Entire home

A private wilderness retreat. Onsite fishing, ... close to trails and rafting

Photo gallery for A private wilderness retreat. Onsite fishing, ... close to trails and rafting

Smart TV, fireplace, ping pong, books
Terrace/patio
Exterior
4 bedrooms, iron/ironing board, free WiFi, bed sheets
Fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop
Reviews
9.8

Exceptional

Entire home

4 bedrooms3 bathroomsSleeps 122600 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • DryerDryerDryer
  • Barbecue grillBarbecue grillBarbecue grill
  • FireplaceFireplaceFireplace
  • WasherWasherWasher
  • KitchenKitchenKitchen
  • Outdoor spaceOutdoor spaceOutdoor space

Explore the area

Map
Almont, CO
  • Popular LocationTaylor River5 min drive
  • AirportGunnison, CO (GUC-Gunnison-Crested Butte Regional)32 min drive
  • Popular LocationCrested Butte Town Park34 min drive
  • Popular LocationCrested Butte Mountain Resort71 min drive

About this property

Entire place

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

A private wilderness retreat. Onsite fishing, ... close to trails and rafting

MOUNTAINLAIR on Spring Creek is a MAGICAL SETTING.

FIRST, recognize the ENCHANTMENT of the Spring Creek Canyon, with it's namesake stream and community.

THEN, realize the UNIQUENESS of Mountainlair.

THE SPRING CREEK CANYON

-- Ten miles north of Gunnison, at the resort community of Almont where the Taylor River conjoins with the East River and becomes the Gunnison River, you turn east on County Road 742 for a scenic 7-mile drive up the Taylor Canyon with its towering palisades as it follows the Taylor River towards Taylor Reservoir high in the mountain range in the expansive Taylor Park. (And, don't be surprised should you happen onto a dozen Rocky Mountain rams meandering between the river and their canyon cliff stomping grounds in the vicinity between Mile Markers 3 and 4.)

-- Near Mile Marker 7 and across from the entrance to Harmel's Ranch Resort where Spring Creek flows into the Taylor River, is a north turn for those daring to step yet further into the wild west. You have now entered the Spring Creek Canyon on County Road 744.

-- This community, with perhaps two miles of length before private land concludes and national forest ensues, has an extensive history of homeowner residents escaping the summertime heat of the southern plains states of Oklahoma, Kansas, Texas, and even Colorado's hotter regions. These mostly second homes are scattered throughout the valley floor beneath deep blue skies and nestled between towering steep slopes of evergreens and rock.

-- Far from the madding crowd of autos and pedestrians, the Spring Creek community is picturesque, friendly, with a down-home, backwoods character, and it just feels right. For those with the good fortune of discovering and connecting with the enchantment of Spring Creek, it is a treasured experience with the continuing hope of many future shared visits with family and friends.

ARRIVING AT MOUNTAINLAIR

-- One mile north from the CR 742/744 junction, you commit to another significant step away from earthly concerns and towards a heavenly promise. This right turn onto “Broncos Drive” at Eubanks Acres is a commencement into another world, — likened, perhaps, to Dorothy’s travel to Oz in “The Wizard of Oz,” for, during her journey, there was a critical realization when, in Dorothy's bewilderment, she turns to her canine companion and says, “Toto, I’ve a feeling we’re not in Kansas any more."

-- And, now, you creep down a one-lane trail, slowly over the bumps, tightly between the aspen, past the pines, through the field, across the quaint, wood, one-lane bridge, then, to the right, down the private access road, to the end-of-the-road at your retreat, ... "Mountainlair on Spring Creek."

-- BEST OF ALL, this perfectly-sized creek (not too big, not too small) flows right through the property.

-- The cabin overlooks the creek and is just up the gentle slope among the evergreens and aspen, and rests against the canyon's forested and boulder-filled, eastern slope.

-- Mountainlair is smack-dab in the middle of a special wilderness environment where you will be ... undisturbed / private / peaceful / refreshed / inspired.

