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Private & Cozy Cabins on North Fork of Big Lost River [Big Lost Ranch]

Photo gallery for Private & Cozy Cabins on North Fork of Big Lost River [Big Lost Ranch]

Exterior
Exterior
Miscellaneous
Property grounds
Exterior

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional
3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 62000 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Hot tub
  • Kitchen
  • Pet friendly
  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning
  • Outdoor Space

Explore the area

View in a map
mackay, ID
  • Place, Dollar Mountain
  • Place, Sun Valley Ski Resort
    ‪46 min drive‬
  • Place, River Run Day Lodge
    ‪48 min drive‬
  • Airport, Sun Valley, ID (SUN-Friedman Memorial)
    ‪70 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Bedroom 1

1 King Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 3

1 Double Bed

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 2

Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 3

Toilet · Outdoor shower

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Outdoor shower
Kitchen
Kitchenette
Separate dining area
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Private & Cozy Cabins on North Fork of Big Lost River [Big Lost Ranch]

The Big Lost Ranch is located on the North Fork of the Big Lost River surrounded by National Forest with no other properties or people in sight. We have two sleeping cabins right on the river, plus one more cabin (The Bar) which serves as your cooking area. ( This is not a full kitchen). These cabins are 18 miles from Sun Valley yet our location offers serenity, peace and a backdrop worthy of a postcard. I only book one party at the time, so you get to relax in privacy in your own cozy cabin, and your own bar.

The recreational opportunities in the surrounding areas are endless! You'll find amazing hiking, mountain biking, and of course miles of fly- fishing water. We have fly fished here for 30 years, and happy to share some secrets. We are nestled in between the Boulder and Pioneers Mountains with beautiful 360 degree views right from your cabin . Our property is the perfect base camp for exploring the many beautiful mountain lakes, or the closest to Mount Borah. Our property is a natural playground for children, dogs, and nature lovers.

Included in the price is the authentic western bar, for inside cooking and dinning. We also have a gas barbecue and outside stove for outdoor cooking. The bar has a small refrigerator, dishes, glasses, bowls, utensils, a double sink, hot water, hot plate, toaster/convection oven, coffee, and many more items. There is no dishwasher! No garbage disposal! Composing and recycling is necessary, since i need to bring the trash to town.

Our property is just about 1/2 hour from Sun Valley . Our ranch allows you to stay in a private and save environment. We only accept one group at a time, so you are guaranteed 100% privacy when staying at the cabins. If you are an outdoors lover, and enjoy peace and nature we are the right place for you.

We added wi-fi to the cabins this year!
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Hot Tub
Kitchen
Pet friendly
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
Outdoor Space

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House Rules

Check in after 2:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 21
Check out before 1:00 PM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0-17
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Events

Events allowed: family gatherings, birthday parties, weddings
I charge extra for events and extra for people
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Pets

Pets allowed: dogs (limit 2 total)
Yes Pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
You can smoke in the bar
Please no surprise parties/ people showing up at the last minute, that was not clearly stated when you booked.
We love friendly dogs, but no dogs are allowed on the beds, bring your own dog bed.
Clean up after yourselves in the bar, I am not charging you for the bar.

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
Parties and events (including family gatherings, birthday parties and weddings) are allowed on site; maximum attendees: 50
Note from host: I charge extra for events and extra for people
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit

We should mention

A car is required for transportation to and from this property

About the neighborhood

Mackay

Located in Mackay, this cabin is in a rural area and on the waterfront. Sun Valley Ski Resort and Trail Creek Golf Course are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those looking for area attractions can visit PK's Ski and Sports and Argyros Performing Arts Center. Be sure to check out the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
View more Cabin Rentals in MackayOpens in a new window
Map
mackay, ID

What's nearby

  • Ernest Hemingway Memorial - 42 min drive - 35.0 km
  • Sun Valley Pavilion - 45 min drive - 37.8 km
  • Sun Valley Ski Resort - 46 min drive - 38.1 km
  • Dollar Ski Lift - 46 min drive - 38.5 km
  • River Run Day Lodge - 48 min drive - 40.9 km

Getting around

  • Sun Valley, ID (SUN-Friedman Memorial) - 70 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Private & Cozy Cabins on North Fork of Big Lost River [Big Lost Ranch] pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total).

