The El Capitan Lodge - your mountain get-away nestled between Leadville and Vail
Location: Leadville, South Central, Colorado, USA (10 miles to Leadville, 25 miles to Vail, 100 miles to Denver) View Map
Accommodations: House, 2 Bedrooms + Office, 2 Baths (Sleeps 6-8)
4WD or AWD car or SUV or truck is necessary in the winter.
The El Capitan Lodge: Stay in our custom built, timber framed home on 12 wooded acres and enjoy expansive views of the Rocky Mountains from our sunny deck. Located near Tennessee Pass at 10,500', this off-grid "green" home gives you a chance to experience the beauty of clean-energy living. Think of the house as a front-country cabin, rustic yet all the comforts of indoor plumbing and electricity. We may not have TV or a microwave, but the views, stars and peacefulness more than make up for it.
The house is a 1500 sf, 2 bedroom, 2 bath house with a huge deck that can sleep 6 in beds, and then an additional 2 - 3, if necessary. We have sleeping pads, an air mattress, and a pack-n-play for the youngest visitor.
We have local phone service, dial-up internet, and some cell service is available. There is no television. We do have a stereo that plays radio and cd's and we invite you to borrow a book from our library, or a cd from our collection. Escape the hustle/bustle and enjoy the serenity of the mountains without the distractions of TV, traffic, or city life. You can take in the views, watch the snow quietly fall, or sit by a glowing fire with a hot cocoa.
Right out the door, we have hiking, cross country skiing, mountain biking, snowshoeing and sledding. In the winter you are welcome to use our snowshoes or sleds. In the summer, you can enjoy our scenic fire pit for a campfire, and the kids can play in the treehouse or huge sandbox. Hiking and biking trails abound.
We are 1.5 miles from Ski Cooper, 25 miles to Vail, a 2 hour drive to Denver International Airport, and an hour from the Eagle-Vail airport. You can take advantage of the many nearby attractions of dog-sledding, horseback riding, river rafting, rock-climbing, visit historic Leadville (a 20 minute drive /10 miles) or go shopping in Vail or Beaver Creek Village. Winter activities abound.
No snowmobiling or ATV riding is permitted on Forest Service Rd. 731. There are rentals and outfitters in Camp Hale and other nearby areas.
4 wheel/all wheel drive is necessary in the winter.
Keywords: off-grid, vail hut trip, mountain cabin, solar powered, private, skiing, biking, hiking, snowshoeing, vail cabin, back country skiing, timber frame, 10th Mountain Division, hut trip
Vacation Rental Features
- Amenities
- Parking For RV/Boat/Trailer : We can easily accommodate up to 4 cars, even if you have a trailer or camper with you. No snowmobiles are allowed.
- Woodstove
- Linens Provided
- Beds
- Twin/ Single
- Baby Crib
- Double
- Queen
- Entertainment
- CD
- Music Library
- Kitchen
- Refrigerator : We have a unique 12 volt DC fridge, that uses little energy. As such, it is located in a cooler area of our kitchen/mudroom.
- Full Kitchen
- Outdoor Features
- Gas/Electric BBQ Grill
- Deck/Patio
- View/Location
- Mountain View : You are looking at part of the Sawatch Range, a range within the central Rockies that includes the highest concentration of 14,000 foot peaks. The triangular peak is Homestake Peak, at 13,200 ft.
- Ski-Out
- Communications
- Telephone
- Other Amenities
- Dial-up internet available
- Suitability
- Non Smoking Only
- Children Welcome
- Pets Not Allowed
- Activities
- Skiing
- Cycling
- Spelunking
- Hot Air Ballooning
- Cross Country Skiing
- Golf
- Fishing
- Swimming
- Rafting
- Hunting
- Hiking
- Mountain Biking
- Sledding
- Horseback Riding
- Snowboarding
- Live Theater
- Restaurants
- Museums
- Rock Climbing
- Shopping
- Kayaking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Snowmobiling
- Health/Beauty Spa
Rate Details (In US Dollars)
Off Peak: $195/night. . . $1200/wk. Minimum stay: 2 nights Peak: $295/night. . . $1850/wk. (Thanksgiving, Christmas, Feb., March, Aug) $75 non-refundable cleaning fee for up to 4 ppl. $100 for 5+ guests. Additional fee of $15/person per day for each add'l person over 6 people. A sales tax of rate of 4.4% will be charged to rental total. Minimum stay of 5 nights for Christmas and August Leadville 100 race weeks.
