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Looking for an Alternative to a Big Box Motel? We're it!

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Exterior detail
TV, fireplace, DVD player, books
Fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop
Fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop
Outdoor dining

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire cabin

2 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 80 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Air-conditioning
  • Outdoor space

Explore the area

View map
Gardiner, MT
  • Place, Yellowstone River
    ‪1 min walk‬
  • Place, Yellowstone Hot Springs
    ‪17 min drive‬
  • Place, Yellowstone National Park North Entrance
    ‪23 min drive‬
  • Airport, West Yellowstone, MT (WYS-Yellowstone)
    ‪134 min drive‬

Room options

About the area

Gardiner

A family-friendly stay in Gardiner awaits you at this cabin. Within steps you'll find Gallatin National Forest and Yellowstone River. .You can enjoy a TV with a DVD player, and cabin features a washing machine, free WiFi and 2 bathrooms. In-room dining is easy with a kitchen that comes equipped with a fridge, a microwave and a stovetop. A fireplace, a patio and a living room are also available.
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What's nearby

  • Yellowstone River - 1 min walk - 0.1 km
  • Yellowstone Hot Springs - 17 min drive - 7.3 km
  • Roosevelt Arch - 22 min drive - 10.8 km
  • Yellowstone National Park North Entrance - 23 min drive - 11.5 km
  • Mammoth Hot Springs - 37 min drive - 20.8 km

Getting around

  • West Yellowstone, MT (WYS-Yellowstone) - 112 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Wonderland Cafe & Lodge - ‬17 min drive
  • ‪Cowboy's Lodge & Grill - ‬17 min drive
  • ‪Rusty Rail - ‬19 min drive
  • ‪Wild West Corral - ‬18 min drive
  • ‪Antler Bar and Grill - ‬19 min drive

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire cabin to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

Looking for an Alternative to a Big Box Motel? We're it!

If you've been surfing Gardiner, Mt on VRBO, you have got to be asking yourself: What is with all these cloned cabins? Let me explain. My cabin and the others were part of the former Yellowstone River Resort. The resort was initially built in 2000 to provide lodging and meals for the Elderhostel programs in and around Yellowstone National Park. In 2005, the owners offered the cabins for sale to individuals. The majority were purchased as rentals or second homes. The exteriors and floor plans are the same. For the most part, it is only the decor that varies and perhaps a few gizmos.

My cabin (#11) is the only one locally owned and operated. As such, I am able to offer significant savings over my neighbors (as much as $10-$40/night) depending on the time of year. The cabin is set off a bit from the other original cabins and is oriented for the mountains views. You can Google Earth the place at 45 degrees 04' 16.65" N 110 degrees 46' 24.31" W (no airstrikes, please). I maintain the cabin personnally and make myself available to answer questions and provide information to help you make the most of your stay. In return, you supplement my livelihood. I trust that this will always be a fair trade.

Regardless of whether you stay at my place, my neighbors' or elsewhere in the Gardiner area, you are well positioned to explore Yellowstone. As a tourist, fly fisherman or an attendee of the educational programs offered by the Yellowstone Association, the North Entrance provides the best gateway to the Grand Loop and Yellowstone's most sought after features.

For further information on me and my place, refer to the link to my website. For information on lodging providers (some not necessarily on VRBO), you also may want to check with the Gardiner Chamber of Commerce.



Keywords: Cabin

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Property amenities

Ski

  • Cross-country skiing nearby
  • Snowboarding nearby

Internet

  • Available in the cabin: Free WiFi

Parking and transport

  • Parking on site

Kitchen

  • Blender
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Electric kettle
  • Hob
  • Ice maker
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Spices
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 2 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 2 bathrooms
  • Hair dryer
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Fireplace
  • Living room

Entertainment

  • Books
  • DVD player
  • Games
  • TV with cable/satellite channels

Outdoor areas

  • Barbecue grill
  • Firepit
  • Garden
  • Patio

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Work spaces

  • Desk
  • Desk chair

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • In-room accessibility
  • Smoke-free property

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board

Location highlights

  • Near a hospital
  • Near a zoo
  • On the waterfront

Things to do

  • Fishing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Horseback riding nearby
  • Hunting nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Motor boating nearby
  • Mountain biking nearby
  • Rafting nearby
  • Rock climbing nearby
  • Sledding nearby
  • Snowmobiling nearby
  • Swimming nearby
  • Wildlife walks nearby
  • Windsurfing nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • First aid kit
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Deadbolt lock

General

  • Garden
  • Unit size: 1 square foot

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM

Contactless check-in and check-out are available

Minimum check-in age - 18

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.

