Emerald Lake Cabin
Looking for a relaxing yet adventurous getaway?
Plan your trip with a 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, offering cabins with the coziness of the mountains plus modern amenities.
Whether it’s coffee by the lake or s’mores by the fire, your Cabin becomes more than a place to stay—it’s part of your story.
Why choose a Cabin in Emerald Lake
Unlike hotels or standard vacation rentals, our Cabins offer you privacy, space, and a true connection to nature.
Start your day with fresh air, spend it outdoors, and finish by the fire.
Here’s what makes a Cabin in Emerald Lake special:
- Private cabins with fully stocked kitchens for stress-free meals
- Outdoor seating, BBQ grills, and fire pits for memorable nights
- Indoor heated pool and playground to keep kids entertained
- Central high-speed internet access at the main lodge for remote work or streaming
- Year-round access to seasonal adventures
What to expect in your Cabin
Every 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 Cabins in Emerald Lake
No two trips are the same, which is why we offer a variety of options:
- 1-bedroom Cabins for quiet getaways
- 2-bedroom Cabins perfect for small groups
- 3-bedroom or larger Cabins for multi-family trips
- Lakefront Cabins with incredible views of Vallecito Lake
- Pet-friendly Cabins so dogs are welcome too
Things to do near Emerald Lake
Your Cabin isn’t just a cabin—it’s your launchpad for adventure. Emerald Lake offers something in every season:
Summer adventures
Summer brings blue skies and full trails.
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 right from the shoreline.
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 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 basecamp for snow adventures.
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 early-season boating and fishing.
Itineraries from your 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, board games and wine
- Sunday: Coffee with mountain views, slow morning
Family vacation (3–5 nights)
- Pool and playground time each morning
- Exploring local trails and lakeside spots
- Evenings: movie nights in the cabin
Winter adventure week
- Ski Wolf Creek one day, Purgatory the next
- Snowshoe on Middle Mountain trails
- Evenings in your cabin, warming up in the hot tub
Cabins vs hotels or Airbnb in Emerald Lake
Cabin stays vs hotels—what’s better?
Hotels are often basic and lack kitchens or outdoor space.
Airbnb options can be hit-or-miss.
At Pine River Lodge, you get the consistency of professional management with the charm of a private cabin.
Our Cabins in Emerald Lake give you space, privacy, and service you can count on.
When to book your Cabin in Emerald Lake
Summer: Busiest time of year 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 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 have access depending on provider.
What activities are nearby?
Hiking, fishing, boating, skiing, snowmobiling, ice fishing, hunting, and day trips to Silverton.
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 holiday seasons.
Don’t miss your chance to stay in one of the most beautiful spots in Colorado.
Book your Cabin in Emerald Lake today and start planning your trip.