Top San Juan Mountains Resorts and Lodges

At Colorado Trails Ranch, the mountains are your neighbors, and the stars always twinkle big and bright in the night sky. Since 1960, this dude ranch has been an escape for city dwellers looking for rich, Colorado beauty. And, Colorado Trails Ranch makes enjoying the breathtaking landscape easy. The best way to take in the valley and mountains is on horseback. The ranch’s horses and guides are prepared for riders of every skill level. If fishing is a top priority, the Florida River is a hotspot for trout. Adventurous guests seeking thrills and action must take on the rapids of the Animas River with some white water rafting. Take a guided hike through the mountains and forests or power tube on Vallecito Lake. Colorado Trails Ranch isn’t just a spectacular place to play and roam; their accommodations will also meet your high expectations with ease. All-inclusive cabins of all sizes will be a comfortable home for your family and friends. Their various cabins include one to four bedrooms with a bathroom for each bedroom. Each cabin also features a number of porches for enjoying mountain views and the Colorado landscape. With your stay, the ranch also prepares a homemade, gourmet meal for breakfast, lunch, and dinner that is sure to satisfy every palate.

Address

12161 County Road 240, Durango, CO 81301

Fun facts

Many years ago, guests at Colorado Trails Ranch would make up their own brand to be burned in the timber posts in the lodge. Due to fire hazards, the tradition had to come to an end. But, the old brandings may still be found in the lodge.

Related Onsite Offerings

Evenings at the ranch are filled with family fun activities. For instance, you can learn some new steps in the Opera House during Western Dancing, or enjoy the ice cream social night including a wood-fired cookout.

Whether you long for afternoons of exploring the mountains or a relaxing and serene lakeside vacation, Pine River Lodge has exactly what you are looking for. The natural wonders encasing Pine River Lodge provide the perfect setting for lasting views. Hike through the San Juan National Forest and Weminuche Wilderness or along the trails linking Vallecito Lake and Lake Eileen. Grab your bike or rev up your ATV for the terrain of Middle Mountain, Lemon Lake, and Bever Meadow. Once snow is blanketing the valley, guests hit the trails for cross country skiing and snowmobiling. In addition to all the adventure surrounding the lodge, there’s fun to be had on the grounds with a heated indoor pool, an old-fashioned playground with a campfire area, and a game room with ping pong, a pool table, and arcade games. Pine River Lodge encourages guests to enjoy the scenery, good company, and the comfort and serenity of the area. Their one- to three-bedroom cabins include fireplaces and lakeviews all under the towering pines for a calming escape.

Address

14443 CR 501, Bayfield, CO 81122

Season

Enjoy the holiday season in the mountains at Christmas at Pine River Lodge. Lights and decorations fill the Lodge and grounds, and Santa makes a special appearance on Christmas Eve!

Fun facts

Since 1960, the Atkinson family has been welcoming guests to Pine River Lodge and the Vallecito Lake area.

Take advantage of the natural beauty of the four corners area during your stay at Lone Wolf Lodge in the San Juan Mountains. While staying at Lone Wolf, ride horseback along Vallecito Lake and the surrounding San Juan National Park. The area’s rivers provide the perfect rafting experience with Mild 2 Wild Rafting. The Bar D Chuckwagon Western Show and Durango and Silverton Railroad are great ways to take in the culture and scenery of the West. Of course, you could always get lost in the outdoors while fishing the pristine waters and hiking the rocky trails. There’s no better way to experience the West than a cabin stay, and at Lone Wolf Lodge, there’s a perfect cabin for you. Choose from one to three bedroom rentals including a kitchen, television, wireless internet, a front deck with a BBQ grill, and many other resort amenities such as a playground, campfire pits, and more. If you are looking for a more seasonal stay, Lone Wolf also has vacation rentals located a short distance off the property.

Address

18039 CR 501, Bayfield CO 81122

Fun facts

Lone Wolf Lodge is only a short half mile from the shores of Vallecito Lake and 22 miles from Durango.

Related Onsite Offerings

Pets are allowed in the cabins at Lone Wolf Lodge (rules and rates apply).

Saddle up for a San Juan Mountains adventure at Circle K Guest Ranch. For a full dude ranch experience, horseback riding through the Rocky Mountain terrain is a must. Circle K’s wrangler guides will match you up with the perfect horse and take you through crystal springs, towering forests, and along mountain trails. You may even spot elk or some mule deer along the way. If fishing is something you fancy, the Dolores and San Miguel Rivers are only a short hike away, where you’ll find swarms of trout. Or, you could just sit back in a tube and float along with the current. Back at the ranch, participate in rodeo horse events or simply sit back and relax to the sights and sounds of the mountain. Circle K Guest Ranch brings hospitality and a warm, at-home feeling to each stay. Their variety of lodging options are fit for a couple’s getaway to a reunion. Perfect for a smaller party, Circle K’s cabins are a forest retreat with fully furnished kitchens and one to three bedrooms. Their lodge and hotel rooms are individually themed with western, mountain charm, and their bunkhouses, comfortably housing 25 to 60 guests, are ideal for a large group gathering. There are also camping and RV sites available. And, no matter where you choose to rest your head, your meal plan will cover three buffet-style, home-cooked meals.

