Open
— Open year-round for reservations via Recreation.gov. Winter access requires a 2-mile ski, snowshoe, or snowmobile from the Albino Lake Trailhead. Summer vehicle access typically begins in May after snow melts. 7-night maximum stay per group.
About
Eldridge Guard Station is a primitive, rustic log cabin open year-round for recreational enjoyment in the Custer Gallatin National Forest. Located at 7,030 feet elevation between the Madison and Gallatin Mountain Ranges, the cabin sits at the edge of a meadow with Taylor Creek nearby. The uninsulated cabin sleeps 6 people with a maximum group size of 8, featuring 2 cots and 2 full-size futons, a wood stove for heating, a propane gas stove for cooking, and a small propane refrigerator. There is no electricity or potable water; guests must filter water from the creek or snow. An outhouse is located behind the cabin, and a corral is available for stock.
Access varies by season. From May through fall, the cabin is reachable by vehicle via Taylor Fork Road. During winter, the road is not plowed beyond the Albino Lake Trailhead, requiring a 2-mile trek on skis, snowshoes, or snowmobile to reach the cabin. Firewood is provided October 1 through May 31; guests must bring or gather their own from June 1 through September 30. The cabin can be very cold in winter despite the wood stove. Guests must bring their own bedding, drinking water, flashlight or lantern, toilet paper, garbage bags, and cookware.
The surrounding area offers diverse recreation including hiking, mountain biking, motorized trail riding, fishing, wildlife viewing, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. The cabin is located in high-population grizzly bear habitat and is also home to deer, elk, and moose. Fall hunting season runs September 1 through December 1. Nearby attractions include Yellowstone National Park, Big Sky, Hebgen Lake, and Earthquake Lake.
Directions
Summer access: From West Yellowstone, drive north on Highway 191 for 33.5 miles, turn left on Taylor Fork Road/Forest Service Road 134, and proceed 6.5 miles to the cabin on the left. Winter access: Same route but park at Albino Lake Trailhead after 4 miles on Taylor Fork Road, then ski, snowshoe, or snowmobile 2 miles to the cabin.
Nearby Campgrounds
