Cabins/Shelters - Collegiate West Seg 05

[bpowell1014]

I was recently watching a youtube video of a hiker's trip on the Collegiate West in Section 5. Here's the link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LROOws1NEAY Around minute 16:45 in the video, you'll see the trail passes by a few open cabins with bunk beds - very similar to what I've seen on the A.T. except these are 4 wall structures. Does anyone know anything about these cabins such as can you stay there as a hiker, any special arrangements that would need to be made ($), and where exactly (mileage wise) are they located in section 5 of the CW? Thanks!

-Doxen

[hikeandbike5]

they're old miners' cabins. there are some others along the way too, some have collapsed roofs, and others aren't on trail and you'll have to look for them.

[Uriah]

I was recently watching a youtube video of a hiker's trip on the Collegiate West in Section 5. Here's the link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LROOws1NEAY Around minute 16:45 in the video, you'll see the trail passes by a few open cabins with bunk beds - very similar to what I've seen on the A.T. except these are 4 wall structures. Does anyone know anything about these cabins such as can you stay there as a hiker, any special arrangements that would need to be made ($), and where exactly (mileage wise) are they located in section 5 of the CW? Thanks! -Doxen

Just beyond the two cabins (heading in the direction of the video...north, a quarter mile past the creek, on the same side of the road) is a soon-to-be opened ski-in hut/hike hut purchased by a semi-retired couple just last year. According to them, the Forest Service is allowing them to run the place as a business, like the 10th Mountain huts farther north. I can't remember the name of the joint, but maybe someone else will chime in.

The cabins were pretty run-down, even by my lowly standards, but they can certainly offer some protection from a storm.
DSCN5569.jpg

[Uriah]

I just remembered: 'tis called the Lost Wonder Hut.

[saltysack]

Damn....they sure are proud of it....$350 per night....think I'll stay in my tent!


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[Turtle Walking]

The two abandoned cabins showed much evidence of mice. Hantavirus could be an issue.

[colorado_rob]

Damn....they sure are proud of it....$350 per night....think I'll stay in my tent!


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$350 divided a dozen+ ways ain't bad... but yeah, these are for vacationing groups, I doubt if this one will be popular with CT hikers.

We rent one of these huts (10th mountain division huts, mostly) every winter for a weekend for a group of 12-16 or so, mostly for BC skiing, tons of fun, but they book way in advance. We might have to check this new one out. cool area.

[saltysack]

$350 divided a dozen+ ways ain't bad... but yeah, these are for vacationing groups, I doubt if this one will be popular with CT hikers.

We rent one of these huts (10th mountain division huts, mostly) every winter for a weekend for a group of 12-16 or so, mostly for BC skiing, tons of fun, but they book way in advance. We might have to check this new one out. cool area.

Yea sounds like a blast during a winter ski trip with a big group...can't imagine why any hiker would use.

[Uriah]

$350 divided a dozen+ ways ain't bad... but yeah, these are for vacationing groups, I doubt if this one will be popular with CT hikers.

I talked to the owners on my thru-hike for quite a while as they were renovating the joint; they fed me lunch. (Who says there are no free lunches?!) I told them not too many hikers hike in large groups, and it may be why their summer prices are lower than their winter ones. I imagine in time they'll drop their prices and allow individuals, if business is nonexistent.

[bpowell1014]

great info on the cabins - I think I'll steer clear - glad I asked! Yeah, for $350 I want room service with champagne and caviar so they can keep it. Thanks again folks.