Events

No events allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A cash deposit, credit card or debit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
    This property is managed by a private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business. This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children. If you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room. On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited. For guests' safety, the property includes a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a first aid kit and a deadbolt lock in all accommodation.

Property is also known as

Looking for an Alternative to a Big Box Motel? We're it!

Looking for an Alternative to a Big Box Motel? We're it! Cabin

Frequently asked questions

Does Looking for an Alternative to a Big Box Motel? We're it! have a pool?

No, this cabin doesn't have a pool.

Is Looking for an Alternative to a Big Box Motel? We're it! family-friendly?

You bet! With amenities such as a playground and laundry facilities, as well as highchairs and travel cots, it's no surprise that Looking for an Alternative to a Big Box Motel? We're it! is a winner with our family travellers.

Is there a free airport shuttle available at Looking for an Alternative to a Big Box Motel? We're it!?

No, Looking for an Alternative to a Big Box Motel? We're it! does not offer an airport shuttle service.

What time are check-in & check-out at Looking for an Alternative to a Big Box Motel? We're it!?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM. Check-out time is 10:00 AM.

Are pets allowed at Looking for an Alternative to a Big Box Motel? We're it!?

No, pets are not allowed.

Looking for an Alternative to a Big Box Motel? We're it! Reviews

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 126 out of 129 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 3 out of 129 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 129 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 129 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 129 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Colby P.

Liked: Cleanliness
The cabin was simple and loaded with all necessary items I needed to enjoy my stay. Very clean upon arrival, all cooking equipment was ready to use. Very quiet and tranquil area to rest.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Cherie Y.

Liked: Cleanliness
Wonderful communication, prettier than pictures, very comfy, great location, everything you need, and the wildlife (elk) right there in the yard!
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Alice H.

Liked: Cleanliness
We were very pleased with the property and the location. Gardiner and Yellowstone National Park were 10 -15 minutes away, close enough for travel back and forth, and far enough to be in a quiet, peaceful area.The cabin was well furnished and the weather was warm enough we could sit out on the patio to watch the sunset and use the grill for steaks.Elk frequented the property and we saw prong-horned deer on our travels to Gardiner and back.An SUV is helpful, as the road to and from the property is gravel, but pretty well maintained.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Nicole K.

Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect home base for our Yellowstone trip. Cabin was quiet and we loved all of the wildlife in the background. Beautiful backdrop of mountains all around. Cabin was clean and well stocked. We loved our stay at Wade’s cabin!
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kim S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Our stay at Wade's cabin was pretty much perfect!! The cabin is cozy, clean, and well maintained, and he has stocked it with just about anything you might need (coolers, ice packs, laundry detergent, dryer sheets, dish soap, paper towels, spices, various dry pantry goods, coffee, bear spray, bug spray, etc....). Wade was very responsive to all communications, and you can tell that guest satisfaction is very important to him. We would definitely look to stay at Wade's cabin again if we come back to this area! Thanks, Wade, for helping making our trip have a great home base in Gardiner!!!
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Tracy G.

Liked: Cleanliness

Girlfriends Getaway

This cabin was perfect for four friends on a weekend getaway. It had a bed for each of us and two bathrooms, was well stocked in supplies we couldn’t bring on our flights, and was so close to Yellowstone!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Julie H.

Liked: Cleanliness
We all loved Wade’s cabin! The perfect place for our family to create memories for a lifetime. Thank you Wade!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Alan C.

Liked: Cleanliness
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Teresa L.

Liked: Cleanliness

Better than ever imagined.

From start to finish our Yellowstone trip was beyond our expectations. I cannot express how amazing it was to enter the cabin at the end of the day. Cook our own meals, watch the storms roll in over the hills, sleep in silence, avoid all crowds. Just loved it.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

PRITISUNDAR D.

Liked: Cleanliness

Beautiful view of Mountains and Yellowstone river

We were 6 Adults and 2 kids stayed for 3 nights , this was perfect vacation home for us. This is very close to North entrance of Yellow stone NP , that was very convenient to go to NP anytime of the day .
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Dave P.

Liked: Cleanliness

Short stay

Unfortunately we were only able to stay @ Wade’s cabin because our friend got sick and was hospitalized. Wade’s cabin was clean and very close To Gardiner and its entrance to Yellowstone. Wade was responsive every time I text. This place is great for families. Other cabins right next door & we met & talked w/ them.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kim S.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great location to North Yellowstone!

