Warm Springs Guard Station

About

Warm Springs Guard Station is a historic Forest Service cabin that has been restored to reflect its original 1930s character. Located at 4,700 feet in a scenic mountain valley along the South Fork Payette River, the cabin is surrounded by towering Ponderosa pines and steep mountain peaks. The area serves as wintering habitat for deer and elk, with black bears occasionally seen in summer. The cabin sleeps 6-8 people with one double bed, three single beds with mattresses, and a futon. Heating comes from a wood stove with firewood provided in the adjacent barn. The kitchen has a dry sink, propane refrigerator and stove, table and chairs, and basic cookware. An outdoor vault toilet serves the cabin. There is no electricity, so guests should bring lanterns or flashlights. Highway 21 below the guard station is the Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway. A trail leads to Bonneville Hot Springs for soaking, and the South Fork Payette River offers trout fishing and swimming. In winter, the surrounding area becomes a cross-country skiing and snowshoeing playground.

Directions

From Boise, take Highway 21 northeast 75 miles to Lowman, then continue 18 miles to milepost 91.2. Turn left on Forest Road 025RC and continue 1.5 miles to the cabin. In winter, park in the plowed lot at milepost 91.2 and ski or snowshoe to the cabin.