1916 Schoolhouse near Yellowstone-horse rides,zip lining, rafting, hiking

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The Schoolhouse in June - songbirds, wildlife, wildflowers, amazing views,quiet.

The Schoolhouse in June-songbirds,wildflowers,wildlife,amazing views,quiet.

Dine outside or in while taking in the moutain views and the wildlife.

The Stermitz Ranch in winter.The schoolhouse is on the hill in the distance.

The dining area made from reclaimed timber from the old Corwin Springs bridge.

Overview
Amenities
Policies
Location
Host

Exceptional

1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 4

Popular amenities

Barbecue grill

Kitchen

Fireplace

Mountain view

Check-in time

4:00 PM

Check-out time

10:00 AM

Explore the area

Gardiner, Mt

Yellowstone Hot Springs12 min drive
Roosevelt Arch22 min drive
Yellowstone National Park North Entrance23 min drive
Bozeman, MT (BZN-Bozeman Yellowstone Intl.)89 min drive

Rooms & beds

1 bedroom (sleeps 4)

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Spaces

Kitchen

Dining Area

About this property

Take a step back in time and delve into the rich history of the area. Our 1916 Schoolhouse is located on the historic Stermitz Ranch in beautiful Cinnabar Basin, Gardiner, Montana. This is the original location of the school, which provided a much needed learning place for the children in this rural area - many of whose families immigrated to the area to work in coal mines.

In 2009-2010, the schoolhouse was completely renovated to preserve the structure and maintain the historic integrity of the building. Many of the original items are on display for all to enjoy.

From the moment you drive to the schoolhouse on the hill, you will be amazed by the breathtaking views. Once you set foot inside, you are in for a relaxing vacation. The schoolhouse boasts several tall windows, each with spectacular mountain views - aspen trees and wildlife abound. Watch deer, elk, and the occasional moose graze in the meadow out the front door. Bears, wolves, and coyotes are sometimes spotted on nearby hills and fields.

Experience what life is like on a western ranch. We raise American Quarter Horses, and generally have at least one new foal every summer. Last summer our cabin guests were fortunate enough to witness the birth! The ranch is also home to chickens,pigs,cows,dogs, and cats.

A highlight of the Schoolhouse features:
*Unplug! The cabin does not have wifi or cell service, but there is a land line.
Activities typically run from Memorial Day to Labor Day. If we have enough help, we can sometimes extend horseback rides into the fall. Please check with us first.
*Horseback rides and zip lining available on property. (Summer season)
*Whitewater rafting on the nearby Yellowstone River. (Summer season)
*Hiking/cross-country skiing from the front door.
*King size bed with luxurious linens.
*Mountain views from every window.
*Beautiful location on the historic Stermitz Ranch.
*A scenic 20-25 minute drive to Yellowstone National Park.
*2 twin camping mats (with bedding)are perfect for kids.
*Cozy seating area with a charming propane fireplace.
*Carefully appointed details such as a tin ceiling, original wood floors, old school desks and books, a chalkboard, etc.
*Heated slate floor in the bathroom.
*Kitchen with a full size range.
*Opportunities for children to interact with animals.
*Western ranch experience.

Do you have a larger group, or planning a family re-union? Ask about our other cabin rentals on the ranch! We also have a large covered pavilion with picnic tables - perfect for those large family gatherings.

We look forward to meeting you.
Your hosts,
Stacy and Rob Stermitz

Keywords: Studio, cottage, school house, cabin

Property manager

Stacy Stermitz

Premier Host

Languages

English

Amenities

Kitchen

Barbecue grill

Mountain view

Fireplace

Kitchen

Outdoor space

Barbecue grill

Fireplace

House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM

Minimum age to rent: 25

Check out before 10:00 AM

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17

Events

No events allowed

Pets

No pets 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 indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property

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

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Gardiner

Located in Gardiner, this cabin is in a rural area and near theme parks. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Yellowstone National Park (and vicinity) and Yellowstone National Park North Entrance. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.

