Monture Guard Station Cabin
4.4613 reviewsSeeley Lake Ranger District, 3583 MT-HWY 83 N., SEELEY LAKE, MT 59868, USA
Monture Guard Station Cabin
$75.00 - $75.00 / 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
Facility rates are $75 nightly for the cabin during peak winter season. Fees are subject to taxes and additional charges such as reservation service fees.
About this campground
Escape to the pristine winter wonderland of Monture Guard Station Cabin, a charming two-story retreat nestled deep within western Montana's magnificent Lolo National Forest. This fully furnished mountain sanctuary comes alive during the snow-filled months, serving as your cozy basecamp for unforgettable winter adventures. Wake each morning to fresh powder beckoning from groomed trails that wind through ancient forests, perfect for cross-country skiing and snowmobiling expeditions. As evening falls, settle in by the warmth of your cabin while wildlife emerges from the surrounding wilderness, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Monture Guard Station Cabin is specifically designed for winter lodging in a remote forest area.
Historical SignificanceStep through the doorway of Monture Guard Station and you'll feel the echoes of Montana's rich forestry heritage surrounding you. This historic cabin stands as a testament to the generations of forest guardians who once called it home, watching over these ancient woods with dedication and pride. Perched at the edge of the legendary Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex, the station serves as a gateway between civilization and one of America's last great wild places, where the spirit of the Old West still runs free through untamed valleys and peaks.
Weather and SeasonsWinter transforms this mountain refuge into a sparkling paradise where temperatures dance between a crisp 27°F during sun-drenched afternoons and a cozy 13°F under star-filled nights. The gentle rhythm of falling snow brings an average of 2.66 inches of fresh powder each week during peak season, while calm winds preserve the peaceful silence of the forest. These ideal winter conditions create the perfect backdrop for your mountain adventure, with reliable snowpack and comfortable temperatures that invite you to explore from dawn to dusk.
ElevationPerched at 4,200 feet above sea level, Monture Guard Station offers that perfect sweet spot where mountain magic happens. Here in this elevated forest realm, the air carries a crystalline clarity that sharpens your senses and fills your lungs with pure mountain freshness. The elevation creates ideal snow conditions throughout winter while remaining accessible enough for comfortable stays, placing you high enough to feel the mountain's embrace yet sheltered within the protective arms of the surrounding forest.
Natural Features and SceneryYour cabin windows frame a living masterpiece where ancient evergreens stand sentinel over a landscape that pulses with wild beauty. This remote forest sanctuary offers front-row seats to nature's grand theater, where majestic mountain goats navigate rocky cliffs with impossible grace and bighorn sheep traverse ridgelines like ancient monarchs. Magnificent elk move through morning mists while deer leave delicate tracks in fresh snow, and if you're lucky, you might glimpse the shadowy form of a bear preparing for winter slumber. Above it all, eagles soar on thermal currents while songbirds fill the forest with their melodies, creating an ever-changing symphony of wilderness life.
Geological RegionDeep within the heart of western Montana's Lolo National Forest, Monture Guard Station stands as your personal gateway to the awe-inspiring Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex. This remarkable geological wonderland showcases nature's architectural mastery through dramatic peaks, hidden valleys, and pristine forests that have remained unchanged for millennia. The surrounding landscape tells the story of ancient glaciers and volcanic forces that sculpted these mountains, creating a diverse ecosystem where mountain goats scale impossible cliffs, bighorn sheep claim rocky kingdoms, and elk herds move through meadows like ghosts from another time. Black bears and grizzlies roam these wild corridors alongside deer, wolves, and mountain lions, while overhead, a spectacular array of raptors and songbirds complete this thriving wilderness community.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe cabin requires access via hiking, snowshoeing, skiing, or snowmobiling over flat terrain for about a mile. "The ski in is very easy (less than one mile over flat terrain) so we were able to pull in our gear on pulks quite easily."
Sites SizeThe cabin accommodates up to eight people, but some reviews suggest a realistic limit of six for optimal comfort.
Sites PrivacyThe cabin is secluded, located in a remote area within Lolo National Forest, providing excellent privacy.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesUser reviews suggest bringing extra drinking glasses, mouse traps, and being prepared for navigation challenges.
Best CampsitesOnly one site (the cabin) is available.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Not specified
Check-out
Not specified
Stay Limit
- Maximum consecutive stay: 16 nights
- maximum yearly stay: 16 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum capacity of 8 people in the cabin.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutLayout includes a two-story cabin with living areas on the first floor and sleeping areas on the second floor.
