Malad Summit Guard Station
Caribou-Targhee National Forest
Malad Summit Guard Station is located 14 miles north of Malad, Idaho on Malad Pass just off I-15. The rustic one-room cabin is in a forested setting in narrow Mill Creek Drainage, and offers a secluded retreat on fenced acreage surrounded by scenic high country views.
The original guard station was established in 1908, but was replaced by the existing cabin in 1934. The cabin is accessible by car when there is no snow. Guests should be prepared in snowy conditions to ski, snowshoe or snowmobile half a mile from the
plowed road to reach the cabin. The guard station offers many amenities for a comfortable stay, but fewer conveniences are available in winter.
Malad Summit Guard Station is located near Mill Creek. The cabin can sleep six people on the two bunkbeds and folding cots provided.
Amenities include two bunkbeds with mattresses, a wood stove, table with bench and chairs, folding cots, a broom and dustpan, cook prep area, and sink. Electrical appliances include space heater, lights, stove/oven, and refrigerator. The mudroom is equipped with seasonal shower facilities. Propane is provided for the water heater in the summer months.
A single vault toilet, campfire ring, grill, lantern post, and picnic tables are located outside the cabin.
Parking can accommodate up to three RVs.
The cabin's water is shut off late September to May.
Winter guests should call the Westside Ranger District to check snow conditions before reserving this cabin from November through May and for winter parking instructions/access. Winter guests need to bring their own water.
Guests may find limited dishes and cookware. Bedding, towels, first aid and emergency supplies, matches, lanterns, and flashlights are not provided.
Guests are expected to clean the cabin and pack out their trash before leaving. Garbage bags and cleaning supplies are not available.
Need to Know
An access code for the gate and door is sent in the reservation confirmation email.
No water is available at the cabin during winter months beginning late September through May.
- Please leave the cabin clean for the next occupant
- This is a pack-it-in/pack-it-out facility
- Smoking is prohibited
- Pets are allowed, but guests must ensure no damage to furnishings and no harassment of wildlife; guests must clean up after their animals
Please make sure fires in the outside campfire ring are extinguished completely before leaving the cabin. Abandoning campfires during any point in your stay at the cabin can result in a violation. Since water is not available during the off season at the cabin, please bring extra water to help extinguish a campfire.
- Off-road vehicle stickers are required for ATVs, motorcycles, and snowmobiles using the area
- Guests should be aware that there is a risk of exposure to hantavirus when visiting remote cabins; click here to learn more
- Click here for more information about Caribou-Targhee National Forest
- Don't Move Firewood: Help prevent the spread of tree-killing pests in our national forests by obtaining firewood near your destination and burning it on-site. For more information visit dontmovefirewood.org.
Natural Features
The rustic single-room cabin is tucked into a deciduous and conifer forest at an elevation of around 6,000 feet. Mill Creek meanders through the site.
The front porch invites guests to sit and enjoy views of the forest and possible wildlife sightings. Black bears, wolves, elk, moose, mule deer, bison, grizzly bears, mountain lions and pronghorn are some of the species native to the area (bear safety tips).
Recreation
The surrounding area offers a variety of recreational activities. Trails are provided for hikers, mountain bikers, horseback riders and off-road vehicles (Idaho OHV safety message).
Anglers can fish for small brook trout in Mill Creek. Hunting for game and game birds is another popular pastime.
Contact Information
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4350 CLIFFS DRIVE POCATELLO ID 83204
Phone Number
For campground inquiries, please call: 208-236-7500
Rental Options
Learn more about gear rental options for your trip
Driving Directions
Malad Guard Station is located 11 miles north of Malad, ID. On 1-15, take Exit 22 (Devil Creek Reservoir). Go north on N. Old Highway 191 for 3.5 miles. Turn left on E11000N/Forest Road 041 and cross over the interstate, drive 1.3 miles. At the bend keep right and continue on Forest Road 041 road for another mile. At the forest boundary there will be a Malad Summit Cabin sign and entrance gate. The cabin is located a few hundred feet past the entrance gate. Call the Westside Ranger District for winter parking instructions and access at 208-236-7500.
