Welcome to our cozy 1-bedroom, 1-bath cabin nestled among tall trees, offering privacy and tranquility for outdoor enthusiasts. The main floor features a comfy living room with a propane fireplace, a well-equipped kitchen, and a bathroom. Upstairs, the loft bedroom boasts a king-sized bed overlooking the living area. Step outside to the open front deck and breathe in the fresh mountain air. With a sofa-bed, the cabin sleeps up to 4 guests. We provide linens, towels, toiletries, and kitchen essentials for your convenience. It’s the perfect base for your outdoor adventures in the heart of nature.

Outdoor Access

Fishing

Lake City, Colorado, offers exceptional fly fishing opportunities amidst its pristine waters, attracting anglers seeking the thrill of pursuing trout in picturesque settings. The area boasts various accessible fishing spots, each with its unique characteristics and challenges.

Water Access Points:

1. Lake San Cristobal: As the second-largest natural lake in Colorado, Lake San Cristobal provides abundant fishing opportunities. Public access points around the lake offer anglers the chance to target various trout species, including rainbow, brown, and lake trout. Boasting scenic views and ample shoreline access, Lake San Cristobal is ideal for anglers of all skill levels.
2. Deer Lakes: Situated near the top of Slumgullion Pass, Deer Lakes offer a tranquil fishing experience amid stunning mountain scenery. Accessible via a turnoff on Slumgullion Pass Road, these lakes are particularly suitable for beginners and families. Anglers can expect to encounter brook trout in these serene mountain lakes.
3. Henson Creek: Flowing down from the San Juan Mountains, Henson Creek provides ample opportunities for stream fishing enthusiasts. Accessible along County Road 20 from Capitol City, Henson Creek offers brushy mountain stream fishing for trout. Anglers can explore various stretches of the creek, enjoying the challenge of casting amidst the rugged terrain.
4. Lake Fork of the Gunnison River: With over 28 miles of public waters, the Lake Fork offers convenient access for anglers seeking productive fishing spots. Numerous access points along Highway 149 provide opportunities to fish close to the road, making it ideal for those with limited time. The river supports healthy populations of trout, offering rewarding fishing experiences throughout the season.
5. Rio Grande Reservoir: Located south of Lake City, the Rio Grande Reservoir offers anglers a chance to fish in a scenic mountain setting. Accessible via Forest Service Road 520, the reservoir is stocked with fish during the summer months and is open to boating. Anglers can expect to encounter various trout species in this picturesque alpine reservoir.
6. Continental Reservoir: Positioned between Lake City and Creede, the Continental Reservoir provides another option for anglers seeking diverse fishing opportunities. Accessible via Forest Service Road 513, the reservoir offers great fishing and allows boating. Anglers can target trout in this stocked lake while enjoying the tranquility of the surrounding wilderness.
7. Williams Creek Reservoir: Located in the southern end of Hinsdale County, Williams Creek Reservoir offers excellent fishing amidst stunning mountain scenery. Accessible via Forest Service Roads 631 and 640 from Highway 160 near Pagosa Springs, the reservoir is stocked with Kokanee salmon and trout. Boating is allowed, and a large public campground nearby makes it convenient for anglers planning extended fishing trips.

By exploring these diverse fishing spots and following these tips, anglers visiting Lake City can enjoy rewarding fly fishing experiences amidst the stunning natural beauty of the San Juan Mountains.

