RED RIVER LODGING FIELD GUIDE
A 20‑Foot Hike‑In Yurt Perched Above Red River: Semi‑Primitive Comfort at Enchanted Forest
An upscale, hike‑or‑bike stay in a 20' yurt on one of the highest points of Enchanted Forest Cross Country Ski Area—this guide explains what to expect, what’s provided, and how to plan your trip.
A 20‑Foot Hike‑In Yurt Perched Above Red River: Semi‑Primitive Comfort at Enchanted Forest.
The Long John is a 20‑foot diameter, hike‑in camping yurt sited at one of the highest points on the Enchanted Forest trails above Red River, New Mexico. Semi‑primitive but comfortable, it sleeps up to eight and combines tentlike living with amenities — a wood stove (with wood supplied), a small kitchen area with a three‑burner propane stove and basic kitchenware, pillows and flat sheets, and a port‑a‑potty — while still asking guests to provide their own sleeping bags, food and transport to the site.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Perched high on the trails with broad views
The yurt sits at one of the highest points on the operator’s trail network, offering commanding nearby views from the site — a rare place to camp above the valley while remaining within a trail system.
Upscale camping: beds, stove and basic kitchen setup
Long John is outfitted for group comfort: it accommodates up to eight with four twin and two double futon sofa beds, supplies pillows and flat sheets, provides a wood stove for heat (wood supplied), a dining table, hammock and a modest kitchen area with some cooking supplies, a three‑burner propane stove and a propane lantern.
Hike‑ or bike‑in, with a wagon or paid gear delivery
Access is on foot or mountain bike; the operator provides a wagon to help ferry gear and offers a gear‑delivery service for a fee (one trip out and one return) with size limits to fit in the back of a Polaris Ranger.
What the day feels like
What the stay feels like
Expect a backcountry‑adjacent experience: arrive at the Enchanted Forest trailhead, carry or cart your kit along forested trails to a roomy circular yurt that feels more like an upgraded campsite than a hotel. Nights are heated by a wood stove (wood provided), daylight is spent around a simple kitchen and table, and comforts such as pillows and sheets are on hand — but you still sleep in your own sleeping bag, prepare your own meals and manage your own gear.
THE SETTING
Perched high on the trails with broad views
The yurt sits at one of the highest points on the operator’s trail network, offering commanding nearby views from the site — a rare place to camp above the valley while remaining within a trail system.
THE COMFORTS
Upscale camping: beds, stove and basic kitchen setup
Long John is outfitted for group comfort: it accommodates up to eight with four twin and two double futon sofa beds, supplies pillows and flat sheets, provides a wood stove for heat (wood supplied), a dining table, hammock and a modest kitchen area with some cooking supplies, a three‑burner propane stove and a propane lantern.
THE ACCESS
Hike‑ or bike‑in, with a wagon or paid gear delivery
Access is on foot or mountain bike; the operator provides a wagon to help ferry gear and offers a gear‑delivery service for a fee (one trip out and one return) with size limits to fit in the back of a Polaris Ranger.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this stay suits — and who should look elsewhere.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Arrive at the Enchanted Forest Cross Country Ski Area to begin your approach to the yurt.
Bring your own sleeping bag (a 30°F or colder rating is recommended), food and personal supplies; pillows, flat sheets and pillowcases are provided.
A wagon is provided to help move gear; paid gear delivery is available for one outbound and one return trip — gear must fit in the back of a Polaris Ranger (approx. 36 x 54 x 11 inches).
In summer the operator provides 15–25 gallons of water at the yurt; a port‑a‑potty is on site and basic kitchen items, stove and a propane lantern are supplied.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How many people does the Long John yurt sleep?
The yurt accommodates up to eight people with four twin beds and two double futon sofa beds.
Is there heat in the yurt?
Yes — heat is provided by a wood stove and the operator supplies firewood.
Do I need to bring bedding and food?
Pillows, flat sheets and pillowcases are provided, but guests must bring their own sleeping bag (recommended rating: 30°F or colder) and all food.
Is there running water or a bathroom?
The yurt has a port‑a‑potty on site; in summer the operator supplies 15–25 gallons of water, but it’s wise to bring additional water as needed.
Can I have my gear delivered?
Yes — gear delivery is available for a fee (one trip out and one trip back); note that gear must fit in the back of a Polaris Ranger (approx. 36 x 54 x 11 inches).
Are kitchen items provided?
Basic kitchen items — pots, pans, plates, silverware — plus a three‑burner propane cook stove and a propane lantern are provided in the yurt.