How much does it cost to stay at Private & Cozy Cabins on North Fork of Big Lost River [Big Lost Ranch]?

As of Mar 10, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Private & Cozy Cabins on North Fork of Big Lost River [Big Lost Ranch] on May 5, 2026 start from $319, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

How much is parking?

Onsite parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Private & Cozy Cabins on North Fork of Big Lost River [Big Lost Ranch]?

Check-in begins at 2:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Private & Cozy Cabins on North Fork of Big Lost River [Big Lost Ranch]?

Check-out is at 1:00 PM.

Where is Private & Cozy Cabins on North Fork of Big Lost River [Big Lost Ranch] located?

Located on the waterfront, this family-friendly cabin is within 25 mi (40 km) of Ernest Hemingway Memorial, PK's Ski and Sports, and Argyros Performing Arts Center. Sun Valley Center for the Arts and Sawtooth Botanical Garden are also within 25 mi (40 km).

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labeled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 17 out of 19 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 19 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 19 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 19 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 19 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Deb W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

50th Anniversary Trip

Awesome location! Beautiful view! Gracious and helpful on-site hosts. Clean and eclectic rooms. Comfortable beds and hot showers. Excellent fishing, but not on the stream section flowing by the cabins. We are very pleased we rented it, you will be, too!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Will F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Father/Son Trip

This is a pretty special spot in the middle of the mountains. Lots of fishing opportunities and spectacular views. Wild game each day passing by. Thank you Justine and Steve. Very helpful suiting my 10 year old son with fishing gear. Consider bringing firewood for a good fire at night.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Cindi S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Relaxing getaway

It is just what we wanted and more. It is a peaceful rustic getaway that will allow natures energy to reset the effects of suburban living. Fresh air, clean water & natures planetarium after dark. If your spirits still need to be lifted go to the bar and enjoy your other spirits. After looking at many cabins I was drawn to this property, there was something special that you could say, called my name. The owners Justine & Steve are excellent hosts that really want you to enjoy your stay and enjoy the property. They made us feel like family. We wanted to go on local hikes and they were helpful with information about where to go. Would we go back? Yes. If you want to have a cell phone in your hand with a signal (your cell phone will only be useful to take photos) & paved roads, this is not for you.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024

6/10 Okay

Michelle G.

Rustic with a beautiful setting and a nice woodstove in the kitchen for cold days!

Overall, it was very relaxing and quiet. There are more than enough pillows and the beds are comfortable. The shower runs out of hot water after only about 5 minutes, but if you wait a minute, it comes back. The kitchen has what is needed for cooking, with a small fridge and a cook-top that takes a while to heat up. We cooked steaks over the fire pit one night. The woodstove was very nice to warm that cabin. The heating in the bedrooms worked well. Be sure to understand the pricing. We thought we were getting all the cabins for the money we paid, but when we got there, we were told we would be charged extra for the third bedroom. This is about a 40 minute drive from Sun Valley and the drive is very bumpy with many rocks sticking up in the road, so you have to drive slowly in places, but a very scenic and beautiful setting. Friendly owner.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2018

10/10 Excellent

Derek S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Most amazing place with views to die for!

We had the most amazing time at the ranch! Evening was perfect and even my teenagers loved being unplugged. No pictures can capture the beauty of the views! Just click the book button already!!
Stayed 2 nights in May 2021

10/10 Excellent

Olivia L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing, Secluded, Romantic Retreat!

