Legendary Exploration Cabin near Downtown and RMNP

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Cabin

Overview
Amenities
Policies
Location
Host

Exceptional

2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 479.0 sq m

Popular amenities

Parking available
Laundry
Outdoor space
Fireplace
Kitchen
Free WiFi

Explore the area

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

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 4)

Bunk Room

2 Single Beds

Master Bedroom

1 Queen Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio

Kitchen

Separate dining area

Garden

About this property

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

Premier Host

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen

Free WiFi

Laundry

Outdoor space

Parking available

Mountain view

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Free WiFi
Parking available
Laundry
Microwave

House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM

Minimum age to rent: 21

Check out before 10:00 AM

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17

Events

No events allowed

Pets

No pets allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

May smoke outside.

Guest is required to sign a RenterAgreement within 48 hours. Security Deposit (via cc hold) of $500. Minimum Age to rent is 21.

NO Smoking. NO pets. NO parties/events. Quiet Hours are from 10:00 PM - 7:00 AM.

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

Property Registration Number Estes Valley Vacation Home Registration #3126

We should mention

A car is not required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Estes Park

Located in Downtown Estes Park, a neighbourhood in Estes Park, this cabin is near theme parks and on the waterfront. The Stanley Hotel and Historic Estes Park are notable landmarks, and the area's natural beauty can be seen at Rocky Mountain National Park. Trout Haven Fishing Pond and Tiny Town Miniature Golf are also worth visiting. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.

Estes Park, CO

What's nearby

Estes Park Aerial Tramway - 1 min walk - 0.2 km
Historic Estes Park - 6 min walk - 0.5 km
Lake Estes - 18 min walk - 1.6 km
The Stanley Hotel - 20 min walk - 1.7 km
Stanley Park - 3 min drive - 2.4 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
‪Estes Park Pie Shop & Bakery - ‬15 min walk

Frequently asked questions

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

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Legendary Exploration Cabin near Downtown and RMNP?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Legendary Exploration Cabin near Downtown and RMNP?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Legendary Exploration Cabin near Downtown and RMNP located?

Located in Downtown Estes Park, this cabin is within a 10-minute walk of Estes Park Aerial Tramway and Historic Estes Park. The Stanley Hotel and Rocky Mountain National Park are also within 2 miles (3 km).

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.

Learn more

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

10/10 Excellent

Bryan B.

19 October 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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.

9 October 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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.

17 September 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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.

9 September 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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.

8 September 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

One of a kind.

If you are looking for a

Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kelly H.

20 August 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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.

9 August 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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.

29 July 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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.

21 July 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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.

18 July 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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.

2 July 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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.

1 July 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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.

28 June 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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.

16 March 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Spring Break

Property was amazing! Cheryl and Rick so helpful and accommodating!

Stayed 6 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jean P.

6 March 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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

28 November 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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.

18 October 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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

17 October 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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.

12 October 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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.

3 October 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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.

16 September 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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.

4 September 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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.

25 August 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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

12 August 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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.

25 July 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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

About the host

Hosted by Rick and Cheryl Grigsby

Rick & Cheryl Grigsby first discovered the Estes Region in 1980s and returned year after year whenever they could. Some 2 decades later, they became full-time Estes Park. The Grigsbys created and presently direct the This Mountain Life restoration project.

For the past 15 years Rick & Cheryl have been recreating historic downtown property into 3 extraordinary mountaintown vacation traveler cabins. They are situated at the foot of Prospect Mountain and across the Big Thompson River in the heart of Colorado’s sublime Estes Region. Redemption, Exploration and Reflection Cabins (aka This Mountain Life Extraordinary Guesthouses) are fruit of their they adventure story. They love to share it. They are the designers, builders & hosts. They attend to every detail.

Why they chose this property

This Mountain Life property is quintessential Estes Park vacation property with an idyllic mountain & riverside setting. It has an unbeatable private location with a close, quick, easy access.

This Mountain Life property satisfies everybody's needs for beauty as well as bread, places to play in and pray in, where nature may heal and give strength to body and soul.

What makes this property unique

Privacy, location, accessibility, walkability, wildlife, mountainside attributes, riverside attributes, rushing water sounds, authenticity, craftsmanship, attention to detail.

Languages:

English

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests

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Legendary Exploration Cabin near Downtown and RMNP

Photo gallery for Legendary Exploration Cabin near Downtown and RMNP

Reviews

Popular amenities

Explore the area

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 4)

Bunk Room

Master Bedroom

1 bathroom

Bathroom

Spaces

About this property