Entire home

House, hot tub, playground, dog friendly + option of 2nd building!

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The Happy Elk Cabin. Spread out on .8 acres and 2 buildings of living space.
Outdoor spa tub
The Happy Elk Cabin is located in ideal location. (Aerial view above the cabin)
Aerial view of the valley.
3 buildings: 1) house 2) studio 3) two car garage

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional
4 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 81626 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Dryer
  • Hot tub
  • Washer
  • Fireplace

Explore the area

Map
Estes Park, CO
  • Beaver Meadows Visitor Center
    ‪14 min walk‬
  • Historic Estes Park
    ‪5 min drive‬
  • The Stanley Hotel
    ‪7 min drive‬
  • Boulder, CO (WBU-Boulder Municipal)
    ‪59 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

4 bedrooms (sleeps 8)

Main house: Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Main house: Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed and 1 Single Bunk Bed

Studio option: Bedroom 3

1 Double Murphy Bed

Studio option: Bedroom 4

2 Single Beds

2 bathrooms

Main house: Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only

Optional studio: Bathroom 2

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Kitchenette
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

House, hot tub, playground, dog friendly + option of 2nd building!

Come escape the stress and enjoy the beautiful Colorado Rocky Mountains in Estes Park at licensed vacation rental property 20-NCD0374! Large lot and 2 buildings to spread out. Breathe the fresh mountain air and go for secluded hikes come back to enjoy a soak in the hot tub! Fast (1 gig) internet for working remote.

PLEASE NOTE: We do not advertise on Craigslist. Please communicate with us through VRBO only.

We are located in a PERFECT location! Close to everything, yet plenty of space. 2 miles from the entrance of Rocky Mountain National Park, 2 miles away from downtown Estes Park and 2 miles from the YMCA on Highway 66. The free Estes Park shuttle bus stops near the property on Highway 66. So park your car and enjoy the mountains. We are on the Brown Route. Note: Town shuttles operate daily from June 24 through September 10.

Enjoy being together on vacation yet spread out with 4 bedrooms and 2 baths in 2 buildings. The main house is a ranch style home with 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, and open living, dining, and kitchen area. It sleeps 6 people and has 2 smart TVs with cable. The studio building is 10 feet from the home with 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, and a microwave, small refrigerator, coffee maker, and a smart TV connected to cable. Families on different schedules... no worries. Get a wonderful night sleep without distractions of others in your party but enjoy time together in the large living area, outside on the covered deck, or in the 7 person hot tub.

Have young kids? We created a safe enclosed private toddler playground behind the studio building with a climbing wall, wagon, sandbox, slide, seesaw, and little tykes cars sure to entertain the youngsters while you sit on the bench, sip a beverage, relax and enjoy the mountain air.

Having a big family reunion? Check out the Paradise RV Park nearby. Some can camp while others stay at the Happy Elk!

Have well behaved fur babies (dogs) you want to bring along? This is the perfect property with a brand new 6 foot fence to let your dogs enjoy the open space as well. Please inform the owner if you are bringing any pets along there is a small fee. (No cats please. I love them too... but some guests are often allergic.)

Basic price is listed for main house ONLY which sleeps 6. Studio which sleeps 4 is additional. No more than 8 can rent the property at any one time. House and studio will never be booked to different parties on same dates.

The property is in on nearly an acre with a hammock, grill, hot tub and yard games. Our landscaping is similar to most mountain properties in that it constantly changes based on nature. We keep it natural for our guests' benefit as it gives a welcoming habitat for animals to come and better wildlife viewing opportunities from the comfort of the home. The deer graze and recharge in the yard while the hummingbirds enjoy the wildflowers. Enjoy the mountain views while relaxing on the deck watching elk graze and take a rest under a tree. Please note the pictures were taken in May. Landscaping changes continually and the lawn is not able to be maintained with a lawnmower due to the large natural rock formations on the property.