Our stay at Big Lost Ranch was nothing short of amazing. Justine and her sweet dog Chile gave us the world's warmest welcome upon arrival and a full tour and rundown of everything we could possibly need. My husband and I are frequent VRBOers- and this property is truly a hidden gem. We were celebrating our 1 year wedding anniversary, and we couldn't have asked for a more beautiful, peaceful, serene, and secluded location. Great property- clean, comfortable, cozy, and full of character and beauty! We hope to be back very soon!!! Olivia & Tom
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2020

10/10 Excellent

Kim S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

paradise in a remote valley

The photos of Big Lost Ranch are accurate but the overall impression and feel of this magical place goes far beyond. The individual cabins are cozy and sit on the river. The communal kitchen cabin is well stocked and gives the feeling of staying in a larger room. We loved spending time on our deck, in the kitchen with the wood stove and reading in our cozy bed at night. We walked and mountain biked. Justine and Steve are as gracious hosts as your will ever experience.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2020

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfectly not for Everyone...

We’re a group of middle aged fisherman who spend a week at a time camping and fishing. We’re self sufficient in camp and on the water. This year because of COVID we were unable to go to our usual spots, and short our gear to camp, and found this spot. The location is remote but not too. The accommodations and bar building are clean and an amazing improvement over camping without being to too refined. The hosts are wonderful people and super helpful with local information that isn’t readily available. If you’re looking for a “lodge” experience with someone to cook and tie on your fly this isn’t the place for you. If you can handle yourself outdoors and in the kitchen but are looking for a step up from the car camping experience you won’t be disappointed.
Stayed 6 nights in Sep 2020

10/10 Excellent

Jay A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Idaho Cabin

amazing funky, well appointed cabin in a wild location
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2020

10/10 Excellent

Christine H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Family Vacation

We loved Big Lost Ranch. Some of our favorites: hiking to the waterfall, falling asleep to the peaceful sounds of the river, watching the kids play in the creek all day with no electronics, catching a 10 lb. trout (for real), viewing the Milky Way in the dark night sky with more stars than you can imagine! And the outdoor shower is delicious! Thank you Justine and Steve for sharing your little piece of paradise with us!
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2020

10/10 Excellent

Martha M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Escape!

We had a wonderfulLy relaxing time enjoying the beautiful river setting with mountains all around! Hiking, birding, reading by day + campfires and stars by night = truly de-stressing experience. The hosts were very welcoming and accommodating. I highly recommend the Big Lost Ranch to get away from it all for a couple days.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2020

10/10 Excellent

Michael K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Chillin' on the Big Lost

Old West Ranch on a beautiful lazy river. Close your eyes for 30 seconds and listen to the river gurgle as the birds sing then slowly open your eyes to impressive mountain peaks. If I have to explain any more then you will never understand ;-) There is a resident hummingbird that is copper-colored, it wowwed everyone. Every time he would turn his breast it looked like a shiny new penny flashing in the sun - wow. Plenty of cutthroat to be caught up stream from the ranch, please let 'em go! If you are looking for the finer amenities you might be better suited to staying in nearby Sun Valley, but for this old goat the resort reminded me of why I live and play in Idaho. Ketchum and release 'em.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2020

10/10 Excellent

Paul N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Little Slice of Heaven in Idaho

The place was clean and very remote. It was exactly what we were looking for. The owners were very kind, accommodating and helpful. Thank you for the visit and hope to return someday.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2020

10/10 Excellent

Alex B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful view and fun surroundings

My name is Adriauna I’m 12 and this cabin is a 7000 feet up very natural cabin near a beautiful creek with ponds very close on the property. The cabin is 250 feet away from the very helpful, caring owners home. The whole little ranch area is yours, nice little bridge over the stream, comfy cabins, separate kitchen/bar area to hang out in, most secluded location ever, lost Valley,It was my first time seeing snow near the beautiful countryside and I would highly recommend this cabin. And it was a lovely experience.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2020

10/10 Excellent

Lance P.

