East Fork Cabin

About this site

Overview East Fork Cabin offers visitors a unique chance to camp in the Bitterroot National Forest of southwestern Montana. The cabin takes visitors back to a rustic, old-time setting and provides access to a variety of recreational opportunities on public lands. The site is available year-round and offers additional camping areas to accommodate large groups. An adjacent picnic area and pavillion provides a convenient location for everyone to gather. The cabin can be accessed by vehicle, however during winter months (October through April), alternative resources may be required to reach the cabin. The road is plowed up to three-quarters of a mile from the cabin. Guests are responsible for their own travel arrangements and safety, and must bring several of their own amenities. Recreation Fishing is popular in the nearby river. A variety of trout, including brown, rainbow, cutthroat and brook, can be found in the area between Sula and Conner. Winter fishing for whitefish is popular and productive, as the river is closed to trout fishing during the colder months. The catch along the East Fork is fairly evenly divided between bait, spin and fly fishermen. The surrounding hills and valleys are popular for hiking, backpacking and horseback riding in the summer and fall. Cross country skiing, snowshoeing and snowmobiling can be enjoyed in the area during the winter ( learn more about avalanche safety ). Winter sports enthusiasts can enjoy more than 50 miles of groomed trails, along with a number of unmarked trails that are open for recreation. Facilities Fishing is popular in the nearby river. A variety of trout, including brown, rainbow, cutthroat and brook, can be found in the area between Sula and Conner. Winter fishing for whitefish is popular and productive, as the river is closed to trout fishing during the colder months. The catch along the East Fork is fairly evenly divided between bait, spin and fly fishermen. The surrounding hills and valleys are popular for hiking, backpacking and horseback riding in the summer and fall. Cross country skiing, snowshoeing and snowmobiling can be enjoyed in the area during the winter ( learn more about avalanche safety ). Winter sports enthusiasts can enjoy more than 50 miles of groomed trails, along with a number of unmarked trails that are open for recreation. Natural Features The rustic cabin was built before 1914 and was restored in 1987. It was originally a guard station, used by fire watchers in the forest. It is situated on the East Fork of Bitterroot River, at an elevation of about 5,200 feet. The river flows west from within the Anaconda-Pintler Wilderness, to just south of Conner, Montana, where it joins the West Fork of the Bitterroot River to form the Bitterroot River. During the spring the river becomes a dangerous combination of fast water and snags. The Anacondas are home to abundant wildlife, including mountain lions, elk, deer, moose and bears ( learn about outdoor safety ). Nearby Attractions East Fork Trailhead McCart Lookout Lost Trail Ski Area Cheif Joeseph cross-country ski area Anaconda-Pintler Wilderness Additional Info: EAST FORK GUARD STATION CABIN is a rustic, historic one-room cabin accommodating up to 8 people with bunk beds, table, chairs, propane range, wood stove, electric lights. Designated RV and tent camping areas allow groups up to 35 people. Vault toilet, drinking water at pump house, picnic table, group fire pit, corral, and log pavilion with tables and grills provided. Elevation approximately 4,500 feet. Cabin accessible by vehicle year-round; 4WD recommended in winter.

Amenities & access

Maximum vehicle length

45 feet

Contact

• 406-821-3913
• https://www.fs.usda.gov/r01/bitterroot/recreation/east-fork-cabin

Location

45.922778, -113.726111