When the AT was young many sections were still aligned with roads, and ran through private property.

When the AT was young many sections were still aligned with roads, and ran through private property. When the land around Bear’s Den Rocks became available, the AT was able to be routed through it. Bear’s Den Hostel was originally built in 1933 as a summer cottage by a doctor for him and his wife.  Today it is owned by the Appalachian Trail Conservancy, and operated by the Potomac Appalachian Trail Club.