Never done the hut thing? Seasoned pro looking to get back to the cots? Head seven miles in to this gem of the 10th Mountain Division System. The stunning log cabin sleeps 16, so don’t delay: round up some friends and make a reservation at huts.org now—the hut fill up quickly. Download this map now!
Camp Hale Trailhead
(39.15170299999979, -106.41233099999698)
This trailhead is located at the site of former Camp Hale, a three-mile long flat area that was home to more than 11,000 troops in December 1942. Take a moment to remember the men of the 10th Mountain Division of the U.S. Army who played a crucial role in several battles and suffered heavy casualties in Italy during World War II. From here, leave your car and follow the road directly east to a bridge that crosses the Eagle River.
Head North
(39.43822864212168, -106.31712470247486)
The route we chose leaves Camp Hale and climbs along Resolution Creek. To reach the creek, turn left at this junction and follow East Fork Eagle Road north as it skirts dense forest and follows the base of a beautiful rocky mountain.
Hit Resolution Creek
(39.44813500000009, -106.31890100000028)
When you reach the junction with the McAllister Gulch trail, turn left and begin climbing up Resolution Creek Road. This gradual road parallels a beautiful creek. Keep an eye out for elk and deer who often frequent this area.
Jackal Hut Turn Off
(39.4610695839122, -106.29871473504974)
After about one-and-a-half miles, you’ll reach a fork in the road. A sharp right turn down Pearl Creek leads to the Jackal Hut after about four miles. For now, continue left along Resolution Creek. After a mile, you’ll reach the first significant drainage since Pearl Creek. From here, you have a few options of where you can cut off the road and begin your climb toward the hut. The most popular choice is to climb this drainage and follow the route along the southwest ridge of Resolution Mountain. Due to various factors, including avalanche danger and snow conditions, you may want to consider the route we followed, which continues up the road further and approaches the hut from the east.
Start Climbing
(39.4835360000002, -106.2698520000017)
After leaving the trees, follow the solid trail as it meanders a few miles beyond the junction with Pearl Creek and 1,000 feet below Ptarmigan Pass (11,765 feet), start climbing along a steep, forested drainage that heads due north. Follow this drainage until you reconnect with Resolution Mountain Road, which flattens out considerably.
Hit the Road Again
(39.4936443061536. -106.26944146348487)
Head due west along the road, following the forested pass directly east of the hut. You’ll catch glimpses of the hut up through the trees even though it’s still a ways away.
You’re Home
(39.49297299999981, -106.2898710000028)
Trade your boots for slippers and enjoy a well-deserved beverage on the hut’s deck while you revel in your accomplishment. From your perch at 11,500 feet, soak in the scenery and panoramic views of the Gore Range in the distance, but don’t linger too long. Resolution Mountain, Ptarmigan Hill and Wearyman Glades await. Get out there and explore this winter wonderland.
