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592 State Route 2, Shelburne, New Hampshire 03581, United States
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the policy of the Hostel regarding Covid-19? Its protocol?
The safety, health, and well-being of our guests and visitors is, and will remain, our top priority. Our Lodge and Hostel has a high standard of cleanliness, which helps prevent the spread of illness.
As ours is a mostly shared-space environment, if a guest appears visibly sick at check-in, we reserve the right to seek their reschedule. If a guest starts to feel sick or becomes symptomatic during their stay with us, we would direct the guest to contact the nearest clinic or medical facility. We would also move the guest to a private room, if available, and facilitate their self-isolation. In addition to this, we have put in place:
- Additional sanitizing stations and hand sanitizer
- Additional, frequent cleanings and disinfection of targeted areas (as bathrooms and vehicles)
- UV lamps and UV HEPA air filters for room turnover / disinfection
The public health situation changes daily, and we would suggest individuals remain informed and seek out guidance put out by relevant local, state, and federal offices; and, of course, and perhaps most important, education and the application of common sense practices.
We understand any need to alter or cancel travel plans. As of this time, we will honor any likewise cancellation for a reservation made after April 1st, extended if or as needed according to the public health situation, without penalty.
NH lodging facilities are re-opening beginning June 5th! So come to the Rattle River Lodge and Hostel. We have an outdoor grill to avoid using the kitchen and there's sanitizer and paper towels in every bathroom. We also have sterile face masks available for guests upon request.
We will be adhering to the Covid-19 lodging guidelines of New Hampshire's Reopening Guidance, which is also available HERE.
PLEASE NOTE: Pursuant to the Governor of New Hampshire’s Reopening Guidance, "...effective immediately, Hotels, Motels, B&B’s, Cabin Communities and similar accommodations open to the public, including short-term rentals, may accept overnight reservations from New England residents, or non-New England visitors who have met the 14 day quarantine requirement. Reservations may be accepted by phone, online, or in person." Additionally, registered guests checking in must either provide a driver's license as proof of residency or, for out-of-region guests, attest that they have met the 14 day quarantine requirement.
(Out of state first responders and healthcare workers who use PPE as part of their daily work are exempt from the isolate at home portion of this requirement.)
Keep Calm and Carry On.
Does the Hostel offer alternative hiking options for those with impacted plans?
YES! Between our shuttles, slackpacks, food drops, and more, we can find a way for you to accomplish your hiking goals. Or just want to book a bunk room as a private room? Contact us with your questions!
Does Rattle River Hostel accept mail drops?
YES! Label your package:
Your [Given] Name
Hold for A.T. Hiker, ETA: [MM/DD]
c/o Rattle River Lodge & Hostel
592 State Route 2
Shelburne, NH 03581
[Also, please write your last name in large CAPITAL letters on one side of the box.]
We keep all packages behind locked door, accessible only to staff. Here to pick up a package? Don't forget positive ID!
(This service is free for guests; otherwise, it's $5 per package.)
Does the Hostel allow for overnight parking?
YES! This is free for guests; otherwise, it's $10/day. We collect payment in full on the day of arrival. We do have limited parking and there is free but unsecured parking at the Rattle River Trailhead parking lot, about 200 feet east on U.S. 2.
What is the maximum number of nights guests can otherwise stay at the Hostel?
Three. We want guests to relax for the duration of their stay but not stop a hiker's hike.
Does the Hostel offer food drops? How does it work?
YES! We essentially regard a food drop as a shuttle. A food drop, like a slackpack, allows for reduced pack weight. (This might also be an option in the event of closures or for those with special dietary needs.) First, contact us to ask about rates and availability. Next, either have your drop delivered to our Hostel or order online through Walmart of Gorham (c/o Rattle River Lodge and Hostel). Last, we bring your drop to you.
Does the Hostel offer slackpacks?
YES! Our Wildcat slackpack is one of the most popular slackpacks on the A.T. (Click HERE for more information about slackpacks.)
