A No-Frills Traveler’s Hostel Steps from the Ridge: Open Arms at the Edge of Town

LURAY LODGING FIELD GUIDE

A No-Frills Traveler’s Hostel Steps from the Ridge: Open Arms at the Edge of Town

Reserve a bed at Open Arms Hostel in Luray — a communal lodging option for hikers and bikers, located 8 miles west of the Appalachian Trail with shared kitchen and shower facilities.

A No-Frills Traveler’s Hostel Steps from the Ridge: Open Arms at the Edge of Town.

Duration
1-7 Nights
Location
Luray
Operator
Open Arms Hostel at the Edge of Town
Category
Lodging
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

Experience the camaraderie of fellow adventurers at Open Arms Hostel in Luray, Virginia — a compact traveler’s haven with comfortable lodging, a communal kitchen and showers, and an emphasis on hikers and bikers visiting the nearby Appalachian Trail.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE COMMUNITY

A Communal Hub for Trail-Heading Travelers

The hostel is built around connecting hikers, bikers and other visitors — a place to trade route intel, share a meal from the communal kitchen and meet like-minded travelers between trail days.

THE LOCATION

Eight Miles West of the Appalachian Trail

Set at 1260 East Main Street in Luray, the hostel sits roughly 8 miles west of the Appalachian Trail, making it a convenient base for those moving to or from the long‑distance route.

THE AMENITIES

Showers, a Communal Kitchen and Affordable Rates

Guests can use the shared kitchen to prepare food, take showers on site, and reserve lodging starting at modest rates — designed to support the practical needs of outdoor travelers.

What the day feels like

What Staying Here Feels Like

Stays range from single nights to a week in a compact, social environment where the emphasis is on meeting other outdoor-minded guests, cooking in a shared kitchen, and using on-site showers before heading back to the trail or into town.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who fits this lodging — and who does not.

1
Solo Hikers & Thru‑HikersIdeal: travelers moving along the Appalachian Trail or nearby routes who want shared lodging and to connect with other hikers.
2
Budget BackpackersA practical option for cost-conscious travelers seeking basic lodging with communal facilities and affordable starting rates.
3
Local ResidentsNot a fit: the hostel explicitly does not admit locals; the property enforces a traveler-only policy with no exceptions.
4
Travelers Under 18Not allowed: the hostel is restricted to guests aged 18 and over.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

Length of Stay

Reservations may be made for stays ranging from 1 to 7 nights.

Location & Arrival

The hostel is located at 1260 East Main Street, Luray, VA 22835 — a short drive from the Appalachian Trail corridor (approximately 8 miles east).

What to Bring

Tent is not included with lodging; guests should plan accordingly. The hostel offers a communal kitchen for guests who wish to prepare their own food.

House Rules & Eligibility

Open Arms operates as a traveler’s hostel with an adults-only policy; management reserves the right to refuse patrons and does not admit locals.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

Where is Open Arms Hostel located?

The hostel is at 1260 East Main St, Luray, VA 22835, approximately 8 miles west of the Appalachian Trail.

How long can I reserve a stay?

Reservations are available for stays from 1 to 7 nights.

Are minors allowed to stay at the hostel?

No — the hostel is for guests aged 18 and older.

Is a tent provided with the reservation?

No — a tent is not included with lodging.

Can I cook my own food at the hostel?

Yes — the hostel provides a communal kitchen where guests can cook their own meals; there are also nearby restaurants within walking distance.

Do you accept local residents?

No — the hostel does not allow locals to stay; management enforces a traveler-only policy.