RED RIVER LODGING FIELD GUIDE
A Wood‑Stove Winter Night Beneath Wheeler Peak: Little John 16‑Foot Yurt
A semi‑primitive winter yurt stay at Enchanted Forest Cross Country Ski Area — the essentials, logistics, and what to pack for a cold‑weather backcountry lodging experience.
A Wood‑Stove Winter Night Beneath Wheeler Peak: Little John 16‑Foot Yurt.
Perched on groomed trails with a front porch that looks toward the Wheeler Peak Wilderness, the 16‑foot Little John Yurt at Enchanted Forest Cross Country Ski Area is an upscale take on winter camping: a comfortable, communal shelter for up to six that combines a wood stove, basic kitchen setup and futon beds with the realities of backcountry access and self‑sufficiency.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Front‑Porch Outlook on Wheeler Peak Wilderness
The yurt sits on the ski area trails and offers direct vistas toward the Wheeler Peak Wilderness from its front porch, making short breaks between chores or at dusk especially memorable.
Semi‑Primitive Comfort: Stove, Beds and a Kitchen Nook
Inside, find sleeping capacity for up to six (two twin and two double futon sofa beds), a wood stove with firewood provided, a dining table, basic cooking supplies and a three‑burner propane stove — all the essentials for a winter yurt stay without hotel services.
Self‑Transport and Pulk Support for Winter Gear
Winter access is by ski or snowshoe; the operation supplies a large gear pulk to help ferry gear to the yurt and offers optional gear delivery for a fee, which matters when you’re packing for sub‑zero nights.
What the day feels like
What a Night in Little John Feels Like
The stay is deliberate: you ski or snowshoe in across groomed trails, haul a sled of gear or take the optional delivery, stack wood and tend a central wood stove, cook on a propane range, then sleep on futons inside a snug, circular shelter. There is no room service — it’s camping upgraded with practical comforts rather than a winter lodge — and daytime light and mountain views are the reward for self‑reliant provisioning and a short outdoor commute.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who should book — and who should look elsewhere.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Bring your own sleeping bag rated 0°F (0º) or colder, bedding, food and personal items; bedding and 0º sleeping bags are recommended for winter nights.
Drinking water in winter is obtained by melting snow or by bringing bottled gallons; the operator recommends one gallon per person per day. Bring all food for your stay; a kitchen set and stove are provided but meals are self‑prepared.
Access the yurt on skis or snowshoes in winter; the operation supplies a large gear pulk and offers gear delivery for a fee (gear must fit within a 5×3×2 ft sled).
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How many people can stay in the yurt?
The Little John Yurt accommodates up to six people with two twin and two double futon sofa beds.
Are dogs allowed in the yurt in winter?
Dogs are not allowed in winter at this yurt; the operator notes a pet‑friendly alternative at a different yurt (Glade Yurt).
Is heat provided and how is the yurt heated?
Heat is provided by a wood stove; firewood is supplied by the operator.
Do I need to bring a sleeping bag and bedding?
Yes — guests must provide their own sleeping bags (a 0º or colder rating is highly recommended) and any additional bedding.
Can you deliver gear to the yurt?
Yes — gear delivery is available for a fee (stated as $50); otherwise a large gear pulk is provided for guests to transport their own gear and items must fit a 5×3×2 ft sled.
Is drinking water provided?
In winter drinking water comes from melting snow unless you bring bottled gallons; the recommendation is one gallon per person per day to get started.