Comfortable Rustic Retreat on a stream running through Idahos high mountains

Big Lost Ranch was exactly what my wife, two teenage boys and I were looking for when I was searching for an adventurous place to stay in Idaho! It described very accurately by the hosts and exceeded our expectations. The amount of relaxation, complete quiet and pure beauty we enjoyed was beyond what we may have imagined. The accommodations are very comfortably rustic, with all the charm and touches that made you feel instantly at home. Although there are certainly fishing and hiking destinations nearby which our hosts were happy to point out to us, we found all we needed within the confines of the ranch and the closely surrounding streams and mountainsides during our 3-day stay. It is a great representation of the beautiful Idaho backcountry and during our limited visit, we felt we got to experience a great sample of what this area has to offer just out our front door. We felt immersed in high mountains, wildflowers, flowing streams, wildlife and open blue skies. Sleeping just feet from the stream is about as restful sleep as one could get. Waking to the sound of birds and a crisp sunrise was rejuvenating and inspiring. The "Bar/Kitchen" area was our favorite part of the accommodations. We cooked great multicourse family meals in a kitchen that was cozy and well-stocked with all the utensils place settings, glassware, pots and pans to cook full meals of food which we had bought in route to our destination. We greatly enjoyed the rootsy music selection and the library of books and field guides, as we played cards and board games in the comfort of this charming cabin. During the day we rode bikes, took walks, dips in the stream, grilled lunch on the BBQ and played croquet as the weather shifted between hot sun and refreshing mountain thunderstorms. At night we gazed at about as many stars as we had ever seen, as the river gently flowed nearby surrounded by complete silence. The hosts Justine and Steve were delightful to get to know and spirited outdoor adventurers. They were nearby when we needed guidance about the local surroundings, graciously helpful when we had minor car trouble, and certainly also gave us plenty of privacy so we could settle into the incredible surroundings and explore on our own. I can't say enough about how nice they made our short stay! If we make it back to visit again someday, I think we will stay at least twice as long because we know there are many more things to enjoy. Highly recommended. LP and MP
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2017
This review was submitted before 2018 and can't be verified.

10/10 Excellent

Great four days

My husband and I just spent four nights at Steve and Justine's Big Lost Ranch. We returned after about 8 years because we remembered what a great place it was to get away from the hustle of city life. This time we went alone without the kids and we had a fantastic time hiking, fishing and just relaxing. The views from their cabins along the river can't be beat. If you want a place to get away from phone and wifi, this is the place. Of course, you can drive a short distance to get the needed reception if you must. We hiked up to Kane Lake one day, fished in the Big Lost River the next and relaxed and listened to the birds and aspens quake our final day. Coming from a big city, this place offers a great respite away from many of the decisions of normal life. We brought our food and beverages and they have a great place to cook and enjoy the outdoors. Justine and Steve are wonderful people. They are so gracious and welcome anyone to enjoy their place. We feel very fortunate to have found this unique place to spend some quality time with each other and the beautiful country that surrounds their home.
This review was submitted before 2018 and can't be verified.

8/10 Good

Anne C.

Cobb Family Summer 2012

Once agin the Cobb Family returned for a wonderful time in the cabins and at the Big Lost Ranch. Our family has a long history of camping on the North Fork of the Big Lost, going back to our Idaho grandfather and family in 1910 and continuing on through each generation to the present with our grandchildren. We were thrilled a few years ago to discover that cabins on the beautiful sight of "the Old Homestead" property (that we have been observing over many years), now welcomes guests. We have now stayed 2 summers for a week and can't say enough about how much we enjoy being at the Big Lost Ranch. The accommodations are perfect for our family and many fun times are enjoyed around the BBQ, campfire and gathering to eat/socialize in the "Bar". The setting and sights are spectacular, while providing a calm and relaxing atmosphere. Justine and Steve are gracious hosts who have given special attention to their guests' needs. We can't wait to stay again during the summer of 2013! Jay and Anne
This review was submitted before 2018 and can't be verified.

10/10 Excellent

Randy C.

