The Pioneer Cabin Trail is one of the most iconic hikes near Ketchum, Idaho, rewarding hikers with sweeping views of the Pioneer Mountains and the historic stone cabin marked with the famous “The Higher You Get, The Higher You Get” sign. The trail is steep and challenging, but the alpine scenery makes the effort worthwhile.
About
The best time of year to hike is late June through September, when the snow has melted and wildflowers are in bloom. Dogs are welcome on the trail, but keep in mind the elevation gain and exposure can be tough on pets, so bring plenty of water and use caution on hot days. This is a very popular hike so expect to see crowds on weekends. I hiked this on a Thursday morning and only saw two other trail runners.
Which direction should I hike, clockwise or counterclockwise?
Pioneer Cabin Trail (#122)
Steep and well-shaded climb with switchbacks.
Beautiful Views the entire hike
Gets the hardest elevation gain done early while you’re fresh.
No water source for filtering
Long Gulch Trail (#123)
Longer, more gradual descent.
Exposed with no shade, less scenic, rockier
One water source for filtering at mile 5.8 (if doing the loop counterclockwise)
I hiked this loop counterclockwise, but if I were to do it again, I’d stick with an out-and-back on the Pioneer Trail. The Long Gulch descent was hot, rocky, and exposed, with little shade and limited views, making it my least favorite section. The steep drop followed by a tough climb before the final descent was exhausting and not worth repeating.
Elevation Profile
Trail Info
Distance: 9 miles (Loop)
Elevation gain: 3,000 ft
Time: 3-6 hours
Dog friendly? Yes, off leash
Kid friendly? No
Fees/Permits? None
Hiking to the Pioneer Cabin: What to Expect
The loop begins from the parking lot. Stay right for the Pioneer Trail.
You will hike on what seems like an old mining road. Cross a small stream.
The first 2 miles are well shaded with tall pine trees. I saw several Grouse in this area.
The trail steadily gains elevation as you work up several switchbacks.
Eventually, you the views open up and even thought you’ve been able to view Johnstone Peak for most of the hike, the best views are at the top of the ridge you’ve been hiking up. Now, you will be hiking through lots of sage. At 2.7 the trail splits left, and you will have hiked up 1800 ft so far.
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The trail winds its way up to another shelf-like area.
Now you should have great views of the valley you hiked up!
You are really close when you cross this meadow lined with rocks. Only a few more switchbacks to go from here.
Wow what a cool setting! I was disappointed at how smoky and hazy it was but it was still a very impressive area. Plus, I was the only one at the cabin!
Great info about this Pioneer Cabin!
I loved seeing these side-by-side photos of different seasons.
Such a cool spot!
Info about the Pioneer Cabin
The Pioneer Cabin is not a commercial lodging facility—it’s a historic alpine shelter built in 1937 by the Union Pacific Railroad. Originally intended as a ski hut, this rustic refuge sits perched at 9,400 ft, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Pioneer Mountains. The cabin is purely backcountry shelter, intended for rest—not comfortable lodging. There’s no water supply, no electricity, and minimal facilities.
While there are 6 bunk beds, you need to bring all your own gear for staying overnight comfortably. It is first-come, first-served.
Descent via Long Gulch Trail
Time to head back down. As mentioned, I decided to do the loop counterclockwise but I wouldn’t go this way again.
One of the many reasons I didn’t like the Long Gulch route was because of the big drop into the gulley, just to climb back out of it. See the grove of Aspens across the way? You’ll eventually be hiking over there. The climb doesn’t look hard from the photo, but trust me, it’ll kick your butt! First, drop down this very rocky slide area.
Once you drop down at the bottom of the gulley, at mile 5.8, you will cross the creek. This is a great spot to filter water and take a break before the next climb, if needed.
The only redeming quality about this section of Long Gulch trail is the views looking East, back to the ridgeline.
Otherwise from this point it is a long, hot, exposed trail all the way back to the car.
When the trail finally starts to descend, you will see this memorial in the trees. Continue following the ridge West.
And with that, you’re back to the parking lot!
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Trail Map
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Nearby Hike
Hiking the Norton Lake Trail – Ketchum, Idaho
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