Rambling Roots Hostel

07/06/2026

Take care of those toes!!! Don't pre-buy shoes because they've worked on your weekend hikes. Don't buy a shoe because everyone else says it's the best, what works for one person might not work for another. Find an outfitter who truly understands feet, shoes, movement, and thru hiking.
In my area I HIGHLY recommend Outdoor 76. They are south of me in Franklin.

Read more at the link in the comments!

07/05/2026

Telli and crew, wants to remind folks we are available for bikers, hikers, white water, and other travelers! We offer accommodations for all. We have private and shared rooms. We have laundry services, a full kitchen, and swag!!!
Enjoy lounging in the A/C after a fun day of adventures.
WNC

06/12/2026

Thank you to the two amazing folks who are running the hostel and taking care of the fur babies while I go on vacation!
Thank you to ALL of the hikers who have changed my life for the better since I opened in January of 2025.
Upon my return, I will go through all of the photos I gathered during the season and start to post them to catch up on social media. Until then, enjoy non-AT related posts!

05/19/2026

Quiet night here. A group of happy hikers enjoying the comforts of home while a sliver of moon rises over their heads.

05/01/2026

Back country thru-hiker permits are changing

Backcountry campers planning an overnight trip in Great Smoky Mountains National Park will see changes to the park's permit reservation system.

04/21/2026

Bears are becoming more active. As you head into the Smokies pay attention to bear activity, be sure to follow park rules on food storage.

Rangers in Great Smoky Mountains National Park responded to multiple bear‑related incidents at Ramsey Cascades Trail this past weekend, including cases where a bear approached visitors, took backpacks, and briefly chased a group. Ramsey Prong Road and Ramsey Cascades Trail are now closed as rangers monitor bear activity.

Last weekend, rangers also handled several incidents involving an aggressive bear at Abrams Falls Trail. That area has now reopened after several days with no observed bear activity.

Spring means increased black bear activity in the Smokies. Mother bears are emerging with cubs and food sources are limited. This is a sensitive time for bears, and getting too close can lead to dangerous encounters.

To keep people and bears safe, please remember:
• Stay 50 yards away from bears—approaching bears is illegal.
• Don’t stop in the road to view bears; it creates hazards and delays emergency response.
• Secure all food and trash in a locked vehicle and never leave it unattended.
• Never feed bears. Feeding wildlife is illegal and can cause bears to become aggressive and lose their natural fear of humans.
• Stay alert on trails and consider carrying bear spray. Hike in groups when possible.
• Report bear encounters or unsafe behavior to park authorities at 865‑436‑1230.

Thank you for helping keep the Smokies safe for everyone—people and bears alike.

Learn more: https://www.nps.gov/grsm/learn/news/bear-incidents-prompts-trail-closure-safety-reminder-in-great-smoky-mountains-national-park.htm

NPS Photo

04/16/2026

We have an unexpected guest here at the hostel!!!
I am thrilled to have this beautiful lady settled in here at our entry.

04/03/2026

It is just incredible to me how many folks have traveled through the hostel this year. It is so enjoyable to take a moment and hear their stories. I have folks reaching back out to me and sharing where they are along the trail, what's going on, asking for information up the way. Every day I get to meet someone new is a good day. Thank you hikers for sharing your journey with me!!!
**the pup in the photo was found on the road, returned to owners shortly after photo shoot**

04/03/2026

Lots of activity in the sky today! Watched a chopper carrying water to manage fires.

🚫 Reminder: Burn Ban Still in Effect 🚫

Please remember that we are currently under both a statewide burn ban and a local burn ban. This means NO open burning is allowed at this time.

Conditions remain unsafe, and even small fires can quickly get out of control. For everyone’s safety, please follow the ban and avoid any outdoor burning until restrictions are lifted.

Let’s all do our part to keep our community and first responders safe. 🔥🚒