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Legendary Exploration Cabin near Downtown and RMNP

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Fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop
2 bedrooms, free WiFi, bed sheets
Miscellaneous
Smart TV, fireplace, books, video library
Interior

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire cabin

2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 479 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Laundry
  • Outdoor space
  • Fireplace
  • Kitchen
  • Free WiFi

Explore the area

Map
Estes Park, CO
  • Estes Park Aerial Tramway
    ‪1 min walk‬
  • Historic Estes Park
    ‪6 min walk‬
  • The Stanley Hotel
    ‪20 min walk‬
  • Fort Collins, CO (FNL-Fort Collins-Loveland Municipal)
    ‪59 min drive‬

Room options

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire cabin to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

Legendary Exploration Cabin near Downtown and RMNP

Exploration Cabin is a meticulously restored guesthouse perfectly set in the sublime Estes Region of the Colorado Rocky Mountains. Here you can experience a trip of a lifetime. Best days ever. You'll have an unbeatable location for exploring the area with all the creature comforts you'll need. You'll enjoy stellar mountain and riverside aesthetics and easy walking to and from the heart of our active village. You'll can immerce in local life or go slow in peace & quiet at home. It's the ultimate mountain oasis and riverside escape. Lic. #3236.

Tucked between Little Prospect Mountain and the Big Thompson River, just two riverside blocks from historic downtown, EXPLORATION CABIN is a living piece of Estes Park history. Originally built in 1928, this beautifully recreated riverside home blends old-legendary charm with modern comfort, offering an unforgettable retreat for up to four guests.

>>>Why Guests Love EXPLORATION CABIN @THIS MOUNTAIN LIFE

Unbeatable Location – With easy 2-minute stroll to downtown Estes Park and just 2 miles to Rocky Mountain National Park.

Sparkling Clean & Impeccably Restored – A harmonious blend of rustic charm and first-class finishes.

Flexible & HassleFree Stays – 2 to 4-night minimums with a 30-day no-hassle cancellation policy. Extended stays welcome.

Exclusive Amenities – Fully stocked kitchen, premium linens, coffee bar, map room, hiking maps, books & guides.

Free Parking & Fast WiFi – Right at your front door for seamless convenience.

>>>Immerse Yourself in nature with style.

At THIS MOUNTAIN LIFE's basecamp, we have three extraordinary guesthouses, each with its own unique character, all next to the mountain and by the river:

REDEMPTION CABIN – A classic frontiersman’s log cabin. VRBO #467865
EXPLORATION CABIN – A picturesque craftsman cottage. VRBO #1008227
REFLECTION CABIN – A peaceful fireside studio. VRBO #1861624

Every detail has been thoughtfully curated to honor their history while ensuring a luxurious experience. Our cabins are perfect for adventurers, festival-goers, nature lovers, and those celebrating special occasions.

>>>The Perfect Base for Your Rocky Mountain Adventures

Wake up to golden sunrises and crisp mountain air, and fall asleep to moonlit skies and the rushing sounds of the river. EXPLORATION CABIN is nestled at the gateway to a world of adventure—hiking, fishing, climbing, and wildlife watching await just outside your door.

Walk to Downtown Estes Park – Stroll past historic cabins and the riverbank to discover charming cafés, coffee shops, craft breweries, restaurants, outdoor concerts, and boutique shoppes.

Quick Access to Rocky Mountain National Park – Just a 2-mile drive to breathtaking scenic trails, alpine lakes, waterfalls, and rugged mountain peaks.

Big Thompson River – Steps from fly fishing, kayaking (seasonal), and peaceful riverside walks.

>>>Book Early! Our Peak Season Sells Out Fast.

>>>Planning Your Stay? Here’s What You Need to Know

RMNP Timed Entry Permits – If visiting Rocky Mountain National Park between 9 AM – 2 PM during the summer months, you’ll need an advanced $2 permit. Check with hosts for more information.

Arrival & Access Info – The day before your stay, we’ll send you all the details to ensure a smooth arrival.

