- As travel resumes following the novel coronavirus, many are looking for safe vacations that are close to home and prioritize the great outdoors for optimal social distancing.
- Colorado counts over 24 million forested acres of land and is home to national park hikes, incredible skiing, wine tasting, and hot springs.
- We searched for the best Colorado vacation rentals, which experts say are preferable because they remove interactions with others, and chose ski-in/out condos, rustic cabins, and mountain homes ranging in price from $61 to $350.
- We detailed each home’s COVID-19 policies, but be sure to check before booking to ensure you’re comfortable with their cleaning protocols.
- Read more: Which is safer: Airbnb or hotels? Here’s what doctors say
If you’re feeling the itch to travel, wide-open spaces make it easy to practice social distancing while spending time outdoors, so, look for destinations with more trees than people.
In my opinion, there’s no better place for that than in Colorado. I’ve spent plenty of time skiing at Breckenridge and Monarch, rock climbing in Rifle Canyon, and hiking more than a few trails across the state’s multiple mountain ranges. Thanks to an emphasis on outdoor recreation and nature, it’s easy to find space for one’s self.
World-famous ski resorts like Vail, Aspen, and Breckenridge may be the most well-known draws, but that doesn’t mean the rest of the year is mere downtime. The same peaks that make for fantastic skiing offer some of the best hiking and mountain biking in the US, plus just about any other sport you can imagine. Whether you like to fly fish, horseback ride, whitewater kayak, geocache, or bird watch, you’ll find a place to do it in Colorado.
And while Rocky Mountain National Park is Colorado's primary summer destination (after all, it does have 4.6 million visitors a year), for a more socially distanced getaway, consider a vacation rental near the San Juan Mountains or the Never Summer Range, which see far fewer crowds. Or, skip the mountains altogether and stay at lower elevations in Colorado's wine country, near Grand Junction.
If you're wondering if travel is safe, experts consider private vacation homes, such as those on Airbnb, as one of the safer places to stay, especially when compared to hotels. This is because you are often booking an entire home protected from interaction with others.
Airbnb also announced rigorous new procedures including the Enhanced Cleaning Protocol, which includes guidelines on waiting periods between guests, personal protective equipment for hosts or cleaners, as well as only using disinfectants approved by regulatory authorities.
Of course, without a vaccine, there is no firm guarantee with regard to safety. It's crucial to follow guidelines and advice from organizations such as the CDC and WHO, and practice safety measures including wearing a mask, washing your hands, and maintaining social distancing. Additionally, consider your own level of risk, and whether you're traveling from or to a hotspot, so as not to increase the rate of infection.
However, for a getaway steeped in fresh air and greenery, these Colorado vacation rentals on Airbnb and Vrbo are located near mountains, lakes, and national parks, and meet the following criteria:
- The vacation rental is for the entire home, rather than a room in a shared home.
- All properties are highly-rated listings located either in nature away from neighbors, or in towns with mask mandates and mainly outdoor activities (skiing, hiking, etc.).
- Properties range from small, modern condos to roomy cabins with space for a large family and are priced between $61 and $350 to start.
- All vacation rentals provide information or will make information available about their COVID-19-related cleaning policies and the extra steps they're taking to keep guests safe.
Before renting, it's also wise to message the owner or property manager if you have any questions about health and safety. Also note that cleaning and service fees vary widely from one home to another, especially post-pandemic, and many homes are also enacting minimum night stays and strict cancellation policies.
Looking for more outdoorsy vacation rentals? Click below to jump directly to related coverage.
- The best cabins in the Catskills
- The best Airbnbs in the Adirondacks
- The best Airbnbs in California
- The best vacation rentals for fall foliage
- The best tree-house rentals in the US
- The best vacation rentals near national parks
- Cozy cabins popular on Vrbo
- The best airstream rentals in the US
These are the best vacation rentals in Colorado, sorted by price from low to high.
A riverfront cabin in Ouray, $61
Book this riverfront cabin starting at $61 per night on Airbnb
This rustic cabin is not only one of the most affordable on our list, but it's also possibly the most remote. Tucked away in Ouray, a small town with less than 1,000 full-time residents, the home is surrounded by a valley with mountains on three sides, providing great access to rock climbing, hiking, fly fishing, and rafting.
Situated just steps away from the Uncompahgre River, the cabin is incredibly tranquil and picturesque with a small porch and rocking chairs that overlook the bucolic scene. Inside, there's a small desk, microwave, refrigerator, and coffee maker, but no running water. There is, however, Wi-Fi, electricity, and USB ports by the nightstand. Sleep in the Full-sized bed with new mattresses, or claim a bunk for a camp-like experience. The cabin sleeps two, though you can add up to two additional guests for $5 each.
And while the setting is quite removed from civilization, it is located in an RV park, so you may encounter others from a distance. You'll also have to use shared bathrooms, which are cleaned and checked multiple times a day.
The cabin is available to book beginning in October, well into next year.
Rating: 4.89
COVID-19 cleaning procedures: This home participates in Airbnb's Enhanced Clean program, meaning the host is committed to a rigorous cleaning protocol developed with leading health and hospitality experts.
A lofted studio in Telluride, $162
Book this lofted studio starting at $162 per night on Airbnb
Though the town is known for being home to high-end Telluride Ski Resort and a ritzy annual film festival, there's plenty to do in the area even if the lifts aren't spinning. And since this adorable condo starts at such an affordable rate - a rarity in this pricey mountain town - you'll have plenty of extra funds to enjoy the restaurants, shops, and activities within walking distance of the front door.
