Alder Guard Station
Alder Guard Station is located 2 miles north of the town of South Fork along Alder Creek in the Rio Grande National Forest. The guard station was constructed in 1910 and was the residence and office for the local ranger district. Today the historic cabin is a comfortable getaway for guests seeking relaxation and recreation in south central Colorado.
Visitors may reserve the cabin for a maximum of five nights to allow others the opportunity to rent the cabin.
The two story cabin is furnished with 2 beds in each bedroom (2 bedrooms), and a futon on the first floor. The kitchen is equipped with a table and chairs, electric stove, refrigerator, cooking utensils and some pots and pans.
The bathroom has hot water and a flush toilet. A wood stove is the only source of heat for the guard station. Picnic tables are also on site. Firewood is not provided; please bring all the firewood you will need for your stay.
Although the cabin has several amenities, guests do need to provide their own sleeping bags, linens, towels, dish soap, matches, cooking gear, first aid kit, toilet paper and garbage bags.
Lighting is available, however guests are advised to bring an additional light source in case of emergency.
Occasionally the water well overflows due to ground water pressures. The water then may not test safely. To avoid this you are encouraged to bring spare drinking/cooking water.
Need to Know
- The combination to the cabin is provided in your confirmation letter. If you have any questions, please call the Divide Ranger District at (719) 657-3321. Office hours are 8 a.m.- 4:30 p.m., Monday- Friday.
- Pets are only allowed outside the guard station; please clean up after your pet
- Do not leave food or trash outside the guard station; bears have been spotted in the area
- All garbage and food must be packed out; do not burn garbage in the fire pit or wood stove
- Do not place tents or vehicles on the lawn
- The guard station is a no-smoking facility
- Please clean guard station upon departure
- Make sure guard station is locked upon departure
- Horses are restricted to the corral area near the barn; only weed free hay/feed for the horses - no grazing allowed; if you bring horses, please contact the District office at (719) 657-3321
- Forest Service employees use the horse pasture adjacent to the guard station for official duties
- Learn more about theRio Grande National Forest.
- Don't Move Firewood: Prevent the spread of tree-killing organisms by obtaining firewood at or near your destination and burning it on-site. For more information visit dontmovefirewood.org.
Occasionally the water well overflows due to ground water pressures. The water then may not test safely. To avoid this you are encouraged to bring spare drinking/cooking water.
Natural Features
The Rio Grande National Forest encompasses of a myriad of ecosystems ranging from high elevation desert to the craggy peaks of the majestic Sangre de Cristo Mountains.
The Alder Guard Station, located in the Divide Ranger District, is surrounded by mixed conifer forests, aspen groves, and wilderness areas, though its immediate vicinity is manicured, with a fenced lawn.
Recreation
The Alder Bench trailhead is located north of the guard station on Forest Road 610. In the past, this trail was used by stockmen taking livestock up to the high country towards Blue Park and Long Park.
In the fall, visitors use this trail to hunt elk and deer as this area is considered winter range for both. The 6.5 mile trail is also open for off-road single track riding, horse and foot travel, and mountain biking, but can be very rocky and steep in places.
Anglers will enjoy the scenic backdrop of Alder Creek when casting lines for a variety of trout.
Contact Information
Mailing
13308 US 160 Del Norte CO 81132
Physical
FSR 610 South Fork CO 81154
Rental Options
Learn more about gear rental options for your trip
Driving Directions
From South Fork, Colorado: Travel approximately .5 miles on Highway 149 towards Creede. After crossing the Rio Grande River bridge, turn east (right) on County Road 15 (North River Road) and go approximately 1 mile to Forest Road 610. Turn north (left) on Forest Road 610 and go 2 miles. Alder Guard Station is on the left less than 50 yards from Forest Road 610.
