Jackson Guard Station is a great destination for anything from a weekend getaway to a week-long hunting trip. The cabin was originally used as a guard station that housed Forest Service work crews. The cabin's access road is remarkably scenic, making for an impressive arrival. In summer months, the cabin sets the stage for a wide array of activities. Recreation ranges from thrilling off-road vehicle riding to active mountain biking and rewarding fishing. Winter access is by snowmobile, cross country skiing or snowshoes only along a 3.5-mile trail.
From Montrose, take Highway 50 east for about 20 miles. Turn right (south) onto County Road 858, which leads up the Big Cimarron Drainage for about 20 miles. Shortly after passing Silver Jack Reservoir on the right, Jackson Guard Station will be on the left. From Gunnison, take Highway 50 west for roughly 43 miles. Turn left on County Road 858, which leads up the Big Cimarron Drainage for about 20 miles. Shortly after passing Silver Jack Reservoir on the right, Jackson Guard Station will be on the left. In winter, park in parking lot before the Forest Boundary and ski, snowshoe or snowmobile up the road for 3.5 miles.
Entry is by combination lock; contact the ranger district at (970) 240-5300 for combination prior to arrival No drinking water available Collection of firewood is not permitted; please bring firewood in summer months; in winter, firewood is provided Please bring garbage bags; this is a "pack in-pack out" facility Please clean cabin before leaving; cleaning supplies are provided No discharge of firearms within 150 yards of cabin No smoking allowed No pets allowed This facility does not meet accessibility standards Bears frequent the area; keep all food out of sight in approved containers or locked inside your vehicle and remove all food from area after eating Guests should be aware that there is a risk of exposure to hantavirus when visiting remote cabins; click here to learn more Don't Move Firewood: Prevent the spread of tree-killing organisms by obtaining firewood at or near your destination and burning it on-site. For more information visit dontmovefirewood.org.
