Stargaze Yurt
Our brand new Stargaze yurt is designed especially for backcountry Nordic folks, whether on skis or snowshoes. And you’ll understand how Stargaze got its name after you ski or snowshoe about 1.3 miles on a marked but un-groomed trail and arrive at the yurt, located just off a high point overlooking the entire eastern horizon. The spectacular 270 degree view from the yurt offers open vistas to Scott Mountain, Jackson Peak, Wolf Mountain, Steele Mountain, Pilots Peak and the Sawtooth Mountains. At an elevation of 6,569 feet, you will find the many north and west facing slopes to be perfect for Telemark skiing. Most years the snow—usually powder and very deep--is available from early December to mid-April. Access to the yurt is from the Beaver Creek Summit Park N’ Ski parking lot on Highway 21, north of Idaho City, and just before the Snow Plow Turnaround. Take care to park in the correct lot! From the parking lot, ski/snowshoe along the shoulder of Highway 21 for about 300 yards until you reach the highest point, Beaver Creek Summit. At the summit turn left on an old road bed marked with a sign on a 4” x 4” post stating “Stargaze Trail”.
Spring, Summer and Fall
Stargaze yurt is the newest yurt in the system, bringing the
back-country yurt total to 6 in the Idaho City area. It offers you a spectacular 270 degree view to the north, east and south. At 6,569 feet elevation you are guaranteed a long season of an assortment of wild flowers during the summer months and a blaze of color in the fall. From this yurt you can see the South Fork of the Payette River Canyon and the scenic Trinity and Sawtooth Mountains. This is also a wonderful place to experience the power of a summer thunderstorm, view the stars of the Milky Way, or just to curl up and read a book. The yurt is usually snow free from early May to early November. Once at the yurt, a short half-mile hike on a trail leads to the top of Stargaze Point. On this point you will have a 360 degree view of the Boise National Forest that includes Pilots Peak, Wilson Butte, Sunset Peak, Rock Creek, Scott Mountain and Stargaze yurt.
Weather/Trail Conditions
For current snow depths click here, then search Jackson Peak or Mores Creek Summit. For current trail conditions, call (208) 514-2423.