Montana / Broadwater County / Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest

Bar Gulch Cabin

Closed — Currently temporarily closed but accepting reservations. The cabin is accessible year-round via Magpie Road, though snow removal is not provided in winter and may require 4-wheel drive.

About

Bar Gulch Cabin sits in a grassy, open clearing surrounded by mixed-conifer forest in the Big Belt Mountain Range of Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest. Originally constructed in the 1930s for mining purposes but used recreationally under special use permits, the cabin was donated to the Forest Service in 1988. This single-room cabin accommodates up to six guests with two bunk beds and one full-sized bed with mattresses. The cabin features an antique cook stove, a wood stove for heat, propane lanterns, and a skylight. Basic kitchen amenities include a table and chairs, propane stove, and some cooking utensils. Outside, guests will find a picnic table, campfire ring, and accessible pit toilet. The cabin has no electricity, running water, or indoor plumbing. Guests must bring their own water, propane cylinders for lanterns and stove, sleeping bags, and all personal supplies. The location offers excellent access to hiking trails right from the backdoor, including the Belt Divide Trail and Bar Gulch Trail. The Ridge Trail along the Big Belt Mountains crest provides expansive mountain views. Canyon Ferry Lake is just 5 miles away, offering fishing for rainbow trout, perch, ling, and walleye, plus exceptional bald eagle viewing. The area is home to elk, bighorn sheep, mule and white-tailed deer, black bear, moose, and numerous bird species. Access is via Magpie Road, approximately 24 miles from Helena and 30 miles from Townsend. Snow removal is not provided in winter.

Directions

Located 24 miles from Helena and 30 miles from Townsend on Magpie Road #425. From Helena, take Canyon Ferry Road over the dam past Kim's Marina. Continuing east, turn left onto Magpie Road. Proceed up Magpie Road 3.9 miles and turn left on Bar Gulch Road. Continue approximately 0.25 miles to the cabin on the left. Access is good but snow removal is not provided in winter.

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