Cape Horn Winter Rental
4.9213 reviewsCape Horn Winter Rental (ID) 311 North U.S. Highway 93, CHALLIS, ID, 83226, USA
Cape Horn Winter Rental
$40.00 - $40.00 / 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
Peak season rates are $40 per night for cabin non-electric from December 15 to March 15. Rates do not include discounts, taxes, or incremental charges.
About this campground
Escape to a winter wonderland at Cape Horn Winter Rental, where a cozy cabin nestled in the pristine Elk Meadow becomes your basecamp for unforgettable alpine adventures. This charming retreat sleeps up to 8 guests and invites you to explore miles of untouched powder on cross-country skis, trek through snow-laden forests on snowshoes, carve fresh tracks on your snowmobile, or discover hidden backcountry slopes for downhill skiing. After a day of exploration, return to the warmth of your wood stove, where crackling firewood and modern electricity create the perfect blend of rustic comfort and convenience.
Cape Horn Winter Rental offers cabin accommodations specifically designed for winter stays. Tent, trailer, and RV camping are prohibited.
Historical SignificanceThis isn't just any mountain cabin—Cape Horn carries the legacy of the Forest Service in its weathered walls. During summer months, dedicated Forest Service employees call this cabin home as they stand guard over the surrounding wilderness, continuing a tradition of stewardship that has protected these lands for generations. When you stay here, you're experiencing a piece of living history where rangers have watched over these forests, sharing their stories around the same wood stove that now warms your winter adventures.
Weather and SeasonsWinter transforms this high-country paradise into a snow lover's dream, with pristine powder accumulating week after week—averaging 5.85 inches of fresh snowfall weekly. Crisp mountain air greets you each morning as temperatures dance between a brisk 19°F and a comfortable 32°F, creating ideal conditions for every winter pursuit. These perfect snow conditions and moderate temperatures make Cape Horn a coveted destination among winter sports enthusiasts who know where to find the best powder stashes and bluebird days.
ElevationPerched at an impressive 6,660 feet above sea level, Cape Horn Winter Rental sits in the sweet spot where elevation meets exceptional snow conditions. This lofty position in the mountains ensures abundant snowfall throughout the winter season, creating a natural playground where powder stays fresh and the air remains crisp and clear. The high-altitude setting offers that authentic alpine experience, where every breath of mountain air reminds you just how far you've climbed above the everyday world.
Natural Features and SceneryStep outside your door into a winter forest cathedral where towering lodgepole pines stand sentinel, their branches heavy with snow creating natural sculptures against the sky. On those magical clear days, the curtain of trees parts to reveal the jaw-dropping Sawtooth Mountain Range—a dramatic backdrop of jagged peaks that pierce the horizon like nature's own crown. This stunning interplay of intimate forest settings and grand mountain vistas creates countless photo opportunities and moments of pure wonder as you explore the surrounding Elk Meadow wilderness.
Geological RegionCape Horn Winter Rental sits at the heart of Elk Meadow, a stunning alpine basin cradled by ancient lodgepole pine forests that have weathered centuries in this high-mountain environment. The surrounding landscape tells a story written in stone and ice, where the iconic Sawtooth Mountain Range rises dramatically from the forest floor—its rugged peaks and ridgelines carved by glaciers into the distinctive sawtooth profile that gives these mountains their name. This remarkable geological setting creates a natural amphitheater where meadow, forest, and mountain converge in perfect harmony.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not explicitly stated for this campground.
Sites SizeThe cabin accommodates up to eight people comfortably within its enclosed space.
Sites PrivacyThe cabin offers privacy within a stand of lodgepole pines, with clear views of the Sawtooth Mountain Range from the front porch.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring cleaning supplies and dish towels. Be prepared for potential power outages and use the wood stove for cooking.
Best CampsitesOnly one cabin available; it is well-maintained and offers excellent amenities for a winter getaway.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in starts at 11:00 AM.
Check-out
Check-out ends at 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
Up to 14 nights per visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum group size is eight.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle cabin setup; no tent or RV sites.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen December 15 through March 15 for winter rentals.
