Ninko Cabin
03 reviews8975 HWY 2 E BOX 190340
Ninko Cabin
$50.00 - $50.00 / 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 rental fee is $50 per night. Federal Pass discounts do not apply. There is a $10 cancellation fee and additional late cancellation penalties.
About this campground
Deep in the heart of northwestern Montana's winter wilderness, Ninko Cabin stands as a remote sanctuary for those seeking authentic backcountry adventure. This rustic mountain retreat, accessible only during winter months, rewards intrepid travelers who complete the challenging 12-mile journey with an unforgettable escape into pristine solitude. Cross-country skiers, snowmobilers, and snowshoers find their perfect basecamp here, where modern conveniences fade away and the raw beauty of Montana's mountains takes center stage.
Ninko Cabin is a remote, non-electric cabin specifically designed for winter camping. It is primarily accessed via skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, or hiking 12 miles through snow-covered landscapes. It does not offer traditional RV or tent sites.
Weather and SeasonsWinter transforms this mountain valley into a wonderland of crystalline snow and crisp, clear days. With temperatures hovering around 24°F during daylight hours and dipping to a brisk 13°F at night, the cabin offers classic Montana winter conditions that snow enthusiasts dream about. Weekly snowfall averaging 4.5 inches maintains a perfect blanket of powder throughout the season, while typically calm winds create ideal conditions for backcountry exploration and those magical moments of absolute mountain silence.
ElevationPerched at 4,600 feet in Montana's rugged high country, Ninko Cabin offers visitors a true alpine experience. At this elevation, winter's grip transforms the surrounding peaks into a dramatic panorama of snow-crowned summits and frost-etched ridgelines that seem to touch the sky.
Natural Features and SceneryNestled in a pristine mountain valley where Whale Creek winds through ancient forests, the cabin sits beneath the watchful gaze of Hornet Mountain and the majestic Mount Thompson-Seton. This untamed landscape serves as a winter playground for elk, deer, and countless other wildlife species that leave their tracks in fresh snow. Each dawn brings new vistas as sunlight paints the snow-capped peaks in shades of rose and gold, creating the kind of scenery that makes Montana winters legendary among outdoor enthusiasts.
Geological RegionNinko Cabin occupies a spectacular position in Montana's geological tapestry, where the mountain valley near Whale Creek forms a natural corridor between some of the West's most iconic landscapes. To the east, the Middle Fork of the Flathead River carves its ancient path, while the legendary peaks of Glacier National Park rise to the north. The Canadian border marks the northern boundary of this wilderness realm, with the vast expanse of Kootenai National Forest stretching to the west, creating a crossroads of protected lands that preserve the wild character of the Northern Rockies.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNinko Cabin is accessible via a 12-mile hike, snowshoe, ski, or snowmobile from North Fork Road. "Guests are responsible for their own travel arrangements and safety." There is no direct vehicle access.
Sites SizeSleeps six people.
Sites PrivacyThe cabin is isolated, providing a high degree of privacy. "This cabin is isolated but worth it," mentions a user review.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesGuests should bring their own bedding, drinking water, food, matches, and camping gear. Bringing extra firewood is advised as replenishing the supply is a requirement.
Best CampsitesThe cabin itself is the only campsite available.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2PM
Check-out
12 PM
Stay Limit
- Maximum stay of three consecutive nights
- total of seven days per calendar year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of six guests per cabin.
Groups
No group sites are mentioned.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle cabin layout with a nearby vault toilet.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen during cold months (winter season). Booking windows operate on a 6-month rolling basis.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityThis cabin does not offer walk-up availability.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before the arrival date. Late cancellations (less than 14 days before check-in) incur additional fees including forfeiting the first night's fee. Changes to reservations outside original dates incur a $10 fee. No refunds for cancellations on the day of arrival.
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
Ninko Cabin is ideal for winter sports enthusiasts, offering cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing. The journey to the cabin is part of the adventure, requiring a 12-mile trek.
Hiking
The cabin can be accessed via a 12-mile hike from North Fork Road. Snowshoeing and skiing are alternative methods to reach the site, making the trek an integral part of the experience.Wildlife viewing
The surrounding area is home to a variety of wildlife. "A variety of wildlife make its home in the area," according to the authoritative source.Winter Activities
Winter activities include cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Firewood is provided for heating purposes only. Use on-site firewood and replenish the supply before departure.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include the presence of bears, rough gravel roads, snow-covered access trails, and mice within the cabin.
Weather forecast
84
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 17%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 6 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
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
Glacier View Ranger District Office in Hungry Horse (contact available at 406-387-3800 during normal office hours).
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1 to March 31 (Peak Season); December 1 to December 31 (Non-Peak Season).
Trash and recyclingGuests must pack out all trash as the facility follows a 'pack-it-in, pack-it-out' policy. "Carry out all trash and replenish cut firewood supply prior to departure."
Proximity to water featuresSituated near Whale Creek.
Common complaintsSome guests have complained about the cleanliness and quality of mattresses ('The mattresses are pretty gross'), insufficient silverware, and the presence of mice within the cabin.
Campground Map
8975 HWY 2 E BOX 190340
Driving directionsFrom Columbia Falls, travel north on Nucleus Avenue and turn east on Railroad Street at the stop sign. The road becomes the North Fork Road as it travels about 45 miles and over the railroad overpass. Turn left on Whale Creek Road 318 and park in the plowed pullout. Then ski, snowshoe or snowmobile about 7 miles from the parking area to the gated road No. 10832. Continue northwest for about 2 miles to Ninko Cabin. Signs are posted along the way.
The North Fork Road is gravel, rough in spots, and only intermittently plowed during the winter months. A four-wheel drive vehicle and chains are recommended for passage in winter.Nearby places
Columbia Falls (45 miles north, approximately 1.5-hour drive)
Nearby supplies
Hungry Horse, Montana for groceries, camping supplies, and fuel.
Camper Reviews
0.0
3 reviews
Ninko Cabin has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the cabin's isolation and efficiency in heating, but many suggest improvements in cleanliness and supplies. "The setting is beautiful and the woodstove is really efficient," said one review. "The cabin is well maintained," according to another user.
Review Summaries
Based on 3 reviews
What Campers Love
The cabin's heating capabilities and isolated setting are noted positively. "The woodstove is really efficient and heats the cabin up without using much wood." "The cabin warms up nicely and the...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Cleanliness is a recurring issue in reviews. "The mattresses are pretty gross," one user stated. Lack of silverware was also noted. The remote access poses challenges for guests without snowmobiles.
Based on 3 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring bedding to cover the mattresses, as mentioned in reviews. Carry extra firewood to replenish the supply before departure. Ensure that the propane valve is turned on if it isn't working...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The cabin is only open during the winter months, making it ideal for snow-related activities. Reviews focus on winter recreation and the journey required to access the remote cabin.
Based on 3 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The setting is beautiful and the woodstove is really efficient and heats the cabin up without using much wood." "Follow the sign for Ninko cabin, you’ll have to squeeze around a closed gate (or at...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Reviews are specific to the cabin itself, as there are no additional sites. "Campsite: 01, Loop: AREA NINKO CABIN." Common themes include the cleanliness of mattresses and the efficiency of heating.
Based on 3 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews specifically mention accessibility features for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 3 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed at the cabin as long as owners clean up after them. No specific reviews highlight pet experiences.
Based on 3 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025