THE YURT

The Yurt is nestled in a forest at 4,100 feet. If you are looking for solitude, this is the place to be. After the long hike to get here, you will enjoy many of the comforts of home. Make a cup of cocoa, kick back, and enjoy the warmth of the large stove. During the winter, you will get to listen to the unique sound of snow falling off the roof. Write in the journal or read the stories and experiences of those before you!

How far is it to the Yurt?

From the main trail/road, the Yurt is approximately 5.5 miles with 2,200’ of elevation gain from the upper sno-park and 6.5 miles with 2,800’ of elevation gain from the lower sno-park.

Using the lower yurt trail, the mileage is the same, the elevation gain is approximately 600’ less. The lower yurt trail offers less hills. There is approximately one mile of forest trail. Then it opens up to a road again and eventually merges back up to the main road. In the winter, this trail will not be groomed all the way to the Yurt. Trail users may have to break trail for 3 or more miles.

What is in the Yurt?

Sleeping Arrangements: Sleeps 6 total. There is a bunkbed, 2 chairs that each fold out into a bed, and a couch that folds out to sleep 2. Two standard pillows and paper pillow cases are provided, but feel free to bring your own.

Kitchen:

  • Cook stove and oven (Propane)
  • Pots, sauce pans, frying pans, bakeware, wok, mixing bowls, measuring cups, cooking utensils, plates, bowls, cups, silverware, knives, and cutting boards.
  • Coffee Options – French press and pour over coffee makers & filters
  • Dish towels
  • Paper pillow cases
  • Cleaning supplies – dish soap, hand soap, Clorox wipes, Lysol spray, sponges, and more.
  • Toilet paper, paper towels, Kleenex, foil, plastic wrap, and parchment paper
  • The Yurt stocks some food supplies such as: coffee, tea, hot chocolate, pancake mix, syrup, top ramen, cooking spray, salt, pepper, sugar packets (Whole Earth, Sugar Cane), garlic salt, honey, olive oil. We don’t guarantee these items are in the Yurt since they can get used up before we can get out there, but we try to keep them stocked.

Water Filter System: The Yurt (and only the Yurt) uses the Berkey water filter system for drinking water. In the summer we collect rain water, when available. In the winter, water comes from snow melt.

Other Items: Some other amenities you will find:

  • Propane fireplace
  • Solar powered lighting
  • Battery lanterns available if solar power loses charge
  • First Aid Kit
  • Some toiletries
  • Large dining table
  • Games (cards, board games, etc.)
  • Puzzles
  • Books/Magazines
  • Blankets

Restrooms: An outhouse is located outside the Yurt.

The Yurt Video

This video takes you on a tour of the Yurt, demonstrating how to operate the cook stove, heat, lights and more. Check it out before you go! (Chapters included)

Things to do Nearby

After the hike out here, you might just want to rest. If you have some extra energy you can tackle Griffin mountain or hike the old forest road towards Griffin. Staying along the main trail, you will be treated to views of Mount St. Helens. Continuing along, the trail eventually takes you around the front side of Griffin, where you get a spectacular view of Mt. Rainier – so long as the clouds are not out!

If you head out towards the back side of the hut, there is a short trail out past the trees to an old cut area. Here, you will also get views of Mount St. Helens, Snow Bowl, and the valley area. This is a great place to enjoy sunsets before heading back to the hut for some hot cocoa and a good nights rest!

Trail & Hut Etiquette

Please review our trail and hut etiquette. Help us keep this area pristine!

Reservations

The Yurt hold 6 people total. Ready to come visit? Head here to see dates, availability and to make a reservation.