WEST FORK CABIN (S OF ENNIS)

Overview West Fork Cabin is a small, secluded cabin in the mountains of southwestern Montana, located high in the Gravelly Range. The cabin was built in 1928 as an intermediate station for patrolling grazing allotments. The area is home to a variety of wildlife and offers numerous trails for hikers, equestrians and off-road vehicle riders during warmer months and snowmobilers in the winter.

The cabin is available from July 1 through March 31. It can typically be accessed by vehicle; however, a portion of the roadway may be muddy or snow-covered, requiring four-wheel drive or chains. Beginning around mid-October, snow may make access very difficult.

In winter, over snow vehicles are necessary to reach the cabin, but are only permitted after December 1. Guests are responsible for their own travel arrangements and safety, and must bring several of their own amenities. West Fork Cabin is closed on Wednesdays for administrative purposes, July - November.

Recreation The cabin is popular year-long, especially during hunting season. In early summer, the cabin is an excellent base camp for viewing the spectacular wildflower displays in Eureka Basin and along the Gravelly Range Road. Snowmobile use is permitted after December 1st.

Visitors are encouraged to practice safe snowmobiling techniques ( learn more about avalanche danger ). Miles of hiking and horseback riding trails, which wind through the mountains and to the 10,542-foot Black Butte, can be accessed near the cabin. Hellroaring trailhead, just a few miles north of the cabin, leads to the extensive network of trails in the backcountry.

Off-road vehicles must stay on designated trails at all times in the area. Facilities The primitive, one-room cabin is small and has a set of bunk beds and one twin bed to sleep up to three people. It has a table and chairs, a propane stove and lantern, and a wood stove for heat.

Firewood is stacked against the outside fence or within a box on the porch.