RED RIVER HIKING FIELD GUIDE
Little John Yurt: A 16‑Foot Hike‑In Camp Perch Below Wheeler Peak
A semi‑primitive, 16‑foot yurt for up to six people on trails managed by the Enchanted Forest Cross Country Ski Area — this guide focuses on logistics, gear, and what to expect at the yurt site.
Little John Yurt: A 16‑Foot Hike‑In Camp Perch Below Wheeler Peak.
Set on the Enchanted Forest trails with a front‑porch view toward the Wheeler Peak Wilderness, the Little John is a 16‑foot, hike‑in camping yurt that sleeps up to six and trades hotel services for backcountry comfort: a wood stove, a simple kitchen, and a port‑a‑potty. It’s offered every day through the ski‑area operator and is best approached on foot or by mountain bike.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Front‑Porch Vistas of Wheeler Peak Wilderness
The yurt sits on trails with a clear view of the Wheeler Peak Wilderness from its front porch — a compact alpine vantage that defines the site’s appeal.
Semi‑Primitive Comfort for Small Groups
Inside the 16‑foot yurt are sleeping setups for up to six (two twins and two double futon sofas), a wood stove with wood provided, a dining area, and a basic kitchen with a three‑burner propane stove and some cooking supplies.
Hike‑ or Bike‑In with Help for Heavy Gear
Guests hike or mountain‑bike to the site; the operator provides a wagon to help move gear, and gear delivery (one trip out and one trip back) is available for a fee.
What the day feels like
What the stay feels like
The Little John stay is a step up from tent camping: a round, 16‑foot shelter with basic furnishings and a wood stove creates a snug, communal interior while still requiring guests to carry or arrange transport for their gear. There are no hotel services — this is semi‑primitive camping with amenities oriented toward cooking and staying warm rather than daily housekeeping.
THE VIEW
Front‑Porch Vistas of Wheeler Peak Wilderness
The yurt sits on trails with a clear view of the Wheeler Peak Wilderness from its front porch — a compact alpine vantage that defines the site’s appeal.
THE CAMPSETUP
Semi‑Primitive Comfort for Small Groups
Inside the 16‑foot yurt are sleeping setups for up to six (two twins and two double futon sofas), a wood stove with wood provided, a dining area, and a basic kitchen with a three‑burner propane stove and some cooking supplies.
THE ACCESS
Hike‑ or Bike‑In with Help for Heavy Gear
Guests hike or mountain‑bike to the site; the operator provides a wagon to help move gear, and gear delivery (one trip out and one trip back) is available for a fee.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this stay is for — and who should look elsewhere.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
You must provide your own sleeping bag (a 30º or colder rating is recommended), food, and transport (hike or mountain bike) to the yurt.
The yurt includes pillows, fitted sheets and pillowcases, a wood stove (wood provided), a dining table and chairs, a kitchen area with some pots, pans and a three‑burner propane stove, and a propane lantern; there is a port‑a‑potty on site.
In summer the operator provides 15–25 gallons of water at the yurt; guests should still bring additional water as needed.
A wagon is provided to help move gear to the yurt; gear delivery is offered for $50 (one trip out and one trip back).
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How many people can sleep in the Little John Yurt?
The yurt accommodates up to six people using two twin and two double futon sofa beds.
Is the yurt available year‑round?
The yurt is available every day.
Do I need to bring a sleeping bag?
Yes — you must provide your own sleeping bag; a 30º or colder rating is recommended.
Are bedding and pillows provided?
Pillows, fitted sheets and pillowcases are provided; guests should bring any additional bedding or sleeping bags they require.
How do I get my gear to the yurt?
Guests typically hike or mountain‑bike to the yurt and can use the operator’s wagon to move gear; a paid gear delivery service (one trip out and one trip back) is available for $50.
What bathroom facilities are there?
The yurt site uses a Port‑A‑Potty rather than indoor plumbing.