Montana / Lewis and Clark County / Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest

Moose Creek Cabin

Open — Open year-round for reservations through Recreation.gov. Check-in is 2:00 p.m., check-out is 1:00 p.m.

About

Moose Creek Cabin sits in a grassy clearing surrounded by conifer forest in the Tenmile Creek drainage west of Helena. Constructed in 1907, this historic log cabin served the Forest Service as a ranger station, guard station, and work center for the Civilian Conservation Corps during the agency's early years. Through collaboration between the Forest Service, Montana Discovery Foundation, and volunteers, the cabin has been renovated for public use while maintaining its rustic character. The two-bedroom cabin is accessible by car, with parking available on the adjacent road. Guests cross a footbridge over Moose Creek to reach the cabin, as vehicles are not permitted within the fenced area. The site provides a vault toilet but no potable water, so visitors must bring their own drinking water. The cabin offers a connection to history combined with convenient access to diverse recreation opportunities in the Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest. The surrounding landscape transitions from river valleys and dense forests to subalpine meadows and barren ridges. Wildlife is abundant, with elk, deer, squirrels, and various birds commonly observed. Hikers and backpackers can access the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail from nearby trailheads, offering spectacular views and varied terrain suitable for mountain biking, stock use, and day hiking. Moose Creek supports redear sunfish, rainbow trout, and brook trout fishing just 11.4 miles from Helena. Winter activities include cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing in the surrounding terrain.

Directions

From Helena, travel west on Montana Highway 12 approximately 8 miles. Turn south on Rimini Road #695 at the base of MacDonald Pass. Continue south approximately 5 miles; the cabin is on the east side of the road just beyond Moose Creek Campground. Park on the adjacent road and cross the footbridge to access the cabin.

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