All About Yurts

Yurts are a modern adaptation of the shelters used for centuries by the nomads of central Asia. Often compared to tents, yurts are actually larger, stronger and more durable, with each of the yurts at Phillips Brook Backcountry Recreation area are 20 feet in diameter, sleeping six comfortably and complete with the ideal backcountry kitchen. The yurt’s circular shape makes it ideal for the backcountry to handle both snowloads and wind—snow slides off the roof and wind moves right around the yurt. The shape also assists greatly with the heating and cooling of the yurt. Each yurt at Phillips Backcountry Area is equipped with a woodstove, which will keep the yurt warm throughout the night if you do it right. There is an insulation layer next to the outer vinyl cover but the yurt will cool to the outside temperature at night if there is no fire in the wood stove. Our yurts also feature big decks for relaxing and enjoying the view.

Water There is no drinking water at the yurts. Bring your own supply, have us bring in 5 gal for you, or use snow or stream or pond water properly treated before use. In winter, melt snow for water using the woodstove and big snowmelt pot. Boil any book or pond water you want to drink. We try to place the yurts near summer water supplies but you should plan on bringing drinking water with you. During all seasons we strongly urge you to boil and/or filter the water or snow you collect. 

Pets Dogs are welcome guests. The yurts and trails were planned and located by me and my great MacKenzie River Husky “Uncas”. His spirit of adventure invites other dogs to enjoy Phillips Brook and its mountains as much as he did. We just ask that you be considerate of others and obey game laws. If you bring a dog or other pet including horses you must rent the yurt for exclusive use. Dogs do not need to be on a leash but they should be under voice command. Dogs can react unexpectedly to animals, and if they chase the animals your pet may not be able to find its way back. Also, dogs that like to gnaw can do considerable damage to the yurt and its interior so stick an extra-big bone in the doggie-panniers and don’t leave them behind.

If you are allergic to pets, we can make no assessment of your situation or offer advice other than to come at your own choice and risk. There have been dogs at all yurts. They have helped us build them and keep us company.

• Build A Yurt   South Summit, LLc and its founder have put up more than 15 yurts in some of the most remote and  inaccessible locations. Our experience can help you plan, design, and build your own yurt as consultants or even by contracting with people who have worked for us.

• Buy A Yurt  If you are going to buy a yurt contact us to see if we can help you choose which yurt is best for you or maybe we even have one of our own yurts for sale. We have used 4 different brands of yurts and know just how different each one is and for what they are best suited.