kitchens
💸 Be sure to check for discount codes like
HOSTELINGUSorHostelsAreMoreFun🗺️ Use this loop to travel from Denver ➝ Dolores ➝ Vail ➝ Anaconda ➝ Missoula ➝ Cloudcroft ➝ back to Denver (or keep going west—we won’t stop you)