Entire home

A private wilderness retreat -- an incredible setting with onsite fishing

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Smart TV, fireplace, table tennis, books
4 bedrooms, iron/ironing board, free WiFi, bed sheets
Terrace/patio
Fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop
Smart TV, fireplace, table tennis, books

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

4 bedrooms3 bathroomsSleeps 12

Popular amenities

  • Dryer
  • Barbecue grill
  • Washer
  • Parking available
  • Fireplace
  • Outdoor Space

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 -- an incredible setting with onsite fishing

MOUTAINLAIR on SPRING CREEK -- Nothing quite like it!

A MAGICAL SETTING -- within a canyon in the mountains...a flowing stream...pines and aspen...rocks and palisades...the bluest skies above

A COMMON SENSE HOME -- great floor plan...privacy for all four bedrooms...three full bathrooms...three inside gathering areas...three outside gathering areas...windows with wilderness views...a well equipped kitchen...welcoming, comfortable, homey

-- Ten miles north of Gunnison, is the resort community of Almont where the Taylor River conjoins with the East River and becomes the Gunnison River. Turning east onto County Road 742, travel 7 scenic miles up the Taylor Canyon with its towering palisades as it follows the Taylor River towards the high elevation Taylor Park Reservoir resting below the Sawatch Mountain Range to the northeast and the Elk Mountains to the northwest.

-- Just past Mile Marker 7 (with the mountain resort of Harmels on the Taylor on your right, 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.

-- From this point and proceeding north for two miles is the Spring Creek community of private homes on both sides of this perfect mountain stream. Continuing on County Road 744 beyond these homes is the Gunnison National Forest. Since the 1930s (when the federal government allowed private ownership of this Spring Creek land), residents of the southern plains (such as Oklahoma, Kansas, Texas, and even Colorado's hotter regions) began escaping the summertime their summertime heat in exchange for the perfect temps and wilderness atmosphere of the Spring Creek canyon.

-- 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 anymore."

-- 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 indoor 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").

-- 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 accommodates 12) 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. 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 and 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 a queen bed and four twin beds.

-- 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 for 14 miles to the Reservoir, and, then, into Taylor Park. This area is an enormous, picturesque playground to camp, boat, and ride ATVs. 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

Add dates for prices

Property amenities

Ski

  • Cross-country skiing nearby

Internet

  • Available in the house: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Onsite parking options include a garage

Kitchen

  • Blender
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Electric kettle
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Spices
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 4 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 3 bathrooms
  • Bathtub or shower
  • Bidet
  • Hair dryer
  • Shampoo
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Fireplace
  • Living room

Entertainment

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

Outdoor areas

  • Balcony
  • Barbecue grill
  • Outdoor furniture

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Comfort

  • Heating

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoke-free property

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board
  • Phone

Location highlights

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

Things to do

  • Arcade/game room
  • Table tennis
  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Horseback riding nearby
  • Hunting nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Motor boating nearby
  • Mountain biking nearby
  • Mountain climbing nearby
  • Rafting nearby
  • Rock climbing nearby
  • Sledding nearby
  • Snowmobiling nearby
  • Wildlife walks 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)
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Deadbolt lock

General

  • Double-glazed windows
  • Recycling
  • Unit size: 2,600 square feet

Similar properties

Policies

Check-in

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

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

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
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
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 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

About the neighborhood

Map
Almont, CO

What's nearby

  • Taylor River - 6 min drive - 3.3 km
  • Crested Butte Nordic Center - 38 min drive - 31.8 km
  • Western State Colorado University - 39 min drive - 37.3 km
  • Crested Butte Town Park - 41 min drive - 34.4 km
  • Crested Butte Chamber of Commerce - 42 min drive - 35.1 km

Getting around

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

Frequently asked questions

Is A private wilderness retreat -- an incredible setting with onsite fishing pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at A private wilderness retreat -- an incredible setting with onsite fishing?

Check-in begins at 5:00 PM.

What time is check-out at A private wilderness retreat -- an incredible setting with onsite fishing?

Check-out is at 10:00 AM.

Where is A private wilderness retreat -- an incredible setting with onsite fishing located?

Located on the waterfront, this family-friendly vacation 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 mi (25 km).

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A private wilderness retreat -- an incredible setting with onsite fishing Reviews

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 28 out of 33 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 5 out of 33 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 33 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 33 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 33 reviews

9.6/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Brendy K.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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

10/10 Excellent

Rita M.

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

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

Bill D.

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

The cabin on the stream

A group of six men stayed at this property and it was EXCEPTIONAL. Over the years we have stayed at several places but this is our favorite. Excellent location secluded but easy to get to, lots of room, well appointed, comfortable beds, well stocked kitchen, fire pit, great outside decks, the beautiful Spring creek out the front door, and a terrific owner who has all the right answers. We highly recommend d this wonderful property.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kim R.

