Lakefront cabins in Emerald Lake
Dreaming of a relaxing yet adventurous getaway?
Plan your trip with a Lakefront cabin in Emerald Lake and experience the best of Colorado’s mountains, forests, and lakes.
At Pine River Lodge, we’ve been welcoming guests since 1960, featuring cabins with the authentic lodge vibe with everything you need.
From lakeside mornings to cozy nights by the fire pit, your Lakefront cabin becomes more than a place to stay—it’s part of your story.
Why choose a Lakefront cabin in Emerald Lake
Forget the crowds and noise of hotels, our Lakefront cabins offer you privacy, space, and a true connection to nature.
Enjoy mornings in nature and evenings under the stars.
Here’s what makes a Lakefront cabin in Emerald Lake special:
- Private cabins with ready-to-use kitchens for stress-free meals
- Outdoor seating, BBQ grills, and fire pits for true Colorado experiences
- Indoor heated pool and playground to add fun for all ages
- Central high-speed internet access at the main lodge for checking in when needed
- Year-round access to hiking, fishing, skiing, snowmobiling, and more
What to expect in your Lakefront cabin
Every Lakefront cabin in Emerald Lake is designed for comfort and convenience.
Inside, you’ll find warm mountain décor, full kitchens stocked with cookware, air-conditioning, and satellite TV.
Outside, enjoy your own fire pit, BBQ grill, and space to unwind.
Some cabins also include fireplaces, giving you that perfect mountain-lodge feel.
Types of Lakefront cabins in Emerald Lake
No two trips are the same, which is why we offer a variety of options:
- 1-bedroom Lakefront cabins for couples seeking a romantic escape
- 2-bedroom Lakefront cabins perfect for young families
- 3-bedroom or larger Lakefront cabins for family reunions
- Lakefront Lakefront cabins with scenic mountain-lake backdrops
- Pet-friendly Lakefront cabins so you don’t leave pets behind
Things to do near Emerald Lake
Your Lakefront cabin isn’t just a cabin—it’s your gateway to Colorado fun. Emerald Lake offers something in every season:
Summer adventures
Summer brings warm days and endless outdoor fun.
Spend your mornings hiking or biking local trails, afternoons kayaking or paddleboarding on Vallecito Lake, and evenings grilling dinner outside your cabin.
Fishing is especially popular this time of year, with plenty of opportunities steps from your cabin.
Fall getaways
When the crowds thin out, fall colors transform the valley.
The forest glows in red, yellow, and orange.
Hunters also find this season ideal, with easy access to the San Juan National Forest from your Lakefront cabin in Emerald Lake.
Winter escapes
Winter is for snow days and cozy nights.
With Purgatory and Wolf Creek ski resorts nearby, plus snowmobiling trails and a fully groomed Nordic track, your cabin becomes a perfect place to warm up.
Ice fishing is also popular from January through March, with tournaments that draw anglers from across Colorado.
Spring refresh
Spring is quiet and peaceful, perfect for anyone avoiding crowds.
Trails begin to open, wildlife comes alive, and the lake starts warming up for spring paddling and casting.
Itineraries from your Lakefront cabin in Emerald Lake
Couples’ weekend (2 nights)
- Friday: Arrive, relax by the lake, grill dinner, sit by the fire and unwind
- Saturday: Morning hike, lunch in Durango, sunset paddle, late-night fire pit
- Sunday: Coffee with mountain views, late checkout if available
Family vacation (3–5 nights)
- Pool and playground time each morning
- A ride on the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
- Evenings: movie nights in the cabin
Winter adventure week
- Ski Wolf Creek one day, Purgatory the next
- Nordic ski on Middle Mountain trails
- Evenings in your cabin, cooking meals
Lakefront cabins vs hotels or Airbnb in Emerald Lake
Cabin stays vs hotels—what’s better?
Hotels are often impersonal and lack kitchens or outdoor space.
Airbnb options can be inconsistent.
At Pine River Lodge, you get the consistency of professional management with the charm of a private cabin.
Our Lakefront cabins in Emerald Lake combine convenience with authentic Colorado experiences.
When to book your Lakefront cabin in Emerald Lake
Summer: Peak season from families and couples—book months ahead.
Fall: Great for hunters and leaf-peepers, less crowded than summer.
Winter: Limited cabins available (only 14 are winterized), so book in advance.
Holidays: Christmas and New Year weeks are reserved far in advance—returning guests often rebook a year ahead.
Frequently asked questions
Do the cabins have kitchens?
Yes. Every cabin includes a ready-to-use kitchen with cookware, dishes, and utensils.
Are the cabins pet-friendly?
Yes. Several cabins are pet-friendly, but book early to secure one.
Is there Wi-Fi?
Yes. High-speed internet is available at the main lodge, and some cabins offer limited coverage.
What activities are nearby?
Hiking, fishing, boating, skiing, snowmobiling, ice fishing, hunting, and day trips to Pagosa Springs.
Is there a pool?
Yes, an indoor heated pool is open seasonally, plus a playground for kids.
Ready to book?
Cabins book fast, especially in winter ski season.
Lock in your getaway now to stay in one of the most beautiful spots in Colorado.
Book your Lakefront cabin in Emerald Lake today and start planning your trip.