Address

27758 Hwy 145, Dolores CO 81323

Highlights

Circle K Guest Ranch is a perfect place for group retreats with their bunk house lodging housing anywhere from 25 to 60 people. Plan a youth retreat, reunion, or day camp with Circle K Guest Ranch!

Fun facts

The Canon family has been welcoming guests to the Circle K Guest Ranch for over 30 years.

Where better to escape the cold bite of winter than the deepest and hottest known geothermal pools in the world? The Pagosa Hot Springs are best experienced at from Pagosa Springs Accommodations!

Since all short-term rentals are a three night minimum stay, you're going to be relaxing for more than just a short weekend! The hot springs in the center of town are comparable with some of the most famous European springs. However, you have the advantage of spending an afternoon on the slopes and immediately being able to hop into a bubbling spring! If skiing isn't your thing, try hiking, backpacking, river rafting and kayaking, snowmobiling, hunting, a 27-hole golf course, hot air ballooning, horseback riding and pack trips... we're running out of breath just writing it all down!

Address

140 Solomon Dr. Suite C, Pagosa Springs, CO 81147

Mountain range

The highest point in the San Juan Mountains, Uncompahgre Peak, stands 14,309 feet high!

Highlights

Summitville is in the Summitville caldera, one of many extinct volcanoes making up the San Juan volcanic field.

Situated on the Florida River and featuring glorious views of the surrounding countryside, O-Bar-O Cabins look like they were constructed by the gods. The gods of spectacular rentals, that is!

Picture the coziest cabin you can, then come to O-Bar-O and live it! Just a stone’s throw from the San Juan National Forest, the property's two large lakes and horse trail rides both represent stupendous way to spend an afternoon. Like fishing? The best trout fishing you’ll find in these parts is right outside your cabin door. Inside your property you'll find incredible attention to detail, as well as a ludicrous amount of amenities including well equipped kitchens, updated bathrooms, flat screen TVs with satellite and DVD player, plus WiFi internet. Just one question: why aren't you already here?!

Address

11998 Co Rd 240, Durango, CO 81301

Highlights

Enjoy your 100% cotton sheets, thick plush towels, comfy robes and even spa-scented shampoo, soap and lotion inside the cabin!

Related Onsite Offerings

Outside each cabin has a gas grill, table, chairs and river front access.

With guests returning year after year to enjoy the relaxing atmosphere, Box Canyon Lodge & Hot Springs brings together the excitement of the great outdoors with elegant accommodations.

Unlike most hotel rooms, the rooms here have a bit more character. They are decorated with pine tongue-in-groove paneling, marble vanity sinks, and western furniture. Included with that you can expect free high-speed wireless internet, a guest laundry, and a helpful concierge service that will help you plan your visit. No matter what time of year you visit there will always be something going on. Ouray, where Box Canyon sits, is an outdoor enthusiasts’ paradise. The San Juan Mountains offer a multitude of outdoor sports and exploration possibilities. Traverse the steep winter slopes by skiing or snowmobiling, and go for a horseback ride or jeeping in the summers. Your basecamp for all your adventures on the majestic San Juan Mountains is at Box Canyon Lodge & Hot Springs.

Address

45 Third Avenue PO Box 439, Ouray, CO 81427

Extra Stops

For a truly breathtaking experience, drive to US Highway 550 between Ouray and Silverton to experience the “Million Dollar Highway.” It reaches an elevation of over 11,000 feet as it winds around curves, and is consistently voted one of the top ten scenic highways in the U.S.

Related Onsite Offerings

Box Canyon Lodge is one of only three properties that have hot springs. They consist of four redwood spas on the mountainside set at temperatures between 103 and 108 degrees.

