Skyline Yurt

Hello, fellow Idaho adventurers seeking true tranquility! Have you ever dreamt of a place where the world fades away, leaving you with nothing but the pristine beauty of nature and the profound silence of the wilderness? Skyline Yurt, nestled near Lowman, ID, offers just such an escape. This isn't your typical drive-up campground; it's a backcountry gem, a cozy haven designed for those who embrace the journey as much as the destination. For Idahoans who cherish deep solitude and direct access to stunning winter (and summer) landscapes, Skyline Yurt provides an unparalleled opportunity to truly reset and reconnect with the wild heart of our state.

Imagine waking up to panoramic views of snow-covered peaks, with the crisp, clean Idaho air filling your lungs. Skyline Yurt offers this and more, promising an experience that feels like you're "the only people in the world." While reaching it requires a bit of effort, especially in winter, the reward is an unparalleled sense of peace and a direct immersion into Idaho's majestic backcountry. It's a place where adventures begin right at your doorstep, whether you're gliding along groomed cross-country ski trails or simply enjoying the quietude from your cozy yurt. This is an ideal spot for locals who are well-versed in outdoor preparedness and who seek a more profound connection with Idaho's wild, untamed spaces.

Skyline Yurt is located in the beautiful backcountry near Lowman, ID 83637, USA. Its precise location is on a high sunny knob, offering a stunning 200-degree view to the east, south, and west, considered one of the best views in the Boise National Forest. Accessibility to Skyline Yurt varies significantly with the seasons. During snow-free months, guests with high-clearance vehicles may be able to drive within a few hundred feet of the yurt. However, the true quintessential Skyline Yurt experience unfolds in winter.

In winter, the yurt is accessed via the Gold Fork Park N' Ski parking lot, located 20 miles north of Idaho City on Highway 21, just past highway mile marker 59. From there, guests typically ski or snowshoe approximately 2.3 to 2.5 miles to reach the yurt. The trail is often groomed for a significant portion of the way, which makes the journey more manageable for Nordic skiers and snowshoers. However, as noted by visitors, conditions can vary, and sections might have untouched, deep powder, requiring more effort, especially when pulling a gear sled. One uphill section is particularly steep. It is crucial to allow plenty of time for the trek and to be prepared for varying snow conditions. An Idaho Park N' Ski permit is required for parking in these lots from November 15 to April 30. This backcountry access ensures a truly secluded experience, away from the sounds of motorized vehicles, enhancing the feeling of being truly immersed in nature.

• Shelter with Sleeping Capacity: The yurt sleeps 6 people, featuring one futon and two bunk beds. A protected tent area is also available for additional guests.
• Heating and Cooking Facilities: Equipped with a wood stove (firewood provided) for warmth and a propane cook stove (renters must bring their own 16.4 oz propane cylinders) for meal preparation.
• Kitchen Basics: Includes pots, pans, large utensils, salt, pepper, dishes, silverware, a hot water kettle, and a pour-over filter stand for coffee.
• Lighting: Features solar-powered LED lights for evening illumination.
• Dining and Seating: Provides a dining table with six chairs and wooden benches.
• Sanitation: Includes a pit toilet for convenience.
• Safety Equipment: Contains a fire extinguisher, first aid kit, and carbon monoxide alarm.
• Cleaning Supplies: Basic cleaning supplies are provided, and guests are expected to leave the yurt clean for the next users.
• Pet-Friendly: Dogs are welcome at Skyline Yurt, with a specific pet policy to be followed.
• Outdoor Amenities: Features an outdoor fire pit (guests gather their own wood) and an outdoor picnic table.

• Stunning Panoramic Views: Located on a high knob, offering a magnificent 200-degree view to the east, south, and west, often cited as one of the best views in the Boise National Forest.
• Secluded Backcountry Experience: Provides an unparalleled sense of quiet and isolation, making it feel like "the only people in the world."
• Access to Groomed Trails: Conveniently situated off the groomed Skyline trail, part of over 20 miles of groomed and 50 miles of marked ski trails, ideal for Nordic skiing and snowshoeing.
• Telemark Skiing Opportunities: The open, rolling terrain below the yurt offers beginner telemark skiers a chance to practice and improve their skills.
• Winter Wonderland: Snow is typically available from early December to mid-April, ensuring a prime winter recreational season.
• Resilience to Wildfires: The yurt and nearby trees were notably well-preserved during the Pioneer Fire, demonstrating its durability and the area's recovery.
• Cozy and Well-Equipped Interior: Offers a comfortable, warm, and well-outfitted space, making it a comfortable retreat after outdoor activities.
• Pet-Friendly Policy: Welcomes dogs, allowing Idahoans to enjoy their backcountry adventure with their furry companions.

Address: Lowman, ID 83637, USA

Phone: (888) 922-6743

Note: This phone number is generally for the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation (IDPR) which manages the yurt system. For specific booking information, availability, and to receive your yurt access code, it is recommended to visit the official Idaho Parks and Recreation website or contact them directly. Reservations are typically made online and access codes are sent via email prior to your stay. Always confirm current conditions and access requirements before planning your trip, especially in winter.

For us Idahoans, Skyline Yurt is more than just a place to stay; it's an embodiment of the rugged beauty and serene isolation that defines our state's appeal. Its suitability for locals is deeply rooted in its unique offering of a true backcountry experience, combined with thoughtful amenities that make wilderness adventures accessible to those who are prepared.

Firstly, the stunning panoramic views from Skyline Yurt are a major draw. We Idahoans live for these vistas, and the promise of a "200-degree view" of the Boise National Forest means a guaranteed breathtaking backdrop for any getaway. This natural grandeur reinforces our connection to the land and provides the perfect setting for photography or simply quiet contemplation.

Secondly, the yurts’ very nature as a backcountry destination caters directly to the Idaho spirit of self-reliance and adventure. While it requires effort to reach, especially in winter, the reward is an unparalleled sense of being "the only people in the world." This level of solitude is increasingly rare and highly sought after by those of us who yearn for a genuine escape from urban pressures. The access to groomed ski trails and open terrain for telemarking also speaks directly to Idaho's vibrant winter sports culture, making it a prime destination for cross-country skiers and snowshoers seeking untouched powder or well-maintained paths.

Furthermore, the practical provisions within the yurt, such as a wood stove with provided firewood, solar-powered lights, and basic kitchen supplies, highlight a thoughtful approach to backcountry comfort. This allows locals to experience the wild without having to haul every single item, striking a perfect balance between rustic and convenient. The fact that it's pet-friendly also means our beloved canine companions can join in the adventure, a significant bonus for many Idaho families.

In essence, Skyline Yurt offers Idahoans a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in our state's natural splendor, promising a deeply peaceful and adventurous retreat. It's a place where the journey is part of the story, and the destination delivers an unforgettable sense of connection to the wild heart of Idaho. For those ready to embrace the backcountry and respect its demands, Skyline Yurt is an essential Idaho experience.

Skyline Yurt

Lowman, ID 83637, USA