Best Backcountry Huts in Montana — 2026
Montana has 8 notable backcountry huts for 2026. Huts are managed by 5 different operators. Alpine Yurt ranks highest based on available information and amenities.
Last updated: February 2026
Top Backcountry Huts in Montana
- 1.Alpine Yurt
Montana Backcountry Yurts
A yurt experience, nestled high in the Southern Swan Mountains of Montana, between Mission Mountains and the Bob Marshall Wilderness, offering unparalleled access to the best powder skiing ranging from mellow glades to steep, wide open bowls
YurtSleeps 10Kitchen - 2.Big Belt Hut
Montana Backcountry Yurts
A longhouse-style hut located in the heart of the Big Belt Mountains on Mt. Baldy’s 8,500’ ridge line that provides numerous opportunities in all four seasons – right out the front door
Backcountry HutSleeps 15Kitchen - 3.Downing Mountain Lodge
Downing Mountain Lodge
The Lodge, accommodating up to 19 people, offers upscale amenities including a massive fireplace, commercial kitchen, jacuzzi and sauna. Rates are flexible and vary depending on the season
Mountain LodgeKitchen - 4.Hellroaring Hut
Hellroaring Powder Guides
With an annual snowfall of 400"+, the Centennial Mountains offers premier ski terrain with elevations over 10,000'
Backcountry HutSleeps 6Kitchen - 5.Jewel Basin Yurt
Jewel Basin Yurt
A slice of tranquility nestled high in the Swan Mountains of Western Montana, the Jewel Basin Yurt offers incredible convenience to the Jewel Basin and surrounding areas.
YurtSleeps 8Kitchen - 6.Lupine Yurt
Montana Backcountry Yurts
A yurt experience, nestled high in the Southern Swan Mountains of Montana, between Mission Mountains and the Bob Marshall Wilderness, offering unparalleled access to the best powder skiing ranging from mellow glades to steep, wide open bowls
YurtSleeps 8Kitchen - 7.Mt. Zimmer Yurt
Beartooth Powder Guides
A 20' yurt outside of Cooke City near the Zimmer Creek Wilderness, visitors can expect deep snow and access to the Beartooth Mountains.
YurtSleeps 6Kitchen - 8.Woody Creek Cabin
Beartooth Powder Guides
Woody Creek Cabin is a short tour from Cooke City, nestled in a forest near the confluence of Hayden & Woody Creek. Visitors will have easy access to the Hayden Creek basin, Woody Ridge, and the opportunity for longer descents into the Republic Creek basin.
CabinSleeps 10Kitchen
Backcountry Huts Comparison — Montana 2026
| Hut | Type | Capacity | Price | Kitchen | Access |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Yurt Montana Backcountry Yurts | Yurt | 10 | — | Yes | 8.00-10.00 miles |
| Big Belt Hut Montana Backcountry Yurts | Backcountry Hut | 15 | — | Yes | 10.0 miles / 16.1 km |
| Downing Mountain Lodge Downing Mountain Lodge | Mountain Lodge | — | — | Yes | 1.5 miles / 2.4 km |
| Hellroaring Hut Hellroaring Powder Guides | Backcountry Hut | 6 | — | Yes | 9.75 miles / 15.7 km |
| Jewel Basin Yurt Jewel Basin Yurt | Yurt | 8 | — | Yes | 4.7 miles / 7.6 km |
| Lupine Yurt Montana Backcountry Yurts | Yurt | 8 | — | Yes | 7.00-9.00 miles |
| Mt. Zimmer Yurt Beartooth Powder Guides | Yurt | 6 | — | Yes | 8.0 miles / 12.9 km |
| Woody Creek Cabin Beartooth Powder Guides | Cabin | 10 | — | Yes | 2.1 miles / 3.4 km |
How to Choose a Hut in Montana
- 1.
Consider your fitness level and the approach. Some huts require multi-hour ski tours or hikes with significant elevation gain. Check the access distance and difficulty before booking.
- 2.
Check meals and kitchen availability. Self-catering huts require you to bring all food and fuel. Staffed huts with meal service simplify logistics but may cost more.
- 3.
Match capacity to your group size. Smaller huts offer privacy but limited availability. Larger facilities accommodate groups and often have better amenities.
- 4.
Book early for peak season. Popular huts fill up months in advance, especially for holiday weekends and prime ski/hiking season. Check availability as soon as your dates are firm.
- 5.
Assess winter conditions and safety. For winter hut trips, check avalanche conditions, carry rescue equipment, and consider hiring a certified guide. Many huts in Montana are located in or near avalanche terrain.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do backcountry huts in Montana cost per night?
Pricing for backcountry huts in Montana varies by hut and season. Contact individual operators for current rates.
Do I need to book backcountry huts in Montana in advance?
Yes, most backcountry huts in Montana require advance reservations, especially during peak season. Popular huts can book up months ahead for holidays and weekends. Contact operators directly for availability.
What is the capacity of backcountry huts in Montana?
Backcountry Huts in Montana range from 6 to 15 guests per night. Smaller huts offer a more intimate experience, while larger facilities can accommodate groups.
Are meals provided at backcountry huts in Montana?
Most backcountry huts in Montana are self-catering with kitchen facilities (8 of 8 have kitchens). Bring your own food and cooking supplies.
What gear do I need for backcountry huts in Montana?
Essential gear includes a sleeping bag, headlamp, layers, and appropriate footwear for the approach. In winter, avalanche safety equipment (transceiver, probe, shovel) is required for backcountry huts. Check individual hut listings for specific gear requirements.