Cabin Trail - Enchanted Forest, ID

Overview: One of the longer trails in the Enchanted Forest network of mountain biking and hiking trails. Numerous loop options exist within the network.


Hike: Cabin Trail is one of the two trails starting from the parking area off Hoot Owl Rd. There is a large information board (take a picture of the trail map, it comes in handy), and the trail for both begins immediately to the right of the sign, heading southeast. The first tenth of a mile or so is relatively flat, and you will soon reach a large fork in the trail. It is well signed, and Cabin Trail takes the left fork.At this point, the trail begins to gradually gain elevation as it switchbacks uphill. The gain is never steep, and it is obvious this is a popular mountain biking trail. Footing is good, and the trail is clear of any debris. A bridge crosses Dobson Creek as you continue uphill. The forest is quite pleasant to walk through, and the fairly low elevation means more months of snow-free hiking each year compared to the surrounding mountains.

About a mile into the hike, a large meadow will appear to the south. The trail skirts the meadow starting at the north end, and working its way around the west and south side. Looking towards the east side of the meadow, a small cabin will eventually come into view. No need to cut across the meadow to check it out, as the trail will eventually lead you right to the front steps.

On the southeast side of the meadow, there is a short spur trail (signed) that will lead you directly to the cabin. There is also a bench along the spur, with excellent views of the Selkirk Mountains to the west. The one-room cabin was unlocked as of Summer 2022 and is somewhat more modern than you might expect--electric wiring, lights, insulation, etc. Antlers and turkey feathers adorn the walls. Make sure to latch the door closed when you leave.

Once back on the main trail, it will continue uphill just under half a mile to its junction with East Boundary Trail, which is not signed. You can retrace your steps back down the Cabin Trail, or head north or south to create a loop with some of the other trails in the Enchanted Forest network.

2022-06-08 LindaAnn