Aspen Guard Station
Open seasonally from late May through late October, weather permitting. Reservations are managed by the Jersey Jim Foundation. Two-night minimum stay required with a maximum of four nights.
Hydrologic Outlook issued October 9 at 10:53AM MDT by NWS Grand Junction CO
ESFGJT A strong low pressure system off the Pacific Coast will begin to draw in tropical moisture associated with Topical Storm Rachel this weekend. This strong southerly fetch will draw anomalously high moisture content across the Desert Southwest and into eastern Utah and western Colorado. The chance for widespread precipitation increases Saturday evening into Sunday. Total precipitation forecasts range from 1 to 3 inches across high terrain, with highest amounts favoring the Uintas, Tavaputs and the Southwest San Juan mountains. Embedded thunderstorms are also possible Sunday afternoon, increasing the threat for flash flooding across vulnerable terrain. While confidence in location and rainfall rates remain low at this time, the potential for rapidly rising rivers, streams, normally dry arroyos and slot canyons are possible Sunday through Monday. Please follow the evolving forecast, especially if your plans including recreating or commuting across eastern Utah and western Colorado Sunday onward. Also, keep in mind weather potential above your location and upstream, particularly for those who reside below sensitive terrain like recent burn scars.
Wheeled Vehicles in Wilderness
This order describes the prohibition of wheeled vehicles in all National Forest Wilderness Areas of the Rocky Mountain Region and any exceptions thereof.
Weed Free Forage Products
The purpose of this Order is to prevent the introduction or spread of noxious weeds.
About
Aspen Guard Station offers a unique opportunity to stay in a piece of Forest Service history. Originally constructed between 1938 and 1941 by the Civilian Conservation Corps, this cabin once housed rangers who patrolled the forest on horseback, checking timber and livestock permits. The station has been lovingly restored and is now operated by the Jersey Jim Foundation as a short-term vacation rental. The cabin sleeps up to four guests across multiple rooms including a master bedroom with full bed, a separate bedroom with another full bed, and a living room with a sofa bed. The full kitchen features a propane stove with oven, refrigerator, and is stocked with cookware and dinnerware. A small propane heater warms the kitchen for cool mornings. The bathroom includes a flush toilet, shower, and sink. Outside, a fire pit is available when fire conditions permit. Located 11.5 miles north of Mancos via Forest Road 561, the station is accessible by two-wheel-drive vehicles. The first 10 miles are chip-seal paved, followed by well-graveled forest road. The surrounding area offers hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and OHV trails.
Directions
From Mancos, travel 11.5 miles north on Forest Road 561. The first 10 miles are chip-seal paved, followed by well-graveled forest road accessible by two-wheel-drive vehicles. Speed limit is under 30 mph; watch for livestock and wildlife.
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | — |
| Showers | Yes |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $100 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| jerseyjimfoundation@gmail.com | |
| Phone | +1 (970) 882-7296 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | Yes |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | None |
Community Posts
No posts yet. Be the first to share your experience!