Flat Mountain Yurt

The Flat Mountain Yurt lies below the ridge that separates the upper Wolf Creek drainage and the Chama River basin. It is a 5.2 mile ski that catches the Continental Divide trail then heads up the Wolf Creek drainage to the road that the yurt lies close to. It starts along FR 119 for about a mile. Then one turns south to access the Continental Divide Trail heading away from Cumbres Pass to the west. One stays on the CD Trail until just before the Wolf Creek drainage (2.65 miles, 10,200’). There are lots of great views, interesting terrain, and good skiing while travelling along the CD trail. At this point one heads up the drainage all of the way until it reaches the Forest Road that the Yurt is on (FR 118C, 10.950’). Skins can make this stretch easier. When in the drainage you take the easiest route of travel remaining more or less near the bottom. At the junction with FR 118C one turns north and follows the road, which is mostly level, to the meadow in which the Yurt resides. Of course, the route is the reverse for returning to Cumbres Pass. The return is a quality backcountry ski.

This route does require winter backcountry travel skills. In particular, there is a terrain challenge before and after a creek crossing (2 miles) that may require side stepping and one at a time travel. This Yurt is potentially challenging to pull a sled into or out of because of numerous side hill sections. From the yurt one can access the ridge that runs from Cumbres to Wolf Creek Passes. The views into the Chama River Basin from this ridge are breathtaking. The skiing includes the 2500-3000' drop off into this basin. Extended touring intermingled with turns is a highlight of this yurt.

In summer, the yurt is a 2.3 mile hike/bike from the trailhead and lies within a half mile of the Continental Divide trail. This section of the CD trail goes from Flat Mountain to Cumbres Pass and has great hiking and biking with spectacular views, abundant wildlife, wildflowers, and a quality single track trail! The ridge access nearest the yurt has a great view of the sunset.

What is a Yurt A yurt is a Mongolian dwelling dating back to the times of Marco Polo. It is round with a lattice-work wall, tension cable, compression ring, and conical roof. This simple yet effective design is renowned for its warmth and stability.

Rates and Policies

Reservations may be made on-line or by telephoning the Southwest Nordic Center at (575) 758-4761. Full payment is due at the time of the reservation. SNC begins taking winter reservations on August 1 at 8:00 AM. Summer reservations begin on March 1 at 8:00 AM. Availability is on a first come basis.

Cancellations made over 30 days prior to reserved date may transfer to any available date in the same “season” (winter goes to May 15, summer to December 1) for free. Cancellations made two weeks to 30 days prior to the reserved date may be re-booked during the same season for a $25 ($26.87 w/ tax) surcharge. Cancellations made within the final two weeks receive no recompense. However, if cancelled dates are re-booked then dates may transfer to any available dates in the same “season” (winter goes to May 15, summer to December 1) for free, or receive a refund equal to 80% of the original cost. It does not matter why you need to change dates. No dates carry over to other seasons!

Prices and Offerings Yurt Rental – This is an unguided option which includes exclusive use of the yurt. This is for persons familiar with the area and/or capable of route finding, avalanche avoidance, and handling of group dynamics. Dogs are not allowed from Nov 1- May 15. Yurts are only available with a two night minimum. Yurt to Yurt and Yurt to Yurt to Yurt tours meet this requirement.

Early Season (Nov 1-Dec 15) $80/night/group, Mon.-Thurs. $116/night/group, Fri., Sat., & Sun

Winter (Dec 16- March 31) $100/night/group, Mon.-Thurs. $145/night/group, Fri., Sat., & Sun

Spring (April 1- May 15) $80/night/group, Mon.-Thurs. $116/night/group, Fri., Sat., & Sun

Summer/Fall (May 16-Oct 31) $80/night/group, Mon.-Thurs. $100/night/group, Fri., Sat., & Sun