Of course, today’s universal demands make it impossible for most of us to do so, but there is good news: the Pagosa Hut and Trail System of Colorado offers three modern, yet rustic huts (or cabins) for rent on a nightly reservation basis. Perhaps this summer is your time to experience true mountain living — if even briefly.

The hut and trail system is located on 50 square miles of the Pagosa Ranger District of the San Juan National Forest, just a few miles northwest of Pagosa Springs. The Pagosa Area Trails Council owns and operates the huts, with plans of future system expansion. Once complete, the system will include several huts and 75 miles of trails. With a maximum occupancy of eight people, all huts are accessible by motorized and non-motorized travelers, and nightly rentals cost just $60 per hut.

“The huts provide a unique opportunity for people,” said Phyllis Wheaton, visitor information service assistant for the Pagosa Ranger district. “The cabins have privacy and seclusion. People enjoy being in the woods, without the hassle of a tent. At sometime, everyone has the idea of having a cabin in the woods without any neighbors or dogs barking in the middle of the night.”

The Turkey Springs hut is the first of the system. Shaded by large ponderosa pines, it sits near the historic Turkey Springs Guard Station, which sheltered solitary forest rangers in the days before World War II. Tucked amid forest and scenic mountain views, the rustic one-room cabin is equipped with propane stoves and heaters, two bunks and a single bed (with mattresses), a sleeping loft with room for five (no mattresses) and an enclosed outdoor toilet.

The second cabin — or Hotz Springs Hut — has a beautiful view of Pagosa Peak. It comes equipped with a covered front deck, fluorescent lighting, a propane stove, wood stove, and an indoor composting toilet. Sleeping arrangements include four double bunks with mattresses.

The Monument Park Hut is nestled on the side of a ridge with splendid views of the Continental Divide. This equally modern hut includes a covered front deck, fluorescent lighting, a propane stove, wood stove, an indoor composting toilet and solar panels for power generation. This hut also has four double bunks with mattresses.

All huts include pots and pans, table and chairs or benches, but no water or bedding. Visitors will want to bring cups and cooking utensils; water for cooking, cleaning and drinking; and a warm sleeping bag for nighttime comfort.

The Turkey Springs hut is accessible by automobile. Vehicle access is not allowed beyond the Hotz Springs and Monument Park gates, though huts are less than 1.4 miles from their respective gates.

Travel between huts is possible via an extensive, all-season trail system maintained by the U.S. Forest Service. The trail from Turkey Springs Hut to Hotz Springs Hut is approximately three miles. Travel from Hotz Springs to the Monument Park Hut is another seven miles. Of course, mileage can differ, depending on chosen routes.

To reserve a rental, hut users will need to provide their desired arrival and departure dates, and the number of people in the party. Each party must include at least one adult. Occupancy is from 2 p.m. on the arrival date, to noon the following day. To make reservations up to a year in advance, call the Pagosa Ranger District office at (970) 264-2268, Monday through Friday.