About HELLS CANYON GUARD STATION
Overview Hells Canyon Guard Station is a quaint log cabin located in the Highland Mountains of Montana's Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest. It is most often used as a base camp by hunters and hikers. The area is replete with wildlife and provides access to scenic mountain views, as well as plentiful opportunities for recreation. It was originally built in 1906 and used as a line cabin for ranchers before being donated to the Forest Service in 1910. The Forest Service has used the cabin as a guard station and now offers it for public enjoyment. The cabin can be accessed by vehicle; however, during winter months, alternative resources may be required to reach the cabin. Guests are responsible for their own travel arrangements and safety, and must bring several of their own amenities.Recreation Hunters frequently use the cabin as a base camp. Fishing is also available in nearby Hells Canyon Creek. Hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding are popular activities enjoyed by visitors to the Hells Canyon area. Off-road vehicles are allowed on designated trails. Off-road vehicles and motorcycles are also allowed in the area, but must be properly permitted and licensed to be on trails and roads. During winter months, the area is popular for cross country skiing, snowshoeing and snowmobiling. Winter sports enthusiasts should carry and know how to use proper backcountry equipment, including a beacon, shovel and probe.Facilities The large, single-room structure has bunk beds to sleep up to 4 people. It has potable drinking water in the summer months, a propane cooktop, a wood stove for heat and cooking, and a table and chairs. Basic cooking and eating utensils, pots, and pans, as well as some cleaning equipment, should be available inside. An outhouse with a vault toilet is nearby. Electricity is not available at this cabin. There is a propane lantern you can use but propane is not provided. The propane is provided for the cooktop that is located on the porch of the cabin
How to Get There
From Whitehall, travel south on Highway 55 for about 20 miles. Turn right off the highway just before crossing the Jefferson River, onto Forest Service Road 125, and continue west about 14 miles on a dirt road. Winter access varies with snow conditions. Guests may need to hike, ski or snowmobile to the cabin during winter months. Maps may be purchased by calling the Butte/Jefferson Ranger District.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
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 HELLS CANYON GUARD STATION
Heading to HELLS CANYON 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 HELLS CANYON GUARD STATION?
No central reservation system listed for HELLS CANYON GUARD STATION. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/234356) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to HELLS CANYON GUARD STATION?
From Whitehall, travel south on Highway 55 for about 20 miles. Turn right off the highway just before crossing the Jefferson River, onto Forest Service Road 125, and continue west about 14 miles on a dirt road. Winter access varies with snow conditions. Guests may need to hike, ski or snowmobile to the cabin during winter months. Maps may be purchased by calling the Butte/Jefferson Ranger District…
How do I contact HELLS CANYON GUARD STATION?
You can reach the park at phone: 406-494-2147.
References & Official Resources
