The High Desert Nordic Association (HDNA) was organized in 1987 to foster an interest in cross-country skiing and any activities associated with it in south central Idaho. We work to improve the cross country skiing opportunities in the South Hills section of the Sawtooth National Forest.
The club has helped develop and maintain a 25-mile system of trails and grooms about 10 miles of those trails with equipment owned by Twin Falls County. There are no trail fees.
The club sponsors or helps with activities such as a Nordic Fair, Idaho Free Ski Day, Special Olympics, telemark clinics, and avalanche awareness clinics. Club members take part in a wide variety of activities during the season including day trips and overnight trips throughout southern and central Idaho. Annual club membership dues are $20 for single and $30 for a family. The club meets the second Wednesday of each month November through March.
ABOUT THE HUT
The Thompson Creek Hut, developed by the High Desert Nordic Association, with the U. S. Forest Service and Magic Mountain Ski Resort, provides cross country skiers an opportunity to enjoy a multi-day backcountry ski trip. The scenic terrain, in an area of open hillsides interspersed with groves of aspen and conifers, accommodates skiers of all skill levels. The hut is located in a grove of conifers for privacy and wind protection.
The hut is a wood framed tent with a wood floor. It is furnished with a wood stove, plywood bunks covered with thick foam pads, a propane cook stove, a propane lantern, and cooking utensils. The hut sleeps six comfortably. Renters bring food, a sleeping bag, clothing and personal items. The source of drinking water at the site is by melting snow.
ROADS AND PARKING
From the town of Hansen, travel 27 miles south up Rock Creek Canyon to Magic Mountain Ski Resort. The road is winding and narrow, so allow about one hour of driving time from Twin Falls. Watch for snow removal equipment and, as you approach Magic Mountain Resort, watch out for other traffic. Plan on arriving at Magic Mountain Resort before noon to allow for a leisurely trip to the Hut. Hut users should park in the 500 (Rogerson) Road turnout just across the main road from the Lodge.
The hut is about 3 miles from the parking area. You will be supplied with a map and directions when you register for an overnight stay. The hut is located on the Thompson Creek Trail. Trail signs along the route will help you find the hut. A map at the hut shows ski tour routes in the vicinity of the hut. Reservations can be made by calling the contact below. Fees are $20 per person per night for non-HDNA members and $10 per night for members. A minimum fee of $30 per night ($60 for nonmembers) is charged for the hut Friday and Saturday night and holidays.
CONTACT INFORMATION
Dennis Kincaid 208-420-7775 dennisckincaid@gmail.comWebsite: www.skihdna.org Facebook: High Desert Nordic Association November 2014
HDNA receives Stewardship Award from the Sawtooth National Forest:
We shall remember the words engraved on the plaque: "When we see land as a community to which we belong, we may begin to use it with love and respect." ALDO LEOPOLD
