McNamara Hut

McNamara Hut winter

Built in 1982, McNamara hut was one of the original two huts in the 10th Mountain system (the other is Margy's, built during the same summer). The hut is a memorial to Margy McNamara (as Margy's Hut is as well). Funds to build the hut were donated by Margy's husband Robert, who served as secretary of defense. The hut is owned by 10th Mountain and is only open during the winter season due to a nearby elk herd

Layout and capacity: McNamara Hut is a two-level hut with four distinct sleeping areas. Bunk room that sleeps 4 downstairs along with seating cushions adjacent to heat stove that can accommodate 1-2 people, 1 private room with a double bed plus 10 single beds in a communal sleeping room upstairs. Capacity 16.

Hut Location: Located in Burnt Hole deep in the forest on the north side of Bald Knob at 10,360', the McNamara Hut has a cozy secluded feeling that lends itself to sipping tea by the wood burner or exploring the nearby forest. You'll find good intermediate ski touring on Bald Knob, and experts can strike out on long tours east towards the Continental Divide. [locator map]

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  • Winter Trails & Info

Maps:

Dates Open: Summer: Closed. Winter: Thanksgiving through 30 April

Owned By: 10th Mountain Division Hut Association Oven: woodburning Sauna: No

The main winter route into the McNamara Hut follows a jeep trail up to the hut. The lower sectons of the trail are crossed by other popular day use trails so be mindful of signs and blue diamonds at the different intersections.

The hut can also be reached from the Benedict Huts but half of this trail passes through a Primitive Wilderness Area and we are unable to mark the trail at all. This trail is rarely traveled and should only be attempted by experienced backcountry travelers.

Winter Trail Access

  • Trailhead: Hunter Creek, Elevation: 8,380' Route: Via Van Horn Park Full Route Description Total Mileage: 5.7
  • Trailhead: Upper Hunter Creek, Elevation: 8,380' Route: Via Van Horn Park Full Route Description Total Mileage: 4.8
  • Trailhead: Margy's Hut Elevation: 11,300' Route: Via Spruce Creek Full Route Description Total Mileage: 8.2
  • Trailhead: Benedict Huts, Elevation: 10,360'' Route: Not a 10th Mountain suggested route. Due to Forest Service Primitive Wilderness designation, no cleared trail or trail markings are allowed in the No Name Creek drainage. The route between the McNamara and Benedict Huts is very difficult and is rarely skied in either direction. Total Mileage: 8