>>>Your Hosts – Rick & Cheryl

We are passionate about sharing the charm and soul of our mountain riverfront basecamp, the magic of Estes Park and the adventure of the Rocky Mountains. We will ensure your stay is truly special. As Premier Hosts and trusted local guides, we’re happy to provide recommendations and insider tips for an unforgettable mountain getaway.

Discover the soul of the Majestic Rockies. Experience a dream vacation home you’ll always remember.

Book Now!
Our customers tell us they can't get enough of this cabin's great location. During your stay, you're just a quick walk from Historic Estes Park. Enjoy features like a water park and laundry facilities. Free WiFi and a kitchen are available in the cabin.
  • The cabin offers a kitchen, a fireplace, and a patio
  • Free WiFi
  • Splash around at the water park
  • Amenities include laundry facilities
  • 6 minutes by foot from Historic Estes Park and a 3-minute drive from The Stanley Hotel
This cabin offers its guests a water park. This cabin also features a garden and laundry facilities.

This Estes Park cabin is smoke free.

Property manager

Rick and Cheryl Grigsby

Languages

English

Property amenities

Ski

  • Cross-country skiing nearby
  • Snowboarding nearby

Internet

  • Available in the cabin: Free WiFi

Parking and transport

  • Car not required
  • Parking on site

Kitchen

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Hob
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Refrigerator
  • Spices
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 2 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 0.5 bathroom
  • Hair dryer
  • Shower
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Fireplace
  • Living room
  • Separate dining area

Entertainment

  • Books
  • Games
  • Smart TV with cable/satellite channels
  • Video library

Outdoor areas

  • Garden
  • Patio

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities

Comfort

  • Heating

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • No lift (single-level property)
  • Single level property
  • Stair-free path to entrance
  • Smoke-free property
  • Note from host: May smoke outside.

Services and conveniences

  • Change of bedsheets (on request)
  • Change of towels on request

Location highlights

  • In the city centre
  • In the mountains
  • Near a health/beauty spa
  • Near a hospital
  • Near the marina
  • On a river
  • On the waterfront

Things to do

  • Golf
  • Snow sports gear
  • Water park
  • Basketball nearby
  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Golfing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Horseback riding nearby
  • Hunting nearby
  • Ice skating nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Motor boating nearby
  • Mountain biking nearby
  • Mountain climbing nearby
  • Rafting nearby
  • Rock climbing nearby
  • Sledding nearby
  • Snowmobiling nearby
  • Swimming nearby
  • Theme park nearby
  • Water tubing nearby
  • Wildlife walks nearby
  • Winery tours nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • First aid kit
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Deadbolt lock

General

  • At least 80% lighting from LEDs
  • Bed sheets changed on request
  • Double-glazed windows
  • Eco-friendly cleaning products used
  • Garden
  • Recycling
  • Towels (changed on request)
  • Unit size: 850 square feet

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 3:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 21

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM
Contactless check-out available

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.

Important information

You need to know

This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
This property uses eco-friendly cleaning products
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions. You will also receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account which will enable you to manage your booking.
Property Registration Number Estes Valley Vacation Home Registration #3126

Property is also known as

Exploration Stunning Mountain River Attributes 3 Min DT Rmnp
Mountainside Exploration Cabin Stunning Attributes 3 Min DT Rmnp
orp5b30f06x
Mountainside Exploration Stunning Attributes 3 Min DT Rmnp

Legendary Exploration Cabin near Downtown and RMNP Reviews

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 119 out of 122 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 3 out of 122 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 122 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 122 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 122 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Bryan B., Fishers, IN

Liked: Cleanliness

Stay in the Mountains

Cabin was perfect for exploring Estes Park and RMNP. Loved it.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Donna L., Princeton, MN USA

Liked: Cleanliness

Unique and well-appointed

Our weeklong stay at the exploration cabin in Estes Park was exactly what we wanted— relaxing and beautiful in a unique atmosphere. The hosts were quickly responsive to any questions we had, the check in and check out process was easy and flawless. We love reading books based in the old West and so staying in this thoughtfully appointed cabin was a delightfully unique experience. It gave us a taste of days long ago yet had the amenities necessary for a comfortable stay. Location is near enough downtown to be very accessible, yet with distance enough to be quiet and away from the hubbub. Highly recommended property and hosts!
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

William H.

