Seedhouse Guard Station

Summary

Seedhouse Guard Station is an historic cabin located in the Routt National Forest of Colorado, offering guests the chance to explore the Mt. Zirkel Wilderness through activities such as snowmobiling, skiing, and snowshoeing. The cabin is equipped with amenities such as bunk beds and a propane range, but guests must provide their own water and other supplies. The area is known for its abundant wildlife and scenic views.

Overview

Seedhouse Guard Station is located approximately 26 miles north of Steamboat Springs, Colorado. It was constructed in 1933 and offers a unique lodging opportunity for guests seeking recreation and relaxation in the Routt National Forest.

This historic cabin is available for rent in the fall and winter. Guests can drive directly to the cabin when the roads are clear; however, winter access is only available by snowmobiling, cross-country skiing or snowshoeing over three miles from the end of the plowed road. The cabin offers some amenities, but guests need to pack in several of their own supplies.

Recreation

Trailheads leading to hiking and horseback riding trails are an easy drive from the guard station. The Continental Divide National Scenic Trail passes near the cabin through the Mt. Zirkel Wilderness.

Anglers can fish for trout in the Elk River.

In winter, the area is blanketed by snow for wintertime play. Snowmobiling, skiing and snowshoeing are popular activities. All motorized activity, including snowmobiling, is prohibited in wilderness areas.

Facilities

The historic guard station is furnished with two sets of bunkbeds with mattresses and can accommodate up to five guests (3 twin beds, 1 full bed). Other amenities include a propane range, refrigerator, lights, heater, table and chairs, cooking utensils and cookware.

A campfire ring and a picnic table are located outside. An outhouse with vault toilet is nearby. Horses may be kept in the corral or in the pasture in the fall; however, fencing is not provided. Hay must be certified weed-free.

Drinking water and electricity are not available. Guests must provide their own supply of water for cooking, cleaning and washing. In winter, there is a large pot provided for melting snow.

Guests need to provide their own food, headlights or flashlights, sleeping bags, pillows, towels, dish soap, matches, first aid kit, toilet paper and garbage bags. All trash and food must be packed out, and guests are expected to clean the cabin before leaving.

Natural Features

The guard station is nestled beneath a canopy of fir and pine forest at an elevation of 8,000 feet along North Fork Elk Creek near the Middle Fork Elk River. Mount Zirkel Wilderness is nearby, one of the original areas protected under the 1964 Wilderness Act. The area boasts ecosystems ranging from sagebrush meadows in the lower areas to alpine tundra at high elevations.

Wildlife is abundant near the cabin, including elk, deer and coyote. Migratory birds, squirrels and an occasional black bear find habitat in the forest as well.

Nearby Attractions

Across the road from Seedhouse Campground. Less than 3 miles from several trail heads, many with access to the Mount Zirkel Wilderness Area. Close to the Elk River. Closest store and restaraunts are Clark Store and Glen Eden Resort and Hahn Peak Roadhouse.