Trail Creek Cabin
4.6114 reviews5242 HIGHWAY 89 SOUTH, Livingston, MT 59047, USA
Trail Creek Cabin
$55.00 - $55.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The cabin costs $55 per night year-round. Fees exclude taxes and additional charges. Late cancellations may incur a $10 fee plus forfeiture of the first night’s fee.
About this campground
Step back in time at Trail Creek Cabin, where nearly a century of wilderness history awaits your discovery. Built in 1924, this authentic backcountry sanctuary invites adventurers to experience the raw beauty of Montana's high country. Inside the rustic walls, you'll find simple comforts—sturdy bunk beds and a crackling wood stove that becomes your best friend on crisp mountain nights. Without electricity or running water, the cabin offers a true disconnect from modern life. Whether you arrive by foot through wildflower meadows, on horseback like the rangers of old, or via mountain bike, ski, or snowmobile (motorized vehicles must be under 50 inches), you'll find yourself in a pristine meadow framed by towering lodgepole pines and dramatic mountain peaks that seem to touch the sky.
Trail Creek Cabin is a remote backcountry lodging facility offering rustic cabin accommodations.
Historical SignificanceThis weathered cabin holds stories in every timber—it proudly served as the very first ranger station for the Bozeman Ranger District when it opened its doors in 1924. For generations, forest rangers called this remote outpost home while protecting and managing the surrounding wilderness, leaving behind a legacy of conservation that visitors can still feel today.
Weather and SeasonsPerched at 6,200 feet, Trail Creek Cabin experiences the full drama of mountain weather. Winter transforms this high-country retreat into a snow-globe wonderland, where temperatures dance between a brisk 7°F and 25°F. Fresh powder blankets the landscape, creating perfect conditions for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing adventures. When summer arrives, the meadows burst with wildflowers and mild temperatures invite exploration, though spring melt can turn access routes into muddy challenges that test your pioneering spirit.
ElevationAt 6,200 feet above sea level, Trail Creek Cabin rests in the dramatic foothills of the Gallatin Mountains, where the air is crisp, the stars shine brighter, and every breath reminds you that you've entered Montana's high country.
Natural Features and SceneryNature paints a masterpiece around Trail Creek Cabin, where expansive meadows roll toward dense stands of lodgepole pines that whisper ancient forest secrets. Majestic mountain peaks create a stunning backdrop that changes with every shift of light, while an intermittent creek babbles behind the cabin, providing a natural soundtrack to your wilderness escape. This is a landscape that photographers dream about and memories are made from.
Geological RegionNestled in the rugged foothills of the legendary Gallatin Mountains, Trail Creek Cabin sits at 6,200 feet where geology tells its story through every ridge and valley. Here, alpine meadows carpet the earth between dense lodgepole pine forests, creating a diverse ecosystem that showcases the raw beauty of Montana's mountainous terrain.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe cabin is remotely accessible via foot, horseback, mountain bike, ATV (under 50 inches), or snowmobiles in winter. Accessibility features include bunk beds and essential furniture but require guests to bring their own supplies.
Sites SizeThe cabin accommodates up to four guests inside, while the horse corral can host up to four animals.
Sites PrivacyThe cabin is situated in a secluded meadow surrounded by national forest land, offering privacy but with nearby private property boundaries that require adherence to trails.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring extra firewood for outdoor fires, propane canisters, and navigation aids for finding trails in winter. Be aware that stove heating requires 1-2 logs per 90 minutes.
Best CampsitesLimited to one cabin. User reviews praise its comfort and amenities like pots, pans, and puzzles left behind by previous visitors.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 5 nights per visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum capacity of 4 guests.
Groups
Trail Creek Cabin does not explicitly reference group-specific accommodations.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutOne single cabin situated in a meadow surrounded by lodgepole pine forest.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov or their contact center at 1-877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up availability; reservations required.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled online up to one day before check-in for individual sites or 14 days for cabins. Late cancellations incur a $10 fee and forfeiture of the first night’s fee.
Accomodation available
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Trail Creek Cabin provides a variety of recreational activities including hiking, skiing, snowmobiling, horseback riding, and wildlife viewing. The cabin is ideally positioned along a trail system connecting the Yellowstone and Bozeman Districts.