Highly recommend the Big Lost Ranch

My immediate family and my parents have been staying with Justine and Steve at their Big Lost Ranch for years. They are the most gracious of hosts. Generations of our family have been traveling up to the North Fork River for the past century. I have been fishing in the area for the past 40 to 50 years usually camping in a tent or staying in an RV. How fantastic is it to now stay in the Big Lost Ranch's comfortable cabins, with gorgeous views, a relaxing bar, with all the comforts of home! Just the sound of the meandering river as you nod off to sleep is blissful. I would highly recommend the Big Lost Ranch. Whether you are into jogging, hiking, biking, kayaking or my favorite...fishing, you will not be disappointed. The fishing alone is first rate with several 14 inch rainbow and cutbows! Contact Justine and Steve today. They will make your vacation comfortable and most relaxing in God's country!
This review was submitted before 2018 and can't be verified.

10/10 Excellent

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Experience Paradise on the Big Lost

A written description cannot begin to capture the total experience and fun you'll have staying with your fantastic hosts Steve and Justine Kaiser in their cabins or ranch house on the North Fork of the Big Lost. Smack dab in the middle of the highest mountains in idaho and a 30 minute drive over Trail Creek Pass to the activities in the Sun Valley/Ketchum area, their place has everything you need for a memorable stay. From the front porches of the tidy cabins you have the 11,000 foot Devil's Bedstead for your front yard beyond the North Fork as it flows past, footsteps from your door. Cook your meals and celebrate your great days in the bar/kitchen, or around the fire in the outdoor barbecue area. The cabins are comfortable, unique rustic delights, with everything provided for relaxation, right down to the cowboy pajamas laid out for your use. The fly shop is next to the bar, and Steve knows more about fishing the Big Lost and other area rivers than most of the guides in the area, with unique access opportunities starting minutes from the Ranch. The fly fishing there is truly special in these mountain surroundings, wading for big trout in multiple special locales on both the upper and lower stretches of the river. Hiking, mountain biking, river activities, and sightseeing are all around, including a must drive up the East Fork to Copper Basin, truly one of the most beautiful places in the Mountain West, with its high mountain meadows and aspen groves. Or just kick back at the Ranch and experience the peace and tranquility of your wonderful surroundings. Steve and Justine will employ their knowledge of the area to make your stay one you won't forget, truly wonderful hosts who will make you feel instantly at home, and who will go out of their way to make sure you are comfortable and happy. The true test of a vacation spot is whether, once experienced, you return, and we have been coming every summer for several years and plan to do so for years to come. If your idea of a great getaway is something beyond room service, with great things to do for all ages, and to make remarkable memories to carry with you for the rest of your years, then this is the perfect place for you. I personally look forward to it every year with a passion that I hold for few other places on the planet, and in these surroundings with these stellar hosts, truly a bargain like no other. Come and experience Steve and Justine Kaiser's Big Lost Ranch - you'll be more than happy you did!

About the host

Hosted by Justine & Steve Kaiser

Host profile image
My husband and I enjoy living an active outdoor lifestyle and you will find us fly-fishing and exploring the beautiful mountain around our property every chance we get . We love sharing our place with kindred spirits. We have been living at this property for over 30 years and are happy to share the best fly-fishing spots, beautiful hikes, our favorite waterfalls and all the rest of our local knowledge. We have extra fly fishing equipment, and sometimes willing to help out, if time allows.

Why they chose this property

We enjoy our private slice of Idaho and love to share it with people seeking a peaceful, quiet, relaxing outdoor experience. Our property offers unparalleled privacy, lots of recreation, and close access to Sun Valley, Ketchum, or Mackay. Choose this property only if you like to get away from crowded places . If you are an outdoor enthusiastic person or ready for glam-ping ( camping in style) experience, it's a wonderful get away, relax in comfort and take time to connect with nature.

What makes this property unique

We have two cozy sleeping cabins right on the North Fork of the Big Lost River and with your privacy in mind we only allow one group to book at a time. The larger cabin is divided into two rooms, one with a king size bed and the other with a queen bed, sharing an adjoining bathroom. Each room accommodates two people. The second smaller cabin has a comfortable double bed with a toilet, sink and outdoor shower. The 3rd cabin included in your stay is "the bar" ( it is not a full kitchen) used for your inside cooking and dinning needs, if it is cold outside. There is plenty of room for tent camping if you have a bigger party or kids, but i will charge you extra for more people.

Languages:

English, German
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