Warm River Cabin

Warm River Guard Station is situated nine miles northeast of Ashton, Idaho, within the Caribou-Targhee National Forest’s Ashton/Island Park Ranger District. Nestled at an elevation of 5,200 feet, it is reachable by traveling northeast from Ashton on Idaho Highway 47 (Mesa Falls Scenic Byway) to Warm River, then turning right onto Fish Creek Road for a short quarter-mile drive.

Natural Features:

The guard station sits along the gentle Warm River, enveloped by a scenic mix of willow thickets lining the riverbanks and scattered pine trees offering partial shade. The surrounding landscape features open grassy expanses near the water, set within the volcanic caldera terrain of rolling hills typical of the region.

Recreation:

The Warm River provides opportunities for tubing and fishing, with anglers pursuing whitefish, brook trout, rainbow trout, and cutthroat trout. Nearby trails cater to hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders, winding through the forest to natural springs, waterfalls, and remnants of abandoned railroad lines and tunnels. Off-road vehicle enthusiasts, snowmobilers and cross-country skiers can find trails within 10 miles. Just three miles north, the Mesa Falls Scenic Byway showcases Upper Mesa Falls (114 feet) and Lower Mesa Falls (65 feet). Harriman State Park, 18 miles north, offers additional trails and wildlife viewing, while Yellowstone National Park’s west entrance lies 34 miles to the north. The cabin is named after the adjacent Warm River Springs, which is the source of the Warm River. The dwelling sits at an elevation of 6,000 feet in an open, grassy area flanked by a conifer forest.  Visitors can find an abundance of berries ripe for picking in late summer. 

Facilities:

Originally built in the 1930s as a base for forest rangers, Warm River Guard Station is now a historic cabin available for rent year-round. The single-story structure accommodates up to eight people and includes two bedrooms, a living area, and a kitchen equipped with a stove, refrigerator, and basic cookware. The cabin features electricity, with a vault toilet located outside. A picnic table and fire ring are provided in the yard. While the station offers a rustic experience, it lacks modern amenities like showers or indoor plumbing beyond the kitchen sink. Access is via paved roads, with a gravel parking area adjacent to the cabin. Firewood may be available on-site, though visitors are encouraged to bring their own. Guests should be prepared to bring much of their own gear and supplies to make their stay comfortable.  There is no water available at the cabin.

Season: Open May 15th - March 31st ; Snowmobile or ski access only Dec. 1st to March 31st.