Winner of the 2010 Historic Restoration Award from the Montana Historical Alliance , this rare 2 story hand-hewn square log cabin was built in 1907. Austrians used Broad Axes to fashion unbelievable 'compound' dovetail corners locking the logs in place for over 100 years.
It is a short 5 Minute drive to the North Entrance of Yellowstone Park.
The cabin sits on 42 acres once called 'The Little Trail Creek Ranch.' It once fed tourists in Yellowstone Park. It is only 4 miles north of Gardiner,Montana and the north entrance to Yellowstone. The cabin is not visable from the highway, and has lots of grass, trees and water. Out front sit the mountains of Yellowstone Park and the Yellowstone River. In the back is the Absaroka Wilderness. The old tree stumps that built the cabin are still visable up the cliffs behind the house.
Herds of Elk, Bison,Deer and Bighorm Sheep use our land all year due to the trees and open water from abundant springs.
We like to go to 'The Boiling River' - one of the best natural hot springs in the world! We were married there 26 years ago, and still go with the kids whenever we can. It is only 7 miles from our door, and it's free once inside Yellowstone Park. The spring is closed May and part of June due to high water, but Chico Hot Springs is 22 miles north, and it has wonderful food. On Sunday, you can eat the brunch and swim for free.
For 13 years we fixed up the cabin. It was fun. There are all new appliances, a 6 burner stove with convection oven, new electric and plumbing, and heating. We used antiques and old wood salvaged from train stations and hotels where needed. The old wood in the cabin has a certain 'glow' that comes from age.
During the renovation, I found many items I put into the chinking. Pocket watches, coins, buttons, even a gun--and 3 bullets in the logs [all at waist high level].
There is a steam shower. A 4000 pound Tulikivi woodstove [for use only in winter] uses radiant heat to warm the cabin. It is made of soapstone, which will stay warm a full 2 days after a fire.
There is one bedroom downstairs, and 3 upstairs. A single bed is in the sun room, and the couch downstairs in the Tulikivi room is oddly comfortable for sleeping.
So, if you appreciate the Real Deal -- with history, wildlife, quiet and nature-- welcome to our cabin. You'll find our circle of trees cool and refreshing even on the hottest day.
Don't forget to look at the stars at night. See the Milky Way and watch for shooting stars. A pioneer superstition says, if you see a falling star and say 'money,money,money' before it goes out - you'll be rich! Lay on the grass at night--- it's the perfect place to try your luck.
Hosts- Alex, Beth, and Emma --
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