-- Mountainlair provides its guests an awesome mountain atmosphere created by this incredible canyon setting offering forest, rock, stream, blue skies, and sun and shade.

SUMMERTIME OVERVIEW

-- An elevation of 8500' to help ensure summer coolness
-- Trees for summer shade and the aesthetics of a softened landscape
-- A mountain wilderness with immediate, out-your-front-door hiking
-- A safe, friendly, private, refreshing, and inspiring environment
-- Quick access to Crested Butte and Gunnison for dining, shopping, events, entertainment, recreation, and services
-- The perfect stream to view, hear, wade, and inspire

MOUNTAINLAIR'S FLOOR PLAN

-- The living space includes 2,600 square feet.

-- The attached garage on the south end of the home includes an additional 400 sq ft (19' x 21") with its awaiting ping pong table.

-- The home's entry is on the west side, and you enter the home on its mid-level. Moving south from the entry and also on this mid-level is the kitchen, a dining area and sitting room, and the utility room.

-- To the north of the entry, you ascend 7 steps to the upper level living room. This living area includes an additional dining area (the antique, harvest table easily seats 10 adults) and an L-shaped couch in front of the wood burning fireplace with a 65" flat screen TV above. Adjoining this room is a large outdoor wood deck balcony facing the creek to the west.

-- This upper level also includes the master suite with its king bed, fireplace, and master bathroom with his and her separate vanity sinks and 6' tub/shower combination. The master bedroom also has access to the extra-large outdoor wood deck and courtyard on the back side/east side of the home.

-- Going back to the entry on the mid-level, you can also go north and down 7 steps to the lower level living area with its fireplace and seating area including two sofas and three large upholstered chairs (and small TV). This lower level also includes access to an outdoor patio area located directly below the upper level balcony, and also facing the creek to the west.

-- This lower level has two bedrooms (one with a queen bed, and one with a double bed). These bedrooms are also quite private being separated by a shared full bathroom with a shower.

-- Going back to the entry/mid-level and moving to the south through the kitchen, the sitting and dining area next to the kitchen, and then past the utility room, pantry, and access door to the garage, you can now go up 8 steps to a landing. To your left is the third full bathroom with its tub/shower combination. Straight ahead is the fourth bedroom with four twins and a double bed.

-- Your home takes further advantage of its setting by providing all three inside living areas (the kitchen's sitting and dining area, as well as the upper and lower level living rooms) with window views of the surrounding outdoors and the creek to the west.

-- Besides the expansive grounds, there are the previously mentioned three outdoor living areas where there is always the opportunity for sun or shade: (1) the front wood deck balcony off of the upper level living area, (2) the fully-enclosed back courtyard extending the full length of the back of the home, and (3) the front patio area next to the front entry and just outside the lower level living area.

A QUICK MENTION OF SOME LOCAL ACTIVITIES

-- Yes, hiking is just out the front door. But, hiking is everywhere throughout this region. You need only pick up the local trail maps to immerse yourself in these awesome ventures. (See additional information.)

-- The same goes for mountain biking. Crested Butte is the birthplace of the mountain bike. For the past 50 years the area has developed over 750 miles of mountain bike single-track. Bikes are available for rental.

-- Fly fishing, also, is just out the front door on Spring Creek. The purity of the water is excellent allowing even brook trout to thrive. There is also a good population of brown trout and rainbows, and the deeper holes or pools are your best opportunities. We never keep our fish, but immediately return them unharmed back to their waters to ensure that there are always fish to catch. And, fishing opportunities abound off-site on the upper stretches of Spring Creek, as well as with the Taylor River, the East River, and the Gunnison River which are all close by. The local fly shops in Almont, Crested Butte, and Gunnison can provide further help with available water and guide services.

-- Mountainlair is easily accessible to the famous Taylor Park and its Taylor Reservoir by continuing to travel up County Road 742 in the Taylor River Canyon to the Reservoir, and, then, into Taylor Park. This area is an enormous, picturesque playground for campers, dirt bikers, 4-wheelers, and side-by-siders. There are miles of dirt roads and trails for these motor-recreationers to play upon.

