Deer Creek Cabin

About

The Todd Family built Deer Creek Cabin between 1953 and 1960 as a summer cattle-grazing retreat and fall hunting base. The Forest Service acquired the cabin in 1993, and it has survived two forest fires. Today it serves as a year-round recreation rental in a remote, wildlife-rich setting that includes bear, moose, elk, deer, and antelope. The single-room cabin accommodates up to 4 guests with a double bed and bunk beds (no mattresses provided). Heating comes from a wood stove, and cooking options include both a wood cookstove and a propane cookstove with lantern. There is no electricity or running water; guests must treat creek water or bring their own. An outhouse with pit toilet is located outside. Basic cooking supplies, table and chairs, axe, and cleaning gear are provided. Three trail routes lead to the cabin, each 4-5 miles long. Summer access is by foot, horse, or OHV under 50 inches wide. Winter access is by ski, snowshoe, or snowmobile. All routes may require fording Lower Deer Creek multiple times, with water depths ranging from 6 inches to several feet in spring. Horse corrals are available on site. The area offers excellent fishing, hunting, and backcountry exploration opportunities.

Directions

From Big Timber, take I-90 east to Exit 384 (Bridger Creek). Turn south and travel 8.2 miles to the junction of Main Bridger and West Bridger Creek Road. Turn right onto West Bridger Road and continue 4 miles to the Jim's Gulch Trailhead parking area. Hike or ride Trail 129 for about 1 mile, then follow the ridge to the divide and descend to Lower Deer Creek Trail 5. Turn south on Trail 5 and continue 1.5 miles upstream to the cabin. Alternative routes via Placer Gulch Trailhead (5.2 miles, ATV/horse/foot) or Tie Cutter Trailhead (ATV) are also available.