Top Hike-In Lodges in the US for Nature Lovers

Leave the front country behind in favor of more remote, wild spans away from serious crowds. However, this doesn’t mean every night has to wind down on a foam camping pad inside a drippy tent. A hike-in lodge offers all the adventure of a wilderness trek with the comfort of a clean bed, hot showers, and a home-cooked meal at the end of a rewarding day.

The nine hike-in lodges below offer remarkable access to some of the most remote parts of the US without the need to sacrifice the comforts of home. Because let’s be honest, nothing feels more hedonistic than pampering yourself in the wilderness!

1. Phantom Ranch, Arizona

Best for hiking the Grand Canyon

There’s only one lodge at the bottom of the Grand Canyon, and it’s so popular that you’ll need to plan more than a year in advance. Phantom Ranch has been welcoming guests into the depths of the wild west’s most iconic landmark for a century, offering respite from the elements in rustic cabins made of wood and native stone. The journey is as wild as the destination: you descend 7.5 miles on the exposed South Kaibab Trail and make the arduous return via the more shaded 10-mile Bright Angel Trail.

2. Muir Trail Ranch, California

Best for a mountain escape

Located 11 miles from the nearest road, Muir Trail Ranch is a true off-grid escape in the high mountains of central California. This lodge features riverside tent cottages and log cabins, often frequented by those tackling the renowned John Muir or Pacific Crest trails. Guests can relax in the fireplace lounge, which offers a cozy atmosphere with warm furnishings and games. Remember to bring a sleeping bag; however, don’t worry about the meals, as they are included!

3. Lake of the Clouds Hut, New Hampshire

Best for summiting the highest peak in the northeast

Lake of the Clouds is the largest and highest of eight huts operated by the Appalachian Mountain Club in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. Situated in a col between Mount Monroe and Mount Washington, it makes for an ideal staging ground for summit bids of the northeastern peak. Access to this century-old property is via the Crawford Path (7 miles). Expect to sleep in one of the 90 bunks, where a small crew will cook, entertain, and educate.

4. Hike Inn, Georgia

Best as a hub for the Appalachian Trail

It’s a five-mile trek across babbling streams and scenic ridges to reach the LEED-certified Hike Inn, which is one of the cushier spots on this list. With solar-heated showers, plush linens, and wholesome meals, this lodge sits at an altitude of 3100 feet, boasting views from the wrap-around porch over gently rolling hills. Thru-hikers on the Appalachian Trail often use Hike Inn as a comfortable launchpad or a rewarding end to their grueling journey.

5. Paradise Lodge, Oregon

Best for the gourmand hiker

Paradise Lodge sits on an idyllic stretch of the lush Lower Rogue River Canyon, offering 18 woodsy rooms across six unique cabins. Access is either by foot or by rafting, kayaking, or jetboating downriver. The lodge’s fine dining, local wines, craft beer, and freshly roasted coffee serve as hard-earned rewards for your adventurous arrival.

6. Charit Creek Lodge, Tennessee

Best for the rustic, no-electricity escapist

Charit Creek Lodge is only 1 mile from the nearest parking lot, providing access to the 150 miles of surrounding trails through scenic gorges and sandstone bluffs. Although completely off the grid, guests will find comfortable linens, oil-burning lanterns, wood-burning stoves, and rocking chairs on the porch, making the private cabins feel unexpectedly luxurious. Rave-worthy meals and modern restrooms with hot showers enhance the experience!

7. Granite Park Chalet, Montana

Best for the views of Glacier National Park

The Great Northern Railway built this panoramic lodge in 1914 at an elevation of 6693ft above sea level. The sweeping views over Glacier National Park are astounding. To enjoy them, trekkers must hike at least four uphill miles, bringing their own linens, water, and food, which can be prepared in a basic kitchen. For those seeking a less rustic experience, the nearby Sperry Chalet is a popular alternative.

8. Bearpaw Camp, California

Best for incredible panoramas of Sequoia National Park

Experience the High Sierra backcountry of Sequoia National Park by staying at Bearpaw Camp. The 11.5-mile hike in includes several creek crossings but rewards visitors with awe-inspiring views over the snow-frosted mountains of the Great Western Divide. Expect generous dinners, hot showers, and a cozy stay in one of the six tent cabins. This camp is seasonal, open from June to mid-September, and a wilderness permit is required.

9. LeConte Lodge, Tennessee

Best for relaxation in the Smoky Mountains

LeConte Lodge, renowned for being the highest altitude guest lodge in the eastern United States, sits at 6400 feet just below the summit of its namesake peak in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Access via multiple routes, the most popular being the 6.5-mile Trillium Gap Trail, transports guests to hearty meals, kerosene lanterns, propane heaters, and washbasins for sponge baths in one of the seven cozy cabins or three spacious lodges.