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If the mountains are calling, what better way to answer the call than with a stay at one of the Denver area’s best cabins?
It’s no secret that Colorado is a haven for outdoor exploration. And it’s even more convenient that some of the state’s best attractions, like the Rocky Mountains, Garden of the Gods, and sweeping national forests, are all within an hour or two from the capital city. Hike, bike, ski, and more — all you need is a sturdy pair of boots, a camera, a sense of adventure, and maybe a few downloaded maps.
One of the best ways to enjoy the beauty of the Colorado wilderness is by booking a cozy cabin rental stationed outside of the city. Airbnbs are an excellent way to experience the comforts of home coupled with luxury amenities for a price that’s cheaper than crowded hotels.
And better yet, they’re often tucked away in stunning natural locations that offer both small-town charm and front row seats to some of the best sunsets you’ll find in the west. Below, you’ll find a round up of some of the best cabin rentals near Denver so you can sleep in the wilderness while still getting the benefits of the big city.
Related Read: 7 Scenic Weekend Road Trips from Denver
1. Riverside Home
Why you should stay: A luxury cabin rental with five-star amenities and incredible views.
- Nearest town: Black Hawk
- Sleeps: 4
- Minimum stay: 1 night
- Rates from: $438/night
- Drive to Denver: 49 minutes
This two-bedroom riverside home easily steals the title for one of the best cabin rentals near Denver for its immaculately clean interior, expertly designed decor, and peaceful location. Numerous windows allow natural light to spill into the home’s vaulted ceilings and fill every corner of the kitchen and living room, which also features a natural case fireplace. There’s another fireplace in the sweeping primary bedroom, too.
When you can tear yourself away from the beauty of the interior, the home’s sweeping valley and river views from the spacious and partially covered deck will blow you away. Enjoy grilling out and dining al fresco before hopping into the four-person hot tub for a soothing soak. Eldora Mountain Resort and Eldorado Canyon State Park are a short drive away, and downtown Denver is just under an hour.
Check AvailabilityRelated Read: 12 Amazing Cabins in Colorado with Hot Tubs
2. Classic Log Cabin
Why you should stay: Experience classic mountain living in a cabin overlooking a river.
- Nearest town: Black Hawk
- Sleeps: 4
- Minimum stay: 1 night
- Rates from: $378/night
- Drive to Denver: 50 minutes
Serene mountain vistas await you at this Black Hawk log cabin. Spend your time lounging on this two-bedroom cabin’s charming balcony strung with lights, or get warm and toasty in the bubbling hot tub. There’s also a barbecue, fire pit, hammock, and yard games galore to ensure you’re able to enjoy your time in nature.
Chalet-style windows and the thick log walls create an inviting interior that’ll make you wish it was your permanent residence rather than just your temporary digs. The living room also features fabulous French doors that open to the mountain air, as well as a wood stove to keep you warm year-round. Nearby is the charming mountain town of Nederland, with great hiking, skiing, and tons of unique shops.
Check AvailabilityRelated Read: 8 Small Towns in Colorado You Don’t Want to Miss
3. River Bend Mountain Retreat
Why you should stay: Find peace and quiet in Lyons at a lovely little cabin rental situated in a river bend.
- Nearest town: Lyons
- Sleeps: 8
- Minimum stay: 2 night
- Rates from: $249/night
- Drive to Denver: 55 minutes
Located about 30 minutes from Estes Park and the Rocky Mountains National Park entrance, this river bend mountain retreat is a wonderful rustic oasis that allows pups. It boasts a wooden deck with twinkling lights next to the picturesque passing river. And thanks for the comfortable reclining chairs, you could easily spend all day with a good book, listening to the sounds of nature.
Inside, a fireplace and wood-burning stove will keep you toasty warm. There are two bedrooms, as well as a third detached bunkhouse with a queen bed just feet from the main cabin that offers a bit of privacy for larger groups. Boulder Falls and Alberta Falls are nearby as well as other beautiful Estes Park hikes. Though it’s close to Denver, there’s enough to do near Lyons alone that you’d be forgiven for never actually heading into the city.
Check AvailabilityRelated Read: 8 Small Towns in Colorado You Don’t Want to Miss
4. Blue Spruce Bungalow
Why you should stay: It’s newly renovated with a stunning kitchen.
- Nearest town: Evergreen
- Sleeps: 4
- Minimum stay: 1 night
- Rates from: $197/night
- Drive to Denver: 35 minutes
Venture to the quiet foothills of West Denver in this historic cabin that now boasts a fresh renovation. A rustic interior combines with various odds ‘n ends to create a classic aesthetic that just asks you to come stay for a little while. Our take: Drink your coffee on the gigantic deck while listening the birds in the surrounding trees.
