Mountain cabin in Emerald Lake
Looking for a relaxing yet adventurous getaway?
Book a Mountain 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, offering cabins with the perfect mix of rustic charm and modern comforts.
With lake views by day and starry skies at night, your Mountain cabin becomes more than a place to stay—it’s part of your story.
Why choose a Mountain cabin in Emerald Lake
Unlike hotels or standard vacation rentals, our Mountain cabins give you privacy, space, and a true connection to nature.
Enjoy mornings in nature and evenings under the stars.
Here’s what makes a Mountain cabin in Emerald Lake special:
- Private cabins with ready-to-use kitchens for stress-free meals
- Outdoor seating, BBQ grills, and fire pits for memorable nights
- Indoor heated pool and playground to make family stays easy
- Central high-speed internet access at the main lodge for staying connected
- Year-round access to hiking, fishing, skiing, snowmobiling, and more
What to expect in your Mountain cabin
Every Mountain cabin in Emerald Lake is designed for comfort and convenience.
Inside, you’ll find cozy living spaces, 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 hot tubs, giving you that perfect mountain-lodge feel.
Types of Mountain cabins in Emerald Lake
No two trips are the same, which is why we offer a variety of options:
- 1-bedroom Mountain cabins for couples seeking a romantic escape
- 2-bedroom Mountain cabins perfect for parents with kids
- 3-bedroom or larger Mountain cabins for multi-family trips
- Lakefront Mountain cabins with incredible views of Vallecito Lake
- Pet-friendly Mountain cabins so dogs are welcome too
Things to do near Emerald Lake
Your Mountain cabin isn’t just a cabin—it’s your launchpad for adventure. 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.
Aspens turn gold and orange.
Hunters also find this season ideal, with easy access to the San Juan National Forest from your Mountain 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 make the lake come alive in winter.
Spring refresh
Spring is ideal for slower escapes, perfect for older couples.
Trails begin to open, wildlife comes alive, and the lake starts warming up for early-season boating and fishing.
Itineraries from your Mountain cabin in Emerald Lake
Couples’ weekend (2 nights)
- Friday: Arrive, relax by the lake, grill dinner, enjoy wine under the stars
- 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: BBQ dinners
Winter adventure week
- Ski Wolf Creek one day, Purgatory the next
- Snowmobile on Middle Mountain trails
- Evenings in your cabin, relaxing by the fire
Mountain 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 Mountain cabins in Emerald Lake give you space, privacy, and service you can count on.
When to book your Mountain cabin in Emerald Lake
Summer: High demand 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 book in advance.
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 fully equipped 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 Pagosa Springs.
Is there a pool?
Yes, an indoor heated pool is open seasonally, plus a playground for kids.
Book your Mountain cabin in Emerald Lake today
Cabins book fast, especially in peak summer.
Secure your spot to stay in one of the most beautiful spots in Colorado.
Plan your stay your Mountain cabin in Emerald Lake today and start planning your trip.