-- Regarding music, the Crested Butte Music Festival has events all summer long, and Alpenglow hosts a free weekly concert on Monday evenings. The local joints are good about offering live music. (See additional information.)

-- Crested Butte has the distinction as the Wildflower Capital of Colorado. There are some 200 events offered throughout the summer. (See additional information.)

-- Gunnison is also the home of Western State Colorado University. There are various educational programs available to the public throughout the summer at Western State.

-- A quick mention of other activities: rafting; horseback riding; SUP (stand-up-paddle boarding), art workshops, historical walking tours, a farmers market.

A COUPLE MORE HOME FEATURES WORTH MENTIONING

-- There is plenty of parking, including a space for a travel trailer, motor home, or boat.

-- Because you are at the end-of-the-road, there are no concerns of dust from passing traffic.

WHAT ABOUT THE WINTER SPORTS SEASON

-- If downhill skiing or snowboarding is high on the list, don't forget that, at the end of the day, you will retreat to the magic of a Thomas Kincade-like mountain-cabin-in-the-winter-woods scene of serenity and solitude.

-- If you are game for a cold-weather hike on packed snow, or strapping on snowshoes to pound the powder, or cross-country skiing, then you too have a Mountainlair mind-set.

-- And, if a crackling fire, a home-cooked meal, and a good book have an appeal, you are also ready for Mountainlair in the wintertime.

To CLEANSE your CORE ... it's Mountainlair on Spring Creek

Escape to the wilderness.
Immerse your soul in her enchantment.
Succumb to her fresh, pure, flowing waters.
Allow this sanctuary to heal and regenerate your spirit.
And, emerge triumphant, ready to once again take on the world.



Property manager

Dale Frates

Languages

English

Property amenities

Ski

  • Close to skiing

Internet

  • Free WiFi

Parking and transport

  • On-site parking options include a garage
  • On-site parking

Kitchen

  • Fridge
  • Stovetop
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Dishwasher
  • Blender
  • Electric kettle
  • Toaster
  • Cookware/dishes/utensils

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 4 bedrooms
  • Bed sheets provided

Bathrooms

  • 3 bathrooms
  • Combined shower/bath
  • Towels provided
  • Soap
  • Shampoo
  • Hairdryer
  • Toilet paper

Living spaces

  • Fireplace
  • Living room

Entertainment

  • Smart TV with cable/satellite service
  • Ping pong table
  • Games room
  • Books
  • Games

Outdoor areas

  • Balcony
  • Barbecue
  • Outdoor furniture

Laundry

  • Washing machine and dryer

Comfort

  • Heating

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoke-free property

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board
  • Phone

Location highlights

  • On the river
  • On the waterfront
  • In the mountains

Things to do

  • Mountain biking nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Hiking nearby
  • Horse riding nearby
  • Snowmobiling nearby
  • Sledging nearby
  • Mountain climbing nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Birdwatching nearby

Safety features

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

General

  • Recycling
  • Double-glazed windows
  • Unit size: 2600 sq ft (242 sq m)

Similar properties

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 5:00 PM
Contactless check-in and check-out are available
Minimum check-in age - 25

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

Pets not 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
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 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

About the area

Almont

Located in Almont, this holiday home is in the mountains and on the waterfront. Center for the Arts and Crested Butte Mountain Theatre are cultural highlights, and some of the area's attractions include Ice Rink and Trailhead Discovery Museum. Travelling with kids? Consider Trailhead Childrens Museum and Gunnison Valley Observatory. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.

What's nearby

  • Taylor River - 5 min drive
  • Western State Colorado University - 32 min drive
  • Crested Butte Town Park - 34 min drive
  • Crested Butte Mountain Resort - 71 min drive
  • Maroon Bells - 83 min drive

Getting around

  • Gunnison, CO (GUC-Gunnison-Crested Butte Regional) - 32 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is A private wilderness retreat. Onsite fishing, ... close to trails and rafting pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at A private wilderness retreat. Onsite fishing, ... close to trails and rafting?