Does the Hostel offer a Mount Washington slackpack?
YES! We recommend this slackpack for individuals concerned for their knees—the northbound descent of Mount Madison with a full pack can be brutal on the knees. The Mt. Washington Auto Road offers shuttles up and down the mountain. Take the Auto Road shuttle to the base of the mountain, call us from the base, and we will pick you up ($5). (The Auto Road will return you to the summit of Mt. Washington the next day with the same shuttle ticket.) (Click HERE for Auto Road dates / hours of operation. Click HERE for more information about slackpacks.)
I'm looking to do my own slackpack but I don't see it on your website. What are my options? Can I still do it?
YES! Between our maps, guidebooks, and experienced staff, if there's a trailhead, we can find a way to arrange drop offs and pickups. There are over 1,200 miles of trail in the White Mountains so let's take a look!
Can you give me a good piece of advice about slackpacks?
Be sure to have the essentials: water, food, phone, maps, appropriate clothing for the weather, and a plan.
Does the Hostel have an AT passport stamp?
YES! We stamp AT passports.
What businesses in Gorham are friendly to hikers?
- Dynasty Buffet, 603.466.9888. 310 Main Street Gorham. M-Th 11 AM-9 PM, F-Sat 11 AM-9:30 PM, Sun 11 AM-9 PM
- Gorham Hardware & Sports, 603.466.9900. M-F 8 AM-5 PM, Sat 8 AM-4 PM, Sun 8 AM-1 PM
- J’s Corner Restaurant and Lounge, 603.466.5132. 277 Main Street, Gorham. Sun-Th 11 AM-9 PM, F-Sat 11 AM-10 PM
- Mr. Pizza, 603.466.5573, www.mrpizzanh.com. Sun-Th 11 AM-11 PM, F & Sat 11 AM-Midnight; free delivery; delivery available until 10 PM; closed W from Labor Day to Memorial Day
- Nonna’s Kitchen (homemade Italian food), 603.915.9203. 19 Exchange Street, Gorham. Open May-October, W-Sun 4 PM-9 PM
- North Country Animal Hospital, 603.466.3800. 232 Main Street, Gotham. M-Th 9 AM - 4 PM
- North Country Dental, 603.466.5015. 22 Exchange Street, Gorham. M-F 8:30 AM-5 PM
- Post Office, 800.275.8777. 165 Main St., Gorham, NH 03581-9998. M-F 8:30 AM-5 PM, Sat 8:30 AM-12 PM
- Road Hawg BBQ Swine Dining, 603.915.9242. 195 Main St, Gorham, NH 03581. Sun-Tue 11 AM-8 PM, Wed 11 AM-9 PM, Th-Sat 11 AM-10 PM
- SAaLT PUB, 603.466.5330. Wed-Sun starting at 5 PM. (Libby's Bistro, Friday and Saturday starting at 5 PM.)
- Vashaw’s Variety, 603.466.5008. 302 Main Street, Gorham. M-F 5:30 AM-9 PM, Sat 6 AM-9 PM, Sun 7 AM-9 PM
- Walmart, 561 Main Street, Gorham, NH. M-Sun 6 AM-10 PM
Can I reserve the Hostel for an education seminar? Training classes? A conference? Or just in general?
YES! Our Lodge is an ideal setting for an exchange or presentation of ideas—quiet, affordable, spacious, and comfortable. It is also perfect for family reunions, vacations, or weekend adventures! (Interested in reserving only the Cottage? We can do that too!) Contact us to ask about rates and availability.
I work at a ski resort. Do you offer month-to-month, seasonal housing options for employees of Wildcat Mountain Ski Area or Sunday River Ski Resort?
YES! Contact us to ask about rates and availability.
I am enrolled at White Mountains Community College. Do you offer longterm housing options?
YES! We also offer length of stay discounts. Contact us to ask about rates and availability.
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