Overview Winter 2025 - 2026 is the first winter season the cabin is available for rent during the winter. Please call Darby Ranger Station with questions prior to visit. Please let us know how we can improve the facility. From January - March the cabin must be accessed by snowmobile or other over-snow vehicles via a 14…
Overview Winter 2025 - 2026 is the first winter season the cabin is available for rent during the winter. Please call Darby Ranger Station with questions prior to visit. Please let us know how we can improve the facility. From January - March the cabin must be accessed by snowmobile or other over-snow vehicles via a 14 mile route that may not be recently groomed. Road and snow conditions can change rapidly. Please plan accordingly, prepare and check conditions before you go.Missoula Avalanche Center https://missoulaavalanche.org/Grooming Information https://www.bitterrootrr.org/grooming--trail-info.htmlThe Lost Horse Guard Station was built in 1938 by request of George Case, Moose Creek District Ranger, to assist the Forest Service’s efforts to administer and manage the high country of the southern Bitterroot Range. Using funds from the Works Progress Administration (WPA), the cabin was constructed by Emil Schwartz, from Wisdom, MT and known for a paying close attention to detail. Its quality of construction is evident through the minimal amount of required repairs and restoration over the 80 years since its construction. It is an excellent example of a Region One standard plan log cabin and guard station, with saddle-notched random-length log crowns, a drive through porch, native stone foundation and cedar shingle roof. The cabin features two sets of full sized bunk beds, a wood burning stove as the heat source and a propane cook stove. There is no drinking water at this cabin, please bring your own water for drinking, cleaning etc. There is no trash service at this cabin. PACK IT IN, PACK IT OUT. Firewood is only provided January - March.Recreation Visitors to the Lost Horse Guard Station have access to a multitude of recreation opportunities. Hiking: There are many trails that are close to the cabin. The Bailey Lake Trailhead is within walking distance. Travel one mile to the west to Bear Creek Pass and access the Bear Creek Trail, Lower and Upper Bear Lakes, Coq
Photos
Lost Horse Guard Station — Joe Butsick/Bitterroot National ForestCabin stove — Joe Butsick/Bitterroot National ForestLost Horse Cabin Car Port — Joe Butsick/Bitterroot National ForestInterior view of cabin — Joe Butsick/Bitterroot National ForestView from kitchen window — Joe Butsick/Bitterroot National ForestViews near the cabin — Joe Butsick/Bitterroot National ForestBunk beds — Joe Butsick/Bitterroot National ForestCabin, barn and bathroom — Joe Butsick/Bitterroot National ForestSide view of cabin — Joe Butsick/Bitterroot National ForestFront view of cabin — Joe Butsick/Bitterroot National ForestBathroom and barn at cabin — Joe Butsick/Bitterroot National ForestInterior view — Joe Butsick/Bitterroot National Forest
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 Lost Horse Guard Station
Heading to Lost Horse Guard Station? 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 Lost Horse Guard Station?
No central reservation system listed for Lost Horse Guard Station. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/10176101) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How many campsites are at Lost Horse Guard Station?
Lost Horse Guard Station has 1 campsites. Site amenities (hookups, vehicle limits, ADA access) vary — see the individual campsite pages for details.
