Black Bear Lodge keeps things simple—just the sound of the creek, the stretch of the highway, and a morning that starts with strong coffee and a muffin in the hand. Light spills through the windows, and the forest waits just a short walk out the door.
What to Expect:
🛏️ Basic, clean rooms—some with kitchenettes and plenty of space for gear
🧺 Grab-and-go breakfast with fresh muffins, pastries, oatmeal, fruit, and hot coffee
🐕 Pet-friendly policy—dogs are truly welcome here
❄️ Close drive to ski resorts, hiking trails, and small towns in every direction
🔥 Fire pit and path to the river for evenings outside
Important Information:
✔ Service style: classic motel, owner-operated, with real local hospitality
✔ All ground floor; step into your room from the parking lot
✔ Book direct or through major travel sites; call for specifics on weekends/holidays
✔ Free Wi-Fi in rooms and lounge
Haley's Pick 🍽️
You probably know her as @milehighandhungry. Each week, Haley shares the one place she’s obsessed with right now. From hidden gems to hot new openings, if she picks it, it’s worth the hype.
Haley's Review of Riot BBQ
Riot BBQ on South Delaware feels like a backyard cookout run by a Top Chef, because it is. Chef Manny Barella and pitmaster Patrick Klaiber have teamed up to blend Monterrey flavors with Texas-style smoke, and the results are seriously craveable.
The brisket steals the show: tender, deeply smoky, and finished with Barella’s bold spice rub. Get it solo or wrapped in buttery Raquelita tortillas. The pulled pork brings heat with ancho, guajillo, and morita chiles, and the al pastor ribs are sticky, sweet, and slightly charred in all the right ways.
Even the sides are insanely good! Think crunchy pepita-macha slaw and banana pudding served in a jar that tastes just like childhood (but better). Every bite feels intentional.
It’s barbecue with heart, history, and just the right amount of heat. Riot BBQ isn’t just a meal, it’s a moment worth lining up for.
– Haley @milehighandhungry
Local Insights
⛰️ Quick to Trailheads: Get to Windham Path, Bearpen, or Hunter Mountain trails in 20 minutes or less—ask Kim for real trailhead parking tips.
☕ Muffins Early: Breakfast bags go fast, so hit the lounge first thing for best pick of the pastries and fruit.
🚪 Best Rooms for Light Sleepers: Rooms at the far end, away from the main road, stay the quietest at dawn and dusk.
🏞️ Secret Creek Spot: Take the short, rocky path behind the motel to the river for morning mist and birdwatching—no seating, just river stone and water.
What folks are saying
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Guests call out consistently clean rooms, unfussy comfort, and a friendly owner who goes the extra mile (even mailing back forgotten robes). Most find the setting quiet but practical for ski trips or hikes—nothing fancy, just what you need. Some rooms show their age and décor is plain, but visitors find everything tidy and functional. A few mention dated exteriors and rare maintenance issues (like blinds or old carpet), but praise for the grab-and-go breakfasts and flexible, personal service outweighs the negatives.
Last updated on
October 9th, 2025
Accessibility
Ground floor, step-free access from parking; some doorways are tight for wide wheelchairs; no elevator, no ADA bathrooms.
