Summit Springs Guard Station

About

Summit Springs Guard Station offers a unique opportunity to stay in one of 11 historic guard stations built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1931 as part of Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal. Originally homes for rangers who patrolled Ashley National Forest on horseback, this restored complex is now available for group rentals and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The setting at 8,278 feet elevation features rolling pastures interspersed with aspen and pine trees, with abundant wildlife and wildflowers during summer. The complex includes a furnished cabin sleeping 8 with a kitchen, sitting area, and bathroom with two flush toilets and two propane-heated showers. The bunkhouse provides additional sleeping for 12 on bunks and includes a wood stove for heat. Outside, there's space for up to 4 RVs or tents, a group gathering area with fire ring, picnic tables, and a vault toilet. Guests must bring their own linens, dishes, and drinking water as supplies may be uncertain. Flaming Gorge Recreation Area is about 23 miles east, offering world-class fishing for lake, brown, and rainbow trout plus boating and water sports. The Sheep Creek Loop Scenic Backway provides a 10-mile drive through millions of years of geologic history, and the town of Manila is 15 miles away for groceries and supplies.

Directions

From Manila, UT at the intersection of UT 43 and UT 44: Turn south on UT 44 (between Forest Service Office and Brownings restaurant). Drive 13 miles to the upper (second) road to Sheep Creek Geological Loop. Turn right onto the Loop, drive 2 miles to FS 364, and turn left onto the drive into Summit Springs. From Vernal, UT turn north on US 191. Drive 34.8 miles to Greendale Junction. Continue onto UT 44. Drive 14.7 miles to the upper (first) road to Sheep Creek Geological Loop. Turn left onto the Loop, drive 2 miles to FS 364, and turn left onto the drive into Summit Springs.