Cute cabin with everything you need inside. Great location convenient to North Yellowstone entrance. We loved all the elk in the field outside the cabin and enjoyed grilling out on the lovely patio. Best part, there was a University of TN magnet on the refrigerator, Go Vols! We felt right at home!
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jonathan B., St. Albans, Vermont, USA

Liked: Cleanliness
Great base camp for visiting Yellowstone National Park. We spent six days in the park - three focused on wildlife in Lamar Valley, one focused on Beartooth pass to the east, one on the upper loop scenery, and one on the touristy spots of grand prismatic and old faithful. All are accessible from the northwest entrance with a reasonable drive. Cabin was clean, comfortable, and well equipped. Cabin has a nice outdoor porch area to sit outside under cover. The dirt road to Gardiner is an easy drive and regularly had elk and pronghorn antelope wandering about. The scenery is beautiful (see photo). Gardiner has some good places to eat. Wade’s communication was great and the process was easy. This cabin worked great for us and we recommend it.
Hillside and elk between cabin and Gardiner.
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Anne D.

Liked: Cleanliness

Yellowstone visit

Wonderful
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jason B.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great location

Everything just like listed. Close to park but not right in town. Elk in the yard. Amazing stargazing. Wonderful mountain view from back patio. Clean and had everything we needed. My family loved it.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jack G.

Liked: Cleanliness

Jack and Brenda

Great location to view Elk and surrounding mountains just north of Yellowstone Park. Minutes from Gardner and supplies. Quite and cozy.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Laura

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great location. Awesome, wide open spaces, quiet, wildlife, amenities, friendly host.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Brenda K.

Liked: Cleanliness

Perfect Yellowstone getaway

This cabin is the perfect place to start and end your day. Super clean, very well equipped kitchen, a wonderful patio to enjoy coffee in the morning and a glass of wine at night. The area is very quiet and the dark sky at night for star gazing was amazing. Check in could not have been easier. I highly recommend this as your home.base for visiting the park!
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Thomas O.

Liked: Cleanliness

Way more than we expected

Arrived to an impressive, fully stocked cabin with everything we needed Even had bear spray 5 miles from the Northern Yellowstone park entrance Super convenient Wade, the owner, very responsive and took care of everything Will definitely use again if in the area
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Daniel J.

Liked: Cleanliness

Lovely mountain cabin perfectly located

Wade was a pleasure to deal with, answered all the questions we had and the whole process was super easy. The cabin is perfectly located just a few minutes from Gardiner and from the North West entrance to Yellowstone. (Seriously the only complaint I have is the 5 mile gravel road to the cabin... We were on a Harley and it was really rough on the bike.) That said, the vote of devil's slide every morning was beautiful. The cabin had EVERYTHING we could possibly need. We had a herd of elk come visit one evening. The town of Gardiner is welcoming and quaint. We loved our stay.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

James R.

Liked: Cleanliness

Cabin in Gardiner

Cabin was immaculate clean with everything you would want in the kitchen. The views were spectacular and the host easy to deal with.
Stayed 8 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Mica H.

Liked: Cleanliness

Amazing Yellowstone Stay

We had the best time staying at cabin #11. Wade made sure that everything we may need was there. There was thought put into it, not just a place to stay! We saw antelope as we sat on the back porch. Elk were all around. The cabin was immediately clean. The washer and dryer were so nice to have. I have zero complaints and hope to stay again one day! It’s not far from Yellowstone and yet still away from all the people of gardiner. It’s a quiet retreat!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Mark G., Johnson Creek, WI

Liked: Cleanliness

Fantastic place near Yellowstone NP

A spacious cabin with a great view of the Gallatin range and the Yellowstone River on the border of Yellowstone NP. Elk and Pringhorn Antelope were common in the area. The cabin was clean and had all the amenities and a back patio. Beds were comfortable and AC was available. We had a great stay!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Patricia C.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great property

We enjoyed our stay. The cabin was clean and provided everything we needed plus more. We liked watching the pronghorn in the meadow in the morning. Very peaceful. The only thing I didn’t like was the rough gravel road from Gardiner to the cabin. But the cabin itself made up for it.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Todd H.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great Stay

What a great place to stay just outside of Yellowstone. Beautiful views front and back. Close enough to town but far enough away. Wildlife right outside the door almost daily. All of the amenities that you need. Quiet. This property is down a 4.5 mile gravel road that is fairly well maintained. The upside is that there is very little traffic by the cabin, keeping things very peaceful; a tradeoff that is a no-brainer for me. At the end of the road is the Roosevelt Arch and the entrance to Yellowstone. Thanks, Wade. It's a trip we'll never forget.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2024