TOP
A Room With a View

National Park Retreats

The Estes Park Escape is less than a mile from the entrance to Rocky Mountain State Park, and is a few miles from the city of Estes Park, Colorado. Views from the windows of the living areas and the bedrooms are peaceful. The Fall River meanders past the house and fills the rooms with the sounds of flowing water Tree-covered mountains frame the scene. The Escape boasts two living areas: one on the first floor, and an open concept design on the second floor. The home has ample space for two couples or a large group to share with sufficient privacy. Because if its proximity to the park, other homes are nearby, but there is still enough privacy as this home enjoys a large semi-private section of the river. A large deck with dining table is a great spot to enjoy morning coffee. The flower boxes were full of colorful plants and blooms. Chipmunks, rabbits and many birds scamper about the property and we saw seven wandering elk down the street near the home.  The Escape is comfortable and spacious, and well appointed. Check in and directions were simple and seamless. Finding the place for the first time can be a bit of a challenge, as the property is set off from the street, but our GPS led us right to it.

Nestled at the base of the La Sal mountains, off a secluded road called Seldom Seen Road, the Moab Mountain House is surrounded by a pinyon juniper forest filled with all sorts of birds, bunnies, and deer. On the first morning of our stay, I saw a coyote. Off the front deck are beautiful views of the Moab Rim, a beautiful spot for sunsets, and off the back patio you are views of the La Sal mountains. The house sits on three acres of land, and you couldn’t hope for a more secluded property so close to the bustling town and two stunning national parks (Arches and Canyonlands). Moab Mountain House is comfortably furnished with a number of traditional pieces and a few antiques–quite a pleasant change from many of the homes where we have stayed which are full of Ikea furniture. Having a garage to park in is a real perk during the warm days of summer.  We absolutely loved  this sanctuary away from city living!


P
erched on a hill above the Yellowstone River, the patio of the Elk Cabin faces cattle land and mountain range. Just 26 miles south is the north entrance to Yellowstone National Park, Montana. Elk Cabin is a secluded retreat far from the crowds of tourists which stay in Gardiner. There are fine views from every window plus a wrap around deck with plenty of chairs to enjoy scenes of the flowing river and the grazing cattle. The suitably furnished interior boasts a wood burning stove which casts a romantic warmth and light in the great room. Plenty of space on two floors plus a washer and dryer down stairs and an additional bathroom with a jetted tub. We absolutely loved the natural beauty and seclusion of this cabin. Being so close to Yellowstone and away from the crowds is a real treat. There are good restaurant choices both to the north and south. We will definitely be back here when we pass this way again!