Emerald Lake Lakeside cabin
Searching for a relaxing yet adventurous getaway?
Reserve a Lakeside cabin in Emerald Lake and enjoy 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 Lakeside cabin becomes more than a place to stay—it’s part of your story.
Why choose a Lakeside cabin in Emerald Lake
Forget the crowds and noise of hotels, 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 complete 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 honeymoon-style retreats
- 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 gateway to Colorado fun. Emerald Lake offers something in every season:
Summer adventures
Summer brings perfect conditions for adventure.
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 around Vallecito Lake.
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 cozy retreat after long days outside.
Ice fishing is also popular from January through March, with tournaments that make the lake come alive in winter.
Spring refresh
Spring is a season of renewal, perfect for travelers wanting calm.
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, board games and wine
- Sunday: Coffee with mountain views, one last lakeside walk
Family vacation (3–5 nights)
- Pool and playground time each morning
- Day trips to Mesa Verde
- Evenings: family games
Winter adventure week
- Ski Wolf Creek one day, Purgatory the next
- Snowshoe on Middle Mountain trails
- Evenings in your cabin, relaxing by the fire
Lakeside cabins vs hotels or Airbnb in Emerald Lake
Cabins or Airbnb—what makes sense?
Hotels are often cramped 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 Lakeside cabins in Emerald Lake combine convenience with authentic Colorado experiences.
When to book your Lakeside cabin in Emerald Lake
Summer: Busiest time of year from families and couples—book months ahead.
Fall: Great for hunters and leaf-peepers, more relaxed than summer.
Winter: Limited cabins available (only 14 are winterized), so plan early.
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 Durango.
Is there a pool?
Yes, an indoor heated pool is open seasonally, plus a playground for kids.
Reserve your cabin now
Cabins book fast, especially in holiday seasons.
Don’t miss your chance to stay in one of the most beautiful spots in Colorado.
Reserve your Lakeside cabin in Emerald Lake today and start planning your trip.