About Moose Manor Cabin
Overview Moose Manor at Mesa Lakes Recreation Area offers guests the opportunity to stay overnight in a traditional Forest Service ranger station. The original cabin was constructed in the 1930s, housing many rangers before it became a rental cabin. Located just 45 minutes from Grand Junction, the semi-rustic dwelling is convenient for hiking, mountain biking and fishing. From mid-August through October, guests can enjoy fall colors with extensive golden aspen stands surrounding the area. A large grass yard fronts the cabin, which is ideal for family gatherings and weddings.Recreation A popular mountain biking and horseback riding trail, West Bench Trail #501, connects the seven lakes of the Mesa Lakes Recreation Area. The cabin is also within walking distance to a carry-down boat ramp for canoeing and kayaking.Facilities Moose Manor greets guests with a grassy lawn and a paved access road. Inside are cozy couches and a fireplace. Electricity is available and provides lighting and heat. A refrigerator, a shower, flush toilet and an electric cooking stove are among the features. The living and dining room comes with a table and chairs. Sleeping accommodations for six adults include one queen-size sofa sleeper and four twin-size beds. Air mattresses or cots can be brought in to accommodate two additional people for a total of eight guests. Kitchen equipment includes basic cooking and eating utensils. Drinking water is available. Guests should bring food, bedding, a lighter or matches, trash bags, warm clothing, flashlights, dish cloths, dish soap and all basic camping gear. Click here for more cabin details.Natural Features Moose Manor in nestled in a stand of aspen and spruce trees at an elevation of 9,500 feet. Located on the north side of Grand Mesa National Forest, the cabin is in close proximity to several mountain lakes, including Sunset Lake and Jumbo Reservoir. Mesa Creek flows nearby. A variety of wildlife, including deer, elk, moose and bear, frequents the a
How to Get There
From Grand Junction, CO, take I-70 east for 13 miles. Take exit 49 to Highway 65 South toward Grand Mesa. Continue for 25 miles and turn right into Mesa Lakes Recreation Area. Take the second right toward Day Use Parking, and look for Mesa Lakes Ranger Station on the left. Moose Manor is the second cabin on the left.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
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Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 18 mph).
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Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
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Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
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High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
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Sun protection (UV 8)
SPF 50+ sunscreen, lip balm w/ SPF, sunglasses, sun hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
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Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to Moose Manor Cabin
Heading to Moose Manor Cabin? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Moose Manor Cabin?
No central reservation system listed for Moose Manor Cabin. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/233213) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Moose Manor Cabin?
From Grand Junction, CO, take I-70 east for 13 miles. Take exit 49 to Highway 65 South toward Grand Mesa. Continue for 25 miles and turn right into Mesa Lakes Recreation Area. Take the second right toward Day Use Parking, and look for Mesa Lakes Ranger Station on the left. Moose Manor is the second cabin on the left.
How do I contact Moose Manor Cabin?
You can reach the park at phone: 970-242-8211 or email: bwinfrey@fs.fed.us.
References & Official Resources
