On Friday, July 8, Trail Town McKeesport opened the McKeesport Hostel in Gergely Riverfront Park. The new hostel fills the much needed amenity of inexpensive lodging in McKeesport for those riding on the Great Allegheny Passage. The new hostel is operated by the McKeesport Trail Commission.
The hostel was formerly used as a snack bar. Now, this building has four beds, a small kitchenette, passcode security, air conditioning, and a bathroom for cyclists to take a rest along their journey. Next to the hostel, there is a newly constructed pavilion with picnic tables for guests to eat or enjoy the view of the Youghiogheny River.
Another establishment that has re-opened this year for the trail season is the McKee’s Café, located on the first floor of The McKeesport Palisades. A breakfast buffet is offered on Saturday and Sunday mornings, which is great for cyclists staying nearby at the McKeesport Hostel.
The cost to stay at the McKeesport Hostel is $30 per bed, per night. Reservations can be made by calling the trail commission at 412-523-2972 or 724-433-5640 before 10 p.m. All reservations must be paid using a credit card.
Hostels are growing momentum as an alternative and inexpensive lodging option along the trail. The McKeesport Hostel joins three existing hostels along the trail: Hostel on Main in Rockwood, PA; South Side Traveler’s Rest in the South Side of Pittsburgh, PA and 9 Decatur Guest House & Hostel in Cumberland, MD.