Trail Creek Cabin

Open — Open year-round for reservations. Motorized access via Goose Creek Trail is restricted to June 16 through December 1 annually. Winter access from Newman Creek may require additional skiing or snowshoeing if the road is not plowed. Renters may encounter heavy equipment on Goose Creek Road during road maintenance work.

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About

Trail Creek Cabin, originally built in 1924 as the Bozeman Ranger District's first ranger station, now serves as a year-round rental cabin in the northern Gallatin Mountains. Perched at 6,200 feet elevation on the edge of a meadow with views of mountain peaks beyond, the cabin provides a remote backcountry experience with basic amenities. The cabin features a wood stove for heating, a propane lantern (renters must bring their own propane canister), and a vault toilet. No drinking water is available as the small creek behind the cabin is often dry and seasonal. The cabin can accommodate guests and includes a corral with capacity for four horses. The front porch offers scenic views of the surrounding meadow and mountain landscape, and wildlife such as bears, moose, elk, and deer are commonly spotted in the area. Access to the cabin requires planning and appropriate gear. From Newman Creek, the cabin is reached via a 2-mile trail suitable for foot, ski, or horse travel, with the first 1.5 miles crossing private property. From Goose Creek, motorized access via ATV, motorcycle (under 50 inches wide), or snowmobile follows a 5-mile route. Motorized access on Goose Creek Trail is restricted to June 16 through December 1 annually per the Travel Plan. Winter access may require skis or snowshoes if Newman Creek Road is not plowed, and topographic maps and compasses are recommended for navigation in snowy conditions.

Directions

From Newman Creek (foot, ski, horse): Travel south off Interstate 90 (Exit 316) on Trail Creek Road for 7 miles, then west on Newman Creek Road for 1 mile to the trailhead. The cabin is 2 miles via trail, with the first 1.5 miles crossing private property. From Goose Creek (snowmobile, ATV/motorcycle under 50 inches): Travel south off I-90 (Exit 316) on Trail Creek Road for 3 miles, then east on Goose Creek Road for 2 miles to the locked gate. The cabin is 5.25 miles from the gate. Motorized access allowed June 16 to December 1 only.