Note: Until confirmed, rates are subject to change without notice.
Map & Owner's Profile
Year Purchased: 1997
Why the Owner Chose LeadvilleWe bought our 12 acre property back in 1997, after an extensive search through Colorado, looking for a property that was both close to amenities and community, and also offered us the experiences of the backcountry. We were also looking for a place to build our own home. This property accomplished this perfectly for us. We are nestled in the mountains between Vail and Leadville, can easily ski at Cooper, Copper, Vail, or the Summit County areas as well. In the summer there are numerous rivers for rafting, and there is awesome hiking and biking without having to drive.
The Unique Benefits at this HouseOur neighborhood is surrounded by National Forest with recreational opportunities everywhere. While only being 10 short miles to Leadville, it feels like you're many more miles into the wilderness. In an hour's hike from the front door, you can be standing on top of Taylor Hill, with 360 degree views, and not a sole in sight, except perhaps,for a roaming herd of elk or a soaring red tail hawk. Or, in a 5 minute's drive you can be at Ski Cooper or the Tennessee Pass Nordic Center. For the more adventurous, you can ski/hike the 3-4 miles instead. In the 1800s, our property was in a gold and silver mining area. As you explore the surrounding forest you can sometimes find remnants of a bygone era, like a broken down miner's cabin or tin can, that has been rusting for over 100 years.
A wonderful small family oriented ski area run by the City of Leadville. Great prices, and perfect for beginners and intermediate skiers. 1.5 miles from the house!
Explore the historic 10th Mountain Division training grounds from WW2. Enjoy many recreational opportunities, from cross country skiing, snowmobiling, fishing, dog sledding, biking, hiking, and rock-climbing.
Explore, shop, dine, go to Boom Days, Winter Festival, a parade, the National Mining Hall of Fame, and so much more! Quaint, historic mining town, rich in Colorado's mining history.
Visit historic Redcliff. Enjoy a meal, a hike, go snowmobiling, or walk through this old mining town that was once the County seat for Eagle County.
World class ski resort. European style walking village. Gorgeous valley. Unlimited possibilities for eating out, shopping, recreation.
Owner's Map of Leadville
My husband and I have lived in the mountains of Colorado for the last 20+ years, and we love the adventures and beauty of a mountain lifestyle. Together we own a construction company, called Fiddler Creek Company (online at the same name), and we specialize in the construction of timber framed and "green" homes. We built our off-grid home in 2003, and have lived there up through 2011, when we moved to the town of Minturn to be closer to schools for our kids. We are happy to share our house with you through VRBO. We use our house when it's not rented, as we enjoy the hiking, skiing, biking and the solace of the location.
Property Photos
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- The El Capitan Lodge - your mountain get-away nestled between Leadville and Vail
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- Views from the sunny deck.
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- Not a powerline or road in sight, yet minutes to Leadville, Ski Cooper, Vail.
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- Views and relaxation on the deck
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- Catch a falling star. Enjoy an evening campfire on a cool, star filled night.
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- Bedroom 1 has a double bed, a single bed, and amazing views of the Sawatch Range
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- Bedroom 1: There's a twin bed a double, and a comfy seating area by the wi
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- Bedroom 2 has a nestled queen size bed and a private bathroom.
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- The sitting area in Bedroom 2 is cozy and perfect for a book and a cup of tea.
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- We have 2 immaculate bathrooms, one with a shower and one with a clawfoot tub.
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- Take a relaxing soak in our clawfoot tub after a long day on the slopes.
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- Sit by the fire in our sunny living room and take in the views of Homestake Peak
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- Enjoy cooking in our cozy kitchen.
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- Enjoy sledding, snowshoeing, or skiing right out the door.
