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Where to Get Your Sleep On For Cheap: Best Ski Town Hostels

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The very word, "hostel," can bring an involuntary shudder to even the most stalwart of skiers. It's less about the gory movie franchise associations than bad past experience with filthy, noisy hellholes populated by a combination of raving lunatics, quasi-homeless ski bums, and burned-out hippies. Squash those perceptions, because not all hostels are created equal, and some of North America's finest are to be found in your favorite ski towns. Whether you're looking for a rustic cabin or "Ikea Alpine," Curbed Ski's vetted the best budget places to bunk down.


-By Laurel Miller · Best Ski Town Pizza: Because Pow and Pies Just Go Together [Curbed Ski]
· Updated! Beers or Bust: The Best Ski Town Breweries, Jan '14 [Curbed Ski]

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HI Mosquito Creek Wilderness Hostel

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If getting off the tourist track is important to you, this primitive, off-the-grid cabin is choice. Located near Lake Louise, it houses 20 beds (no shower, but there is a sauna hut). You’ll have to use an outhouse, but after a day of ice-climbing or Nordic pursuits, you’ll be too tired and blissed out to care.

The Hostel

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While not the most stylish digs, this no-frills places does boast “renovated guest’s rooms” with new Serta mattresses, Kohler bathroom showers, granite sinks, and snazzy linens.” More important is the prime location in Teton Village at the base of the resort. Dorms and private rooms available, and pssst, it’s just one mile away from the Nordic delights of Grand Teton National Park.

Chateau Après Lodge

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Talk about old school; this classic- and massive- chalet is a bit of Euro charm in a formerly funky mining town. It’s just a 10-minute walk to downtown, includes a Continental breakfast, and a choice of dorms or rooms with twin, double, or queen beds.

The Bivouac

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The much-anticipated “Bivvi” opened December 4, and it’s already achieved cult-like status. What’s not to love about a stylish hostel that’s more private log cabin than frat house? With only 10 rooms (dorm and private), an outdoor hottub, and all-inclusive, honest-to-god hot breakfasts prepared to order, why stay anywhere else? Runner up: If the Bivvi is booked, Curbed Ski still loves the funky, ramshackle old house that’s the Fireside Inn. Comfy, friendly, and walking distance to downtown, it’s the teddy bear of hostels.

St. Moritz Lodge

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In the realm of ski town hostels, this one wins Curbed Ski’s heart, and not just because it’s in America’s most glam resort. Styled out like a groovy Alpine chalet, it’s spotless, with comfortable rooms, friendly staff, and a great location just minutes from downtown and the slopes. Dorms and private rooms, some with their own bath. Bonus: plentiful free parking.

Crested Butte International Lodge & Hostel

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Located in town, this clean but utilitarian hostel is close to CB’s many bars and dining, and is just 100 yards from the free shuttle up the mountain. Dorms, private rooms, and kid-friendly apartments/off-site condo rentals are also available. With the exception of certain festivals and holidays (beware Vinotok, aka “Slovenian Burning Man," it’s also quiet.

Wanderlust Hostel

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Owned by a local outdoor guide, this homey place is just 30 miles downvalley from Crested Butte but close to the free shuttle. More important, lift tickets are a whopping 60% off if you’re a guest. Fireplace, full kitchen, colorful décor, warm staff, and a mascot cat named Porkchop add to the appeal.

The Abominable Snowmansion Hostel

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The quirky hamlet of Arroyo Seco lies up in the mountains, between the town of Taos and the ski area. There’s a mercantile/restaurant, a few boutiques, and this truly awesome old hostel, which is best known for its communal vibe and off-the-beaten-track location. Enjoy the green chile at Abe’s Cantina, and the access to Nordic pursuits and hot springs.

HI Mosquito Creek Wilderness Hostel

If getting off the tourist track is important to you, this primitive, off-the-grid cabin is choice. Located near Lake Louise, it houses 20 beds (no shower, but there is a sauna hut). You’ll have to use an outhouse, but after a day of ice-climbing or Nordic pursuits, you’ll be too tired and blissed out to care.

The Hostel

While not the most stylish digs, this no-frills places does boast “renovated guest’s rooms” with new Serta mattresses, Kohler bathroom showers, granite sinks, and snazzy linens.” More important is the prime location in Teton Village at the base of the resort. Dorms and private rooms available, and pssst, it’s just one mile away from the Nordic delights of Grand Teton National Park.

Chateau Après Lodge

Talk about old school; this classic- and massive- chalet is a bit of Euro charm in a formerly funky mining town. It’s just a 10-minute walk to downtown, includes a Continental breakfast, and a choice of dorms or rooms with twin, double, or queen beds.

The Bivouac

The much-anticipated “Bivvi” opened December 4, and it’s already achieved cult-like status. What’s not to love about a stylish hostel that’s more private log cabin than frat house? With only 10 rooms (dorm and private), an outdoor hottub, and all-inclusive, honest-to-god hot breakfasts prepared to order, why stay anywhere else? Runner up: If the Bivvi is booked, Curbed Ski still loves the funky, ramshackle old house that’s the Fireside Inn. Comfy, friendly, and walking distance to downtown, it’s the teddy bear of hostels.

St. Moritz Lodge

In the realm of ski town hostels, this one wins Curbed Ski’s heart, and not just because it’s in America’s most glam resort. Styled out like a groovy Alpine chalet, it’s spotless, with comfortable rooms, friendly staff, and a great location just minutes from downtown and the slopes. Dorms and private rooms, some with their own bath. Bonus: plentiful free parking.

Crested Butte International Lodge & Hostel

Located in town, this clean but utilitarian hostel is close to CB’s many bars and dining, and is just 100 yards from the free shuttle up the mountain. Dorms, private rooms, and kid-friendly apartments/off-site condo rentals are also available. With the exception of certain festivals and holidays (beware Vinotok, aka “Slovenian Burning Man," it’s also quiet.

Wanderlust Hostel

Owned by a local outdoor guide, this homey place is just 30 miles downvalley from Crested Butte but close to the free shuttle. More important, lift tickets are a whopping 60% off if you’re a guest. Fireplace, full kitchen, colorful décor, warm staff, and a mascot cat named Porkchop add to the appeal.

The Abominable Snowmansion Hostel

The quirky hamlet of Arroyo Seco lies up in the mountains, between the town of Taos and the ski area. There’s a mercantile/restaurant, a few boutiques, and this truly awesome old hostel, which is best known for its communal vibe and off-the-beaten-track location. Enjoy the green chile at Abe’s Cantina, and the access to Nordic pursuits and hot springs.