View more Cabin rentals in Gardiner

Gardiner, Mt

What's nearby

Yellowstone Hot Springs - 12 min drive
Roosevelt Arch - 22 min drive
Yellowstone National Park North Entrance - 23 min drive
Boiling River - 28 min drive
Mammoth Hot Springs - 37 min drive

Getting around

Bozeman, MT (BZN-Bozeman Yellowstone Intl.) - 90 min drive

Restaurants

‪Lighthouse Restaurant - ‬13 min drive
‪Paradise Perk Espresso - ‬17 min drive
‪Grizzly Grille - ‬17 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is 1916 Schoolhouse near Yellowstone-horse rides,zip lining, rafting, hiking pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at 1916 Schoolhouse near Yellowstone-horse rides,zip lining, rafting, hiking?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at 1916 Schoolhouse near Yellowstone-horse rides,zip lining, rafting, hiking?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is 1916 Schoolhouse near Yellowstone-horse rides,zip lining, rafting, hiking located?

Situated in the mountains, this cabin is steps from Gallatin National Forest and 2.9 mi (4.7 km) from Yellowstone River. Yellowstone National Park (and vicinity) and Yellowstone National Park North Entrance are also within 12 miles (20 km).

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.

Learn more

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

9.8/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

10/10 Excellent

Charles W.

2 Oct 2023

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

2023 Wildlife Flora Fauna Tour

Due to the flooding last year, we had to delay our arrival to 2023. Stacy was kind enough to hold our desired vacation dates. The schoolhouse is very charming and even better in person. The directions to get there were precise. The roads are not for the faint of heart but after a day we became pros. We look forward to returning and highly recommend this host and their property. Thanks so much!

Stayed 6 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Stacia M.

31 Aug 2023

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

Honeymoon trip

The cabin was great! We really enjoyed our stay, it was nice to be off grid for a little while. Thank you so much!

Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jane D.

31 Aug 2023

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

Perfect Escape!

We loved the schoolhouse! The location was beautiful and convenient for exploring Yellowstone. My son and I loved reading the book regarding the history of the location. I enjoyed unplugging from the world. Our family loved the horseback riding trip. Our guide were great and we will always remember our time riding DD, Mr. Chet and Lucy!

Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Cathy G.

24 Aug 2023

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

Charming Schoolhouse

We had a wonderful time in the charming and cozy school house. The horseback riding was fun and the scenery absolutely beautiful!

Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

23 July 2023

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

Amazing

Fantastic property with horse back riding and beautiful sunsets. Loved that there was no service so we read and did a puzzle. Make sure to pack allergy medicine bc it is an old property that sheds dust and the bugs around Yellowstone come out around 10am so pack lots of bug spray. They have literally everything like a grill and cooler that we wish we utilized but will the next time we stay! Perfect for a couple, any more than 2 adults will have to set up the mattress on the floor or sleep on the couch like me. But worth it for the amazing experience Stacy and Montana has to offer

Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Christy B.

21 July 2023

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

Amazing in every way!

We loved everything about the schoolhouse cabin and the property! It was clean, beautiful, and the property is spectacular with gorgeous views and plenty of privacy. Would absolutely stay on the Stermitz ranch again in a heartbeat! (And we loved Harper, the dog!!!)

Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Amy R.

18 July 2023

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

The Schoolhouse

The property is where you go to disconnect but connect with nature… absolutely beautiful ! The schoolhouse is perfect for a couple quaint. Montana is heavenly!

Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Nick P., Delray Beach, FL, USA

15 July 2023

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

Highly recommended

We had an amazing time staying at this cabin. Is super cozy and comfortable. Stacy is a great host, very friendly and helpful. If you like horses you'll have a great time watching the horses at the property. The ladies guides from the trail ride, Michaela and Miranda, are awesome, me and my girlfriend ended up very good friends with them. If you are a hiking lover there's pretty good trails to go around inside the ranch. We are sure whoever rents this cabin is gonna have the time of their lives there, as we did.

Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Samantha S.

8 June 2023

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

Amazing place

Beautiful property, close to Yellowstone, great hosts as well!

Stayed 4 nights in May 2023

8/10 Good

Sarah S.

4 June 2023

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

Tiny School House

The location of the small school house was beautiful. It is 6 miles up a narrow, dirt road however, which was not clear in the description. Once we arrived, we realized that rather than a one bedroom cabin, this was truly a studio with the large bed taking up 70% of the living space. There were four of us, and after shuffling furniture around, and moving things, we were able to make room for the two sleeping pads on the floor. The school house is decorated like a lovely, period museum. However, it doesn’t leave room for bags or food or any of the things that a family of four will carry along. It does not have a full-size refrigerator, although it does have a standard electric range. The bathroom is small, but adequate. There were lots of towels. The host did allow us to place some food items in her freezer, so that we did not lose them, which was very kind. In short, it would be a wonderful, peaceful stay for a couple.

Stayed 4 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Larry B.

20 May 2023

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

Heaven on Earth

Living in Houston, TX with the traffic, heat, crowds and general fast pace...the 1916 Schoolhouse on the Stermitz Ranch was a slice of Heaven on earth! Everything about the cabin was perfect. Rob and Stacy were masterful in restoring and decorating the cabin while keeping with the one room schoolhouse feel. Drinking coffee on the porch early every morning listening to the quiet with only the stream in the

Stayed 7 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Colin E.

13 May 2023

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

It's pretty obvious

We loved staying at the schoolhouse. Stacy and Rob were great hosts. It was a remote, quiet, and peaceful little house in a valley overlooking the mountains. Only 15 minutes to Yellowstone North entrance and with great hiking around the Stermitz ranch too. We'd absolutely stay there again

Stayed 4 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Tyler N.

11 Oct 2022

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

Yellowstone Vacation

This property is absolutely incredible. The history and original artifacts included in the renovation is amazing. We learned a lot about the history of the school and the ranch while there. This was a great base for going into the park or hiking in the surrounding area. The bed was super comfortable and all of the amenities were great. If you are planning a getaway we highly recommend this property. You will not regret the quiet solitude of their ranch and the beautifully appointed cabin. Thank you so much Stacy for the incredible vacation.

Stayed 6 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Christopher M.

21 May 2022

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

I’ll be back…

Amazing space in an amazing place. Let’s start with the area and zero in to the cabin. Yellowstone is gorgeous, a garden of Eden with tons to see and do. I went slightly pre-season which meant less activities like bike rentals and horseback rides (no big deal, I’m not made of money), but it also means much less crowds and traffic. Grand Tetons was spectacular also. I recommend moose pond and taggart lake trails. Long drive from Gardiner but I felt it was worth it. Driving back at night is not for the squeamish though. Let’s just say your hands might be sore for a few days after from all the white-knuckle steering wheel gripping. The Stermitz ranch itself is beautiful. WHATEVER YOU DO BRING A SET OF BINOCS! You won’t be sorry. One of my favorite things to do was have a cold one while sitting on the porch rocker and watching their horses goofing around on the mountain-side. They had some personalities, those horses! My buddy and I hiked up to the peak of a nearby mountain on the ranch. I was strenuous at times, but gettin to the peak was awesome! Be aware of bear though, learn what to do and not to do (bring bear spray, yap it up and wear a bell, don’t walk around with bacon in your pockets). When you’re done burning out your thighs and butt muscles with all the hiking and stuff, head down to the Yellowstone hot springs just outside the ranch. Go soak your head (and parts south) for a few hours. Best $15 I’ve spent in a long time, and great scenery too. If you go whitewater rafting (which was fun), and they tell you that you can go ahead and jump off the raft and swim around a bit in your wetsuit, go ahead and do it. But…don’t go completely under like I did! Unless you’re a penguin or something. Last but by no means least is the schoolhouse. The imagination and ingenuity that Rob and Stacy utilized to create this space is truly impressive. I really got a kick out of the old schoolbooks and flash cards. It’s historical and romantic, practical and yet a feast for the eyes. Bed was comfortable, kitchen well equipped, and shower water hot and plentiful. We had a lot of conversations about the schools history; conversations often started with “I read that…” or “did you know this… “. It was fun to delve into the history of the schoolroom. I went with my buddy and his son and we had a great time. If you were to bring your special someone here to show them just how special they are, well, They’d be impressed, Trust me.

