While Colorado is famous for its outdoor adventure opportunities and spectacular mountain scenery, it’s also a wildlife lover’s dream. When you’re out on the trails, enjoying a scenic drive, or even playing a game of golf, you might spot all sorts of creatures. Bison, Bighorn sheep, mountain goat, black bear, moose and elk are just a few of the possibilities. For the best opportunities for spotting them, be sure and book one of these Airbnbs.
Secluded Historic Cabin with Hot Tub - Estes Park
One of the coziest cabins in Estes Park, this historic three-bedroom cabin lies just outside the east entrance of Rocky Mountain National Park. The views are amazing, not only of the breathtaking scenery but from the many large windows you’ll be able to watch for wildlife like deer, elk, wild turkey and the occasional bear. It accommodates up to six guests and includes a bubbling hot tub, picnic table, and horseshoes. Inside is a cozy fireplace and all the comforts of home, from a TV and DVD library, books and games to a washer and dryer.
The Wapiti Retreat - Walden
Walden is famous for its high concentration of moose, and this seven-bedroom log cabin retreat will put you right in the heart of it all. From the large front windows to the east you’ll see the Medicine Mountains while the Park Range is to the north and famous Rabbit Ears Peak is to the south. The Elk Bedroom includes a king bed and an incredible view to the southwest via a huge picture window. You’ll have a fully equipped kitchen and two dining areas as well as a comfortable sitting area with a pool table, 42-inch TV with a Bluetooth-capable DVD player that can be used as a movie theater, a game center, or a sleeping area too.
Rocky Mountain Treehouse - Carbondale
A top-rated Airbnb in Colorado, this treehouse home is surrounded by nature, sharing the property with some of the state’s most impressive wildlife, including bighorn sheep, elk, mule deer, and more. The deer roam through neighborhoods while herds of elk recline in meadows, and bald eagles soar above the rivers searching for a meal. The treehouse boasts sweeping panoramic vistas, set between Glenwood Springs and Aspen, up 25 feet off the ground on two acres with a cattle creek running through. Accommodating up to six guests, it has a wood-burning stove and a large balcony where you can relax and watch for the wildlife by day and stargaze after dark. There’s a full kitchen and bathroom with a rock shower, a sleeping loft with two large skylights and another private balcony too.
The Lodge at Eagle's Wing Ranch - Coalmont
The Lodge at Eagle’s Wing Ranch is located on a family-owned and operated bison ranch in North Park, another area famous for its moose and other wildlife. Bison sightings are a given and can be enjoyed while you sip your morning coffee or evening wine. The five-bedroom home accommodates nine guests and provides spectacular views from every window. You’ll also have a full kitchen and BBQ for grilling out, a fire pit to gather around under the stars, a wood-burning stove, laundry facilities and more.
Mountain Lodge with Daily Wildlife Sightings - Breckenridge
Wildlife abounds around this three-bedroom mountain lodge for up to three guests, with daily sightings of bear, moose, fox and deer. Enjoy all sorts of activities nearby from hiking to skiing, and then come back to enjoy the outdoor Jacuzzi, cozying up to one of two indoor fireplaces, and enjoying breathtaking mountain views. It includes a full kitchen, washer/dryer, cable TV and much more.
Purgatory Mountain Getaway - Purgatory
This property is just 25 miles north of Durango, across from popular Purgatory Resort for skiing, hiking, mountain biking, fishing and more. In this beautiful mountain area, coyotes, bears, and elk can be seen, and inside, you’ll have plenty of space for with two-bedrooms and 1,300 square feet of living space. There’s also a loft with futons and a full kitchen. Your host is a 20-year resident of nearby Durango and can provide advice for activities and the best places to spot wildlife.
Private Riverfront Retreat - Salida
This retreat overlooks the Arkansas River, where Bighorn sheep can be seen year-round coming for a drink, especially in the winter. You’ll have a bird’s-eye view of the river from the open loft area, ideal for relaxing by the fire, watching movies, or reading a good book. From the deck enjoy the sounds and sights of the water while dining, sipping your morning coffee or evening wine. The river also offers gold medal fishing, rafting, kayaking and swimming right from your back door.
Rustic Riverfront Cabin - Ouray
Enjoy a front-row seat for Ouray’s breathtaking scenery and wildlife here – deer and elk are in the vicinity throughout the year, while black bears have been spotted in the fall. Bighorn sheep live on the rocky cliffs above the town and are often sighted during the winter. The one-bedroom cabin for four is budget-friendly, close to the hot springs and includes electricity, but it’s a bit of a glamping experience with no running water or bathroom inside. You will have access to drinking water, nearby heated restrooms and showers. A mini-fridge, microwave, coffeemaker, and electric fireplace are included too.
The Celtic Lady's Peaceful Mountain Retreat - Estes Park
The Celtic Lady’s Peaceful Mountain Retreat is a mother-in-law suite that’s just 2.5 miles from Lake Estes and the popular town of Estes Park, yet away from the hustle and bustle in an area with lots of wildlife, including an abundance of elk. You’ll be within walking distance of hiking trails too. It accommodates up to three with a queen bed, two couches, TV, and Wi-Fi along with a back deck to relax on while enjoying the views.