Liked: Cleanliness

Exploration Cabin

My wife and I stayed at Exploration cabin to celebrate our 30th wedding anniversary. The cabin was clean and cozy. The pictures on the app were accurate. The location is within walking distance to “downtown” Estes Park where all the shops and restaurants are. The host was easy to contact and fast to respond. I would definitely stay there again and highly recommend it.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Bill R.

Liked: Cleanliness

Cozy Cabin

Everything was fantastic! Being able to walk to the downtown was great as well! Cabin was beautiful with all we needed. Lots of room!
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Stephanie O.

Liked: Cleanliness

One of a kind.

If you are looking for a
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kelly H.

Liked: Cleanliness

Perfect little cabin!!

We loved this perfect little cabin! The owners thought of everything when they fixed up this darling 1920’s rustic cabin.Such attention to detail in every space! Perfect for a romantic getaway or for a small family.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Beth S.

Liked: Cleanliness

Mountain Getaway

I cannot express how absolutely perfect our stay was at This Mountain Life. Our entire family loved the coziness of the cabin, and the location can't be beat. Our hosts were kind, prompt in communicating and addressed all of our questions and needs. We had an excellent experience overall and look forward to returning next summer.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Carrie M.

Liked: Cleanliness

National Parks Road Trip

Our stay in Estes Park was the last stop on a two-week National Parks road trip that took us from Texas to Wyoming to Montana to Colorado. The four-night stay at Exploration Cabin was an excellent end to our trip and a relaxing base camp after a long day of hiking at RMNP. The cabin was just the right size for 4 people, and we enjoyed evening strolls through town. The hosts were so helpful even before our arrival, sending a thoughtful reminder email the day before we needed to book our timed entry for the park based on our arrival date. Honestly, this one detail saved our trip, as I certainly would have missed it. During our stay Cheryl was very responsive with requests or questions. We love Estes and had a wonderful time. Can't wait to come back!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Monica M.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great little cabin in Estes!

This cabin is adorable, is within walking distance to downtown, and is well stocked with everything you need. Rick and Cheryl were awesome hosts and we enjoyed meeting and visiting with them. Would 100% recommend!!
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Ashley P.

Liked: Cleanliness

Cute Cabin

Great place to stay when visiting Rocky Mountain National Park. It was also walking distance to downtown Estes Park!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Michael R.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great cabin near everything!

This cabin is legit! It was a great place to base out of during our Estes Park vacation. First, the location is prime. The cabin is within walking distance - very short walking distance - of downtown Estes. It is also a five minute walk to the Estes Park Tram, which was awesome. It's also a very short walk to Fun City, which has some great activities for families. The cabin itself is so neat. It's very historic, but comes with all the amenities, including WiFi! The bedroom with the bunk beds was great for the kids, and we had plenty of room for our family of four to spread out. The cabin was very clean, has a functional kitchen, and the bathroom has everything you need. Cheryl was great and met us when we arrived to make sure we got in to the cabin and had everything we needed. She was so friendly! Cheryl is also very accessible while you are there in case you need anything. We have no complaints about this cabin. If you are looking for a cabin with charm, close to attractions, and somewhere unique, this is the place for you.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Tina and Scott W.

Liked: Cleanliness

Charming Cabin

Our stay at Exploration Cabin was great! Charming cabin, roomy and well-equipped. We will be back.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Bridget Y.

