Mystic Lake Cabin

Open — Open year-round. Available for reservation through Recreation.gov at $65 per night. In winter, Trail 454 is groomed for cross-country skiing and closed to bicycles.

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About

Mystic Lake Cabin is a historic Forest Service rental cabin built in 1930, nestled in a stand of pines near the southeastern shore of Mystic Lake in the Gallatin Range at an elevation of 6,400 feet. The cabin is located in a non-motorized area, requiring guests to hike, mountain bike, or horseback ride approximately 8 miles from the Sourdough Canyon Trailhead in summer. Winter access is by cross-country skis or snowshoes, with Trail 454 serving as a groomed ski trail. The cabin accommodates up to four people with bunk beds and mattresses. A wood-burning cook stove provides heat and cooking capability. Basic amenities include a table with chairs, cookware, dishes, tableware, and supplied firewood. Outside facilities include a campfire ring, a vault toilet outhouse, and a corral for up to two horses. No electricity or potable water is available; guests must bring their own water supply, bedding, lighting, and other personal items. The surrounding landscape features wildflower meadows, evergreen forests, and mountain peaks. Recreation opportunities include fishing for brook, rainbow, and cutthroat trout in Mystic Lake, hiking and mountain biking on trails like the Mystic Lake Loop, and fall hunting. Wildlife including black bears, grizzly bears, moose, elk, and mule deer inhabit the area.

Directions

From Bozeman, drive south on S. 19th Ave. for 5.1 miles to Nash Rd. Turn left onto Nash Rd and drive 1.7 miles to Sourdough Canyon Road. Turn right and drive 0.9 miles to the Sourdough Canyon Trailhead. From the trailhead, travel south on Trail 454 for 5 miles, then at the bridge junction either take Mystic Lake Trail 457 left for 2.8 miles (crossing the lake outlet), or continue on Trail 454 for another 5 miles. Winter route via Trail 454 is recommended for skiers (10 miles total). No motorized access.