Home has been completely updated. All new cozy mattresses, soft linens, thick warm duvets, and comfy towels! Kitchen updated with new stainless appliances. Fully licensed as a vacation rental in Estes Park.

Enjoy the warmth of the remote controlled gas fireplace while watching TV, catching up with family or friends, and playing games.

Washer and dryer are available for guest use.

Please note: check fire current fire restrictions at  https://www.estesvalleyfire.org/fire-restrictions-bans. At this time, no short term rentals or bed and breakfasts are allowed to have outdoor wood burning fires.

Property manager

Joan Weiss
Premier Host

Languages

English
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Amenities

Hot tub
Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Free WiFi

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
Private toddler playground on site
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

Pets allowed
No cats allowed.
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

This property is managed by a private host (a party not acting within their trade, business or profession). EU consumer law, including the right of withdrawal, will not apply to your booking. The cancellation policy set by the private host will cover your booking.
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
Property Registration Number 20-NCD0374

We should mention

This property does not have any lifts
A car is not required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Estes Park

Located in Estes Park, this holiday home is in the city centre. Historic Estes Park and The Stanley Hotel are notable landmarks, and the area's natural beauty can be seen at Rocky Mountain National Park. Consider Performance Park for a night out or Tiny Town Miniature Golf if you're travelling with kids. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
Estes Park, CO

What's nearby

  • Beaver Meadows Visitor Center - 14 min walk - 1.3 km
  • Estes Park Aerial Tramway - 4 min drive - 3.5 km
  • Historic Estes Park - 5 min drive - 3.7 km
  • Beaver Meadows Entrance Station - 5 min drive - 4.2 km
  • The Stanley Hotel - 7 min drive - 5.1 km

Getting around

  • Fort Collins, CO (FNL-Fort Collins-Loveland Municipal) - 65 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Coffee on the Rocks - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪Smokin' Dave's BBQ & Taphouse - ‬2 min drive
  • ‪The Barrel - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Rock Cut Brewing Company - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Himalayan Curry & Kebob - ‬5 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is House, hot tub, playground, dog friendly + option of 2nd building! pet-friendly?

Yes, pets are allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at House, hot tub, playground, dog friendly + option of 2nd building!?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at House, hot tub, playground, dog friendly + option of 2nd building!?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is House, hot tub, playground, dog friendly + option of 2nd building! located?

This family-friendly holiday home is located in the city centre, within 1 mi (2 km) of Beaver Meadows Visitor Center, Tiny Town Miniature Golf and Backbone Adventures. Moraine Park Museum and Wild Basin Area are also within 3 miles (5 km).

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 219 out of 248 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 23 out of 248 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 5 out of 248 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 248 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 248 reviews

9.6/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great spot

We really enjoyed the location. Just minutes from RMNP entrance. So much to do.
Stayed 5 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Andy S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Place!

Love staying at this property - close to town but not too close, and the hot tub was hit! Highly recommend!
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Sara R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful!

This place was wonderful. It was cozy, lovely, and the perfect spot for old friends to gather for a long weekend in the mountains.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Nancy G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Family vacation

Amazing location. Clean and beautiful accommodations..
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jenn O.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Winter get away

The cabin was conveniently located, comfortable and communication was great with the host. We would definitely come back!!
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Damon M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Another excellent stay

We have stayed here a few times over the years and it has always been great. The recent addition of a hot tub is nice. The location, on the edge of town, is perfect. The large, dog-friendly yard is always a hit. Highly recommend this place.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Joe and Kass M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great spot in Estes

This is a great spot to use as a launching spot for the park or all around Estes.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2024

8/10 Good

Dennis H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great place for our family to stay!

This is a nice property. Nice area for children and fur babies. Would stay here again!
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Daphne N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fabulous home and location!!!

