OutReserve

Elwood Cabin

Elwood Cabin
Elwood Cabin Wood Shed
Front of Elwood Cabin
Elwood Vista
Elwood Cabin Outhouse

About Elwood Cabin

Elwood Cabin sits in a saddle along the San Juan Mountains overlooking an open meadow, offering guests a unique lodging opportunity. The cabin was built in 1911 by the Mountain States Telephone Company as a "line shack" to support crews maintaining the transcontinental telephone line. Remnants of this old telephone line are still found along Iron Creek to the southeast. The cabin was also used as a Forest Service Station from 1950 until 1962, serving as living quarters for Forest Service employees who worked on numerous projects in the area. Although the phone line has been abandoned, today the cabin is a high-altitude getaway for guests seeking relaxation and recreation in south-central Colorado. During summer months the cabin can be accessed by motorized travel. During winter months access to the cabin is by snowmobiles, cross country skiing or snow shoeing.

Number of accommodations: 1

Seasonal information

2026 (Current year)

2026 Season availability

Current season
Upcoming seasons
Past seasons
Closed periods
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Currently open - Jun 1 to Oct 31

5106, Loop: ELWOOD

Price not available
🏠 Cabin Unavailable

Site Details

Up to 6 guests
Shade
Surface: Gravel
View Site Details

Reviews (36)

What Guests Are Saying

Elwood Cabin offers a beautiful and cozy alpine setting, with many guests appreciating its charm, cleanliness, and well-maintained facilities. However, there are concerns regarding the 7-day cancellation policy, especially for winter trips affected by unpredictable snow conditions. Some visitors also reported issues with rodents and access challenges due to snow drifts, but overall, many express a strong desire to return.

Review Summary

4.2
36 reviews
5
72.2%
26
4
5.6%
2
3
5.6%
2
2
0.0%
0
1
16.7%
6

Josh K

Verified

January 24, 2020 Stayed at: 5106, Loop: ELWOOD

5

Loved it. Very well maintained. Had a great trip. Will return.

Josh K

Verified

January 24, 2020 Stayed at: 5106, Loop: ELWOOD

5

Loved it. Very well maintained. Had a great trip. Will return.

Sheila S

Verified

January 15, 2020 Stayed at: 5106, Loop: ELWOOD

5

Prep for all kids of weather. Take a hike into Crater Lake and leave early to do so. The walk out is harder than in. Totally worth it. Ride 4 wheelers. There are hrs and hrs of roads to explore. GI to Platoro Lodge for a great meal. Enjoy😁

Sheila S

Verified

January 15, 2020 Stayed at: 5106, Loop: ELWOOD

5

Prep for all kids of weather. Take a hike into Crater Lake and leave early to do so. The walk out is harder than in. Totally worth it. Ride 4 wheelers. There are hrs and hrs of roads to explore. GI to Platoro Lodge for a great meal. Enjoy😁

Dave G

Verified

December 7, 2019 Stayed at: 5106, Loop: ELWOOD

5

I wouldn't change a thing. primitive and rustic with great views.

Dave G

Verified

December 7, 2019 Stayed at: 5106, Loop: ELWOOD

5

I wouldn't change a thing. primitive and rustic with great views.

Location Elwood Cabin

Address:
15571 County Road T.5
La Jara, CO, 81140
United States

Latitude & Longitude: 37.4042 / -106.639

Elevation: 3517 feet

Nearby Campgrounds

Nearby destinations


Last updated: June 4, 2026

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Managed by USDA Forest Service