Liked: Cleanliness

Charming In-Town Base Camp

We will cherish our stay at The Exploration Cabin for years to come! From start to finish, Rick and Cheryl made our time in Estes Park special. From booking until departure, Cheryl communicated so thoroughly and kindly (both on the phone and in person upon arrival) that we felt truly understood and cared about. The cabin had everything we needed. The towels and bedding (and mattresses) were high quality. The books and history were fun to browse throughout our stay. We especially enjoyed being able to walk to town quickly (avoiding construction traffic that others had to navigate this year). Bonus: It was only a short drive up to RMNP, where we spent 2 days hiking with our family. We highly recommend This Mountain Life as a base camp! Thank you for making such a special place, and for being such thoughtful hosts. We look forward to returning!
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Carol J.

Liked: Cleanliness

Spring Break

Property was amazing! Cheryl and Rick so helpful and accommodating!
Stayed 6 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jean P.

Liked: Cleanliness

Modern convenience while enjoying a taste of history

This remodeled cabin has a lot of historic character. It was decorated with a theme. It provides a very unique experience. The owners communication by text was stellar. They were very responsive and accommodating of our requests. The location is great. It's within walking distance of the busy center of town. And yet, it is away from the main streets.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Bonnie B., arkansas

Liked: Cleanliness

Exploration canin

Nice clean and easy walking distance to town. Very well redone cabin
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Anna B.

Liked: Cleanliness

Beautiful Cabin, Perfect Location

We loved our recent stay in Estes, largely in part to this fabulous cabin. The owners have lovingly added gorgeous details, from the amenities to the antique decor. We have never had a VRBO owner meet us at the property - meeting Rick and Cheryl was a treat. They are so kind and helpful. The location is ideal - we walked into town each day of our stay. It was wonderful to stroll into the busy shopping area and not have to worry about parking! We were minutes from RMNP, where we spent tons of time. I highly recommend staying at any of the "This Mountain Life" cabins!
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kimberly H., Columbia

Liked: Cleanliness

Great Stay at Exporation Cabin

We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at the Exploration Cabin - it was comfortable and had everything we needed - plus the history and uniqueness of it. We enjoyed being able to walk into town - be sure to do the River Walk to Lake Estes - and the proximity to the park. What a fun surprise to have our cabin one morning surrounded by elk. The owner went above and beyond on our last day when we had an issue with our car - it was very much appreciated. We would definitely stay here again!
Stayed 6 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Leah S.

Liked: Cleanliness

Exploration Cabin

The cabin was very clean and had everything you need from making a cup of coffee to nice plush towels including makeup towels too. The bedding was nice and comfortable. We really enjoyed walking across the street to the stream and listening to the river. In the evening you can walk to the Estes Visitor Center and see Elk every evening. Great location and easy walking distance to shops.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Christian J.

Liked: Cleanliness

RMNP

Cheryl greeted us and brought water bottles for the kids - which they loved. Very great communication and helpful tips for hikes with the young ones. A great place to stay!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Tina H.

Liked: Cleanliness

Charming Cabin, great location!

Charming, clean cabin. Easy walk to town. Highly recommend, will stay again!
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Michael H.

Liked: Cleanliness

Labor Day Getaway

5 minute walk from downtown and 15 minutes drive to park entrance, Old rustic cabin with all the modern conveniences without losing any charm. Well kept garden in front with bee balm and russian sage with hummingbirds visiting frequently. We would definitely stay here again or at any of the other cabins next door that are part of the same group.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Andrea B.

Liked: Cleanliness

Perfect vacation home

The cabin was perfect, clean, cozy and charming. After a day of hiking and exploring RMNP, the cabin was the perfect place to unwind, make dinner, and share stories about our adventures that day.
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Laura B., Overland Park, KS

Liked: Cleanliness

Charming rustic cabin

We absolutely loved the mountain feel of this cabin, and so close to the river and downtown. Our young grandson was just enchanted by it. We would definitely stay here again.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jim W.

Liked: Cleanliness

A Must Do Rental

It all started with Rick and Cheryl meeting us at the house to welcome us. Never happened to us before. Everything was First Class-everything to the smallest detail. Very well appointed. Loved the location; a quick walk downtown and not far to the RMNP entrance. Exceptionally clean. They made 'rustic' comfortable.Will definitely rent again if return to Estes Park. Thank you Rick and Cheryl!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023