The Ultimate Family Guide to Backcountry Yurts: What to Know & What to Pack
Backcountry yurts offer an incredible way for families to experience the wilderness while enjoying a cozy and unique shelter. If backpacking intimidates you this might be a good place to start! Whether you're skiing in for a winter adventure or hiking in for a summer retreat, staying in a yurt requires preparation. This guide will walk you through everything you need to pack and key things to know before your trip.
WHERE TO FIND BACKCOUNTRY YURTS:
If you're looking for a backcountry yurt to stay in, here are some great resources to start your search:
State and National Park Websites: Many parks offer yurts for rent, especially in the winter. Check recreation.gov
Outdoor Organizations: Groups like the Sierra Club, AMC, or local hiking clubs often manage yurts.
Rental Websites: Airbnb, Hipcamp, & VRBO list yurts in various locations.
Local Outfitters & Guide Services: Some outdoor gear shops and guiding services have yurt rentals.
Forest Service & BLM Land: Some yurts are managed by these agencies and can be booked online.
Be sure to check the booking requirements & availability, as some yurts fill up months in advance!
TIPS FOR FIRST-TIME YURT CAMPERS:
1. Research Your Yurt Location
Different yurts have varying levels of amenities. Some are rustic with no running water or electricity, while others may have solar power. Read reviews and check official websites for details. Routes to the yurt can change depending on the season, adding milage or difficulty.
2. Arrive Early
Give yourself plenty of daylight to get to the yurt and settle in. Setting up camp in the dark & doing camp chores can be challenging, especially in winter conditions.
3. Pack Smart and Light
Since you'll be carrying everything in, prioritize essentials and avoid unnecessary bulk. Use sleds or pulk sleds during the winter to help transport gear . Yurts provide different levels of amenities and equipment (sleeping pads, dishes, ect) so check in advance.
4. Learn How to Use the Wood Stove
If your yurt has a wood stove, familiarize yourself with how to safely start and maintain a fire. Proper ventilation and fire safety are crucial. Yurts often have no safety barrier around the stove and can be dangerous for small children. The stove will need to be stoked every hour or two during cold months, especially throughout the night.
5. Bring a Backup Light Source
Headlamps and lanterns are essential since many yurts lack electricity. Bring extra batteries or a solar charger for extended stays.
5. Check Snow Reports
When there is snow you don’t have to pack in all your water. You can fill a pot with fresh snow and set it onto of the wood stove to melt. I like to do this right as I get to the yurt as it takes some time to get a few pot fulls of snow into water.
SAFETY & WEATHER CONSIDERATIONS:
1. Check the Weather & Avalanche Forecast
Be prepared for sudden weather changes, especially in mountainous regions. Pack accordingly to handle cold temperatures, snow, or rain. Always check avalanche forecasts and potential avalanche paths when planning your route before entering the backcountry.
2. Know Emergency Procedures
Have a plan for communication & evacuation in case of emergencies. Some areas may have no cell service, so consider bringing a satellite communicator or emergency beacon.
3. Keep an Eye on Fire Safety
If using a wood stove, make sure the flue is open, and never leave a fire unattended. Keep fire extinguishers or a bucket of water nearby. If you are going to stay with a young toddler or baby have a plan for how to keep them away from the wood stove.
4. Be Aware of Wildlife
Store food properly to avoid attracting animals. Some yurts have bear-proof containers—use them if available.
5. Stay Hydrated and Nourished
Cold weather can dehydrate you quickly. Ensure you have access to filtered or boiled water and pack high-energy, high-calorie snacks to maintain warmth and stamina.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOUR STAY:
1. Check Yurt Amenities
Not all backcountry yurts are the same, and amenities vary. Some have wood stoves and stocked firewood, while others require you to bring your own. Verify whether the yurt has:
A wood stove (and if firewood is provided)
Sleeping pads or bunks
A cooking stove or oven
An outhouse or bathroom situation
Access to clean water or if you need to bring your own
Electricity
2. Plan for the Journey In & Out
In the winter, you may need to ski or snowshoe in.
Consider how you'll transport gear, especially with kids.
We have made the mistake of skiing into a yurt for a few days (with only slippers to change into after skiing). By our last day there all the snow had melted. It was too far to hike out in our slippers, and we couldn’t ski out. We had to hike in our ski boots carrying skis out.
3. Be Prepared for Temperature Swings
Nights can be much colder than expected, even in summer.
Wood stoves can make the yurt very warm, so layers are key to being comfortable.
4. Leave No Trace
Pack out all trash and leftover food.
Follow the yurt's specific cleaning and departure instructions.
5. Bring Extra Fun & Comfort
Lightweight board games, a deck of cards, or books can make downtime more enjoyable.
Consider a small treat like hot cocoa to make it feel extra special.
PACKING LIST FOR A BACKCOUNTRY YURT TRIP:
Gear & Equipment:
Backpacks or Sleds: For carrying gear in the winter, a sled can be helpful.
Navigation Tools: Map, compass, and/or GPS device.
Headlamps & Extra Batteries: Yurts may not have electricity.
Sleeping Bags & Pads: Even if the yurt has beds, a warm sleeping bag is a must.
First Aid Kit: Always be prepared for minor injuries.
Repair Kit & Multi-Tool: Useful for fixing gear on the go.
Fire Starter & Matches/Lighter: If the yurt has a wood stove, you'll need a way to light it.
Clothing:
Layered Clothing System: Base layers, insulating layers, and waterproof outer layers. Dry base layers for sleeping.
Warm Hats & Gloves: Even inside, yurts can be chilly.
Extra Socks: Keep feet dry and warm.
Camp Shoes or Slippers: Great for inside the yurt to keep feet warm and give boots a break.
Food & Cooking Essentials:
Portable Stove & Fuel: If the yurt doesn't have a cooking stove.
Cookware & Utensils: Lightweight pots, pans, plates, and cutlery.
Food & Snacks: Bring enough for your stay, plus extra in case of delays.
Water Filtration System: Streams and snowmelt need to be purified.
Cooler or Food Storage: Some yurts have critter-proof storage, but always check.
Other Essentials:
Toilet Paper & Wag Bags: Some yurts have outhouses; others require you to pack out waste.
Garbage Bags: Pack out all trash.
Entertainment: Books, games, or small toys to keep little ones busy.
Backcountry yurt trips offer an amazing way to connect with nature while enjoying the comforts of a shelter. With the right gear and preparation, your family can have a cozy, fun, and safe adventure. Have you stayed in a yurt before? Let us know your best tips in the comments!
