Lakeside cabins in Emerald Lake
Looking for a relaxing yet adventurous getaway?
Book a Lakeside cabin in Emerald Lake and discover the best of Colorado’s mountains, forests, and lakes.
At Pine River Lodge, we’ve been welcoming guests since 1960, providing cabins with the coziness of the mountains plus modern amenities.
From lakeside mornings to cozy nights by the fire pit, your Lakeside cabin becomes more than a place to stay—it’s part of your story.
Why choose a Lakeside cabin in Emerald Lake
Unlike hotels or standard vacation rentals, our Lakeside cabins give you privacy, space, and a true connection to nature.
Wake up to mountain air, enjoy coffee on your porch, and end the day around a fire pit under the stars.
Here’s what makes a Lakeside 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 make family stays easy
- Central high-speed internet access at the main lodge for checking in when needed
- Year-round access to seasonal adventures
What to expect in your Lakeside cabin
Every Lakeside cabin in Emerald Lake is designed for comfort and convenience.
Inside, you’ll find comfortable interiors, 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 Lakeside cabins in Emerald Lake
No two trips are the same, which is why we offer a variety of options:
- 1-bedroom Lakeside cabins for quiet getaways
- 2-bedroom Lakeside cabins perfect for small groups
- 3-bedroom or larger Lakeside cabins for multi-family trips
- Lakefront Lakeside cabins with scenic mountain-lake backdrops
- Pet-friendly Lakeside cabins so you don’t leave pets behind
Things to do near Emerald Lake
Your Lakeside cabin isn’t just a cabin—it’s your launchpad for adventure. 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.
Every hillside becomes a postcard.
Hunters also find this season ideal, with easy access to the San Juan National Forest from your Lakeside cabin in Emerald Lake.
Winter escapes
Winter is for skiers, snowboarders, and snow lovers.
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 bring visitors statewide.
Spring refresh
Spring is ideal for slower escapes, 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 Lakeside cabin in Emerald Lake
Couples’ weekend (2 nights)
- Friday: Arrive, relax by the lake, grill dinner, stargaze by your fire pit
- Saturday: Morning hike, lunch in Durango, sunset paddle, late-night fire pit
- Sunday: Coffee with mountain views, slow morning
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
- Snowmobile on Middle Mountain trails
- Evenings in your cabin, cooking meals
Lakeside cabins vs hotels or Airbnb in Emerald Lake
Cabins or Airbnb—what makes sense?
Hotels are often basic 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 Lakeside cabins in Emerald Lake give you space, privacy, and service you can count on.
When to book your Lakeside cabin in Emerald Lake
Summer: Peak season from families and couples—book months ahead.
Fall: Great for hunters and leaf-peepers, quieter than summer.
Winter: Limited cabins available (only 14 are winterized), so don’t wait.
Holidays: Christmas and New Year weeks fill quickly—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 availability is limited.
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.
Book your Lakeside cabin in Emerald Lake today
Cabins book fast, especially in holiday seasons.
Secure your spot to stay in one of the most beautiful spots in Colorado.
Plan your stay your Lakeside cabin in Emerald Lake today and start planning your trip.