Guide to Grand County's Backcountry Huts and Yurts
Enjoying the rustic adventure of a backcountry hut is not limited to one season. In winter, cross-country skiers and snowshoe trekkers seek their solitude and warmth after a full day of traversing the mountains. Once the snow melts, hikers and mountain bikers use these facilities as a cozier substitute for wilderness camping.
Regardless of the season, Grand County's wilderness huts and yurts are ideal for bonding with friends and family after a gorgeous day of wilderness travel. Here's a quick roundup of your options in Grand County.
BROOME HUT, BERTHOUD PASS
Opened to the public in 2012, the Broome Hut on the west side of Berthoud Pass is the first in a new series of huts being built and maintained in the backcountry of Grand County. Situated at 11,350 feet at treeline in the Second Creek Basin, the Broome Hut offers 1,800-square-feet of space to backcountry skiers and hikers and can accommodate up to 16 people. Its spacious deck angles toward the impressive Second Creek Headwall, a beautiful sight at sunrise when the first rays of daylight illuminate its rocky face. Amenities include a kitchen, kitchen utensils and cookware.
Access Point: Second Creek Trailhead off U.S. 40 near mile marker 240. The trek to the hut is one mile with 800 feet of elevation gain.
Rate: $35 per person per night.
Reservations: Visit the Hut Association's website
THE HIGH LONESOME HUT
Situated on the forested slopes of Lonesome Peak northeast of Tabernash, the High Lonesome Hut offers a warm and comfortable refuge for skiers, snowshoe trekkers, hikers, mountain bikers and horseback riders. The hut includes running water for showers, flush toilets, a kitchen for cooking meals, and if you want to go light, there is even a gear-transport service for an additional fee. At night, visitors can warm themselves by the wood-burning fireplace or gaze up in wonder at a dizzying array of stars. The hut can accommodate up to 12 people.
Access Point: The trailhead is located four miles up County Road 84 outside Tabernash. The hike to the hut is 2.5 miles over moderate, forested terrain. A detailed map is provided with a reservation.
Rate: $35 per person per night.
Reservations: Visit the High Lonesome Hut's website
YURTS AT SNOW MOUNTAIN RANCH
YMCA of the Rockies' Snow Mountain Ranch has played host to families, large groups and outdoor lovers for generations. In summer and winter, visitors can reserve one of the ranch's 12 yurts, which are separated from the rest of the property in an aspen-laden "yurt village" (but still within walking distance of the zipline, archery, pool and tennis court facilities). Each yurt can accommodate six people and they include a queen-size bed, a bunkbed and bed linens in summer.
Access Point: Via walkway from Snow Mountain Ranch parking.
Rate: $85 per person per night.
Reservations: Visit the Snow Mountain Ranch website