Open and Closed SeasonSeason opens December 1st and closes April 14th during peak winter conditions.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityNot applicable; reservation required for the cabin.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations made 14 days or fewer before arrival incur a $10 fee and forfeit 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
Cell phone service
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Activities at Monture Guard Station Cabin focus on winter recreation, including cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and wildlife viewing.
Hiking
The cabin is surrounded by groomed trails suitable for winter hiking. "A system of groomed trails surrounds the cabin."Wildlife viewing
The area is home to diverse wildlife such as mountain goats, elk, moose, and bears, as well as bird species including bald and golden eagles and trumpeter swans. "The surrounding forest contains a wide variety of trees, plants and wildlife."Winter Activities
Cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and sledding are popular winter activities. "There is great skiing and sledding right out the cabin door."Water Sports
The cabin and its location do not offer opportunities for water sports.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Guests are encouraged to burn locally sourced firewood to prevent pests and adhere to rules regarding outdoor fire pits.
- Quiet hours are Not specified
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include grizzly and black bears, steep stairs within the cabin, and cold winter conditions. Guests must be prepared for remote travel and bring safety equipment.
Weather forecast
88
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 11%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 3 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
Seeley Lake Ranger District, 3583 MT-HWY 83 N., SEELEY LAKE, MT 59868, phone number: 406-677-2233.
Good to know
Peak season datesDecember 1st through April 14th.
Trash and recyclingGuests must pack out all garbage as there are no trash services available. "There are no trash services, please pack out all garbage at departure."
Proximity to water featuresLocated near Monture Creek.
Common complaintsSeveral user reviews mention the lack of potable water and challenges with navigation to the cabin.
HostNo hosts are specified for the facility.
Campground Map
Seeley Lake Ranger District, 3583 MT-HWY 83 N., SEELEY LAKE, MT 59868, USA
Driving directionsFrom Clearwater Junction (Highway 83 and Highway 200), travel East on Highway 200 for about 13 miles. Turn North (left) onto Forest Service Road 89/Monture Road (Across the highway from the turnoff to Ovando). Continue for 8 miles. Park in the plowed parking area on the West (left) side of the road. To get to Monture Cabin from the parking area, cross the bridge across Monture Creek and stay right for approximately one mile. The winter entrance to the cabin is on the rear (east side) of the cabin.
Road access requires traveling on Forest Service Road 89/Monture Road, which may not be labeled until several miles in. Access is limited to winter conditions, requiring hiking, snowshoeing, skiing, or snowmobiling approximately 1 mile from the parking area to the cabin.Nearby places
Ovando (8 miles north), gas and groceries available about 10 miles from the cabin.
Nearby supplies
Nearest gas and grocery stores are located approximately 10 miles from the cabin.
Camper Reviews
4.5
13 reviews
Monture Guard Station Cabin is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews generally praise the cabin for its comfort, amenities, and suitability for winter activities. Some complaints include navigation difficulties and issues with potable water.
Review Summaries
Based on 13 reviews
What Campers Love
The cabin is consistently described as comfortable, clean, and well-equipped. Users appreciate the proximity to trails and the abundance of amenities such as a propane heater, electricity, and a full...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Some visitors noted the absence of potable water and difficulties with navigation to the cabin. "The water was not working when we were there but we reported it so hopefully it will be fixed soon."...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing potable water, bedding, and additional supplies such as drinking glasses and mouse traps. "We plan to bring some drinking glasses if we rent it again."
Based on 13 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Winter is highly favored due to the cabin's amenities and the availability of winter recreation activities. Reviews consistently mention skiing, snowshoeing, and sledding as highlights.
Based on 13 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The cabin itself was better than I could have imagined with separate rooms for beds..." "Cabin is perfect with many amenities like electricity and water." "The most luxurious cabin in the state! The...
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Site-Specific Reviews
All reviews are specific to Monture Guard Station Cabin (site 001). Visitors highlight its historical significance and comfort.
Based on 13 reviewsAccessibility Features
Visitors generally find the access route manageable, citing the flat terrain as suitable for skiing or snowshoeing.
Based on 13 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed at the cabin, and visitors are advised to clean up after them. "Pets are allowed at the cabin; owners must clean up after their pets."
Based on 13 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025