INDIAN FLATS CABIN (MT)

Indian Flats is a one-room cabin that is primitive and rustic in nature. Nestled in a hollow of old growth trees in the shadows of Hogback Mountain the cabin offers a truly remote experience. A small stream runs in front of the cabin most of the year. Hogback Mountain Lookout is located within a mile of the cabin at the top of the mountain at 7,813 feet. The Lookout is accessible by passenger vehicle and is utilized by Forest Service personnel from mid-June through September. Renters are welcome to visit the lookout. A short walk from the Lookout you can gaze down into the Beaver Creek Canyon or view some of the spectacular scenery available in the 360- degree panorama you have at your feet.

There is plenty of opportunity for hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife and wildflower observation near Indian Flats. The Gates of the Mountains Wilderness and the Missouri River are within a short drive of the cabin.

History of the Cabin: The present Indian Flats Guard Station started its days as the Conway Station on Rock Creek in the Jim Ball Basin. The original Conway Station probably predates the Forest Service. This station was used as a way- station for rangers headquartered at the Checkerboard Ranger Station located above the town of Nelson. The present cabin was built on the same location in 1944 and in 1969 it was relocated to its present location below Indian Flats. In 1992 and 1993 the cabin was remodeled to accommodate use in the Forest Service rental program.

Indian Flats Cabin can be reached via Hwy 280 east from Helena. Several miles after crossing the Missouri River, you will come to the small community of York. Turn left at the York Bar and proceed 5 miles to the even-smaller community of Nelson, where you should turn right. Stay on the main road up Beaver Creek, through a series of switchbacks up Burnt Gulch, past Pikes Gulch Campground to the junction of Hogback Lookout and Indian Flats roads. Take the left fork for about 1/2 mile and the cabin will be on the right, down in a hollow nestled amongst trees. During the winter months, the cabin can only be accessed by snowmobiling or cross-country skiing approximately 8 miles. During spring break-up, access may be limited to foot travel only. Please contact the Helena Ranger District for additional information at 406-449-5490.