Modeled after structures originally used by Genghis Khan and his Mongolian hordes as they swept across the Asian steppes defeating all in their path, yurts are the civilized way to winter camp. There's no need to build a snow cave. No danger of freezing. No in-bed-by-7:00 p.m.-because-it's-so-cold-and-there's-nothing-to-do. What there is is this: propane-fueled stoves with enough burners to allow for heating hot chocolate and cooking elk steaks simultaneously; comfortable bunks; woodburning stoves and pre-cut wood; tables to hang out around and play cards, Scrabble, or, if you happen to be one of the bachelor or bachelorette parties increasingly interested in the yurts, perhaps even drinking games. And, just out the front door, there are thousands of acres of mountainous terrain perfect for skiing and snowshoeing.

Since Wyoming was one of the few places Genghis Khan never got around to conquering, yurts are a recent arrival here. In 1995, the U.S. Forest Service and Bear River Outdoor Recreation Alliance (BRORA) teamed up to erect a yurt in the mountains, the Uintas, outside Evanston. That one proved so popular, four more were erected. All of the yurts are available to rent year 'round, but winter is definitely the most popular season.

Although the Ridge yurt is one of two open to snowmobiles as well as foot-powered traffic (Lily Lake is the other dual-use yurt), separate trails in for both user groups ensure neither has to worry about running into the other. (And the cross-country ski track is even groomed once a week and after any big snowstorm.) For skiers and snowshoers looking to avoid snowmobiles entirely, the Bear Claw and East Fork (great for families) yurts are inside motor-free areas (and also have groomed tracks leading in and out). Boundry Creek yurt is the most remote, sitting two miles beyond Ridge yurt. There isn't a groomed trail leading to this one, so it is only recommended for those with serious backcountry experience.

For reservations or more information, see the BRORA at http://www.evanstonoutdoors.com/ or call the Evanston Recreation Center at (307)789-1770.