Malad Summit Guard Station

Open — Open year-round for reservations. Water is shut off from late September through May, so winter guests must bring their own water. Winter visitors should contact the Westside Ranger District for snow conditions and parking instructions before arrival, as access may require skiing, snowshoeing, or snowmobiling half a mile from the plowed road.

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About

Malad Summit Guard Station sits in a narrow Mill Creek drainage at 6,000 feet elevation in the Caribou-Targhee National Forest. The original guard station was established in 1908, with the current one-room cabin built in 1934. This rustic retreat accommodates up to six guests on three bunkbeds with mattresses. The cabin features electricity for lighting, space heater, and induction stove, plus a wood stove for heat. A table with benches, chairs, sink, and cooking prep area provide basic amenities. Outside amenities include a vault toilet, campfire ring with grill, lantern post, and picnic tables on fenced acreage. Parking accommodates up to three RVs. The front porch offers forest views and opportunities to spot wildlife including elk, moose, mule deer, black bears, and wolves. Mill Creek meanders through the property, providing fishing for small brook trout. The surrounding area offers trails for hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and off-road vehicles. Hunting is popular in season. Winter access requires skiing, snowshoeing, or snowmobiling approximately half a mile from the plowed road. Water is shut off from late September through May, so winter guests must bring their own water. The cabin is managed by Pinnacle Parks LLC under special use permit.

Directions

Malad Guard Station is located 11 miles north of Malad, ID. On I-15, take Exit 22 (Devil Creek Reservoir). Go north on N. Old Highway 191 for 3.5 miles. Turn left on E11000N/Forest Road 041 and cross over the interstate, drive 1.3 miles. At the bend keep right and continue on Forest Road 041 road for another mile. At the forest boundary there will be a Malad Summit Cabin sign and entrance gate. The cabin is located a few hundred feet past the entrance gate. Call the Westside Ranger District for winter parking instructions and access at 208-236-7500.