Utah / Uintah County / Ashley National Forest

Trout Creek Guard Station

Open — Open for reservations December through March and June through October. Closed November, April, and May. Winter access from December 1 to March 31 requires snowmobile. Wheeled vehicle access available approximately June 1 to October 31, weather permitting.

About

Trout Creek Guard Station is a historic red cabin located approximately 21 miles west of Highway 191 near Vernal in Ashley National Forest. Built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1934 as part of Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal, it served as a residence for rangers who patrolled the forest on horseback before the age of modern vehicles. The Vernal Ranger District now rents this cabin to the public for a primitive experience honoring that legacy. The cabin sits at the edge of an expansive meadow just above Trout Creek, surrounded by scenic forests of pines and aspens. It sleeps 2-4 people on one twin-sized bunk bed and features basic kitchen amenities including a sink, propane stove, refrigerator, table and chairs. Heat is provided by an interior wood stove, with a campfire ring and grill outside. Solar lights are available but unreliable, so battery-powered lighting is recommended. From mid-September to mid-June, winter operations are in effect and most amenities including the refrigerator are shut off. The location offers year-round recreation opportunities right from the cabin. Summer months provide access to numerous hiking, biking, and off-road trails that crisscross the area, leading to Oaks Park, East Park and Long Park Reservoirs, as well as smaller lakes, overlooks and historic sites. Winter months offer endless snowmobiling, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. The nearby Ashley-Karst National Geologic Recreation Area features dramatic canyons, forested backcountry, and cave networks. Wildlife viewing and wildflowers are abundant in warmer months.

Directions

From Vernal, travel north on U.S. Highway 191 for approximately 20 miles. Turn left (west) on Forest Road 020/018. Follow paved Forest Road 020 northwest approximately 9 miles. Continue on gravel Forest Road 020 (White Cloud Loop) approximately 10 miles. Turn right (north) to Trout Creek Guard Station (red building).

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