West Fork Cabin

About

West Fork Cabin is a historic backcountry cabin in the Idaho Panhandle National Forests, originally constructed in 1931 as housing for "Smoke Chasers" who patrolled for wildfires. The cabin burned down in 1998 and was carefully reconstructed in 1999 to preserve its original character. It sits at 4,200 feet elevation at the edge of a small meadow in the Smith Creek drainage. Access requires a 1.25-mile hike from the trailhead at the end of Forest Road 2446. During winter, visitors reach the cabin by snowshoe or cross-country ski. The cabin accommodates guests with two twin beds, a wood stove for heating, and basic cooking pans and utensils. An outdoor fire pit is available. A pit toilet is located on site, but there is no potable water; visitors must pack in all drinking water. The cabin operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no advance reservations. Horses and pack animals are permitted on the access trail. Visitors are expected to leave the cabin clean and in good condition for the next users.

Directions

From Bonners Ferry, take US 95 north. At 11.3 miles past the US 95/US 2 junction, turn left on Highway 1 and continue 2.1 miles. Turn left on Copeland Road for 3.4 miles, then right on Westside Road for 9 miles. Follow Smith Creek Road #281 for 10.8 miles, then take Road #2446 to the trailhead parking area. The cabin is a 1.25-mile hike from the trailhead.