A little slice of mountain life a stone's throw from Susukino – you can use the climbing wall to get to the 2nd-floor dorms instead of the stairs – SappoLodge is a magnet for outdoorsy types who find themselves in the city. The only downside is the noise from the (fun, popular) ground-floor bar until 'quiet time' is enforced at 2am.
Owner (and Sapporo native) Nara-san is a real adventurer. He worked as a guide for 14 years and this is his form of 'retirement' – though he still takes guests on hiking and backcountry excursions to his favourite spots (shoot him an email if you're keen).
It's a great spot for a nightcap, even if you're not staying here.