Perched at nearly 9,000 feet in elevation on a secluded fenced five-acre expanse, this off-grid mountain cabin offers a sanctuary of rustic charm with unexpected luxuries. Immersed in nature's grandeur, the property boasts unparalleled 360-degree panoramic views that stretch to the majestic Collegiate Peaks. Each evening, witness breathtaking sunsets that paint the sky in vibrant hues over the rugged mountain landscape.
Our Story, Your Escape:
This cabin is the culmination of a long-held dream and a lot of hard work – from hand-pounding hundreds of T-posts for the fence to designing and building this sturdy retreat. We fell in love with Hartsel's rugged beauty and believe it's one of Colorado’s hidden gems. We’re thrilled to share this special place, where you can witness those same breathtaking sunsets that stole our hearts.
The Cabin itself is 288 sqft, featuring a bedroom with a queen-size memory foam bed. While this rustic cabin doesn't have running water, it does have a stand-alone sink in the bathroom along with a composting toilet. We provide a couple of gallons of drinking water; however, we recommend bringing extra. Outdoor shower heated by solar.
WINTER STATUS: From Oct 1st to March 30th, no water onsite due to freezing temperatures when unoccupied.
CLOSED: Dec 1st to March 30th due to the weather being too cold for composting toilet. If you have an alternative toilet and want to stay, reach out.
Inside, you'll find a thoughtfully designed space:
- A futon that can fold down into roughly a twin for a single person or two kids.
- Barstools and a table at the window with mountain views.
- Garage door to the main space that can be opened on lovely days.
- A robust solar array and a large battery bank with an always-on inverter keep your essential electronics (phones, laptops) charged.
- Stay warm with the 35,000 BTU RV gas forced-air furnace.
- Kitchenette Corner: Equipped with a 42-liter refrigerator (allow ~30 mins to cool) and a 900-watt microwave. We also provide basic supplies like paper towels, paper plates, and plastic utensils.
- Features an innovative composting toilet. A foot-pump sink with a 5+ gallon fresh water capacity is also provided for handwashing; greywater is captured for us to empty.
- Stay Connected (If You Wish): Local cell service available, hotspot WiFi, & smart TV with live TV and streaming
- Multiple board/card games, firestarter, bbq utensils, USB cables, sun screen, and bug spray.
- Emergency preparedness: Headlamps and emergency lighting are on hand. Extra blankets provided if needed. Emergency cooking stove. Fire extinguisher, smoke detectors, and carbon monoxide detectors.
Outdoor Bliss at Nearly 9,000 Feet:
- Entire fenced-in 5 acres to yourself (barbed wire livestock fence).
- Privacy and a wind block fence around the hangout/fire pit area.
- Multiple Fire Pits: Enjoy crackling fires under the stars (wood provided!).
- Outdoor shower heated by solar and manual pump with a privacy area.
- Propane Grill: Perfect for whipping up delicious meals outdoors.
- Outdoor Seating: Tables and chairs to dine alfresco or simply soak it all in.
- Outdoor storage for trash
- NOTE: Outside of the initial area of the cabin, there can be small cacti & ant hills. A heads up if you have animals for children.
Important Information:
The gate MUST be closed after entering or leaving. Free-range cattle are common in this area; if they enter the property, please notify property management. Antelopes are welcomed visitors, and you will most likely see a lot of them out there!
Sunset Cabin is your gateway to incredible outdoor adventures:
- World-Class Fishing: Hartsel is renowned for Gold Medal waters. Antero, Spinney Mountain, and Eleven Mile Reservoirs, plus the South Platte River, are all nearby.
- Hiking & Backpacking: Pike National Forest surrounds you, with endless trails. Lost Creek Wilderness and Mueller State Park offer diverse experiences.
- UTV/Off-Roading: Numerous trailheads are just minutes away. Download the COTREX app for comprehensive trail maps in Pike National Forest. (Please note: Non-road legal vehicles are prohibited on the property, surrounding properties, and county roads).
- Scenic Drives & Wildlife: Wilkerson Pass, Eleven Mile Canyon, and the vast South Park offer stunning drives and chances to see elk, pronghorn, deer, and more.
- Nearby Attractions: Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument and the Colorado Wolf and Wildlife Center are within easy reach.
Local Conveniences (Hartsel & Lake George):
- Hartsel (approx. 8,864 ft elevation): Find general stores (Badger Basin Country Store, The Country Store of Hartsel), the Bayou Salado Trading Post for gifts. For dining, try the Highline Cafe & Saloon (great for breakfast) or Zuccaro's Kitchen at the South Park Mercantile for delicious pizza and pasta (often with live music on weekends!).
- Lake George (approx. 7,992 ft elevation): Offers general stores like Granite Canyon General Store and Eleven Mile General Store, fly shops, and eateries like Lake George Cafe and a local BBQ spot.
Special Requests: If there's anything specific you need to make your stay perfect, please don't hesitate to ask!
Come experience the magic of Sunset Cabin – where the views are endless, the peace is profound, and the stars shine brighter. We look forward to hosting you!
We look forward to hosting you!
