Laughing Heart Lodge opened in August 2012 after extensive renovation. The lodge was built in 1892 and for over 50 years was a Jesuit Retreat Center. Today Laughing Heart Lodge offers accommodations for visitors and travelers in its 9 lovingly renovated rooms (7 with private baths) and most with exceptional mountain views. Laughing Heart also has a hostel which is at the trailhead of the Appalachian Trail and offers very affordable lodging for hikers and other visitors to Hot Springs.Laughing Heart Lodge opened in August 2012 after extensive renovation. The lodge was built in 1892 and for over 50 years was a Jesuit Retreat Center. Today Laughing Heart Lodge offers accommodations for visitors and travelers in its 9 lovingly renovated rooms (7 with private baths) and most with exceptional mountain views. Laughing Heart also has a hostel which is at the trailhead of the Appalachian Trail and offers very affordable lodging for hikers and other visitors to Hot Springs.