Stayed 7 nights in May 2022

10/10 Excellent

Rodney B.

26 Oct 2021

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

Stay

We really enjoyed our stay at the schoolhouse. The 4.5 mile drive up the canyon was very scenic and we had elk show up around the building each evening. The propane heater warmed the schoolhouse very nicely during the cold weather we encountered. Would recommend this property to all and we would stay again if the opportunity arises.

Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2021

10/10 Excellent

c a.

12 Oct 2021

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

Amazingly beautiful and peaceful

Loved the Schoolhouse, the views and our hosts. What a beautiful spot off the beaten path in a gorgeous setting. Well worth the drive. We hope to make it back again soon.

Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2021

10/10 Excellent

Crystal H.

2 Oct 2021

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

Picturesque little place in mountain setting

This place is a slice of heaven for those wishing to unplug from busy life! The night sky is so amazing! My partner and I loved the tranquility. I will warn it is 4 5 mile drive in from the main road on a dirt road and can be hard to navigate at night. 25 minutes from the north entrance. Bed is super comfortable!

Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2021

10/10 Excellent

Randy B.

23 Sept 2021

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

Fantastic location and extremely comfortable place

We stayed here for three days while visiting Yellowstone on a 35 day road trip. This has been our favorite place. It's quiet (of course) and has beautiful views. Each evening we spotted elk on the hills behind the ranch. Make sure you spend a few moments outside well after sunset to view the stars - This is the best dark sky we've come across. The restored schoolhouse is surprisingly comfortable with the most comfortable bed we've slept in. The craftsmanship of the restoration is notable - they did a professional and craftsman like renovation. The history of the ranch and school house surround you - its fascinating. This isn't a polite 5 - it really deserves higher.

Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2021

10/10 Excellent

Elliott W.

15 Sept 2021

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

Remote!

Charming property with an interesting history that is well chronicled in books furnished by the hosts. The 1916 Schoolhouse has been nicely restored and it's conversion into an apartment well thought out. The ranch on which it is located is huge with beautiful mountain & valley vistas and plenty of opportunities to see wildlife (saw elk and a black bear). It is a very remote location, and is best suited for visitors who want to spend some time relaxing at the property and don't need to go into Yellowstone every day. It takes about a half hour to drive to the park, and since seeing Yellowstone involves a lot of driving by itself, adding another hour getting to and from the park entrance may be too much for some folks. The only real disappointment was that trail riding was not available on the property, as advertised, due to staffing issues, and that was a big reason we booked this place because my wife loves to ride horses. Overall, a unique, comfortable and enjoyable stay.

Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2021

10/10 Excellent

Tom W.

11 Sept 2021

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

Great

Great location, you get a real feel of Montana living!

Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2021

10/10 Excellent

Jasmine L.

28 Aug 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful, historic home

The property was lovely and just as listed. It was close to Yellowstone and surrounded by lovely views. There is no cell service or WiFi (as listed). Communication was good in the weeks after booking, but there was an issue with receiving VRBO messages, including not receiving check in information. Because of not having the code, I actually got locked out once. The hosts were helpful and responsive via phone on the landline provided, however, and the place is truly lovely.

Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2021

10/10 Excellent

Rowan L.

25 Aug 2021

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

What a view!