Reservation PlatformsReservations must be made via the recreation.gov website or contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-in use is not allowed; reservations are required.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before the scheduled arrival date with a $10 cancellation fee plus forfeiture of the first night's recreation use fee for late cancellations.
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
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Cape Horn Winter Rental offers an abundance of winter recreational activities. Guests can enjoy cross-country skiing, downhill skiing on nearby slopes, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and exploring the surrounding meadows. Wildlife observation may also be possible, with sightings of animal tracks and wolf howls reported by visitors.
Wildlife viewing
Guests can explore the area for wildlife observation, with reports of animal tracks and wolf howls enhancing the outdoor experience.Winter Activities
Cape Horn Winter Rental is ideal for winter activities, including cross-country skiing, downhill skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling. The nearby slopes and meadows provide ample opportunities for exploration.Water Sports
Water sports are not applicable to this campground.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Firewood is provided at the cabin; self-service from the covered woodpile.
- Quiet hours are not explicitly mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsSnowfall may affect accessibility. Guests should check road conditions and pack for cold weather.
Active alertsHeavy snowfall and Highway 21 closures may affect access.
Weather forecast
66
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 64%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 2.4 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
Stanley (16 miles northwest) provides access to emergency services including medical facilities.
Good to know
Peak season datesDecember 15 to March 15.
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are unavailable, as Cape Horn Winter Rental follows a 'pack it in, pack it out' policy. Guests must bring trash bags to dispose of waste.
Proximity to water featuresNo notable water features nearby.
Common complaintsLimited electricity due to snowfall on power lines; requires self-sufficiency for cleaning and cooking.
HostForest Service staff maintain the cabin during the summer. Winter contact is via the district office at (208) 879-4100.
Campground Map
Cape Horn Winter Rental (ID) 311 North U.S. Highway 93, CHALLIS, ID, 83226, USA
Driving directionsThe guard station is less than two miles by cross-country skiing from State Highway 21 or approximately four miles by following the Stanley-Landmark Snowmobile Trail. Detailed directions can be obtained by calling the district office at (208) 879-4100.
Access involves skiing or snowmobiling during winter; heavy snowfall may close Highway 21. Alternate routes exist via Sun Valley and over Galena Summit to Stanley.Nearby places
Stanley (16 miles northwest), Boise (approximately 90 miles southeast via alternate routes during Highway 21 closures)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies are available in Stanley, which is 16 miles northwest.
Camper Reviews
4.9
13 reviews
Cape Horn Winter Rental is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Cape Horn Winter Rental are overwhelmingly positive, with guests praising the cabin's cleanliness, cozy atmosphere, and ample amenities for winter recreation. Comments frequently highlight the excellent maintenance by Forest Service crews and the convenience of the provided wood stove.
Review Summaries
Based on 13 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviewers often compliment the cabin's warmth, cleanliness, and well-stocked amenities, including the wood stove and cookware. The breathtaking views of the Sawtooth Mountains and opportunities for...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Some reviewers noted the need for additional cleaning supplies and emphasized that guests should bring bleach, dish towels, and other items to facilitate cleaning before departure. Electricity...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Guests recommended bringing cleaning supplies such as bleach and dish towels, along with extra warm clothing, as temperatures could drop significantly. Some suggested reaching out to the Forest...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Winter is the most suitable season for visiting Cape Horn Winter Rental, as it is specifically designed for winter activities. Reviews from January to March highlight excellent skiing conditions and...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. "Great spot for a snowy, quiet getaway! Has everything you need for cooking and the wood stove was sooooo warm." - Lori F. (2022) 2. "Cape Horn Guard Station was the best. The cabin is well-cared...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
All reviews pertain to the single cabin available for rent at Cape Horn Winter Rental. Guests have universally praised its cleanliness, convenience, and suitability for winter recreation.
Based on 13 reviewsAccessibility Features
Reviews did not address specific accessibility features, making it unclear how accessible the cabin is for guests with disabilities.
Based on 13 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are not allowed at Cape Horn Winter Rental, aligning with the facility's policies.
Based on 13 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025