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Nestled within the Blueridge Mountains and on the Appalachian Trail, lies historical Bears Den Lodge. Once a summer home for Washington physician Huron Lawson and his wife, opera singer, Francesca Kaspar, Bears Den is an enchanting stone lodge reminiscent of a European castle, complete with turrets and tower.
Built in 1933 by local stonemasons, the distinguished mansion is one of the most impressive hostels on the eastern region. Once used as Francesca's recital hall, the large common room boasts excellent acoustics and a magnificent stone fireplace. Among the forested acreage are several lawns and quiet escapes. A main attraction and only a short stroll down the trail, Bears Den Scenic Rock Overlook offers a stunning view of the Shenandoah Valley.
Bears Den Trail Center is a gateway that connects people to nature and the Appalachian Trail. The hostel, surrounding property, and educational programs interpret the land we live with and demonstrate environmental stewardship.
At Bears Den, guests have the chance to get away from hectic civilization and rejuvenate in simple and beautiful nature. Bears Den is a place that visionary Benton MacKaye described in 1921. In his opening paragraph of 'An Appalachian Trail', he wrote about a recreation camp that is neither urban nor rural and escapes "the common curse of both - the high powered tension of economic scramble." As MacKaye described, Bears Den thrives from "cooperation and mutual helpfulness."
Bears Den Trail Center is owned by Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC) and managed by the Potomac Appalachian Trail Center (PATC). ATC and PATC have developed a strong working relationship to provide for the long term future of Bears Den as one of the premier hiking trail centers on the Appalachian Trail. For additional information - and membership in these two outstanding organizations - please go to the following websites:
PATC - Potomac Appalachian Trail Club
ATC - Appalachian Trail Conservancy
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