Livingston, MT -June 27, 2023 – The Main Boulder Ranger Station will reopen its doors to the public during the upcoming Fourth of July weekend, from July 1st to July 4th. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the station’s grounds, explore interpretive displays, and gain insight into the history from knowledgeable interpretive staff.

The Main Boulder Ranger Station will only operate on weekends from July until after Labor Day, from 10 am to 4 pm. However, the public is free to explore the surrounding area and view the interpretive panels outside during weekdays when the station is closed.

“We are beyond excited to get the Ranger Station back open to the public,” said Julia Barton, Recreation Specialist on the Yellowstone Ranger District. “It is an integral part of our forest’s history, and we are passionate about sharing it with everyone.”

This historic facility has been restored to its original character, showcasing the living and working conditions of the remote Ranger Station. It was built in 1905 by Ranger Harry S. Kaufman, who used it as both the district headquarters and his family home for nearly four decades. The log structure served as Kaufman’s base of operations for managing approximately 300,000 acres of National Forest System land. The Main Boulder Ranger Station is among the oldest Forest Service facilities in the country, preserving a significant part of our nation’s history.

The Main Boulder Ranger Station is located at the start of the Boulder River Road, where it turns to gravel about 30 miles south of Big Timber, Montana. There is parking available and a paved path with grades no steeper than 8% leading up to the station.

For more information, please contact Yellowstone Ranger District at (406) 222-1892 or visit us on our website Custer Gallatin National Forest – Special Places (usda.gov).