Hiking
Trail Creek Cabin is connected to hiking trails that lead to alpine lakes. Guests noted trail conditions such as muddy stretches during wet weather and snowy terrain requiring snowshoes during winter.Biking
Mountain biking is listed as an access option to reach the cabin but detailed biking trail information is not provided.Wildlife viewing
Guests can expect wildlife such as bears, moose, elk, deer, and various bird species in the area.Winter Activities
Trail Creek Cabin offers winter sports such as snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Indoor fires only using provided wood from October to May. Outdoor fires require gathering wood from nearby forest.
- Quiet hours are Not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential exposure to bears, moose, elk, deer, and Hantavirus. Unreliable water sources may require filtration or treatment.
Active alertsWinter renters should prepare for unplowed roads and potential navigation challenges.
Weather forecast
60
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 22%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 1.7 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Livingston provides the nearest hospital and emergency services (approx. 20 miles away).
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1 to December 31 (year-round peak season pricing).
Trash and recyclingThere is no garbage service; campers are required to pack out all trash and personal belongings.
Proximity to water featuresAn intermittent creek flows behind the cabin, but water sources are generally unreliable.
Common complaintsSeveral user reviews highlight navigation difficulties due to the area’s mix of private and public lands. Some trails feature 'no trespassing' signs despite being on maps.
Campground Map
5242 HIGHWAY 89 SOUTH, Livingston, MT 59047, USA
Driving directionsFrom Interstate 90 (Exit 316) travel south for 7 miles on Trail Creek Road, then west for 1 mile on Newman Creek Road to reach the trailhead. From the trailhead, the cabin is 2.2 miles along a trail. Alternatively, travel 3 miles south on Trail Creek Road, then 2 miles east on Goose Creek Road to a locked gate. The cabin is 5.2 miles beyond the gate, accessible by off-road vehicles under 50 inches wide. Winter conditions may require additional skiing or navigation aids such as topographic maps and compasses.
The cabin is not accessible by car or truck and requires travel by foot, horse, ATV, mountain bike, ski, or snowmobile. Roads may be muddy during wet weather or unplowed in winter, adding extra challenges.Nearby places
Livingston (approx. 20 miles), Bozeman (approx. 50 miles), Yellowstone National Park (approx. 80 miles)
Nearby supplies
Livingston, MT (approx. 20 miles) offers groceries, camping supplies, fuel, and other essentials.
Camper Reviews
4.6
14 reviews
Trail Creek Cabin is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Trail Creek Cabin has received consistent praise for its rustic charm, cleanliness, and well-stocked supplies. Many visitors appreciated the secluded location and opportunities for winter sports and hiking.
Review Summaries
Based on 14 reviews
What Campers Love
Visitors highlighted the availability of firewood, cooking supplies, and the cozy wood stove. The cabin's scenic location and trails were also frequently mentioned.
Based on 14 reviewsCommon Concerns
Some reviewers noted issues with nearby private property boundaries limiting trail access. Others mentioned challenges with icy or muddy trail conditions and the absence of water sources.
Based on 14 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Guests recommend bringing extra propane, fire-starting materials, a topographic map, compass, and sufficient bedding as the cabin lacks modern amenities.
Based on 14 reviewsSeasonal Insights
In winter, guests praised skiing and snowmobiling opportunities but noted cold overnight temperatures requiring firewood. Summer visitors enjoyed hiking and wildlife viewing but reported muddy trails...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Trail Creek was the perfect getaway in the snow." - Leah S. "Beautiful Backcountry Cabin with multiple options for ingress and egress." - Michael Parker "The cabin sleeps 4 comfortably on bunk beds,...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
All reviews refer to campsite 001 within the Trail Creek Cabin loop. The cabin receives high marks for cleanliness and good maintenance.
Based on 14 reviewsAccessibility Features
Guests appreciated the accessibility via snowmobiles, ATVs under 50 inches, and hiking. However, the remote location requires proper planning and navigation tools.
Based on 14 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet stories were positive, with guests frequently mentioning their dogs enjoying the cabin stay and trails.
Based on 14 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025