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Legendary Exploration Cabin near Downtown and RMNP

Cabin near Rocky Mountain National Park in Estes Park

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Fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop
Smart TV, fireplace, books, video library
Property grounds
Exterior
2 bedrooms, free WiFi, bed sheets

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire cabin

2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 479 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Outdoor space
  • Fireplace
  • Barbecue grill
  • Kitchen

Explore the area

View in a map
Estes Park, CO
  • Place, Estes Park Aerial Tramway
    ‪2 min walk‬
  • Place, Historic Estes Park
    ‪5 min walk‬
  • Place, The Stanley Hotel
    ‪16 min walk‬
  • Airport, Fort Collins, CO (FNL-Fort Collins-Loveland Municipal)
    ‪66 min drive‬

Room options

About the area

Estes Park

Downtown Estes Park stay.Your stay at this Downtown Estes Park cabin places you within 2 miles (3 km) of Rocky Mountain National Park and The Stanley Hotel. Estes Park Aerial Tramway and Open Air Adventure Park are also within half a mile (1 km).
View more Cabin rentals in Estes ParkOpens in a new window

What's nearby

  • Estes Park Aerial Tramway - 2 min walk - 0.2 km
  • Historic Estes Park - 5 min walk - 0.5 km
  • The Stanley Hotel - 16 min walk - 1.4 km
  • Stanley Park - 3 min drive - 2.2 km
  • Estes Park Golf Course - 6 min drive - 4.4 km

Getting around

  • Fort Collins, CO (FNL-Fort Collins-Loveland Municipal) - 59 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Coffee on the Rocks - ‬12 min walk
  • ‪Claire's Restaurant and Bar - ‬7 min walk
  • ‪Full Throttle Distillery - ‬7 min walk
  • ‪Elevations Eatery and Bar - ‬6 min walk
  • ‪Himalayan Curry & Kebob - ‬7 min walk

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire cabin to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

Legendary Exploration Cabin near Downtown and RMNP

EXPLORATION CABIN is a completely restored riverfront cottage perfectly set in the sublime Estes Region of the Colorado Rocky Mountains. STR #3236. Here you can experience a trip of a lifetime. You'll have the perfect location for exploring the area with luxury creature comforts for wellness and revival. You'll enjoy stellar mountain and riverside aesthetics, easy walking to and from Downtown Estes Park, and a simple relaxed style. It's the ultimate mountain oasis and private riverside retreat.

Tucked between Little Prospect Mountain and the Big Thompson River, just two blocks from historic downtown Estes Park, Exploration Cabin is a living piece of Rocky Mountain history. Originally built in 1928, this beautifully restored mountainside guesthouse blends old-world charm with modern comfort, offering an unforgettable retreat for up to four guests.


 Why Guests Love Exploration Cabin and This Mountain Life

Unbeatable Location – A scenic 2-minute stroll to downtown Estes Park and just 2 miles to Rocky Mountain National Park.


Sparkling Clean & Impeccably Restored – A harmonious blend of rustic charm and first-class finishes.

Flexible & Hassle-Free Stays – 2 to 4-night minimums with a 30-day no-hassle cancellation policy. Extended stays welcome!


Exclusive Amenities – Fully stocked kitchen, Map Room, Coffee Bar, premium linens, hiking maps, books & guides.


Free Parking & Fast WiFi – Right at your front door for seamless convenience.

Immerse Yourself in This Mountain Life

At This Mountain Life's basecamp, we’ve restored three extraordinary guesthouses, each with its own unique character, all by the river:


Exploration Cabin – A picturesque craftsman cottage.
 Vrbo
#1008227
Redemption Cabin – A classic frontiersman’s mountainside log cabin.
 Vrbo #467865
Reflection Cabin – A peaceful fireside studio. Vrbo #1861624

Every detail has been thoughtfully curated to honor their history while ensuring a luxurious experience. Our cabins are perfect for adventurers, festival-goers, nature lovers, and those celebrating special occasions.

The Perfect Base for Your Rocky Mountain Adventures

Wake up to golden sunrises and crisp mountain air, and fall asleep to moonlit skies and the distant sounds of the river. Exploration Cabin is nestled at the gateway to a world of adventure—hiking, fishing, climbing, and wildlife watching await just outside your door.

Walk to Downtown Estes Park – Stroll past historic cabins and the riverbank to discover charming cafés, coffee shops, craft breweries, restaurants, outdoor concerts, and boutique shoppes.


Quick Access to Rocky Mountain National Park – Just a 2-mile drive to breathtaking scenic trails, alpine lakes, waterfalls, and rugged mountain peaks.


Big Thompson River – Steps from fly fishing, kayaking (seasonal), and peaceful riverside walks.

Book Early – Our Peak Season Sells Out Fast! So book early.

Planning Your Stay? Here’s What You Need to Know:

RMNP Timed Entry Permits – If visiting Rocky Mountain National Park between 9 AM – 2 PM during the summer months, you’ll need an advanced $2 permit.

