Black Butte Cabin

About

Black Butte Cabin is a historic Forest Service cabin perched at 8,900 feet in Montana's remote Gravelly Mountains, about 60 miles west of Yellowstone. Built in 1919 as an intermediate station for sheep allotment inspections, this snug one-room log structure now serves as a primitive rental with views of Lion Mountain and 10,542-foot Black Butte, an old volcanic cone and the highest peak in the range. The cabin accommodates up to four guests on two bunk beds with mattress pads. Amenities include a wood-burning stove for heat, a propane camp stove and lantern (bring your own propane canisters), basic cooking equipment, and a table with chairs. A vault toilet sits about 100-200 feet from the cabin. There is no potable water, electricity, or cell service. Guests must pack out all garbage and clean the cabin before departure, as it is not serviced between visits. Access is via Standard Creek Road (FS 237), approximately 32 miles south of Ennis then 13-18 miles on forest roads. Summer and fall access typically requires 4WD or chains due to mud and early snow. From December 2 through May 15, snowmobile travel is required and permitted. All wheeled motorized vehicles are prohibited April 1 through June 30, closing the cabin during this period. Bears are active in the area with mandatory food storage requirements from March 1 through December 1.

Directions

From Ennis, MT, drive south on US Highway 287 approximately 32 miles to the West Fork Rest Area. Turn right onto West Fork Road/Forest Road 209, continue about 2 miles, then turn right onto Standard Creek Road/Forest Road 237 and travel 13-18 miles to the cabin. The cabin sits just off the junction of FS 290, FS 1012, and FS 237. Four-wheel drive or chains may be required due to mud or snow. In winter (December 2 through May 15), snowmobile access is required for up to 21 miles.