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

Wonderful property!

We enjoyed staying at Creekside in Almont very much. The house was comfortable and spacious. The creek runs in the front yard and there was plenty of room for the kids to play.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022

8/10 Good

William K.

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

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

Stephen K.

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

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

8/10 Good

bart p.

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

Nice country house

The house is a bit dated, but cozy. Kitchen appliances could use some updating. It is located off the beaten path, a little tough to find initially. It is about a 30 min drive from Crested Butte. The property has a nice stream running through the front of the property. The trash disposal routine is atypical and a little burdensome for guests. Dale (property manager) is very friendly and easy to get ahold of. Overall we did enjoy our stay.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Susan L.

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

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, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful home and setting…

Everything about the property is wonderful. Dale is the perfect host.
Stayed 9 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Mike W.

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

Elk hunting accomidations

A perfect accommodation for 8 guys elk hunting in the Gunnison national forest for the week.
Stayed 9 nights in Oct 2021

10/10 Excellent

lauren j.

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

Peaceful mountain vacation

This house was perfect for our large group, nice outdoor seating. The house was stocked with everything we needed. Great location!
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2021

10/10 Excellent

tom c.

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

CB area mtb and dirtbike trip

One of the best places to access trails right from the cabin. Perfect!
Stayed 8 nights in Aug 2021

8/10 Good

Karen B.

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

Perfect for a family get away

Nice location, plenty of room for a family reunion or getaway.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2021

10/10 Excellent

Bill C., Georgetown,Texas

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

Frates Haus

It was great location and the facilities were very good.
Stayed 14 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Mark H.

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

Great Vacation

Awesome location. Great house!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Brenda S., colorado

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

Fun Week

4 retired related couples to bike , kayak, raft in the area. This property allowed for ample space group and alone time. Easy commute to our activities. Great communication with property manager. Kitchen refrigerator had too much good in it and hard to put our supplies
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2021

8/10 Good

Jill I.

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

Great accommodation for a large group.

The property is very spacious and clean. The view of the stream and the seclusion were very nice. The property is in a great location between Gunnison and Crested Butte. The design of house allows for gatherings in several areas but also allows for space to spread out. The kitchen is well stocked. Dale was very easy to work with. Our only feedback is to add additional towels, wash clothes and kitchen towels and maybe some minor updates. Overall, it is a great place to stay.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2021

10/10 Excellent

Felicia M.

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

Absolutely Perfect!!

This property was absolutely perfect especially with the creek running so close to the house that we were able to catch and release some trout in. The house was very spacious and comfortable! We really enjoyed sitting on the deck and feeding the chipmunks peanuts. The location is prime as it is right where we want to be and we spend less time traveling around. We definitely want to stay here again!
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2021

10/10 Excellent

Kirk D.

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

Great property on a stream

House was great for a family gathering of 12 with room to spare. Lots of outside space and a nice deck. Kids loved playing in the stream and I fished in the stream. 2 nibbles.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2020

10/10 Excellent

Laura T.

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

Relaxing Getaway

This house and location were wonderful. We enjoyed our morning coffee by the front yard stream or sitting on the front deck listening to the stream and watching the hummingbirds. The nights were amazing sitting in front of the outside fireplace and the kids made s’mores. The home is about 30 minutes from Gunnison where we did some shopping. It is also about 30 minutes from the Taylor Park Reservoir where you can fish, rent boats, paddle boards, and enjoy the amazing mountain views. The home had all the kitchen utensils, silverware, and cooking equipment that we needed. We had actually brought much of our own supplies based on our previous VRBO experiences but our items did not even need to be unpacked, which was great. Other reviews had mentioned that the home was dated. It is true that the home furnishings and kitchen are dated. However, the home was super clean and everything was in pristine, working condition. Truthfully it had a comforting feel like “Grandma’s home”. The WiFi is slow, especially with 3 teens, however the home has a ping pong table and plenty of games and puzzles to keep everyone busy. The teens appreciated the DirectTV though for sure. We had AT&T and as it’s stated in the info, it doesn’t get very good reception. You might want to look into getting a 30day Verizon SIM if you need to have cell. Wifi calling worked great on our iPhones. The owner was very responsive to txt messages when we had quick questions, which was awesome. Our family wouldn’t hesitate to stay here again. It was an amazing experience in an amazing home.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2020

10/10 Excellent

Chip B.

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

Great Location

A group of us rode dirt bikes in the area for a week. Great experience and great location for easy access to OHV trails. We would certainly come back!
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2020