Notes from the host
The Bear Den
Welcome to The Bear Den, surrounded by alpine trails & mountain air:
- Sleeps 4 | 2 bedrooms | 2 beds | 1 bath
- Private patio & BBQ grill
- Fully equipped kitchen & dining table
- Shared firepit for starlit evenings
- Washer/dryer & dedicated workspace
- Pet-friendly
- Family-ready
We're here for you during your stay but our level of interaction is up to you. We are only a phone call or message away. You will be able to self check-in upon arrival. We are happy to assist via phone or through Airbnb before, during or after your stay.
Once a week, one of our team members will stop by the property to put out the trash cans, replenish our supplies, and/or restock sheets and towels. They will NOT enter the home. They have access to the storage or shed with a code. This day may or may not fall during your stay.
TOWN OF TWIN LAKES & SURROUNDING AREA
Just outside the cabin you will enjoy stunning views of Mt Elbert - the second-highest peak in the contiguous U.S. as well as of Mt. Hope, another of the tallest peaks in Colorado. You will fall in love with the clear morning lake views and awe-inspiring panoramic perspectives. These gorgeous mountain views create an amazing backdrop for the ever-changing light show, which offers glorious sunrises and mind-blowing sunsets. Occasional passing storms and rainbows add to the magnificent display of nature.
A mere two-hour drive from Denver, Twin Lakes is a remote historic mining town. Nestled deep within a National Forest at the base of the Rockies’ tallest mountains, yet close to the booming outdoor adventure towns of Buena Vista and Leadville, the town of Twin Lakes is an undiscovered gem. Our cabins offer the best views in the state of Colorado and immediate access to the wilderness just outside your door. You will gain an appreciation for the peaceful beauty of this untamed area like you have never known before.
ACTIVITIES & RECREATION
Twin Lakes and Mt. Elbert Forebay are both a quick 5-10 minute drive from here. You'll find various activities to enjoy, including:
• Swimming
• Onsite disc golf course (3 holes)
• Canoeing (rentals available)
• Kayaking (rentals available)
• Stand-up paddle-boarding (rentals available)
• Lake fishing (try ice fishing in the winter!)
• Hiking/Cross-country skiing/Snowshoeing/Mountain biking. There are endless trails just outside your door for you to enjoy.
• 14ers - Bag your peaks here! Use this as your base camp. The most accessible mountains are:
Elbert, Massive, Huron, La Plata, Missouri, Belford, Oxford, Harvard, Colombia and Yale.
• Stargazing. On clear nights you may see planets, and, of course, myriad stars. View the details of the Milky Way as rarely seen in our world today. Don’t forget to bring your telescope!
• ATVing/4-Wheeling/Snowmobiling. Haul your vehicle up. There’s plenty of space!
• Whitewater rafting on the Arkansas river
• Fly fishing the 100+ miles of Gold Medal trout water on the Arkansas River
• Hunting
• Gold-panning
We are accessible year-round. Our cabin is located on a county road that gets plowed when there's snow; however, we still recommend AWD with good tire tread in the snowy months (generally December to April). Winter driving conditions on the highways leading to the cabin can change rapidly, so check the weather before heading out. Colorado has some specific winter driving laws pertaining to tire requirements.
DRIVING DISTANCES - SKI RESORTS
• Copper - 50 min
• Ski-Cooper - 40 min
• Monarch - 1 hour 10 min
• Vail - 1 hour 15 min
• Keystone - 1 hour 15 min
• Breckenridge - 1 hour 15 min
DRIVING DISTANCES - TOWNS/CITIES
• Twin Lakes (town) - 8 minutes
• Denver - 2 hours
• Buena Vista - 30 minutes
• Leadville - 25 minutes
• Aspen - 3 hours
• Salida - 1 hour
• Colorado Springs - 2 hours 15 min
Step outside and breathe in crisp alpine air as you take in the quiet rhythm of Twin Lakes. Mornings begin with soft light spilling over the 14,000-ft peaks, while evenings invite you to gather by the firepit or linger on the patio as the stars brighten above. This cabin places you at the heart of Colorado’s wilderness while keeping comfort close at hand.
Sleeping arrangements
Inside, two bedrooms each feature a Green Leaf memory foam mattress—one king and one queen—along with room-darkening shades, extra pillows, and blankets. The layout is simple and accessible, with no stairs to navigate, making it comfortable for all ages. With space for four guests, the cabin offers the right balance of retreat and togetherness.
Living spaces
After a day of exploring trails or the nearby shoreline, the living area welcomes you back with a 43-inch Smart TV and a selection of board games. A washer and dryer are provided for convenience, so you can pack light and stay longer. Essentials like linens, hangers, and an iron add to the ease of your stay.
Kitchen & dining
The fully equipped kitchen is stocked with cooking basics, pots, pans, and modern appliances including a stove, oven, microwave, refrigerator, freezer, toaster, hot water kettle, and coffee maker. Share meals at the dining table or bring them outside to the private patio or balcony, where outdoor furniture and a BBQ grill invite relaxed gatherings.
Bathroom
The full bathroom includes a bathtub, hot water, and toiletries such as shampoo, conditioner, body soap, and shower gel. Towels and bed linens are ready on arrival, making the space guest-ready from the start.
Outdoor living
While the cabin itself is tucked behind other properties and does not offer direct views, the lakeshore and surrounding mountain scenery are only a short walk away. A shared firepit provides a spot to gather under the stars, and lake access via a path or dock opens opportunities for fishing, kayaking, or simply enjoying the shoreline.
Connectivity & safety
Stay connected with Wi-Fi and a dedicated workspace, or unplug to enjoy the alpine quiet. The cabin is equipped with safety essentials including a smoke alarm, carbon monoxide alarm, fire extinguisher, and first aid kit.
Perfect for families & pets
Traveling with children is simple thanks to the Pack ’n Play, table corner guards, and babysitter recommendations. Two dogs are welcome, making it easy to bring your four-legged companions along. With heating, ceiling and portable fans, and self check-in via smart lock, your stay is designed for comfort and convenience.
Neighborhood highlights
Set within the historic town of Twin Lakes, the cabin offers proximity to scenic trails, Mt. Elbert and Mt. Hope, and outdoor activities that span the seasons—whether hiking, kayaking, fishing, snowshoeing, or simply enjoying the quiet beauty of the Rockies. Buena Vista and Leadville are within reach for added adventure, while the star-filled skies above provide nightly reminders of this mountain setting.
This cabin offers a balance of wilderness and ease, with thoughtful touches for families, couples, and pet owners. From mornings on the patio with coffee in hand to evenings by the firepit, you’ll find both retreat and connection in the heart of Twin Lakes.
There is no public transportation that will take you up here. You will need your own vehicle. 4WD is recommended throughout the year and required during winter months due to potential heavy snowfall.
Hosted byAirSimplicity Team
