Caldwell Cabin

About

Originally built as a one-room homestead in the 1920s, Caldwell Cabin was expanded around 1940 to include a bathroom, small bedroom, and living room with a stone fireplace. Today it serves as a Forest Service rental that sleeps up to six people. The kitchen comes equipped with a propane stove, propane refrigerator, sink, cookware, utensils, dishes, and a percolating coffee pot. Bedding options include two full-sized Murphy beds, a futon couch that converts to a bed, and a bunk bed with mattresses provided. A propane wall heater supplements the fireplace for warmth. The cabin sits at 7,600 feet among ponderosa pines, overlooking a large grassy meadow. Two Adirondack chairs on the front porch offer sunset views, while two family-sized picnic tables and a fire ring provide outdoor gathering space. A short walk across the meadow leads to overlooks of the West Fork of the Black River and the Mainstem Black River Canyon. Fishing for trout, hiking on the Black River Mainstream Trail, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing are all within a short drive. Guests must bring bedding, pillows, towels, toilet paper, flashlight, garbage bags, dish soap, food, matches, and an axe for firewood. There is no shower or bath, and no cell phone coverage. The cabin is located in the Mexican Grey Wolf recovery area, so pets must be restrained or watched closely. The 2011 Wallow Fire affected this area; falling trees and other hazards still exist.

Directions

From Alpine, head south on US-180/191 for about 15 miles toward Hannagan Meadows. Turn right on Forest Road 26 at mile marker 240 and continue 11 miles. Turn right on FR 24 for 3 miles to the junction with FR 25 and FR 276. Turn left and go just over a mile to FR 25H, then left again for about a mile. At the Caldwell sign, turn left and open the gate with the combination provided. All Forest Service roads are gravel; high-clearance vehicles recommended. Vehicles over 40 feet prohibited on the lower portion of US-180/191 from Clifton.