There are two bedrooms and a beautiful living area with stunning hardwood floors and picture windows that let the sunshine in. But the real highlight is the stunner of a kitchen— sure, you can eat out. But why would you when you can create a home-cooked masterpiece at the cabin? Plus, outdoor adventure is everywhere. Go ice skating at Evergreen Lake in the winter (an 11 minute walk) or mountain biking at Alderfer Three Sisters in the summer (just a 4 minute drive).
Check AvailabilityRelated Read: 10 Relaxing Cabin Rentals in Breckenridge, Colorado
5. Cozy Mountain Cabin
Why you should stay: It’s a relaxing place to unwind by the fireplace or soak in the hot tub.
- Nearest town: Indian Hills
- Sleeps: 5
- Minimum stay: 1 night
- Rates from: $213/night
- Drive to Denver: 30 minutes
This cozy mountain cabin is so darn comfortable that you’ll never want to leave. Two bedrooms and a futon in the living room fit five people, and the full kitchen and dining area call for family dinners at twilight. If it’s rest and relaxation your after, this log cabin has that too. Nestle up by a roaring fire as you watch the snow fall outside, or tuck into the bubbling hot tub in the backyard while enjoying an outdoor bonfire beneath the twinkle lights.
Indian Hills is a small community near Morrison that has tons of outdoor opportunities. The world-famous Red Rocks Amphitheater is only 10 minutes away for music fans. If you’re coming with family, we recommend a visit to Tiny Town and its kid-sized buildings and real-life train.
Check AvailabilityRelated Read: 6 Scenic Drives Near Denver for When the Mountains are Calling
6. Luxury Log Cabin
Why you should stay: A secluded 54-acre property with everything you need for a memorable romantic getaway.
- Nearest town: Black Hawk
- Sleeps: 2
- Minimum stay: 3 nights
- Rates from: $399/night
- Drive to Denver: 49 minutes
This luxury log cabin outside of Denver may be an Airbnb, but it feels like a wilderness resort. The primary suite has a comfortable king bed and a spacious bathroom with a walk-in shower. The home is on 54 acres and is a veritable outdoor playground, from the firepit and hammocks to the mountain-view hot tub to the on-site trails and paths.
But if the weather outdoors isn’t ideal for lounging in the wilderness, no problem, as the home has a second indoor hot tub in the sunroom. There’s even a theatre room, perfect for both rainy days and relaxing after an active day exploring Denver.
Check AvailabilityRelated read: 5 Spectacular Native American Ruins in Colorado You Can Visit Today
7. Front Range A-Frame
Why you should stay: Recently renovated with vintage mid-century vibes and a “cedar” hot tub.
- Nearest Town: Bailey
- Sleeps: 5
- Minimum stay: 2 nights
- Rates from: $173/night
- Drive to Denver: 60 minutes
Originally built in the 1960s, the Front Range A-Frame offers up an awesomely quirky experience in the forest high above Denver — check out the before and after photos to see the home’s recent transformation.
When you’re not chillin’ in the cozy living room, you’ll love soaking up the woodsy smells of the “cedar” hot tub or lounging under the pines on the back porch. For those ready to get out into nature, there’s plenty of options — like hiking the nearby trail to sweeping views atop Mount Bailey, fishing the neighborhood fishing pond, or playing around at the local disc golf course.
Check AvailabilityPlan Your Trip to Denver
Some of Colorado’s top attractions are just outside the city and include mountain hikes, skiing adventures, and scenic drives. Here are the best things to do near Denver during your stay — aside from exploring the entire city, of course.
- Visit top sights in Rocky Mountain National Park, like Trail Ridge Road, Bear Lake, and Longs Peak.
- Commune with nature at White River National Forest, Golden Canyon State Park, Cherry Creek State Park, and Barr Lake State Park.
- Go skiing and snowboarding at the region’s top resorts like Eldora Mountain Ski Resort, Winter Park Ski Resort, and Keystone Ski Resort. (There are SO many to choose from!)
- Hike the best trails near Denver like Square Top Mountain or Mt. Bierstadt.
- Plan for one or two epic Denver day trips to places like Mount Evans, Garden of the Gods, and Pikes Peak.
- Check out classic Denver attractions like Red Rocks Amphitheater, Denver Art Museum, and the city’s vibrant downtown streets.
Explore Colorado
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