Location and Access
The trailhead is on the north side of Highway 50 in the small town of Garfield, which is about twelve miles west of the intersection of highways 285 and 50 in Poncha Springs, and four miles east of Monarch Ski Area. The trail starts just behind and to the left/west of the Monarch Tours’ building (snowmobile rentals). Please do not park in Monarch Tours’ lot. Parking is to the left of the trailhead, past the trailhead parking signs. If trailhead parking is full when you arrive, you can park across the street at the Monarch Lodge. The cost is $5/night/vehicle, please pay at their front desk.
The elevation at the trailhead is 9,657 feet. The hut is at 10,878 feet, so the total elevation gain is 1,221 feet over a distance of 3 miles. The trail is a dirt road that goes along Middle Fork Creek and that is also the Continental Divide Trail for part of the way. The first half mile is the steepest–going up about 450 feet in elevation. The remaining two miles go up about 770 feet with several gentle grades interspersed. The trail continues beyond the hut another 3.2 miles to Chalk Creek pass, from which you can drop down to the ghost town of St. Elmo and beyond.
Note: The road leading to the hut is 4-wheel drive only. In the summer, you can reach the hut with a good 4-wheel drive vehicle or by hiking. In the winter, plan to snowshoe, ski, or, under most conditions, snowmobile in.
Main Cabin at Lost Wonder Hut
The Main Cabin at Lost Wonder Hut offers a rustic yet comfortable backcountry experience in the heart of Colorado’s wilderness. This charming mountain retreat features spacious accommodations for up to 16 guests, with cozy bunk beds and a warm, inviting atmosphere that makes it perfect for both group adventures and intimate getaways.
The cabin’s centerpiece is a wood-burning stove that provides both heat and a delightful ambiance during cool mountain evenings. A fully equipped kitchen allows guests to prepare hearty meals after a day of outdoor exploration, while the large communal dining area encourages shared meals and memorable conversations.
Surrounded by stunning alpine scenery, the Main Cabin serves as an ideal base camp for year-round recreation. In winter, enjoy world-class backcountry skiing and snowshoeing right from your doorstep, while summer months offer exceptional hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing opportunities in the adjacent wilderness areas.
Solar-powered lighting and rustic amenities ensure you stay connected to nature while enjoying essential comforts. The expansive deck provides panoramic views of the surrounding mountains—perfect for morning coffee or evening stargazing sessions in Colorado’s crystal-clear mountain air.
Amenities
Comfortable Accommodations
- Cozy sleeping areas with nylon-covered mattresses (bring your own pillows and sleeping bags)
- Solar-powered lighting throughout with energy-efficient compact fluorescent bulbs in each room
- Picturesque deck with rustic picnic table for outdoor dining and relaxation
Kitchen & Cooking
- Fully-equipped kitchen with propane cooking stove (fuel provided)
- Complete set of cookware, dishware, utensils, and serving equipment
- Kitchen essentials including dish towels, trash bags, and cleaning supplies
- Water jugs for collecting fresh mountain spring water from nearby source
- Seasonal outdoor grill (available for summer reservations)
Heating & Comfort
- Warm wood-burning stove with firewood provided
- Cozy gathering space for evening relaxation and socializing
Outdoor Facilities
- Clean, well-maintained outhouse with toilet paper provided
- Stunning mountain views from multiple vantage points
- Immediate access to hiking, skiing, and snowshoeing trails
Recreation & Entertainment
- Selection of books and board games for evening entertainment
- Bluegrass-tuned musical instruments (guitar, banjo, and mandolin)
- Perfect setting for stargazing and wildlife watching
Connectivity
- Limited cell service available from most major carriers
- True disconnect from digital distractions (no Wi-Fi or television)
Note: Lost Wonder Hut provides these essential amenities in a true backcountry setting. Guests should come prepared with their own sleeping bags, pillows, personal items, food, and beverages. The hut’s rustic charm means embracing a simpler way of living that connects you directly with Colorado’s magnificent wilderness.
You need only bring your personal gear, a sleeping bag, food, and whatever other amenities you need/like.
Minnie Cabin
NEW FOR SUMMER 2025! The intimate Minnie Cabin offers a secluded retreat for adults seeking a more private backcountry experience. This charming smaller cabin accommodates 2-3 guests with a cozy, romantic atmosphere that’s perfect for couples or small groups of friends wanting to disconnect from the hustle of everyday life.
Designed exclusively for adult guests (no children allowed), Minnie Cabin provides the perfect setting for a peaceful mountain getaway. To fully appreciate the tranquil backcountry experience, a 2-night minimum stay is required for all reservations.
Inside, you’ll find thoughtful rustic touches including handcrafted furniture, a small efficient wood stove that quickly warms the space on chilly evenings, and comfortable sleeping arrangements that invite peaceful mountain slumber. The compact kitchenette provides everything needed for simple meal preparation, while large windows frame spectacular mountain vistas that change with the seasons.
Special Note: Minnie Cabin contains cherished personal items belonging to the owners that add to its unique character and warmth. We ask that guests treat the cabin and its contents with the utmost care and respect. All items must remain within the cabin at all times. Please note that any sleeping bags, food, clothing, or other personal belongings inside the cabin are not for guest use. Guests should bring all necessary items for their stay. Your mindfulness helps preserve this special space for future visitors to enjoy.
Located just a short distance from the Main Cabin, Minnie offers the perfect balance of privacy and community. Guests can enjoy solitude while still having access to shared facilities when desired. Step outside to find yourself immediately immersed in Colorado’s pristine backcountry, with trails leading to alpine meadows, clear mountain streams, and breathtaking vistas.
Whether you’re seeking a writer’s retreat, a romantic getaway, or simply a peaceful place to reconnect with nature, Minnie Cabin provides an authentic mountain experience with just the right touch of rustic comfort.