The beautiful, 21-year-old Fowler-Hilliard Hut, perched on a high ridge between Vail Pass and Tennessee Pass, was long among the state’s choicest backcountry base camps. But the hut burned to the ground in September. The 10th Mountain Division Hut Association has vowed to rebuild the hut in time for next winter. Meanwhile, the hutkeepers have installed a 30-foot-wide yurt that will accommodate up to 12 skiers, starting Thanksgiving week. The quarters will be more cramped than the typical 10th Mountain hut, and there are no private rooms, but it’s a great stopgap for skiers who already had scored weekend reservations at this mega-popular hut. And, maybe because of the news about the fire, there are still plenty of bunks available for this season, especially if you can swing a weeknight or Sunday visit.

Can’t find a space at the Fowler-Hilliard or another 10th Mountain hut? Keep in mind that bunk space can be bought, sold, or traded through the association’s bulletin board. As of this morning, spots are available at Vance’s, Chuck’s, and Eiseman.