We had a lovely time staying at the Schoolhouse-- the location is spectacular, the view is phenomenal, and the building is fascinating. We loved all of the little touches in the room-- including the old school desks, original books, and school decorations. The drive up to the Schoolhouse was a little bit of a trek for a small rental car, but the view was worth it!

Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2021

10/10 Excellent

David F.

22 Aug 2021

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

Enjoyed our stay, enjoy the quiet setting

Great stay - very scenic and peaceful. We really unplugged!

Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2021

10/10 Excellent

Jacqueline S.

11 Aug 2021

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

1916 Schoolhouse

This was a wonderfully charming and unique place to stay. Everything we needed was there and we enjoyed the peaceful seclusion and amazing views and Wildlife.

Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2021

10/10 Excellent

Kathi R.

29 July 2021

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

We loved the Schoolhouse Cabin!

Our 4 night stay at the cabin was awesome! We loved the serenity of the surrounding area- the views were breathtakingly beautiful. We had great views from all the windows in the cabin too. We ate on the outside table every night and enjoyed sitting on the porch too in the rocking chairs. We had everything we needed to make our stay comfortable and enjoyable. There were many books on the history of Yellowstone and we spent many hours reading them and also the history of the Schoolhouse. I would definitely recommend this unique experience to anyone who loves nature! It is only a half hour from the North entrance to Yellowstone too, so it is very convenient to explore the Park during the day and come home to the relaxing cabin in the evening. We had already explored Yellowstone for a few days before we arrived, so we were able to spend quite a bit of time at the Schoolhouse reading and relaxing.

Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2021

About the host

Hosted by Stacy Stermitz

My husband, Rob and I feel extremely blessed to live in such an amazing place. We are fortunate to raise our 4 sons, who are the 5th generation, here on the historic Stermitz Ranch. Rob works full time as a Landscape Architect in Yellowstone as well as managing the ranch operations. Stacy is a full time mom and manages the vacation rental properties and the horseback rides. We enjoy working on renovation projects together, generally on the weekends as time allows. The schoolhouse is our third complete renovation on the aging ranch buildings. The next project will be the original homestead house built in 1910. We have enjoyed the challenges that each building brings, and look forward to the day when all of the original structures have been restored and preserved!

Why they chose this property

After Rob and I both graduated from college and got married, we decided that this was the ideal place to raise our kids. We both share a deep appreciation for the outdoors and the history of the area, and the proximity to Yellowstone Park makes it ideal. We just love the story of how his family came to be here. Rob's great grandfather, Joseph, was born in Slovenia, Austria in 1862 and worked in the coal mines from the age of 9. He later immigrated here from Slovenia with his wife and two children in 1892, following the promise of work in coal mines in Montana. When they arrived he found that no work was to be found. Joseph used his last $10 to buy a shotgun so that he might feed his family. While here, a fire broke out in the Cokedale mines. Joe helped put out the fires and was noticed by the mine boss who asked 'who is that good worker?' Someone explained that it was an immigrant who couldn't find work. The mine boss then said 'Put that man to work. Anyone who works that hard for no pay should get a job.' The family, along with the addition of three more children, moved to the ranch in Cinnabar Basin in 1900. They purchased the the original homestead of Bob Dixon. Their house consisted of a dirt roofed dugout built by Dixon. Later, when the mine closed in 1910, the lumber was brought from the hospital building in Aldrige to construct a log and lumber house. Rob's grandfather was born here in 1910. He later attended this school. In 1935, Rob's grandfather married Gladys Elliott, who was one of the teachers at this schoolhouse. Their son, Jim, also attended school here and continues to live here on the ranch with his wife Lorayne.

What makes this property unique

The ranch is ideally located in the remote mountains of the Gallatin National Forest, while still being a close drive to the many wonders of Yellowstone National Park. We enjoy watching the abundant wildlife, hiking and skiing from our back door, and taking a horseback ride up the scenic mountain trails that the ranch has to offer. Being in the great outdoors is what this property is all about! Experience what life is like on a western ranch. We hope that you will enjoy it as much as we do.