Richard's Cabin

The feel

Richard's Cabin is the easternmost cabin in the White Mountains network, on the Bear Creek Trail. It is a primitive BLM cabin with a fireplace, interior bunks, a table, benches and a kitchen counter, and firewood is provided. There is no electricity and no running water.

It is mainly a winter cabin. In summer the trail is very muddy and access is extremely difficult.

What to expect

Layout and setting

One primitive cabin with a fireplace, interior bunks, a table, benches and a kitchen counter.

Check-in and stay

Sleeps up to 8. Check-in and check-out are both 12:00 PM.

Crowds and best time

Primarily winter use.

Parking and rig size

Two routes start from the Steese Highway. From the McKay Creek Trailhead at milepost 42, travel north on McKay Creek Trail approximately 14 miles, then the Bear Creek Trail about 6.5 miles. From U.S. Creek Road at milepost 57, it is about 7 miles on U.S. Creek Road, about 11 miles on Nome Creek Road, then about 6.5 miles on the Bear Creek Trail.

Fees and reservations

$42/night. Reserve on recreation.gov up to 30 days out.

Dogs

Pets are allowed.

Hazards

The trail is very muddy in summer.

Bathrooms and water

No running water.

Season and access

Primarily winter use. Summer access is extremely difficult. Campfires are allowed.

Mingo says

Plan this one for winter, when the cabin sees its use. Summer mud makes the trail a poor choice.

Before you go

• Book on recreation.gov up to 30 days out; the cabin costs $42/night.
• Firewood is provided, but plan for no electricity and no running water.
• Arrive for the 12:00 PM check-in and leave by the 12:00 PM check-out.

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