Leapin Lenas — Hotel in Monson

Hidden gem. They're literally right across the road from Shaws, so you can easily still go across and buy gear, on the same side of the short trail into town that was the old Appalachian Trail route. This is a great place to get a private room too for a more affordable rate. You can paint slate stones and mail it home to a loved one, as the post office is right next door, along with the ice cream shop, town restaurant, etc.

Besides the location, the owners, Adelina and Jeff, went above and beyond to help me when I was in a tough spot. I had a bad spell in a river crossing and was stuck in the woods through a couple of days of bad storms. All my food was washed away and my tech was soaked through, as well as everything else I owned. I smelled terribly. I had no way of doing anything, as everything is so dependent on some level of tech.

When I finally got back into town, I was a bit stranded. Leapin Lenas went out of their way to take the time to help me get back to Bangor, ME, despite already being done with shuttles for the day, so I could fly home (which is nearby for me) and get all my tech fixed before heading back out. Not only did they give me a ride, but they used their own laptop and phone to book me a hotel near the airport that had a landline phone connection, so I could make my way back. That was taking time out of their day and I didn't even have to ask. Adelina also wrote down a number for a pizza restaurant that does delivery to the hotel without needing a phone or laptop.

Jeff gave me a shuttle ride back and let me stop at stores to resupply with no extra charge. Easy conversation the whole drive that was a great boon after such a few hard days in the woods.

To the owners of Leapin' Lenas, I thank you guys again! I hope to see these guys added to all the guide books and apps we use. Good luck in your hostel...

Jeff, the Proprietor, was absolutely wonderful! I needed a short shuttle from the AT parking lot at 6/15 down to Pleasant St. to hike a few miles with my husband as he was finishing his section hike. Jeff was so kind and willing to work with me as I changed the time twice to be able to “hone in” on an exact time to meet my husband. Come to find out he was stationed in the town I live in for some of his military service. Small world. I definitely recommend Leapin Lenas for shuttle rides all around that Monson area. Thanks...

Leapin' Lena's is a hiking hostel for A/T hikers with a bunkhouse and has a couple of private rooms. My son and I stayed 7 days in a private while in Monson. Proprietors Lena & Jeff were great hosts and made us feel very welcome. Lena is a great cook and always ready to cook to order. We especially enjoyed spending time with Lena's Grandpa and tasting his special recipe. We will lookup Jeff & Lena the next time...