What do I get at the Shady Spruce that I won’t find at a hotel?

We call ourselves a boutique hostel to help describe the emphasis we place on preserving a communal tone supported by comfortable, dynamic and efficient hostel facilities. We provide everything you need for a comfortable stay: pre-made beds complete with cozy pillows, soft clean linens topped with high quality homemade duvets. Each private and dorm space comes complete with gear rack, USB charge point and LED reading light. Lower bunk spaces include privacy curtains.   

Our fully provisioned guest kitchen/dining areas serve as spaces where you can prepare your own gourmet meals. Guests also enjoy a cozy common room with computer stations, a host of travel literature, and an ever-growing stash of card and board games. We can also provide secure storage for bikes, skateboards, fishing rods and skis if need be.

Rest assured, our reviews speak directly to the great pride we take in maintaining clean organized kitchens, outdoor areas, common areas, bathrooms and sleep spaces. Outside bedding and/or towels are not permitted in the hostel - leave dealing with clean all-cotton linens, duvets, and towels to us. Rooms are ‘retreat style’ without telephone or television. Our dorms and triple room beds are, “bunk style” and while our Private Suite offers a private kitchen and bathroom, it also offers access to the entire shared wing of the house.

Frequently, Shady Spruce will host special events such as movie nights and potluck dinners, art openings and lectures. Please contact us at (406) 285-1197 should you like to share your travels, interests or common good with others while you're here.  We prioritized connections between guests and local residents who may speak the same languages, or share similar interests. Please pay us a visit or stay awhile, while we work to create and support the most vibrant traveling community possible.

So… The Shady Spruce is more than just an inexpensive place to sleep?

Our philosophy of “creating community” doesn't stop at the world class ambiance we provide. We're more about creating an intentional vibe where travelers might experience new culture and gain perspective about life in the region they're visiting. In turn, when Missoula gains from the energy, vitality and wealth of ideas travelers bring, we're accomplishing our mission.

And what about the cost?

Based on room rates alone, a stay at the Shady Spruce is highly competitive with rates from a conventional hotel.

• Overnight rates are inclusive of all applicable charges. If you’re traveling on your own, you can choose to share a room with other travelers, instead of paying for an entire room yourself.
• Prepare your own meals, thereby saving on the cost and hassle of dining out.
• Our guests share a dynamic environment with international travelers from around the world and participating in activities and programs connecting them with others.

Nowhere else can you stay downtown Missoula for as little as $28 per person.

Is Hosteling only for "Youth"?

No, we welcome guests who are young at heart.

For our very young travelers, due to issues with noise and life schedules, we do not allow children under the age of 10 in our dorm spaces. However, children over 10 are welcome in our triple room and suite (max. 2 occupants), when accompanied by at least 1 parent or guardian.

For the discerning experienced traveler we would recommend the added comforts of a private room where you can still enjoy a hosteling atmosphere.