Check-in begins at 5:00 PM.

What time is check-out at A private wilderness retreat. Onsite fishing, ... close to trails and rafting?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is A private wilderness retreat. Onsite fishing, ... close to trails and rafting located?

Located on the waterfront, this family-friendly holiday home is 1.7 mi (2.8 km) from Taylor River and 8.1 mi (13.1 km) from Gunnison River. Slate River and Cranor Hill Ski Area are also within 16 miles (25 km).

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 27 out of 31 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 4 out of 31 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 31 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 31 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 31 reviews" "

9.6/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

8/10 Good

William K.

Liked: Cleanliness
Mountain getaway
Beautiful location. Private. Lots of room. The range was a litte difficult to figure out at first. Really enjoyed the stay.
Stayed 9 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Rita M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Rest, Relax and Renew
We had a wonderful stay. The creek was so relaxing while resting in the hammock! Really enjoyed the night fires as well. The house was spacious with plenty of room for our group.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Stephen K.

Liked: Cleanliness
Very nice place
We had 4 retired couples, all cousins. Plenty of room and great outdoor spaces. We had several meals on the back patio. Dale was very easy to communicate with and made us feel at ease and at home. The place was clean and well kept.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Susan L.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great home in the woods for several families traveling together!
We loved this property. It’s in a beautiful location with a creek in front. We were a group of 8 and this house was perfect. The teenagers all shared a room that had several beds and their own bathroom. It was really like they had their own wing of the house. The house is multi-level which was perfect for everyone to have their own space. The top level deck was our favorite. We could sit and listen/watch the creek as well as the hummingbirds. The owners were great to work with. They were very helpful when we had questions and got back to us right away. We would definitely stay here again.
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kirk S., Knoxville, TN

Liked: Cleanliness
OHV Riding at Taylor Park
Great location for riding OHV in Taylor Park and Crested Butte. The house is located halfway between Gunnison and Crested Butte. We had several deer came by the house one afternoon.
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Kathi h.

Liked: Cleanliness
Quiet, beautiful
Although there are neighbors, the neighborhood was very quiet and felt private. Good layout of the house for 3 couples or two families, the bedrooms all have their own baths and 2 have full living areas, so it was nice to be able to maintain some privacy within the house among us (two couples) and the kids. House was very well stocked and had lots of outdoor sitting areas. Fishing was slow in the creek but a few good fishing spots to drive to nearby. Although we were warned, the front step sizes are off, we had a fall and a couple of trips. A reminder sign next to the steps might help.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Martin R.

Liked: Cleanliness
Quiet Mountain Retreat
We rented the property for a family getaway and fishing trip. The house had plenty of room for our family of 8 plus a toddler. With the 4 bedrooms and split level layout it was good fit for us providing gathering space as well as separated areas for quiet time. The Spring Creek in the front yard is awesome and setting is very tranquil and quiet at the end of the road. Although there are quite a few homes in the area, it was very peaceful. Dale was very responsive when needed and all went smoothly with checking and out. We enjoyed the property, caught some trout in the Taylor River and reservoir, and had a great family experience. Will definitely rent again for a large group.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Terry S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Family-friendly and Peaceful
Our stay at this property was very enjoyable. The outdoor spaces were wonderful. We ate meals on the back deck and the creek area in front of the house was a great place for wading and campfires! The house is very spacious. There are areas to gather together as a group but also spaces for spreading out. You can have ping-pong and jigsaw puzzles happening at the same time! Dale is a most gracious host and we thank him for sharing this beautiful property.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

linda b.

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful home and setting…
Everything about the property is wonderful. Dale is the perfect host.
Stayed 9 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Brendy K.

Absolutely love this property. Will be back. Perfect for a large family! Lots of space
We had an amazing experience.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022