About TRAIL CREEK CABIN
Overview Trail Creek Cabin, built in 1924, was the original ranger station for the Bozeman Ranger District. It is available year round, offering guests the chance to enjoy summer or winter recreation. The cabin is located in a remote area that is not accessible by car or truck. Guests must travel on foot, horseback, motorized vehicle (under 50”) or mountain bike. In winter, skis, snowshoes or snowmobiles may be used to reach the cabin. The best route for arriving on foot or horseback is about 2 miles, while motorized vehicles (under 50”), and snowmobiles have a 5-mile route. Call the district office M-F, 8 to 4:30, for latest road/trail conditions. Check Travel Plan for restrictions and authorized dates. To get to the cabin on motorcycle or ATV via Goose Cr Trail No. 439, the dates allowed are from 6/16 to 12/1 annually. Guests are responsible for their own travel arrangements and safety, and should be prepared to bring supplies and gear they need for a comfortable stay. Recreation The cabin is located along a trail system that connects the Yellowstone and Bozeman Districts. A hiking and equestrian trail at the end of Goose Creek Road leads to several alpine lakes. Snowy conditions in winter provide ample opportunities to snowshoers, cross-country skiers and snowmobilers. As an addition to non-mortorized use, the Trail Creek Cabin provides wonderful opportunites for the motorized use community. In additon to accessing the cabin by atv, motorcyle or utvs under 50", the area has several opportunities for looped riding trials as well as scenic overlooks. This cabin can also be accessed via the Bear Canyon Trail by motorized (under 50") use. Please see Travel Plan for the latest seasonal trail restrictions. Facilities The cabin has bunk beds with mattresses to accommodate up to four people. A wood stove is available to heat the cabin. Other amenities include a table with chairs, propane lantern, propane two-burner cookstove, (bring propane canisters), shovel, bucket, mo
How to Get There
From Newman Creek, foot, ski and horse travel are accommodated. To reach the trailhead, travel south off Interstate 90 (exit 316) on Trail Creek Road for approximately 7 miles, then west on Newman Creek Road to the trailhead (1 mile). The trail to the cabin is 2.2 miles, with the first 1.7 miles crossing private property, so please stay on the trail. For those coming from the south; the Newman Creek Road turnoff is 5.5 miles north of the Trail Creek Road/Divide Road junction. During winter months, Newman Creek Road may not be plowed and an additional 1-mile ski might be necessary to reach the cabin. During wet weather, this trail may be very muddy . From Goose Creek, snowmobile and off-road vehicle travel (check travel map or call district for dates allowed) are accommodated. To reach this trailhead, travel south off Interstate 90 (Exit 316) on the Trail Creek Road for 3 miles, then east on Goose Creek Road for 2 miles to the locked gate. Parking is available at this point. The cabin is located 5.2 miles further up the road. Off-road vehicles must be less than 50 inches wide to maneuver through a slot in the Goose Creek Gate, and are allowed only certain times of the season. The Travel Plan dates are from 6/16 to 12/1 annually. It is recommended that winter renters carry topographic maps and compasses for navigation, since the route may be difficult to find due to weather conditions.
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 TRAIL CREEK CABIN
Heading to TRAIL CREEK 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 TRAIL CREEK CABIN?
No central reservation system listed for TRAIL CREEK CABIN. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/234309) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to TRAIL CREEK CABIN?
From Newman Creek, foot, ski and horse travel are accommodated. To reach the trailhead, travel south off Interstate 90 (exit 316) on Trail Creek Road for approximately 7 miles, then west on Newman Creek Road to the trailhead (1 mile). The trail to the cabin is 2.2 miles, with the first 1.7 miles crossing private property, so please stay on the trail. For those coming from the south; the Newman Cre…
How do I contact TRAIL CREEK CABIN?
You can reach the park at phone: 406-222-1892.
References & Official Resources
