Fishhook Yurt

For Idahoans who truly cherish a rugged yet remarkably comfortable backcountry experience, Fishhook Yurt offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourselves in the stunning Sawtooth Mountains. This isn't your typical roadside campground; rather, it's a destination that requires a thoughtful journey, rewarding adventurers with a unique and unforgettable stay deep within Idaho's pristine wilderness. Operated by Sun Valley Trekking, Fishhook Yurt is part of a renowned hut system, providing a cozy and well-equipped base for exploring one of the Gem State's most iconic mountain ranges, particularly during the winter months.

Fishhook Yurt stands out with its distinctive setup: a Mongolian-style yurt connected to a wall tent by a lodge-pole pine framed walkway. This dual-structure design creates a spacious and functional living area, providing ample room for groups to relax, cook, and socialize after a day of outdoor exploration. What truly elevates the experience, as highlighted by delighted visitors, is the presence of a wood-fired hot tub. Imagine soaking under a canopy of stars, surrounded by snow-covered peaks – a true luxury in the heart of the backcountry.

The allure of Fishhook Yurt extends beyond its unique amenities. It's a place designed for adventurers, whether you're an avid backcountry skier or snowshoer in winter, or a dedicated hiker exploring the trails in summer. The yurt is strategically positioned at 6,800 feet in a beautiful meadow, next to a meandering creek, with the Sawtooth Giants like Thompson Peak and Mount Heyburn rising majestically above. This breathtaking scenery is a constant companion, enhancing every moment of your stay.

For Idaho locals, Fishhook Yurt represents an accessible yet deeply immersive wilderness experience. It's a chance to escape the everyday, embrace self-sufficiency, and truly connect with the raw beauty of Idaho's mountains. While it demands preparation and a willingness to venture off the beaten path, the rewards – from the comfort of the yurt to the exhilaration of the surrounding terrain – are immeasurable, making it a highly sought-after destination for those who understand the call of the wild.

Fishhook Yurt is nestled in a remote, yet renowned, part of Idaho's Sawtooth Mountains. While its administrative address might be listed as Lowman, ID 83637, USA, its true location is deep within the backcountry, accessible primarily via a multi-mile trek from a trailhead. Specifically, Fishhook Yurt sits at an elevation of 6,800 feet in a beautiful meadow, next to a meandering creek, offering stunning views of prominent Sawtooth peaks such as Thompson Peak, Williams Peak, Mount Heyburn, and Horstman Peak.

Access to Fishhook Yurt is a significant part of the adventure and requires planning, especially in winter. The approach is typically a 4-mile trek from a designated trailhead, with an elevation gain of approximately 305 feet. This makes it a relatively gentle journey, ideal for tour-oriented skiers, snowshoers, and hikers. While the precise trailhead may vary, it’s generally understood that the journey begins near the Redfish Lake area, which is roughly 60-70 miles north of Sun Valley/Ketchum and approximately 15-20 miles south of Stanley, Idaho.

In winter, access is primarily by skis (alpine touring, telemark, or cross-country with climbing skins), splitboards, or snowshoes. Snowmobiles are generally not allowed on the approach trail to maintain the pristine backcountry experience. This "ski-in/snowshoe-in" access means visitors must be prepared for winter backcountry travel, including route-finding and avalanche awareness if venturing beyond the immediate yurt area for skiing. While the approach itself is often considered low avalanche risk, the surrounding peaks present more challenging terrain.

For Idaho locals, reaching Fishhook Yurt means embracing the state's backcountry culture. The nearest major towns for stocking up on supplies, gas, and other necessities would be Ketchum/Sun Valley or Stanley. It’s important to plan meals and gear meticulously, as there are no services once you leave the trailhead. This remote yet accessible location allows Idahoans to truly disconnect and experience the solitude and grandeur of the Sawtooth Wilderness, providing an authentic and deeply rewarding outdoor experience.

Fishhook Yurt, as part of the Sun Valley Mountain Huts system, provides a surprisingly comprehensive range of services and amenities designed to make a backcountry stay comfortable and functional, despite its remote location. These offerings are geared towards supporting multi-day wilderness adventures.

• Two Structures: The facility consists of a Mongolian-style yurt and a separate wall tent, connected by a lodge-pole pine framed walkway, offering ample space.
• Sleeping Capacity: The yurt and wall tent together can comfortably accommodate 8-10 people, though they have a maximum capacity of 14-20. Thick plastic-covered mattresses are provided, so guests only need to bring sleeping bags.
• Wood Stoves & Firewood: Both the yurt and wall tent are heated by wood stoves, ensuring warmth even in cold winter conditions. Ample firewood, kindling, and newspaper are supplied. There is also a third wood stove for the hot tub.
• Kitchen Facilities: A well-appointed kitchen area includes a three-burner propane stove, a good food preparation table, ample pots, pans, dishes, and silverware. Basic supplies like dish soap, chlorine for rinsing, and paper towels are provided.
• Dishwashing System: A convenient three-bin dishwashing system is in place for efficient cleanup.
• Outdoor Hot Tub: A significant highlight is the wood-fired hot tub, offering a unique and luxurious way to relax after a day of outdoor activities.
• Water Source: Water for drinking and cooking comes from snow melt in winter (dispensed from a 5-gallon stainless steel pan with a spigot on the wood stove) and from nearby creeks in summer. Snowmelt does not require filtering.
• Toilet Facilities: Two pit toilets (outhouses) are available, with instructions for proper use (e.g., no paper in the pit, designated "pee pole").
• Solar Lighting & Device Charging: The huts are equipped with solar systems (by GoalZero) providing ample lighting via individually controlled lights and a rechargeable portable lantern. They also offer USB charging capabilities for phones and other personal devices.
• Coolers for Food Storage: Coolers are provided for food storage, as there is no refrigeration.
• Games, Books, Maps: A selection of games, books, magazines, and ski maps are available within the yurt for entertainment and trip planning.
• Outdoor Dining Area: A porch sitting area with a log-framed "portico" is great for outdoor dining and relaxing, with foldable chairs provided.

