Trail Creek Cabin
4.6114 reviews5242 HIGHWAY 89 SOUTH, Livingston, MT 59047, USA
Quick Facts
6,200 ftPrice
$55/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
1 campsites
Season
Year-round
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
Quick Facts
6,200 ftPrice
$55/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
1 campsites
Season
Year-round
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
Trail Creek Cabin
$55.00 - $55.00 / night
Campsite Fees
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...
Show more
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
Total Campsite Fees$0.00
Get Notified When Available
We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.
Free with account · Checks every 2 minutes
167,000+ sites monitored · Email, SMS, or in-app notifications
Share this campground
Recreation Dot Gov
Provider406-222-1892
What Campers Say
4.61
Top-Rated
Based on 14 reviews
Most mentioned
location
"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."
Fees & Passes at Trail Creek Cabin
$55/night
Campsite fees
Stay Limit: Maximum stay of 5 nights per visit.
Cancellation: Reservations can be canceled online up to one day before check-in for individual sites or 14 days fo...
Prices verified November 27, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official US Forest Service website.
Best Time to Camp at Trail Creek Cabin
Perched 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.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm days. Most facilities open. Reserve ahead.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: January 1 to December 31 (year-round peak season pricing).. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open year-round.
- Current Alerts: Winter renters should prepare for unplowed roads and potential navigation challenges.
About Trail Creek Cabin
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.
Advertisement
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 Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
Reveal picks
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.Advertisement
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 at Trail Creek Cabin
38
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 32%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 14.3 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Clear sky
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Detailed 7-Day Forecast
Powered by AI weather analysis
Reveal forecast
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.
Reviews from booking and map sources
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 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
0
0 review
1
2
3
4
5
Last updated November 27, 2025
Advertisement