Caribou Bluff Cabin

The feel

Caribou Bluff is a primitive cabin near the Fossil Creek confluence, with views of the White Mountains and the cliffs and peaks of Limestone Gulch. Outbuildings and a woodshed stand nearby. There is no running water and no electricity.

It is primarily a winter-use cabin, in an area with more than 250 miles of groomed winter trails and 12 public-use cabins. Skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, dog mushing and wildlife viewing are the draws, and hiking in is described as difficult.

What to expect

Layout and setting

One primitive cabin that sleeps up to 6, with outbuildings and a woodshed nearby. Views of the White Mountains and Limestone Gulch.

Check-in and stay

Check-in and checkout are both at 12:00 PM.

Crowds and best time

Primarily a winter-use cabin.

Fees and reservations

$42/night. Reservable through recreation.gov up to 30 days out.

Dogs

Pets are allowed.

Hazards

Hiking in is described as difficult.

Bathrooms and water

No running water, so bring your own.

Season and access

Primarily winter use; ATVs cannot reach the cabin May 1 to October 14. From the Wickersham Dome Trailhead (mile 28 of the Elliott Highway) it is about 30 miles via the Wickersham Creek and Fossil Creek trails. From the Colorado Creek Trailhead (mile 57 of the Elliott Highway) it is about 31 miles via the Colorado Creek and Fossil Gap trails. In summer, float Beaver Creek and hike near the Fossil Creek confluence; the cabin is about 4 miles from Beaver Creek.

Mingo says

Treat this as a winter cabin and go on skis, snowshoes or a snowmobile. Summer means a float on Beaver Creek and a hard hike.

Before you go

• Reserve on recreation.gov, up to 30 days ahead, at $42/night.
• Pick a trailhead on the Elliott Highway: Wickersham Dome at mile 28 or Colorado Creek at mile 57.
• Bring your own water, since the cabin has no running water.

Written October 2026. Sources are listed at the end of this page.