Upper Crossing Guard Station is located at an elevation of 8,400 feet, along a scenic byway near the Continental Divide, offering visitors a comfortable lodging experience in a remote setting in Rio Grande National Forest. This guard station is the original headquarters of the old Cochetopa National Forest that existed for only a few years during the early part of the last century. Today, guests to the guard station will find plenty of opportunities for relaxation and recreation in south central Colorado.
Access to the cabin is only allowed via the route described in this section. The road that leads to the south of the Guard Station gate crosses private property and is not open for public access to Highway 114. From Saguache, take Highway 114 west for approximately 22 miles. The turnoff for the Guard Station is 1 mile past County Road NN14. From Gunnison, remain on Highway 114 until approximately 4 miles past the Buffalo Pass Campground entrance. The exit to the station is between mile marker 39 and 40. Look for the Upper Crossing sign on the highway. Turn east for a short distance until the road ends in a "T" Turn right and go .5 mile. The cabin will be on the left. During the winter guests may need to snowmobile, snow shoe or ski .5 miles from the nearest maintained road in order to access the cabin.
Please contact the Saguache Ranger District prior to arriving at the cabin to check on any restrictions or conditions, such as fire or road closures, weather or storms that may affect the quality of your visit. Public access is only allowed via the directions indicated in the "Getting There" section below. The road to the south of the Guard Station gate crosses private property and is not open to the public for access to Highway 114. Entry to the cabin is by combination lock, which will be provided in the confirmation letter or email which is sent after a reservation is made. The guard station is a non-smoking facility. Livestock are prohibited: including horses, mules, llamas, and alpacas. All cabins are administratively used on occasion. You may encounter agency stock horses during your stay. Do not feed or try to ride the animals. Pets are allowed at the facility, but must be under control at all times; they must not harass wildlife or livestock. Do not leave food or trash outside the guard station; there are bears in the area. All garbage and food must be packed out; do not burn garbage in the fire pit or wood stove. Please clean the guard station and ensure the gate is locked upon departure. Drink plenty of water before arrival and during your stay to avoid altitude sickness. For safety and resource protection, do not discharge firearms and skeet shooting is prohibited within the cabin area boundary. During the winter you may need to snowmobile, snowshoe or ski to access the cabin.
