As any young traveler knows, when you are looking for a cheap place to stay a youth hostel is usually the way to go. However, in the state of New York there are very few true hostels left. This is especially true in the upstate regions of the Adirondacks. Luckily, though there are few options left, there are at least three options for the young person on a budget to lay their head for the night while visiting this majestic area.
The first option is the High Peaks Hostel in Lake Placid, New York. The price fluctuates around $30 dollars a night depending on the season and offers an incredible breakfast in the morning. Most beds are in the style of bunk beds so if you are a tall person be prepared to sleep in a ball for the night. The owners have had both positive and negative reviews but for the most part seem very helpful. The location really can’t be beat with only a fifteen minute walk to town and really in a beautiful setting. You will truly get your moneys worth here. Keep in mind that there is no public kitchen here so you will need to figure out food that does not need cooking, or just eat out a lot.
The next option is the Jack Rabbit Hostel also located in Lake Placid. The Jack Rabbit is actually dual lodging with a hostel located on the bottom two floors and a motel on the top two floors. The hostel portion is set out dormitory style with shared showers, kitchen, and common area. The hostel will run you around $25 per night. If you want a little more privacy you can get a room in the hotel levels with private bath and a maximum of five people for about $60 a night, or around $10 a person if you split the cost with a few friends. Unlike High Peaks, Jack Rabbit offers a full kitchen for your cooking needs and also has an outdoor pool and tennis courts, pretty rare amenities when talking about Hostels.
The final option, and the hostel that comes most highly recommended, is the Valley Keene Hostel, or more commonly known as the “the hikers hostel” or just “the hostel” in Keene, New York. Bunks will run you around $18 per night and a private room around $50. It is by far the cheapest option around for the Adirondacks, and not only is it cheap but it’s super clean too. This is the place to stay if you want to meet the men and women who know the most pristine hiking trails, ice climbing cliffs, and scenic paths in the area. This hostel also offers a full kitchen for all of your eating needs.
If you are tired of camping, or if you just don’t want to freeze to death, these are some great cheap alternatives to roughing it while spending time in the incredible Adirondack Mountains.
