About MOOSE LAKE CABIN
Overview Moose Lake Cabin is located in the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest in southwestern Montana. The historic cabin, which was built in 1917 for use as a Forest Service work station, offers visitors close access to the Anaconda-Pintler Wilderness Area, which covers almost 250 square miles of mountain ranges. The cabin is a short drive to Georgetown Lake, Discovery Ski Area, Gem Mountain, and the town of Philipsburg with its well known Sweet Palace and microbrewery. Many lakes and streams provide ample access to world famous trout fishing and the area also boasts miles of roads and trails. The cabin is located a short walk from Middle Fork Rock Cr and is surrounded by public land in all directions. Hiking, backpacking, hunting, fishing, horseback riding, OHV riding, skiing, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing are common activites, The cabin can typically be accessed by vehicle, depending on road and weather conditions. Moose Lake Road is plowed during winter, but the access spur to the cabin is not regularly plowed and guests should plan on walking this final 100 yards in the winter months. Recreation Moose Lake Cabin provides access to hunting, fishing, hiking or just relaxing. Fishing for brook and cutthroat trout is excellent in the area. The Middle Fork of Rock Creek as well as Copper Creek and other smaller creeks are close by. It is illegal to target Bull Trout, if caught they must be released immediately with minimal handling. Participants must have Montana licenses to hunt or fish. Visitors also enjoy snowmobiling, cross country skiing, and snowshoeing in the area during the winter. Various weather conditions can increase avalanche danger in the area; visitors are encouraged to carry proper backcountry equipment, including a beacon, shovel and probe while recreating. Hiking and horseback riding trails lead into the Anaconda-Pintler Wilderness. There are three trailheads in the area, none more than a six mile drive from the cabin. As a reminder, pelletized
How to Get There
From Philipsburg, travel south on Highway 1 for about 7 miles to the junction with Skalkaho Highway/Highway 38. Turn right onto Highway 38 and continue west for about 9 miles and turn left onto Moose Lake Road/Forest Road 5106. Travel another 9 miles to the cabin. Winter weather conditions may require visitors to park on the main road and hike about a quarter-mile to the cabin. Maps may be purchased by calling the Pintler Ranger District.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to MOOSE LAKE CABIN
Heading to MOOSE LAKE CABIN? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for MOOSE LAKE CABIN?
No central reservation system listed for MOOSE LAKE CABIN. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/234373) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to MOOSE LAKE CABIN?
From Philipsburg, travel south on Highway 1 for about 7 miles to the junction with Skalkaho Highway/Highway 38. Turn right onto Highway 38 and continue west for about 9 miles and turn left onto Moose Lake Road/Forest Road 5106. Travel another 9 miles to the cabin. Winter weather conditions may require visitors to park on the main road and hike about a quarter-mile to the cabin. Maps may be purchas…
How do I contact MOOSE LAKE CABIN?
You can reach the park at phone: 406-859-3211.
References & Official Resources