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When we think of the wilderness, we normally imagine a vastness without anything around. But turns out, there’s an entire infrastructure of cozy mountain refuges that allow premium access to remote trails and virgin powder. When staying in a backcountry hut, there’s unique opportunities for outdoor activities while bunking up in a comfortable shelter.
Below are some of the organizations around the world that maintain these havens. Some activities they support include alpine mountaineering, mountain biking, climbing, spelunking, skiing, hiking, equestrian, and kayaking. The clubs are wonderful resources for education, training, and social gatherings.
Most of them are either non-profit or government run and rely heavily on volunteer support. If you fall in love with a location or have one close by, look into giving back to this amazing network.
If you know of other huts that are not listed, please send us a message!.
Europe has no doubt the most robust and well-maintained outdoor infrastructure anywhere in the world. From full-service huts providing heat, hot food, even saunas and wine cellars, to rustic cabins (or bivouacs, as some say), there’s something for every adventure.
Spain: Spanish Mountain Federation
Andorra: Andorran Mountain Federation
Italy: Club Alpino Italiano
France: GÎTES d'ÉTAPE et REFUGES
Finland: Metsähallitus
Germany: German Alpine Club (DAV refuges)
Switzerland: Swiss Alpine Club
Austria: Austrian Alpine Club
Norway: Norwegian Touring Club (DNT)
Sweden: Swedish Touring Club (STF)
Ireland, Scotland, England: Mountain Bothies Association
Unlike Europe, many huts in America are privately owned by touring companies or non-profit clubs. The best place to start is by looking at the US Forest Service reservation website.
Lake Tahoe area: Check out the full article here
Yosemite: Ostrander Ski Hut & Tuolumne Ski Hut
Lassen NP: Mccarthy Point Lookout
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