Arrival & Access Info – A few days before your stay, we’ll send you all the details to ensure a smooth arrival.


Your Hosts – Rick & Cheryl

We are passionate about sharing the charm of our basecamp, the magic of Estes Park and the adventure of the Rocky Mountains. We will ensure your stay is truly special. As Superhosts and trusted local guides, we’re happy to provide recommendations and insider tips for an unforgettable mountain getaway.

Discover the soul of the Rockies. Experience a dream vacation home you’ll always remember.

Book now!

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Property amenities

Ski

  • Cross-country skiing nearby
  • Snowboarding nearby

Internet

  • Available in the cabin: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Car not required
  • Parking on site

Kitchen

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Refrigerator
  • Spices
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 2 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 1 bathroom
  • Hair dryer
  • Shower
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Fireplace
  • Living room
  • Separate dining area

Entertainment

  • Books
  • Games
  • Smart TV with cable/satellite channels
  • Video library

Outdoor areas

  • Barbecue grill
  • Garden
  • Patio

Laundry

  • Coin laundry

Comfort

  • Heating

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • No elevator (single-level property)
  • Single level property
  • Stair-free path to entrance
  • Smoking not allowed
  • Note from host: May smoke outside.

Services and conveniences

  • Change of bedsheets (on request)
  • Change of towels on request

Location highlights

  • In the city center
  • In the mountains
  • Near a health/beauty spa
  • Near a hospital
  • Near the marina
  • On a river
  • On the waterfront

Things to do

  • Golf
  • Snow sports gear
  • Water park
  • Basketball nearby
  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Golfing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Horseback riding nearby
  • Hunting nearby
  • Ice skating nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Motor boating nearby
  • Mountain biking nearby
  • Mountain climbing nearby
  • Rafting nearby
  • Rock climbing nearby
  • Sledding nearby
  • Snowmobiling nearby
  • Swimming nearby
  • Theme park nearby
  • Water tubing nearby
  • Wildlife walks nearby
  • Winery tours nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • First aid kit
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Deadbolt lock

General

  • At least 80% lighting from LEDs
  • Bed sheets changed on request
  • Double-glazed windows
  • Eco-friendly cleaning products used
  • Garden
  • Recycling
  • Towels (changed on request)
  • Unit size: 850 square feet

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 3:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 21

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM
Contactless check-out available

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Rules

Guest is required to sign a RenterAgreement within 48 hours. Security Deposit (via cc hold) of $500. Minimum Age to rent is 21.
NO Smoking. NO pets. NO parties/events. Quiet Hours are from 10:00 PM - 7:00 AM.

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.

Events

No events allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
May smoke outside.

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
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
This property uses eco-friendly cleaning products
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, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
    This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession. Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited. This property uses eco-friendly cleaning products. For guests' safety, the property includes a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock in each accommodation.

Property Registration Number Estes Valley Vacation Home Registration #3126

Property is also known as

Exploration Stunning Mountain River Attributes 3 Min DT Rmnp
Mountainside Exploration Cabin Stunning Attributes 3 Min DT Rmnp
orp5b30f06x
Mountainside Exploration Stunning Attributes 3 Min DT Rmnp

Legendary Exploration Cabin near Downtown and RMNP Reviews

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 134 out of 137 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 3 out of 137 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 137 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 137 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 137 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Alexander M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Shannon R., Atlanta, GA

Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect cabin! Loved the little touches and the way they kept it in the past but providing just the right updates! Cheryl and Rick were great hosts. We would definitely stay here again!!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Zeph L.

Liked: Cleanliness
Amazing cabin in the beautiful Estes Park. The Cabin itself is stunning and perfectly quirky but also a short walk away from all that Estes Park has to offer. Highly recommend!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Dan S.

Liked: Cleanliness
My girls described this quaint cabin as a "fairytale" and I couldn't agree more. Incredibly well-maintained, full of character, and so many small but meaningful touches that make this cabin feel like home away from home. Amazing location, walking distance to town, a bike ride to hiking trails, and natural splendor. We made great memories here, and Rick and Cheryl were AMAZING hosts! Unmatched hospitality and responsiveness. We would absolutely stay again!
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

eric s.

Liked: Cleanliness
We loved this house. Super cute and located really close to several stores and restaurants. The interior was perfect for our family of four.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Bob N.

Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Brian W.

Liked: Cleanliness

Cozy, Rustic, and Just Right

We loved our stay in the Exploration Cabin. It was just what we were looking for: Excellent location, well-appointed, EXTREMELY clean, and felt good to be in. The proximity to everything in Estes was great, as we could walk to everything in town and easily get in and out without having to wait much for traffic. Definitely recommended.
Clean, well-appointed kitchen with a variety of pots and pans and utensils, plus snacks, coffee, tea, and hot cocoa.
The "map room" was cool, and the window seat was a great place to sit and read with the window open and the fresh air flowing in.
The Talls had to watch our heads, but it was no big deal. Excellent stay.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jenn T.

