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Legendary Exploration Cabin near Downtown and RMNP

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Kitchen features a stove, sink, and central island with shelves for dishes and glasses.
Property video
Cozy cabin-style interior with a central seating area, sofa, and cushioned bench, featuring a map and papers on a small table.
Experience the rustic charm of the Exploration Cabin, featuring a traditional design and a prominent deer head emblem above the entrance.
Cross a serene river on a rustic bridge, surrounded by lush greenery and a charming cabin in the distance.

Entire cabin

2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 4

Popular amenities

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

Explore the area

Map
Estes Park, CO
  • Estes Park Aerial Tramway
    ‪2 min walk‬
  • Historic Estes Park
    ‪5 min walk‬
  • The Stanley Hotel
    ‪16 min walk‬
  • Fort Collins, CO (FNL-Fort Collins-Loveland Municipal)
    ‪66 min drive‬

Room options

About the area

Estes Park

This cabin puts you in the centre of Estes Park, 2.4 km (1.5 mi) from Rocky Mountain National Park and 1.6 km (1 mi) from The Stanley Hotel. .Cabin features free WiFi, a fireplace and a patio. In-room dining is easy with a kitchen that comes equipped with a fridge, a microwave and a stovetop. A living room, a dining area and a Smart TV are also available. Change of towels is available on request
View more Cabin rentals in Estes ParkOpens in a new window

What's nearby

  • Estes Park Aerial Tramway - 2 min walk - 0.2 km
  • Historic Estes Park - 5 min walk - 0.5 km
  • The Stanley Hotel - 16 min walk - 1.4 km
  • Stanley Park - 3 min drive - 2.2 km
  • Estes Park Golf Course - 6 min drive - 4.4 km

Getting around

  • Fort Collins, CO (FNL-Fort Collins-Loveland Municipal) - 59 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬15 min walk
  • ‪Claire's Restaurant and Bar - ‬8 min walk
  • ‪Coffee on the Rocks - ‬12 min walk
  • ‪Starbucks - ‬14 min walk
  • ‪You Need Pie! - ‬15 min walk

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 completely restored riverfront cottage perfectly set in the sublime Estes Region of the Colorado Rocky Mountains. STR #3236. Here you can experience a trip of a lifetime. You'll have the perfect location for exploring the area with luxury creature comforts for wellness and revival. You'll enjoy stellar mountain and riverside aesthetics, easy walking to and from Downtown Estes Park, and a simple relaxed style. It's the ultimate mountain oasis and private riverside retreat.

Tucked between Little Prospect Mountain and the Big Thompson River, just two blocks from historic downtown Estes Park, Exploration Cabin is a living piece of Rocky Mountain history. Originally built in 1928, this beautifully restored mountainside guesthouse blends old-world charm with modern comfort, offering an unforgettable retreat for up to four guests.


 Why Guests Love Exploration Cabin and This Mountain Life

Unbeatable Location – A scenic 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 & Hassle-Free Stays – 2 to 4-night minimums with a 30-day no-hassle cancellation policy. Extended stays welcome!


Exclusive Amenities – Fully stocked kitchen, Map Room, Coffee Bar, premium linens, hiking maps, books & guides.


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

Immerse Yourself in This Mountain Life

At This Mountain Life's basecamp, we’ve restored three extraordinary guesthouses, each with its own unique character, all by the river:


Exploration Cabin – A picturesque craftsman cottage.
 Vrbo
#1008227
Redemption Cabin – A classic frontiersman’s mountainside log cabin.
 Vrbo #467865
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 distant 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! So book early.

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.

Arrival & Access Info – A few days 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 of our basecamp, the magic of Estes Park and the adventure of the Rocky Mountains. We will ensure your stay is truly special. As Superhosts and trusted local guides, we’re happy to provide recommendations and insider tips for an unforgettable mountain getaway.

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

Book now!

Property manager

Rick and Cheryl Grigsby

Languages

English

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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

  • 1 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 and check-out are available
Minimum check-in age - 21

Check-out

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

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

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
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
This property uses eco-friendly cleaning products
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
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
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A cash deposit, credit card or debit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
    This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business or profession. On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited. This property uses eco-friendly cleaning products. For guests' safety, the property includes a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a first aid kit and a deadbolt lock in all accommodation.

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

Frequently asked questions

Is there a spa on site at Legendary Exploration Cabin near Downtown and RMNP?

No, there is no spa at this property. The Stanley Hotel is a short 20-minute walk away.

Does Legendary Exploration Cabin near Downtown and RMNP have a pool?

No, this cabin doesn't have a pool.

Does Legendary Exploration Cabin near Downtown and RMNP have a waterslide?

No, but it has a waterpark and lazy river.

Is Legendary Exploration Cabin near Downtown and RMNP family-friendly?

You bet! With amenities such as a water park, laundry facilities and children's books, it's no surprise that Legendary Exploration Cabin near Downtown and RMNP is a winner with our family travellers.

Is there a free airport shuttle available at Legendary Exploration Cabin near Downtown and RMNP?

No, Legendary Exploration Cabin near Downtown and RMNP does not offer an airport shuttle service.

What time are check-in & check-out at Legendary Exploration Cabin near Downtown and RMNP?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM. Check-out time is 10:00 AM.

Are pets allowed at Legendary Exploration Cabin near Downtown and RMNP?

No, pets are not allowed.

Is there a golf course on site at Legendary Exploration Cabin near Downtown and RMNP?

There isn't one on site, but Lake Estes 9-Hole Golf Course is a short 18-minute walk away.

Legendary Exploration Cabin near Downtown and RMNP Reviews

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 126 out of 129 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 3 out of 129 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 129 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 129 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 129 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Chris M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great hosts and great cabin!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Maggie D.

Liked: Cleanliness
We had a great stay! The cabin was bigger inside than expected and had plenty of room for myself, my husband and a friend. It was very clean and had everything we needed. The cabin was perfect walking distance to downtown. Will stay here again and would highly recommend to others!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

WELDON L.

Liked: Cleanliness

Sweet setup

Cozy little place. Walking distance to town. Cute creekside sitting area.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Leasa C.

Liked: Cleanliness

Rocky Mountain NP Base Camp

Unique well appointed cabin which was a great base camp for our national park adventures!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Heather C.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great little property with lots of thoughtful appointments! It’s in a perfect location for walking everywhere in Estes Park. The hosts were so friendly and even brought my son a birthday cake after I mentioned it was his birthday! It made his day! We loved our time here.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Dawn A.

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful cabin with attention to details.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

eric s.

Liked: Cleanliness

an Estes Park gem !

We took an impromptu trip to Estes Park and were thrilled to book this cabin. The online pics were enticing but when we entered this cabin in person it was beyond our expectations. The attention to detail that Rick & Cheryl took to this cabin are almost museum quality. The map room, the cold storage shadow box, antique books - just phenomenal. The fully functional kitchen was well appointed. Coffee was available, even a couple of Dr Peppers for us Texans. The Big Thompson river is right across the street with a bench to enjoy the scene and sounds. The cabin is easy 5 min walk to the downtown shops and restaurants, and even closer to the Rock Cut Brewing, yet off the main drag so hardly any vehicle traffic. Do yourself a favor and stay here. You can thank me later.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

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