Jackson Guard Station

The numbers that decide it

Site-level detail from Recreation.gov, checked 2026-08-05. Where a field says “not published”, the agency has not published it — it does not mean zero. See it on Recreation.gov

Jackson Guard Station

Non-electric no running water cabin, vault toilet, you must bring battery or propane lanterns (kerosene lanterns are not allowed). Sleeps 4 adults, 2 Bedroom, 4 twin size beds. Kitchen with propane stove and refrigerator, limited cooking utensils and dishware. Cleaning supplies provided. Winter Rental- the Jackson Guard Station is a winter get-away! Acess is only by snowmobile, cross-country skiing, or snowshoe. Park at Forest Boundary approx. 3 1/2 miles to Cabin. Two kettles are provided to melt snow for water during the winter months. This cabin is at 9,000 ft elevation. The Jackson Guard Station is situated near Silver Jack Reservoir at 9,000 feet in a small aspen grove. The cabin was originally used as a Guard Station and housed Forest Service work crews. The drive to the cabin is very scenic and is approximately 1 hour from Montrose and 1 hour and 30 minutes from Gunnison. Visitors can expect a rustic cabin set back roughly 100 feet from the road providing opportunities for privacy and solitude. Amenities include a propane stove, propane refrigerator, and wood burning stove. The kitchen includes cabinet space and some dishes are provided however guests are encouraged to bring their own. The cabin does not have electricity or running water. Guests will need to bring a source of light i.e. flashlights, headlamps, or lanterns. Guests will also need to bring there own potable water, bedding material, and toiletries. The restroom is a vault toilet located just outside of the cabin. In the summer months this cabin in particular affords the visitors the wide array of activities. There are several recreation opportunities within a few miles of the cabin including hiking trails, mountain biking, OHV trails, fishing and non-motorized use on Silver Jack Reservoir. Nearby attractions include the San Juan Mountains, Alpine Plateau, Uncompahgre Wilderness, Silver Jack Reservoir, and Black Canyon National Park. The Jackson Guard Station is a great destination for anything from a weekend getaway to a week long hunting trip. The cabin has two bedrooms and four twin size beds. In addition there is a fire ring and picnic table located just outside the cabin. Montrose Mirror Article on Jackson Cabin (PDF) Licensed to Fish -a great blog about a stay at the Guard Station- it is a beautiful place!

Before you go

Scenic drives that pass close

• San Juan Skyway13 mi
• Silver Thread Colorado Scenic and Historic Byway13 mi
• Alpine Loop14 mi