Resting along the shore of Vallecito Lake, where the Pine River begins to meander into the calm waters, are the quiet cabins of Elk Point Lodge. During your stay at Elk Point Lodge, paddle across the cool, mountain lake in one the the lodge’s canoes, kayaks, or atop a sup board. If you’ve come to the mountains with the intent of bringing a trophy home, Elk Point Lodge has helpful and friendly fishing and hunting guides eager to lead you to your prize. Elk Point’s wranglers are also ready to head out to the trails. Choose from a couple-hour ride to a half-day adventure. Or, you may prefer a romantic mountain sunset dinner on horseback. Back at the lodge, the beauty and wonder of the lake and surrounding mountain forests continue to provide a tranquil experience. Before heading to your cabin, rejuvenate with a Swedish massage or stone therapy at the Day Spa or savor a bite on the patio at Pura Vida Cafe, where you can view the sun sparkling off the Vallecito. That view may carry over to your cabin deck along the shore. Or, maybe you’ve chosen to be tucked into the shady pines. At Elk Point Lodge, you’ll experience a laid back, mountain lake vacation.

Address

21730 County Road 501, Bayfield, CO 81122

Extra Stops

During you stay at Elk Point Lodge, head to nearby Durango to visit the Durango Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, the Bar D Chuckwagon Show, or Sky Ute Casino.

Related Onsite Offerings

All cabins at Elk Point Lodge include a fully furnished kitchen as well as sheets, towels, blankets, toilet paper, and dish and bath soap.

Located only 40 minutes from Durango, Colorado, Eagles Nest Cabins feature scenic landscapes, great outdoor recreation, and incredible lodging options. Families, groups, couples, and pets are welcome to stay at any of the various accommodations.

Each accommodation features excellent modern amenities and spectacular views of West Mountain. Amenities such as wireless internet, full kitchen, well-equipped bathroom, and hot tubs will make you feel at home. When you're not lounging indoors, step outside and breathe in the fresh, natural air! Two acres full of forest, wildlife, and spring-fed fish ponds are perfect for exploring when you aren't out hiking through the mountains. Plan your next unforgettable getaway with Eagles Nest Cabins!

Address

48 W Vallecito Creek Rd, Bayfield, Colorado 81122

Highlights

Enjoy endless outdoor adventures such as hiking, wildlife viewings, photography, and mountain biking. Eagles Nest Cabins feature cozy cabins and two acres with spring-fed fish ponds. Let the kids freely play Frisbee while you relax on the hammock!

Related activities

Fishing enthusiasts can cast a line and catch some rainbow, brook and brown trout on Vallecito Lake!

Nestled in the majestic San Juan Mountains between Pagosa Springs Colorado and Wolf Creek Ski area, the High Country Lodge is an ideal way to experience Colorado!

The full-service hotel provides a variety of lodging options, ranging from casual lodge rooms to spacious cabins perfect for larger families. This is the rare resort that combines superb accommodations with naturally gorgeous environments, and you'll enjoy it right when you step out the door. The beautiful 15 wooded acres surrounding the accommodations are perfect for walks, hikes, and more! Combine it with over-the-top customer service, delicious complimentary breakfasts, and a rustic crackling fireplace, and you have a destination that simply can't be missed!

Address

3821 E Hwy 160, Pagosa Springs, CO 81147

Highlights

In the Winter, enjoy the tubing hill, sauna, and Pagosa's best hot tubs.

Related Onsite Offerings

The resort also includes breakfast, Wi-Fi, and use of its three hot tubs.

Whether you're planning a family vacation, a romantic getaway, or a trip with your closest friends, you will enjoy the comfortable accommodations of Durango Colorado Vacations, complete with dozens of modern amenities that will make you feel right at home.

Enjoy the gorgeous scenery and breathtaking natural features of the Rockies firsthand as you trek along one of the many hiking paths near Durango. The stunning Rocky Mountains are home to a wide variety of activities to enjoy throughout the year. Combining breathtaking scenery, wonderful weather, and countless trails for hiking and mountain biking in the summer, plus skiing and snowshoeing in the winter, you're guaranteed to find an activity you'll love. Don't miss out on horseback riding and whitewater rafting opportunities either. After a thrilling day out exploring the mountains, come back and relax at your luxury Durango rental. Step out onto your spacious deck and patio to witness your breathtaking view, which includes gorgeous snow-topped mountains, sweeping valleys, and evergreen forests. Their rentals have everything you need to live like royalty, from fully-stocked kitchens to bubbling hot tubs.

Address

Durango, Colorado 81301

Highlights

There’s no reason to leave your pets behind when you go on vacation, which is why Durango offers a selection of pet-friendly lodging options.

Related activities

For a true historical take on the area, set up a tour of the Durango Silverton Train! There you'll step 100 years into the past as you journey through the historic passenger train, perfectly preserved in all its intricate beauty.

