RED RIVER LODGING FIELD GUIDE
Perched Above the Latir: Winter Nights in a 20‑Foot Yurt
A semi‑primitive winter yurt on Enchanted Forest Cross Country Ski Area trails for up to eight people — this guide explains the facilities, access, and what to pack.
Perched Above the Latir: Winter Nights in a 20‑Foot Yurt.
Adventure brief
Perched Above the Latir: Winter Nights in a 20‑Foot Yurt
The Latir 20‑foot yurt sits on a ledge above the trails near Red River, New Mexico, offering a semi‑primitive but comfortable backcountry shelter with a front‑porch view of the Latir Wilderness; in winter it’s accessible by ski or snowshoe and accommodates up to eight guests.
Located in the rugged Sangre de Cristo Mountains just outside Red River, New Mexico, the Latir 20-Foot Yurt offers a distinctive winter adventure that combines cozy shelter with the stark beauty of high-altitude wilderness. Standing at over 8,000 feet, the Latir Wilderness provides a pristine backdrop of snow-draped forests, frozen streams, and towering peaks that draw outdoor lovers seeking solitude and authentic connection to nature in winter’s grip. This 20-foot yurt is the perfect basecamp for exploring the area’s renowned winter sports or simply reveling in quiet woodlands blanketed in white.
The yurt itself is thoughtfully designed for winter stays, with insulated walls and a sturdy stove that keeps the interior warm against the chill. Its circular floor plan creates a spacious, light-filled environment with panoramic views of snow-capped pines and granite peaks. Unlike traditional cabins, yurts provide a unique blend of rustic charm and comfort without sacrificing immersion in the landscape. Located within Latir Wilderness Study Area, this site stands apart due to its remote setting just 15 minutes from downtown Red River, a historic mining town turned outdoor playground.
Red River serves as the ideal nearby hub, offering everything from gear rental shops to après-ski dining, yet the yurt’s location ensures visitors escape the bustle. Within easy reach are cross-country ski trails, snowshoe routes, and ice climbing at nearby ridges. Wildlife sightings are common; winter visitors might spot mule deer, snowshoe hares, or the elusive pine marten darting through dense lodgepole pines.
This winter yurt experience is a standout destination because it bridges the gap between backcountry camping and comfortable lodging. It appeals to skiers, snowshoers, and winter hikers seeking an off-grid refuge with no-compromise warmth and shelter. Guests can cook hearty meals on the stove, relax beneath a dome of stars, then wake to crisp mountain air and forest silence.
Whether you’re planning an extended winter getaway or a weekend off-the-grid escape, the Latir 20-Foot Yurt invites outdoor enthusiasts to slow down and absorb the seasonal rhythms of northern New Mexico’s high country. It’s a rare opportunity to experience wilderness winter with a touch of comfort and convenience close to Red River’s vibrant outdoor community.
Route Schematic
Route Schematic & Key Stops
Stops along the approach and stay, from the meeting point to the yurt ledge and back.
Enchanted Forest Cross Country Ski Area (meeting point)
The official meeting and access point; assemble gear here before heading onto the trails toward the yurt.
Trail approach
Ski or snowshoe in on local trails; use the provided large gear pulk to transport equipment or arrange the operator’s $50 gear delivery (subject to sled size limits).
Latir 20‑Foot Yurt (the ledge)
The yurt sits on a ledge with a front porch view; inside find a wood stove (wood provided), kitchen basics and sleeping for up to eight; the site uses a port‑a‑potty and water is from melted snow unless you bring bottled water.
This is backcountry lodging: you must provide your own transport to the yurt (ski or snowshoe in winter), bring your own bedding and a 0º (or colder) sleeping bag for winter; dogs are not allowed in this yurt during winter.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Front‑porch outlook on the Latir Wilderness
The yurt sits on a ledge with a direct view of the Latir Wilderness from its front porch, giving a compact backcountry basecamp feel while remaining close to groomed Enchanted Forest trails.
Semi‑primitive comfort for groups
A 20‑foot diameter yurt outfitted with a wood stove (wood provided), a dining table, kitchen area with a three‑burner propane stove, a propane lantern, a port‑a‑potty and sleeping space for up to eight on two twin and three double futon sofa beds.
Self‑transport and gear logistics
Guests must ski or snowshoe to the yurt in winter; the operator supplies a large gear pulk for hauling equipment and offers optional gear delivery for $50 (gear must fit in a 5x3x2 foot sled).
What the day feels like
What the stay feels like
Expect upscale camping rather than hotel service: arrive by ski or snowshoe, unload into a compact, wood‑stove‑heated communal space, cook on the propane stove, and sleep in futon beds you outfit with your own bedding; nights remain cold enough that a 0º (or colder) sleeping bag is recommended.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this yurt suits — and who should look elsewhere.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Bring your own bedding and a sleeping bag rated to 0º or colder, food, personal water (melting snow is used for drinking water in winter but operators recommend one gallon per person per day), and transport (ski or snowshoe); kitchenware, a three‑burner propane stove and a propane lantern are provided in the yurt.
In winter the operator supplies a large gear pulk to help move equipment; gear delivery is available for $50 — gear must fit within a 5x3x2 foot sled, so pack accordingly.
Heat is provided by a wood stove (wood provided); the yurt uses a port‑a‑potty and has a basic kitchen area — it remains a camping experience, not a hotel room.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How many people can stay in the Latir yurt?
Occupancy is up to eight people.
Are dogs allowed in the Latir yurt in winter?
No — dogs are not allowed in this yurt during winter; the operator notes another yurt (the Glade Yurt) for guests who wish to bring a pet.
What are the winter rates?
Winter 2024/2025 rates start at $100 (Sunday–Thursday), $140 (Friday & Saturday), and $180 for listed holidays (Thanksgiving, Christmas/New Year, Martin Luther King and Presidents' Day holidays).
Do I need to bring water?
Yes — drinking water in winter is obtained by melting snow, or you can bring bottled gallon jugs; the operator recommends one gallon per person per day to get started.
Is bedding provided?
No — guests must supply their own bedding and sleeping bags; a sleeping bag rated to 0º (or colder) is highly recommended for winter stays.
What cooking and lighting are available?
The yurt includes a kitchen area with some cooking supplies and a three‑burner propane stove, plus a propane lantern; guests should bring any additional food and personal cooking items they require.
Can I have my gear delivered?
Yes — the operator offers gear delivery for $50; gear must fit within a 5x3x2 foot sled.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-08-28T03:45:08.758Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.