The HI-Mississippi Headwaters Hostel
Located in beautiful Itasca State Park, we have operated our historic hostel through a partnership agreement with the Minnesota DNR, since 1992.
Exposed log walls, new furnishings and appliances, beautiful hardwood floors and massive stone fireplaces create a uniquely comfortable lodging experience. Guests find it clean, comfortable and totally relaxing.
The hostel sits on the shores of Lake Itasca, just a two minute walk to the beach, or a 20 minute walk to the Headwaters. Also across the street is Itasca Sports – the source for all bicycle, boat and recreational rentals in Itasca.
The hostel continually ranks in the top 10 hostels in the nation for cleanliness, safety and quality of accommodations.
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Directions to the Hostel
The hostel is located in the heart of Itasca State Park, on Main Park Drive across the road from the public boat landing and Itasca Sports Rental. Click here for link to map of location.
GPS Coordinates:
DD (Decimal Degrees) N 47.23479 W 095.19637
DMS (Degrees Minutes Seconds) 47 14 5 – 95 11 46
DM (Decimal Minutes) 47 14.087 – 95 11.782
Contact the HI Mississippi Headwaters Hostel
27910 Forest Lane, Park Rapids, MN 56470 [link to map]
Email: mhhostel@himinnesota.org
Telephone/Fax: 218.266.3415
About the Hostel
- The Hostel sleeps 31 people total in 6 bedrooms ( 4, 5 or 6 to a room). Groups may reserve the entire hostel (31 beds) or just the south wing (18 beds). Families/couples may also reserve a private room.
- The modern kitchen is large enough to handle groups with 3 sinks, 2 refrigerators, 2 stoves, 2 coffee pots and all the cookware, dinnerware, cutlery and utensils you will need to feed your friends and family.
- There is a large dining area just off the kitchen with room for everyone.
- Attractively furnished, comfortable common areas for gatherings.
- Comfortable beds (mostly bunk beds) and guest laundry available
- There are three bathrooms (two womens, one mens).
- Don’t miss our fireplace lounge/library after dinner, a great place to catch up with friends or a book, or play games.
- Gas furnaces and central air conditioning ensure year-round comfort.
- Outdoor BBQ grills, fire pit, picnic and lawn area for summer fun.
- New: High speed wi-fi broadband internet network for all guests to use!
- Notes: Sorry, we do not allow smoking or pets at the hostel. Also, there is limited cell phone coverage at the hostel. Please plan accordingly.
Photo Tours of Hostel + Itasca State Park
- Hostel Gallery 1 (Picasa Gallery)
- Hostel Gallery 2 (Flash Gallery)
- Hostel Gallery 3 (Flickr Gallery)
Hostel Floor Plan
Check out the hostel floor plan to get an idea of the space before you arrive. This will also help you to request a room, if you so choose.
Click above for a larger view.
Hostel Rates & Availability
Please see our 2010 Rates page and our Availability Calendar.
Groups at the Headwaters Hostel
The hostel sleeps 31 guests in 6 bedrooms (4-6 beds each), offers a full, modern kitchen with all the amenities making it ideal for families, group retreats and family reunions. There is a large dining room as well as an outdoor picnic area with a fire pit. There are three immaculately clean bathrooms, a fireside reading room, and two sitting rooms as well.
Details on Group Rates
- Groups are considered 10 people or more
- Non-profit organizations qualify for a free HI Group Membership
- Groups may reserve the entire hostel (31 beds) or just the south wing (18 beds) or any of the main bedrooms
- Children’s discount rate does not apply to groups
Planning Tips for a Successful Trip to the Hostel
- Download our Hostel Orientation & Packing Suggestions document belowfor details on what to bring to the hostel. Please Note: In an effort to limit pest infestation in our northern woods, please leave your firewood at home. You can purchase campfire wood at Itasca State Park.
- Call the hostel manager to let him know what time you’ll be arriving: 218.266.3415.
- MN State Park stickers are required in the park. You can purchase them at the visitor center on your way in.
Downloads
- Hostel Orientation & Packing Suggestions (PDF)
- Itasca State Park summer map (PDF document)
- Itasca State Park winter map (PDF document)