Only a mile from the beautiful shores of Vallecito Lake and amidst the adventure of the four corners area you’ll find Bear Paw Lodge. During your stay at Bear Paw Lodge, take advantage of the area’s culture, history, and beauty. Just a short drive from the lodge is Mesa Verde National Park, where you may examine the cliff dwellings from the Anasazi culture. Take a trip to downtown Durango for historical tours and art museums. Or, enjoy a scenic tour on a jeep, ATV, or horseback with Elk Point Stables. After a day of fun, Bear Paw Lodge offers cozy cabins, appropriately named after different types of bears, to rest up for another day of outdoor fun. Each cabin features either a deck or patio, where you can lounge and enjoy the surrounding forest. You’ll also find a picnic table and grill, perfect for an evening BBQ with family and friends. Cabins range from one to three bedrooms and are furnished with essentials including satellite television and wireless internet.

Address

18011 County Rd. 501, Bayfield, CO 81122

Extra Stops

Learn about the four corners area at the Center for Southwest Studies at Fort Lewis College. View the natural wonder of the Chimney Rock Archaeological Area. Get bird's eye views of the mountains with the Durango Soaring Club.

Getting there

From the North - If you are traveling North on Hwy. 550, at traffic signal at Hwy. 160, turn East to Bayfield. At the traffic signal in Bayfield, turn left (North) on to CR 501, go 18 miles, Bear Paw Lodge on left. From the East - If you are traveling from the East (Pagosa Springs) on Hwy.160, turn right (north) at the traffic signal in Bayfield, on to CR 501, go 18 miles, Bear Paw Lodge on left. From the South - Traveling South on Hwy. 550. Turn left on 32nd Street in Durango (2nd traffic signal) and go to "T" with CR 250, turn right to "T" with CR 240, turn left and go approximately 13 miles to intersection with CR 501 (Be sure to notice that CR 240 makes a right turn about 11 miles out at DurangoBay Store). Turn left on CR 501, 9 miles to Bear Paw Lodge on left. From the West - If you are traveling from the West on US 160, follow Hwy. 160 through Durango to Bayfield. At the traffic signal in Bayfield, turn left on to CR 501, travel 18 miles to Bear Paw Lodge on left.

Whether you’re looking for an adventurous winter wonderland or a summer of gorgeous mountain views full of life, Durango Mountain Resort, amongst the San Juan Mountains, has what you’re looking for. Winter at Durango Mountain Resort is the outdoorsman’s dream. Through the San Juan Skiing Company, save a seat on the snowcat for some guided, backcountry skiing. Grab the family and head over to the tubing hill or take in the beauty of the mountain on a snowmobile adventure or horse-drawn sleigh ride. Summer is equally spectacular with scenic chairlift rides, alpine slides, and guided naturalist hikes. The more extreme Purgatory Plunge Zipline and Bungee Tramp are also favorites. After days of exploring the mountain’s terrain, Durango Mountain Resort’s accommodations will keep you relaxed and comfortable. Their seven slopeside lodgings range from hotel rooms to condos. Enjoy beautiful, modern features from fireplaces to Jacuzzi and hot tubs. Lodging ranges up to four bedrooms with outstanding mountain views. Durango Mountain Resort also offers townhomes with ski-in, ski-out access, private garages, and fine furnishings.

Address

#1 Skier Place, Durango, CO 81301

Fun facts

Durango is located in a bend of the Animas River and within the four corners region, the famed Western area rich with history.

Related Onsite Offerings

Durango Mountain Resort has a number of dining options in and around the resort. Purgy's provides a casual atmosphere with fresh ingredients. The Bear Bar & Grille is a cabana style grill with views of the mountain side. Vintage Market & Deli offers gourmet deli and grilled sandwiches and salads.

Discover an unforgettable Colorado getaway when you stay with Vacation Accommodations of Durango. Their impressive selection of luxury accommodations throughout historic Durango let you pick and choose the perfect place to call home, whether you're with family, friends, or your sweetheart.

Stay in a large family home, minutes from all the action, or in a cozy condominium that's right beside the best ski areas, so you don't have to worry about travel during the winter. No matter where you set up camp, you'll love the proximity to all the best Colorado activities and attractions. Ride along the historic Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad train, drive down the San Juan Skyway and enjoy fantastic views of the Rocky Mountains, or spend an afternoon hiking through the mountain trails. In the winter, head to the nearby Wolf Creek Ski Area for some of the best skiing and snowboarding around!

Address

777 Main Ave. Suite 206, Durango, Colorado 81303

Highlights

The beautiful Rocky Mountains are all around when you stay with Vacation Accommodations of Durango. Here, you can settle into a luxury rental and be just minutes away from exciting outdoor fun. Venture through the nature trails on a hike or mountain biking trip, or just bask in the views as you drive along the San Juan Skyway. In the winter, the Wolf Creek Ski Area is a popular choice for excellent skiing and snowboarding!

Related Onsite Offerings

Their rentals are beautifully maintained and offer the best amenities, including full kitchens, private bathrooms, decks or balconies, flat-screen televisions, and much more!