Ice Climbing

The Lake City Ice Park, situated just one block south of historic downtown Lake City, Colorado, offers a premier ice climbing experience amidst the stunning San Juan Mountains. This beloved destination is favored by ice climbers seeking small crowds, stellar routes, and a relaxed atmosphere. Climbs are free, but donations are appreciated to support park operations. With three distinct ice climbing areas—Pumphouse Park, Beer Garden, and Dynamite Shack—the park boasts over 75 routes ranging from WI3 and up, catering to both beginners and seasoned climbers alike. Pumphouse Park features approximately 15+ routes with pitches of 60 to 100+ feet, while the Beer Garden, located a quarter-mile up County Road 20, offers up to 30 routes with pitches of 70 to 110+ feet. The newest addition, Dynamite Shack, boasts 35 routes with pitches exceeding 170 feet. Open from November to March, weather permitting, the Lake City Ice Park is family and pet-friendly, equipped with fire pits and warming huts for added comfort. Climbers are reminded to climb at their own risk, ensuring a thrilling yet safe adventure in this picturesque winter wonderland.

Big Game Hunting

Lake City, Colorado, offers exceptional opportunities for big game hunting amidst its rugged wilderness, drawing hunters seeking the thrill of pursuing trophy animals in pristine mountain settings. With abundant public land and diverse game species, Lake City provides an ideal hunting destination for both novice and seasoned hunters alike.

Wilderness Access Points:

1. Game Management Units (GMUs): Lake City is situated within several GMUs, including 65, 66, 67, 76, 77, and 751. These units offer varied terrain and habitat, providing opportunities to pursue a range of big game species, including mule deer, elk, bighorn sheep, pronghorn, and moose.
2. Public Land: Hinsdale County, where Lake City is located, comprises 96 percent public land, offering hunters ample access to vast expanses of wilderness. National Forests, Bureau of Land Management (BLM) areas, and state wildlife areas provide numerous hunting opportunities throughout the hunting season.

Species and Seasonality:

1. Elk: Elk hunting is a popular pursuit in Lake City, with seasons typically running from September through November. The rut, occurring in September, offers prime hunting opportunities as bulls become more active and vocal. Hunters can pursue elk in various habitats, including high alpine meadows and dense forests.
2. Mule Deer: Mule deer hunting seasons typically coincide with elk seasons, running from September through November. The rugged terrain of the San Juan Mountains provides ideal habitat for mule deer, offering challenging but rewarding hunting experiences.
3. Bighorn Sheep: Bighorn sheep hunting is a coveted pursuit in Lake City, with limited licenses available through the draw system. Seasons vary depending on the specific GMU and typically occur in the fall. Hunters must be prepared for physically demanding hunts in high-altitude environments.
4. Pronghorn: Pronghorn hunting opportunities are available in certain GMUs surrounding Lake City. Seasons typically occur in the fall, with archery, muzzleloader, and rifle hunts available. Open plains and sagebrush habitats provide prime hunting grounds for pronghorn in the region.
5. Moose: Moose hunting in Lake City is also available through limited licenses and the draw system. Seasons typically occur in the fall, with hunters targeting bull moose during the rut. Dense willow thickets and wetland areas provide key habitat for moose in the region.

Mountain Biking

Lake City, Colorado, in the heart of the San Juan Mountains, offers mountain bikers a diverse array of trails, ranging from scenic alpine routes to thrilling downhill descents. Whether you’re seeking a leisurely ride or an adrenaline-pumping adventure, Lake City has trails to suit every skill level and preference.

Alpine Loop Trail: The Alpine Loop Trail is a renowned mountain biking route that winds through some of the most breathtaking scenery in the San Juan Mountains. This iconic trail spans approximately 65 miles and offers a mix of rugged terrain, alpine meadows, and high mountain passes. Riders can choose from various starting points and customize their route based on desired length and difficulty level. Highlights of the Alpine Loop Trail include Engineer Pass, Cinnamon Pass, and historic mining sites.

Cinnamon Pass Trail: Cinnamon Pass Trail is a challenging mountain biking route that ascends to the breathtaking heights of Cinnamon Pass, reaching elevations of over 12,000 feet. The trail begins near Lake City and follows a rugged path through alpine forests and rocky terrain. Riders will be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys as they climb to the summit. Due to its steep and technical sections, Cinnamon Pass Trail is best suited for experienced mountain bikers seeking a thrilling adventure.