Traveler Reviews (8)
Beautiful and unique mountain home
Guest: Paul
(South Carolina)
Date of Stay: 03/08/12
Review Submitted: 03/17/12
As an admirer of good design and craftsmanship, I was completely taken in by this home. While the setting is an quiet mountain scene and the views are awesome, the dwelling is itself a thoughtful thing of beauty. Greg and Melanie have constructed a dream retreat, built with great attention to detail and style. If you love nature and appreciate reasonable efforts to live responsibly and yet comfortably, then you will find this house very satisfying. I also found them to be among the most pleasant and responsive owners I have ever worked with. My sons and I thank you both for the great place to rest after days of snow skiing. We would definitely rent again!
Recommended for:Romantic getaway, adventure seekers, girls getaway, age 55+, sightseeing.
Amazing Retreat!
Guest: Happy Camper
(Carbondale, CO)
Date of Stay: 02/18/12
Review Submitted: 03/12/12
We stayed at El Capitan over President's Day weekend and had so much fun we ended up staying an extra night! The cabin itself is beautiful. Melanie and Greg built it themselves and the craftsmanship is fantastic. You can tell a lot of love and thoughtful planning went into building it and it has been maintained impeccably. We were originally looking for a hut to go to for my husband's birthday, but all of the 10th Mtn. Division Huts were booked. I have to say that our whole group ended up being very happy that that had been the case. The cabin was so well equipped and very clean. We were able to go on ski tours right from the cabin (Vance's was about a 25 minute ski). Greg even offered to take us out on a ski to show us all the great backcountry skiing that you can access right from the cabin. I can't write a review without mentioning the sledding. Wow! It was SO fun for adults and kids alike!! We spent hours out there and it was only the allure of hot cocoa with a little Bailey's by the fire that finally lured us in. If you want to ski at a resort, Ski Cooper was 10 minutes away and is a great family ski area. All-in-all, I don't think you can beat the location, accessibility, and amenities that you will find at El Capitan Cabin. Melanie and Greg were fantastic...super friendly and accommodating! It was a perfect weekend and we can't wait to go back!
Recommended for:Romantic getaway, adventure seekers, girls getaway, age 55+, families with young children, families with teenagers.
Beautiful Mountain Getaway
Guest: Camie
(Colorado)
Date of Stay: 03/01/12
Review Submitted: 03/05/12
I hate to say too many positive things, because I feel that El Capitan Lodge is a best kept secret! This "cabin" far exceeded our expectations. From the minute you pull up to the cabin you are captivated by the craftsmanship. It is beautiful inside and out! Gorgeous exposed beams, cozy decor, and breathtaking views. The cabin is well stocked from the kitchen to sleds. The owners, Melanie and Greg, were wonderful to work with. They made every effort to make our stay great, down to the last detail. Our days were filled with great family skiing a short drive away, sledding, and snowshoeing. We can't wait to go back!
Recommended for:Romantic getaway, adventure seekers, girls getaway, age 55+, families with young children, sightseeing, families with teenagers.
Off Grid Cabin in the Woods
Guest: CavSct
(Lincoln NE)
Date of Stay: 01/03/12
Review Submitted: 01/18/12
A beautiful setting with amazing view of the mountains and valley below. Leadville is only 10 miles away for groceries and other dining. My family and I stayed at the cabin for 4 nights in January and absolutely loved it. Ski Cooper is only 2 miles away! This cabin is perfect for the couple or family that would like to get away and be able to focus on family and nature without many of the distractions of home. We enjoyed not having a TV for a week and spent our nights reading and playing board games and puzzles. A minor inconvenience of staying in the cabin was learning to cook again without the convenience of a microwave and it wasn't a big issue. We really loved the winding road to the cabin and amazing setting. We will rent the cabin again and I would encourage others to try it also.
Recommended for:Romantic getaway, adventure seekers, families with young children, sightseeing, families with teenagers.
Perfect get-away spot
Guest: Missing Colorado
(Boston, MA)
Date of Stay: 02/10/11
Review Submitted: 10/31/11
We loved this house! Even the drive up is spectacular... winding up the mountain roads we were hoping to catch a glimps of the house with every turn. It's so close to Ski Cooper but also near enough to all the amenities of Vail. Once you're here you won't want to leave... kitchen is perfect for cooking up a family dinner and the back porch has amazing views. The house is built like a rock - a great change from the junky condos down the mountain. Can't wait to go back!! Thank you!
