This hostel is the one and only human-made intrusion on the Appalachian Trail. Parched and sore hikers will be happy it isn't a mirage, as they follow the AT directly through the store, which has served as an outfitter to hikers since it was completed by the New Deal's Civilian Conservation Corps in 1937.
There is a 14-bed bunkhouse for those who'd like to do the first part of the trail and then hike (or hitchhike) back to Springer Mountain. If you're a through-hiker and already blown through gear or forgot something vital, they'll have it here.