Henson Creek Trail: Henson Creek Trail offers a scenic and moderately challenging mountain biking experience along the banks of Henson Creek. This out-and-back trail follows an old mining road, passing through dense forests and open meadows. Riders can enjoy glimpses of historic mining structures and sweeping views of the surrounding mountains as they pedal along the creek. Henson Creek Trail is ideal for intermediate riders looking for a scenic ride with moderate elevation gain.

Rock Climbing

Here are a few options for rock climbing enthusiasts near Lake City:

Mill Creek Canyon: Mill Creek Canyon, located a short drive from Lake City, offers some limited rock climbing opportunities on its rugged cliffs. While the climbing here may not rival famous destinations, there are a few routes suitable for beginner to intermediate climbers. The canyon’s picturesque setting and tranquil atmosphere make it a pleasant spot for a day of climbing.

Bachelor Loop Road: Bachelor Loop Road, a historic mining route near Lake City, features cliffs and rock outcroppings that may appeal to adventurous climbers seeking new challenges. While climbing here may require some exploration and route-finding skills, the rugged beauty of the landscape adds to the allure of the experience.

Henson Creek Canyon: Henson Creek Canyon, with its towering cliffs and rugged terrain, offers potential for more advanced climbing routes for experienced climbers. The canyon’s remote location and challenging access may deter some, but those willing to make the effort can find opportunities for adventure and exploration.

Here are a few specific hiking trails in the Lake City, Colorado area:

1. Alpine Loop Trail:
   • Location: Begins at the Engineer Pass trailhead, accessible via Hinsdale County Road 20 (Engineer Pass Road).
   • Distance: Approximately 6 miles round trip.
   • Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous, with steep sections and rocky terrain.
   • Description: The Alpine Loop Trail offers stunning views of the surrounding San Juan Mountains and traverses through alpine meadows, passing by old mining ruins and wildflower-filled landscapes. Hikers can enjoy panoramic vistas from the summit of Engineer Pass.
2. Lake San Cristobal Loop Trail:
   • Location: Circumnavigates Lake San Cristobal, accessible from County Road 30.
   • Distance: Approximately 9 miles round trip.
   • Difficulty: Easy to moderate, with mostly flat terrain.
   • Description: The Lake San Cristobal Loop Trail offers picturesque views of Colorado’s second-largest natural lake and the surrounding mountains. Hikers can enjoy peaceful walks along the lakeshore, with opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife spotting.
3. Henson Creek Trail:
   • Location: Begins at the Henson Creek Trailhead, accessible from Hinsdale County Road 20.
   • Distance: Variable, with options for shorter or longer hikes.
   • Difficulty: Moderate, with some elevation gain and rocky terrain.
   • Description: The Henson Creek Trail follows the scenic Henson Creek Canyon, offering views of waterfalls, towering cliffs, and lush forests. Hikers can choose to hike a portion of the trail or continue on for a longer trek into the backcountry.
4. Cataract Gulch Trail:
   • Location: Starts at the Cataract Gulch Trailhead, accessible via County Road 30.
   • Distance: Approximately 6 miles round trip.
   • Difficulty: Moderate, with some steep sections and rocky terrain.
   • Description: The Cataract Gulch Trail leads hikers through a picturesque valley surrounded by towering peaks, with views of cascading waterfalls and alpine meadows. The trail offers opportunities for wildflower viewing during the summer months.
5. Crystal Lake Trail:
   • Location: Begins at the Crystal Lake Trailhead, accessible from County Road 30.
   • Distance: Approximately 3 miles round trip.
   • Difficulty: Moderate, with some elevation gain.
   • Description: The Crystal Lake Trail takes hikers to the beautiful Crystal Lake, nestled amidst the rugged peaks of the San Juan Mountains. The trail offers stunning alpine scenery and opportunities for fishing and picnicking at the lake shore.