Fishhook Yurt offers a truly distinctive set of features and highlights that make it a standout destination for backcountry enthusiasts in Idaho's Sawtooth Mountains. It's an experience that combines rugged wilderness with surprising comforts.

• Wood-Fired Hot Tub: This is arguably the most unique and celebrated feature. After a day of skiing or hiking, soaking in a wood-fired hot tub under the Idaho sky is an unparalleled luxury in a backcountry setting, often mentioned in glowing reviews.
• Dual Structure Design: The combination of a Mongolian-style yurt and a connected wall tent provides ample, comfortable space. This innovative design allows for a separate sleeping area and a main living/kitchen space, enhancing the group experience.
• Stunning Sawtooth Mountain Views: Situated in a beautiful meadow at 6,800 feet, the yurt offers breathtaking panoramic views of prominent Sawtooth peaks like Thompson Peak, Mount Heyburn, Williams Peak, and Horstman Peak, which can be seen directly from the kitchen window.
• Backcountry Ski Touring & Snowshoeing Hub: In winter, Fishhook Yurt is an ideal base for tour-oriented skiers and snowshoers, with access to mellow terrain in Fishhook Valley, as well as challenging downhill and ski mountaineering potential on the surrounding peaks.
• Solar Power System: The GoalZero solar system provides reliable lighting within the huts and allows for charging personal electronic devices, a modern convenience in a remote setting.
• Well-Equipped Kitchen: The comprehensive kitchen setup, complete with a propane stove, ample cookware, and dishwashing supplies, allows groups to prepare elaborate meals, enhancing the social aspect of the trip.
• Accessibility for Guided Trips & Orientations: For first-time visitors, Sun Valley Trekking offers a mandatory "Hut Rent Orientation" or fully guided trips, ensuring safety and familiarity with the route and hut operations, which is a valuable feature for less experienced groups.
• Abundant Firewood: A consistent supply of split firewood, kindling, and newspaper is provided, ensuring that the wood stoves and hot tub can be kept warm throughout the stay.
• Year-Round Appeal: While famous for winter skiing, the yurt is also a fantastic base for summer hiking, climbing, and exploring the Sawtooths, providing a diverse recreational appeal.

For bookings, inquiries, and essential information regarding Fishhook Yurt, which is managed by Sun Valley Trekking, please use the following contact details. Given the remote nature of the yurt, direct communication with the managing company's office is crucial for planning your trip.

Address: Lowman, ID 83637, USA (Note: This is a general postal area. The specific physical location of the yurt is in the backcountry of the Sawtooth Mountains, accessed via a trailhead near Redfish Lake/Stanley. It's not a drive-up location.)

Phone: (208) 788-1966

Mobile Phone: +1 208-788-1966 (This is the primary office number for Sun Valley Trekking).

Website: For the most comprehensive information, including booking calendars, rates, detailed user information (such as how to operate the hot tub and stoves, water collection, etc.), gear lists, and FAQs, it is highly recommended to visit the Sun Valley Trekking website directly. Booking is typically done through their online system or by calling their office. It is crucial to be aware of their cancellation policy and requirements for first-time visitors (e.g., mandatory orientation for unguided trips).

For Idaho locals, Fishhook Yurt offers a truly unique and deeply rewarding backcountry experience that epitomizes the spirit of adventure in the Gem State. Its primary suitability lies in providing a comfortable and well-equipped basecamp for exploring the unparalleled beauty and challenging terrain of the Sawtooth Mountains, particularly for winter recreation. For those who embrace ski touring, snowshoeing, or simply the solitude of a snow-covered wilderness, the relatively gentle 4-mile approach makes this incredible destination accessible, even for groups with varying skill levels.

The amenities, especially the coveted wood-fired hot tub and the fully equipped kitchen, elevate Fishhook Yurt far beyond a typical primitive campsite. This blend of rustic charm and surprising comfort allows Idahoans to enjoy multi-day wilderness adventures without sacrificing all modern conveniences. After a day of exploring the backcountry, the ability to soak in a hot tub under the stars is a luxury that few other remote locations can offer, making for truly unforgettable memories.

Moreover, the comprehensive support provided by Sun Valley Trekking, including detailed user information and optional guided trips or orientations, ensures that even those new to yurt camping or backcountry travel can experience Fishhook Yurt safely and confidently. It represents an opportunity for Idaho locals to connect intimately with their state's most iconic landscapes, challenge themselves physically, and find profound peace in nature, all while having a cozy and unique shelter to return to. Fishhook Yurt is not just a place to stay; it's an immersive Idaho adventure waiting to happen.

Fishhook Yurt

Lowman, ID 83637, USA