Stargaze Backcountry Yurt

Winter

The Stargaze yurt is a yurt in the Idaho City system designed especially for backcountry Nordic folks. You’ll understand how Stargaze got its name after you ski or snowshoe about 1.3 miles on a marked but ungroomed 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, many north and west facing slopes are perfect for Telemark skiing. 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. 

We always recommend a high-clearance, all-wheel drive vehicle when traveling to the yurts.

Spring, Summer, and Fall

In addition to the spectacular views, the elevation of Stargaze (6,569 feet) guarantees an assortment of wildflowers during the summer months and a blaze of color in the fall. View the South Fork of the Payette River Canyon and the scenic Trinity and Sawtooth Mountains from this hilltop nest. 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.