Yurts are circular structures with an entry way and dome top, originally designed by nomads in Central Asia. The U.S. version of a yurt is not as portable as the original ones, but they are still great to sleep in. Throughout the United States, commercial companies have obtained leases from the Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management to raise these temporary structures in winter, for renting out to backcountry users.

Renting a yurt (or hut) is far superior to regular winter camping, as these yurts are stocked with supplies. Often they have bunk type beds in them with padding to sleep on, a wood stove, an outhouse, a propane stove, a kerosene heater, propane lanterns and all the cooking utensils anyone would need. Typically, when a group rents a yurt, they only have to carry in their personal clothing, backcountry equipment, food and maybe a sleeping bag. Some yurts even provide the sleeping bags at the yurt for a small fee if you rather rent one, offering liners for each new user. Nearly all the yurt companies also provide a detailed gear list to help you decide what to pack in.

Not all yurts and huts are located high up in the mountains. Some are located in the valleys, so that families that cross-country ski or snowshoe can access them. The Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is one example of a ski area that offers a yurt that is near the valley floor.

If you are not familiar with backcountry skiing, or the area in which the huts or yurts are located, it is a good idea to hire a guide from the yurt company. These guides have training in wilderness medicine, avalanche safety; they are familiar with area and current snow pack conditions. They will not only guide you, but porter and cook for your group as well.

If you are considering renting a yurt, keep in mind you will need to make reservations in advance. A holiday such as New Year’s can be booked up 6 months prior. All holidays and weekends are the first dates to get booked. Typically, a deposit is required at the time of booking, and full payment is required prior to your trip.

If you aren’t content with riding lifts, and are looking for a new adventure, consider renting a yurt. The beauty and solitude of backcountry skiing are worth the effort! Two companies I can personally recommend are Rendezvous Backcountry Tours and the Sawtooth Mountain Guides.