Liked: Cleanliness
Wonderful cabin! So cute and comfortable. Great service by managers
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Chris M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great hosts and great cabin!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Maggie D.

Liked: Cleanliness
We had a great stay! The cabin was bigger inside than expected and had plenty of room for myself, my husband and a friend. It was very clean and had everything we needed. The cabin was perfect walking distance to downtown. Will stay here again and would highly recommend to others!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

WELDON L.

Liked: Cleanliness

Sweet setup

Cozy little place. Walking distance to town. Cute creekside sitting area.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Leasa C.

Liked: Cleanliness

Rocky Mountain NP Base Camp

Unique well appointed cabin which was a great base camp for our national park adventures!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Heather C.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great little property with lots of thoughtful appointments! It’s in a perfect location for walking everywhere in Estes Park. The hosts were so friendly and even brought my son a birthday cake after I mentioned it was his birthday! It made his day! We loved our time here.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Dawn A.

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful cabin with attention to details.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

eric s.

Liked: Cleanliness

an Estes Park gem !

We took an impromptu trip to Estes Park and were thrilled to book this cabin. The online pics were enticing but when we entered this cabin in person it was beyond our expectations. The attention to detail that Rick & Cheryl took to this cabin are almost museum quality. The map room, the cold storage shadow box, antique books - just phenomenal. The fully functional kitchen was well appointed. Coffee was available, even a couple of Dr Peppers for us Texans. The Big Thompson river is right across the street with a bench to enjoy the scene and sounds. The cabin is easy 5 min walk to the downtown shops and restaurants, and even closer to the Rock Cut Brewing, yet off the main drag so hardly any vehicle traffic. Do yourself a favor and stay here. You can thank me later.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Bryan B., Fishers, IN

Liked: Cleanliness

Stay in the Mountains

Cabin was perfect for exploring Estes Park and RMNP. Loved it.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Donna L., Princeton, MN USA

Liked: Cleanliness

Unique and well-appointed

Our weeklong stay at the exploration cabin in Estes Park was exactly what we wanted— relaxing and beautiful in a unique atmosphere. The hosts were quickly responsive to any questions we had, the check in and check out process was easy and flawless. We love reading books based in the old West and so staying in this thoughtfully appointed cabin was a delightfully unique experience. It gave us a taste of days long ago yet had the amenities necessary for a comfortable stay. Location is near enough downtown to be very accessible, yet with distance enough to be quiet and away from the hubbub. Highly recommended property and hosts!
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

William H.

Liked: Cleanliness

Exploration Cabin

My wife and I stayed at Exploration cabin to celebrate our 30th wedding anniversary. The cabin was clean and cozy. The pictures on the app were accurate. The location is within walking distance to “downtown” Estes Park where all the shops and restaurants are. The host was easy to contact and fast to respond. I would definitely stay there again and highly recommend it.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Bill R.

Liked: Cleanliness

Cozy Cabin

Everything was fantastic! Being able to walk to the downtown was great as well! Cabin was beautiful with all we needed. Lots of room!
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Stephanie O.

Liked: Cleanliness

One of a kind.

If you are looking for a
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kelly H.

Liked: Cleanliness

Perfect little cabin!!

We loved this perfect little cabin! The owners thought of everything when they fixed up this darling 1920’s rustic cabin.Such attention to detail in every space! Perfect for a romantic getaway or for a small family.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Beth S.

Liked: Cleanliness

Mountain Getaway

I cannot express how absolutely perfect our stay was at This Mountain Life. Our entire family loved the coziness of the cabin, and the location can't be beat. Our hosts were kind, prompt in communicating and addressed all of our questions and needs. We had an excellent experience overall and look forward to returning next summer.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Carrie M.

Liked: Cleanliness

National Parks Road Trip

Our stay in Estes Park was the last stop on a two-week National Parks road trip that took us from Texas to Wyoming to Montana to Colorado. The four-night stay at Exploration Cabin was an excellent end to our trip and a relaxing base camp after a long day of hiking at RMNP. The cabin was just the right size for 4 people, and we enjoyed evening strolls through town. The hosts were so helpful even before our arrival, sending a thoughtful reminder email the day before we needed to book our timed entry for the park based on our arrival date. Honestly, this one detail saved our trip, as I certainly would have missed it. During our stay Cheryl was very responsive with requests or questions. We love Estes and had a wonderful time. Can't wait to come back!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Monica M.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great little cabin in Estes!

This cabin is adorable, is within walking distance to downtown, and is well stocked with everything you need. Rick and Cheryl were awesome hosts and we enjoyed meeting and visiting with them. Would 100% recommend!!
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Ashley P.

Liked: Cleanliness

Cute Cabin

Great place to stay when visiting Rocky Mountain National Park. It was also walking distance to downtown Estes Park!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2024