Summer getaway in your backyard

There are just a few weeks left in spring semester. By now, you’ve probably started scheming your summer adventures and scrolling through Instagram photos of Fiji, London and Nepal, wishing you had the time and money to embark on the trip of a lifetime. The harsh reality is that you’re probably not going anywhere, and you’re going to work all summer so you can pay for school. On the bright side, if you choose to stay in Bozeman, the options for summer adventures are seemingly endless. Personally, I spend my free time backpacking, biking or driving to many of the historic Forest Service Cabins scattered across the state. Most of these cabins were built during the first quarter of the 20th century, and each time I visit one, I step back in time. There is nothing ostentatious about these one room log houses nestled in the mountains but that is, of course, the appeal.

Each cabin is equipped with bunk beds, a wood stove and a full woodshed. On top of that, an eclectic collection of games, books and other odds and ends have been left by previous visitors for your enjoyment.

What makes these places so special is their uniqueness, the solitude they provide and the opportunity to explore the natural world. Furthermore, they allow you to indulge in your inner backcountry culinary expertise. With a wood stove, cooking implements and an endless supply of wood, there is no limit to what you can make. I plan on staying in Bozeman for the summer, working, and in my free time, you’ll probably find me (but hopefully not really) relaxing somewhere next to a crackling fire eating roasted apples and reading a good book. I don’t need to go to Fiji. My escape is in our very own backyard.

To reserve a forest cabin, go to: https://www.fs.usda.gov/activity/custergallatin/recreation/camping-cabins