Types Of Resupply Points Towns Resorts Hostels Stores
Overview
Resupply points on a thru hike can include towns, small settlements, resorts, trailhead hostels, camp stores, gas stations, and other businesses that provide food, fuel, and basic supplies.
Key points
- Resupply points range from full service towns to very small outposts.
- Larger towns may offer supermarkets, pharmacies, and multiple lodging options.
- Smaller locations may rely on limited convenience stores or camp stores.
- Hostels and lodges sometimes stock basic hiker-oriented resupply items.
- The character of each resupply point influences cost, selection, and time spent there.
Details
Along many long distance routes, resupply points appear in different forms. Some are full towns with grocery stores, hardware shops, outfitters, medical services, and a variety of lodging options. Others are small clusters of services such as a gas station, café, and a single motel near a road crossing.
Resorts, lodges, and campgrounds sometimes serve as intermediate resupply locations. They may sell a limited range of snacks, basic stove fuel, and simple meal components intended for short stays. In some areas, dedicated hiking hostels or cabins maintain shelves or small shops oriented specifically toward long distance hikers.
Each type of resupply point has strengths and constraints. Larger towns often provide more variety and better pricing on groceries but can require more time to navigate and may be farther from the trail. Smaller stops can be quicker to access but may offer narrower selections, leading hikers to rely more on whatever is available.
This article outlines the main categories of resupply points without ranking them. Hikers adapt their strategies based on personal preferences, route options, and what is realistically available in each region.
Related topics
- definition-and-function-of-resupply
- resupply-store-selection-and-strategies
- town-frequent-routes-regular-resupply-options
Disclaimer: thruhikingwiki.com is an independent, informational reference only. It is not an official source for any trail association, land manager, park, agency, or guide service. Nothing on this site is legal, safety, medical, navigation, or professional advice, and it does not replace formal training or certified instruction. Thru-hiking and backcountry travel involve significant risk. Local regulations, land manager rules, and manufacturer instructions always take priority. You are solely responsible for your planning decisions, safety practices, and compliance with applicable laws. Use this site at your own risk.
Illustrative hiking footage
The following external videos offer general visual context for typical hiking environments. They are not official route recommendations, safety instructions, or planning tools.