MOAB LODGING FIELD GUIDE
Gold Basin Yurt: A Winter Refuge at 10,000 Feet in the La Sals
A winter-only 20-foot yurt accessed by a short 1.5-mile trek from the Geyser Pass trailhead, this guide clarifies what to expect on-site and how to plan a backcountry stay among aspens and high peaks.
Gold Basin Yurt: A Winter Refuge at 10,000 Feet in the La Sals.
Nestled among quaking aspens at roughly 10,000 feet, the Gold Basin yurt is a winter-only backcountry lodging option that places guests on the doorstep of the largest peaks of the La Sal Mountains. The cozy, 20-foot structure—operated by Talking Mountain Yurts—sits near the end of Gold Basin Road and is reached by a short 1½-mile tour from the Geyser Pass parking area and trailhead, making it a compact yet remote base for winter touring and quiet overnight stays.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Aspen Grove at High Elevation
Perched amid quaking aspens at about 10,000 feet near the end of Gold Basin Road, the yurt combines alpine solitude with the visual drama of the La Sal range.
A Short Approach to Big Backcountry
A brief 1½-mile tour from the Geyser Pass parking area and trailhead brings you to the yurt’s doorstep, affording direct access to winter backcountry touring among the La Sal Mountains’ largest peaks.
Cozy, Well-Equipped Winter Yurt
The 20-foot yurt sleeps up to eight guests and is outfitted with a fully stocked kitchen, dining table and chairs, a wood-burning stove, and a small library with games—configured with two bunks and two large cots with sleeping pads.
What the day feels like
What a Stay Feels Like
The sequence is compact and elemental: a winter approach from the Geyser Pass lot, a short climb through aspens and snow to a sturdy 20-foot yurt, then immediate access to wide winter terrain. Inside, the wood-burning stove, stocked kitchen and communal sleeping layout create a focused, backcountry household for groups heading out on skis or snowshoes to explore the La Sal ridgelines.
THE SETTING
Aspen Grove at High Elevation
Perched amid quaking aspens at about 10,000 feet near the end of Gold Basin Road, the yurt combines alpine solitude with the visual drama of the La Sal range.
THE ACCESS
A Short Approach to Big Backcountry
A brief 1½-mile tour from the Geyser Pass parking area and trailhead brings you to the yurt’s doorstep, affording direct access to winter backcountry touring among the La Sal Mountains’ largest peaks.
THE COMFORTS
Cozy, Well-Equipped Winter Yurt
The 20-foot yurt sleeps up to eight guests and is outfitted with a fully stocked kitchen, dining table and chairs, a wood-burning stove, and a small library with games—configured with two bunks and two large cots with sleeping pads.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this stay suits—and who it doesn’t—based on on-site limits and the winter approach.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Guests should consult the operator’s What to bring/Amenities list. The yurt provides sleeping pads on two large cots, but bedding is not supplied; pack sleeping bags and personal winter gear suitable for 10,000-foot conditions.
The yurt includes a fully stocked kitchen with necessary cooking equipment, a dining area, a wood-burning stove for heat, and a small library with games.
Access is seasonal (winter only) with a short 1½-mile approach from the Geyser Pass parking area; plan travel timing and route choices with winter conditions in mind.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
When is Gold Basin Yurt available?
The yurt is available only during the winter season.
How far is the hike to the yurt from the trailhead?
The yurt is reached by a 1½-mile tour from the Geyser Pass parking area and trailhead.
How many people can the yurt accommodate?
The yurt accommodates up to eight guests.
What is the sleeping configuration inside the yurt?
Sleeping arrangements include two bunks—each with one top and two bottom positions—and two large cots with sleeping pads, for a total capacity of eight.
Is bedding provided?
No; bedding is not supplied—guests should bring their own sleeping bags and bedding.
What amenities are provided inside the yurt?
The yurt includes a fully stocked kitchen, dining table and chairs, a wood-burning stove, and a small library with games.
Who operates the Gold Basin Yurt?
The yurt is operated by Talking Mountain Yurts.