We had a wonderful stay at The Happy Elk. Location, location, location…. just minutes from downtown Estes Park and The Rocky Mountain National Park entrance, but you still have plenty of privacy. The home is cozy and has everything you need. Plus, the fenced yard was a major bonus for us as well. I loved sipping my coffee outside while taking in spectacular mountain views.I cannot recommend this rental home enough for your vacation needs. We will definitely be back!
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Teresa J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful place

We loved staying in Estes Park. It was a wonderful place for Thanksgiving and for families. The second building worked perfectly for us. We would definitely stay there again. We saw some wildlife in the back of the house. Close to downtown and the Glow Parade for Christmas. Lots of memories for our family
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Ralph P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Awesome cabin

So many things to love about this cabin. Location is great, the yard is a beautiful place to hang out, beds are comfortable, kitchen is roomy and had everything we needed. Soaking in the hot tub under the stars was a bonus.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Glenda W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Colorado vacation

Conveniently close to town and park
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Tracy S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful

The location and clear communication was great! We will be back
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

La Juan L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Breath of fresh air

Visiting family with small children enjoy seeing them but needing space of our own is great
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

William K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Excellent property

This was such a great experience for us. The property was spacious and allowed our family of 8 plenty of room to relax. Great location and saw lots of wildlife from the porches. Would 100% stay here again.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Christopher M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great time in Estes Park

We stayed at this property in August for a family vacation. The location to RMNP is perfect. The place is VERY dog friendly and is like having your own dog park since the back yard is large and fenced. The main house is not large but is very cozy and has all the basics needed for a comfortable stay. Owner is very responsive/helpful.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Carolyn J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fall & Golf

The house was very adequate for our stay. The kitchen was well equipped and had plenty of dishes and cooking utensils. We enjoyed the deck and enjoyed morning coffee and a number of rounds of cards games on the deck. We are golfers and appreciated the short drive to the golf courses. My dog enjoyed the fully fenced in back & side yard.
Stayed 6 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Wendy R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely home in Estes!

This place had everything we wanted! Doggie play area, amazing yard with a view of Long's peak, and walking distance to the Rock Inn! We really enjoyed our stay!
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

Maria D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Cozy Staying

Nice place and location.
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

Timothy S., Woodstock

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Blessed Thanksgiving

My family had a wonderful Thanksgiving staying here. We enjoyed the property with outside firepit and location to RMNP and Estes Park.
Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Mercades M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Spacious and kid friendly home

Lots of baby gear and stuff for our little ones. The backyard sandpit and playground was a major hit with our two kids 4 and under. The rooms were clean and bedding was fresh. Lots of extra blankets and fans were so so nice. We loved the location and how close it was to the grocery store and the entrance to Rocky Mountains.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Marin H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great vacation spot

Owners were easy to get in contact with. The whole trip was great. Cabin was the perfect getaway and our son loved the play area outside
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Mark W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Frozen Dead Guy Days

The place was very clean and had all the amenities of home. The deck had a scenic few and we truly enjoyed our stay
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kevin B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Ricky Mountain High

We had a very nice stay with my sons family. Comfortable home and great restaurants nearby.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Maggie S., St. Paul, Minnesota

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect stay for RMNP Elopement

Property was a comfortable stay with an awesome location for access to the town and the National park. Highly recommend
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2023

About the host

Hosted by Joan Weiss

Host profile image
I am a retired globetrotting grandmother who knows the value of time spent with family and friends in the majestic mountain scenery of Estes Park.

Why they chose this property

Estes Park has always been close to my heart. Close enough to escape the hustle of Denver for the day yet provides the complete wilderness experience. It is the best of both worlds!

What makes this property unique

While traveling with my kids and grandchildren, I realized the value of being together yet giving everyone their own space. This property allows the unique opportunity with having 2 separate buildings for sleeping yet large living space to play games and make memories that will last a lifetime. Icing on the cake: I created a private enclosed playground for the kids to play safely while the adults relax on the bench and catch up.

I also realize how nice it is to be with my dog when traveling and wanted to provide this for my guests. I created 2 fenced in areas (other than the kids playground area) that dogs can feel free to roam and enjoy their time in the mountains.

Languages:

English

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests