Where Adventure Sleeps: Colorado’s Coolest Hostels
Sometimes, driving home after a day of adventure — even just a few hours across the state — is the last thing a tired traveler wants to do. Paying for hotels near some of Colorado’s hottest destinations isn’t always appealing, but hostels offer warm beds for a fraction of the price.
Hostels feature dorm-style rooms where guests simply pay for the bed, and they make perfect crash pads for weary adventurers. Many offer single and mixed-gender dorms, as well as kitchens where guests can store and prepare their own food. And, they’re a great place to meet like-minded people from all over the world.
This style of accommodation may be better known in other countries, but the Centennial State boasts multiple hostels worth checking into for those traveling on a budget or looking for a unique experience.
RAD Hostel
Colorado Springs, CO
One of the biggest draws of hostels is the community they create, as travelers from all over come to crash and share stories. RAD Hostel emphasizes this community in its ambitious mission to “cure loneliness” by making every guest feel at home.
“We’re a place to connect,” says owner Erin Welch. “Whether a solo traveler, digital nomad or just someone who craves authentic human connection, RAD creates an atmosphere where friendships form naturally.”
She notes that six couples who met at the hostel went on to get married.
RAD offers both single and mixed-gender rooms, and events and excursions are a big part of the package, including day hikes to spots like Garden of the Gods, live music, game nights and group trips to local venues. But, Welch says, “Our most popular on-site activity is the evening bonfire. While the free s’mores definitely help, there’s something undeniably magical about it.” Rates start at $33 per night.
The Bivvi Hostel
Telluride + Breckenridge, CO
The Bivvi bills itself as a “basecamp” and takes its name from bivouacs, or minimalist open-air encampments used by adventurers. And that’s exactly who the hostel is designed for, with locations in mountain communities that thrill seekers flock to.
Each location offers private suites and more budget-friendly dorms. Amenities include a hot tub, restaurant and bar, Wi-Fi, free breakfast, indoor gear storage and busses to the nearby ski areas. The Bivvi Breckenridge is even within walking distance of downtown, while Telluride’s is just a short drive from all the action. Rates start at $40 per night.
The Block Hotel & Commons
Silverthorne, CO
“Hotel” is right in the name, but this property offers options ranging from private suites to beds in single-gender or mixed dormitories. Formally known as “The Pad,” The Block got a name change after Crestline Hotel & Resorts acquired it this year.
Based in Silverthorne, it’s an affordable site near popular spots to fish, hike, mountain bike and paddle. In winter, ski areas like Breckenridge, Copper, Arapahoe Basin and Loveland are just a short drive away.
And, there’s plenty to do at The Block itself, which has a bar and rooftop hot tub. It also hosts community events nearly every day, like trivia, yoga and even Latin dance lessons. Rates start at $29 per night.
Dolores Bike Hostel
Dolores, CO
With around 70 miles of singletrack accessible from downtown Dolores and hundreds more nearby, this southwest Colorado town is practically a mountain bike mecca. At the Dolores Bike Hostel, cyclists find customized amenities to help them feel at home, like indoor bike storage and maintenance tools.
But, owner Jake Carloni says, “We’re also a hostel for everybody … It’s a really nice place to come recover and rest.”
Amenities like a bar, sauna and cold plunge excite guests no matter what their hobbies are. In addition to trails, Dolores is near historical and geographical destinations like Mesa Verde National Park and Ute Mountain Ute Tribal Park, as well as the Wilson Group 14ers.
The hostel also hosts regular yoga classes and a monthly book club where guests can discuss a book of their choice. Rates start at $45 per night.
Ember Hostel
Denver, CO
Denver offers several options for budget-conscious travelers, but Ember holds the distinction of being crowned the best in the country by Hostelworld in 2020 and the third best in 2025.
Located in the Capitol Hill neighborhood, the historic building boasts distinctive decor throughout, and pitches “five-star amenities with the lively social buzz of a hostel.” Guests can choose between private rooms and co-ed or female-only dorm rooms with up to 16 beds.
In keeping with that, Ember hosts regular events including excursions to Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre and Monday Movie Night, in addition to special activities like Bend & Blaze yoga which guests must pre-register for. Rates start at $33 per night.
Originally published in the fall 2025 issue of Spoke+Blossom.