Recommended for:Romantic getaway, adventure seekers, age 55+, families with young children, sightseeing, families with teenagers.
a great find
Guest: Rocky
(Saratoga Springs, NY)
Date of Stay: 08/12/11
Review Submitted: 10/09/11
My work colleague and I had the privilege of being the first renters in this home. We were coming to Leadville for the LT100 bike race. If you know this event, you know that accommodations are not easy to find--quality ones, even tougher. So, I met Melanie at the house to get the keys in the afternoon while everyone else was back in town finishing set up. She told me to try to make it back for sunset on the back deck. I took that recommendation seriously, and we hustled back to enjoy a beer on a spectacular August evening as the sun set behind the highest peak in Eagle County. And we had front row seats. As spectacular as the sunset was, it was also a full moon during our stay. As we awoke for our pre-dawn race departure, the moon lit up the sky as it prepared to sit behind the Rockies and make way for the day. I only wish my iPhone camera did it any justice. The home itself is spectacular. While this was for business, I'd love to bring my wife and kids out next time so we could use this as the departure point for adventures in the surrounding area. Also, while the place is off the grid, the water is hot, electricity great, and we were able to use our mi-fi's to get both internet service. Signal was generally strong enough for surfing, streaming music, and skyping. I'd recommend it for any time of year, except for the LT100 race. It will already be taken. Thanks Melanie, we had a great time.
Recommended for:Romantic getaway, adventure seekers, families with young children, sightseeing.
Unique Mountain Setting
Guest: Intrepid Travelers
(Colorado)
Date of Stay: 09/08/11
Review Submitted: 10/07/11
We loved our stay at the El Capitan Lodge. We have traveled all over the world and stayed at numerous scenic lodges, but this was the most unique in terms of combining comfort with a secluded location. The setting is breathtaking, with gorgeous views of the high Rockies, and the lodge itself is a work of art. It was hand crafted by the owner, a master timber-frame builder, who originally built the home as his family's primary residence. It rivals a classic Alpine chalet with its hand chiseled beams and attention to every detail. We have stayed in the lodge in both summer and winter and love the hiking trails and proximity to great skiing. Sitting with a good book and a hot chocolate by one of the two cozy wood stoves after a day of outdoor activities is heaven. The lodge is totally private and a great place to energize your spirit.
Recommended for:Romantic getaway, adventure seekers, age 55+, families with young children, sightseeing, families with teenagers.
The Perfect Colorado Mountain Home
Guest: Crystal & Tom O.
(Chicago, IL)
Date of Stay: 09/25/11
Review Submitted: 10/04/11
My husband and I recently spent two nights at this amazing home in late September 2011 and we absolutely loved it. We had been in Colorado on vacation and staying in a more rustic ski hut for a week before spending that last two days and nights of our trip at this place. It was the perfect ending to an incredible trip. This home has the perfect mix of comfortable accommodations and access to outdoor adventure and activities. The home itself is absolutely beautiful. We loved the attention to detail in the design of both the interior and exterior. You can tell it is a home of exceptional quality and integrity in the way it was built and since we currently live in a condo in downtown Chicago, the off-grid lifestyle was especially appealing. You really feel like you are able to get away from it all without being completely isolated from civilization. We enjoyed quiet nights on the deck star-gazing and making dinner while enjoying the owners' music collection. We spent the daytime hiking right from the house and enjoyed the peace and wildlife in the area. The views of the mountains from the property were beautiful and we experienced two of the most amazing sunsets I've ever seen. The home has all the amenities you need to enjoy a perfect Colorado mountain vacation. The sounds and sights of the land around you are so mesmerizing, you won't wish for television. Thank you to Melanie and Greg for sharing this wonderful property! We hope to plan a return visit soon - and to stay longer than just 2 days next time.
Recommended for:Romantic getaway, adventure seekers, age 55+, families with young children, sightseeing, families with teenagers.
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Vacation Rentals by Owner Listing #379568
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