The Wanderlust Hostel

221 N Boulevard St, Gunnison, CO 81230, Gunnison, United States

3-star hotel

Guest rating: 4.8 / 5

Overview

The Wanderlust Hostel is a budget-friendly, 3-star hostel occupying a low-rise building surrounded by trees in Gunnison, Colorado, about six blocks from Main Street. It has a homey, welcoming atmosphere with simple decor, and its owner is noted for going out of their way to help travelers, including offering rides for those hitching onward. With a 4.8 rating from 256 reviews, it's a standout budget option in the area.

Rooms

The property offers both private rooms and shared dorm rooms, all finished with simple, no-frills decor. Towels and linens are included in the rate, and rooms have been noted as spacious enough to comfortably accommodate small groups traveling with a pet. Heating and cooling units in some rooms were being upgraded, per recent guest feedback.

Amenities

Guest amenities include free WiFi, a communal kitchen, a dining room, and a cozy shared living room for socializing. Outside, guests can use a backyard equipped with a BBQ grill and fire pit, and the hostel provides bikes for guest use along with free parking. Complimentary hot drinks are also offered throughout the day.

Location & Surroundings

The hostel sits within walking distance of several local points of interest, including the Gunnison Pioneer Museum, Jorgensen Park, and the Gunnison Whitewater Park, all under 2.2 km away. Outdoor enthusiasts can reach Hartman Rocks (about 5.3 km) and the Neversink Trail (about 8.1 km) for hiking and recreation, while the Silver Thread Scenic Byway's Blue Mesa Overlook is a scenic drive away at roughly 12.8 km. Multiple bus stations are within a kilometer, and Gunnison–Crested Butte Regional Airport is about 1.4 km from the property.

Best for

This hostel is best suited to budget-conscious travelers, backpackers, and outdoor recreation enthusiasts drawn to nearby attractions like Hartman Rocks, Gunnison Whitewater Park, and the Neversink Trail. The combination of shared and private rooms, a communal kitchen, and bike availability also makes it appealing to small groups and solo travelers who value a social, low-cost home base for exploring the Gunnison area.

Travel tips

The hostel is about six blocks from Main Street, so a bike (available for guest use) or a short walk covers most in-town errands and sights. Several bus stations are within a kilometer, including one just 167 meters away, making it easy to get around without a car, and Gunnison–Crested Butte Regional Airport is only about 1.4 km away for quick arrivals or departures. For trips further afield, such as the Blue Mesa Overlook or Cunningham Gulch, plan for a drive since these are 12-16 km out.

What guests say

Guests consistently praise the friendly, helpful ownership, with specific mentions of the host's welcoming and informative manner and willingness to assist travelers getting around, including arranging rides. Many reviewers highlight strong value, citing good rates paired with solid amenities and service, as well as the convenient, easy-to-find location. Rooms are described as comfortably sized, even for small groups traveling with pets. The main recurring critique involves outdated heating and cooling units, which guests noted were in the process of being upgraded, though this was generally described as a minor issue amid an otherwise comfortable and quiet stay.

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