Two Airbnb Superhosts own this trendy studio that is well-suited to couples with a lofted, cozy, and glass-enclosed sleeping area. It's not a large space, but it offers excellent views of Telluride's alluring ski trails and also features a surprisingly roomy kitchen, which is a bonus for guests trying to avoid restaurants.
The condo also comes with a ski closet for your gear, flat-screen TVs with streaming services, and free parking, among other amenities. And since it's a top floor apartment with vaulted ceilings, you won't need to worry about noise from neighbors.
This home is available to book from October through December, however, it has not opened up at this time for the 2021 winter season.
Rating: 4.95
COVID-19 cleaning procedures: No specific COVID policies are mentioned, and this home does not participate in the Enhanced Clean program, however, the owner is an Airbnb Superhost and guests must agree to a social distancing and health policy. The home is cleaned between guests according to San Miguel County lodging and tourism requirements.
Scandinavian-style A-frame near Pike's Peak, $175
Book this Scandinavian-style A-frame starting at $175 per night on Airbnb
This whimsical, Scandinavian-style cabin is downright dreamy with an open-concept layout set under a soaring A-frame made from beautifully-sourced timber. Interiors are equally enchanting, with rustic wood paneling, furniture built from reclaimed barn wood, midcentury modern accents, and a private balcony off the largest bedroom.
The two-bedroom home sits on a roomy wooded lot and is kid-friendly with a pack 'n play, high chair, and a basket of toys all provided. But, it's ideal for couples, too, with three separate decks that are perfect for a glass of wine at sunset, and a Bose SoundLink Air speaker so you can listen to your favorite mountain-inspired playlist while cooking dinner in the stocked kitchen, and dining on a farmhouse-style table. There's also an adorable lofted reading nook and a fire pit where seating is provided by way of log stools.
The home may feel quite remote (it's located on 1.5 private acres), but it's only 40 minutes from Pikes Peak (one of the state's most accessible 14'ers) and just another 10 minutes past that to Cave of the Winds. Colorado Wolf and Wildlife Center or the Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument, one of the world's best-preserved fossil deposits, are also nearby.
Availability to book begins in mid-September and remains open through next year.
Rating: 4.97
COVID-19 cleaning procedures: No specific COVID policies are mentioned, and this home does not participate in the Enhanced Clean program, however, the owner is Superhost and past reviews and ratings comment on how clean and tidy the home is. According to the host, the property is vented before being fully cleaned between guests with EPA-approved products. Fabrics are sanitized and special attention is paid to doorknobs, remotes, and light switches.
Ski-in, ski-out condo in Breckenridge, $179
Book this ski-in, ski-out condo in Breckenridge starting at $179 per night on Vrbo
This roomy two-bedroom, two-bathroom top floor condo offers unbeatable ski-in/ski-out access. It's just about 200 yards from Peak 9, which is home to some of Breckenridge's best beginner terrain, making it ideal for travelers who've decided skiing is the perfect socially distanced activity to learn this winter.
The home also boasts fantastic views and is chock full of chalet-inspired decor befitting of the mountainside location. There's also an indoor fireplace, gas grill, Wi-Fi, and high-end granite countertops in the well-stocked kitchen. Staying here comes with shared resort amenities such as hot tubs, a gym with steam rooms and saunas, and a game room for kids. It's only a few minutes' walk to downtown, but if your legs need a break, the condo is located on a free shuttle route, too.
This home is widely available now, well through next year, which feels like a rarity given the prime ski access and affordable rates.
Rating: 4.9
COVID-19 cleaning procedures: The property is cleaned between rentals in line with short term rental operational guidelines from the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment.
A historic railroad cabin near Boulder, $200
Book this former railroad depot starting at $200 per night on Vrbo
If having access to a city is important, book this historic home in Nederland, CO. Though Nederland is a tiny town, it's only 20 minutes from Boulder, a fun college town filled with great restaurants, shops, farmers' markets, and festivals.
This historic two-bedroom cabin in Nederland dates to the early 1900s when it was built originally as a baggage depot that serviced the railroad between Boulder and Colorado's mining towns.
Though it's been restored and updated, the home still includes many features over a century old, like reclaimed timber beams, hammered metal accents, and the original hardwood floor.
Winter travelers will love that it's only 10 minutes from the rarely crowded Eldora Ski Resort, and in the summer, the historic railroad routes and wagon trails in the area provide miles of space to bike, hike, run, or explore the nearby Indian Peaks Wilderness.
Availability to book is scattered in September and October but opens up starting in November.
Rating: 4.9
COVID-19 cleaning procedures: Enhanced cleaning process between guests, the entire home cleaned with disinfectant, and check-in/check-out is contactless.
Guesthouse on a working farm in Palisade, $215
Book this guesthouse on a working farm starting at $215 per night on Vrbo
Grand Junction and Palisade are probably two of the state's lesser-known towns, but not for long. Palisade plans to open the "Palisades Plunge," a 32-mile downhill mountain biking trail with more than 6,000 feet of elevation loss. And with nearly 30 different wineries and vineyards in the Grand Junction area, there are plenty of options for where to wet your whistle after your ride.
If you're heading on a mountain biking (or wine tasting) adventure in the area, book this private guest house at the Palisade River Ranch, which offers direct access to the bike-able Fruit & Wine Byway. The accommodation is housed on a working 100-acre ranch and is one of only two rental homes on the grounds. Guests have access to a screened gazebo, a 1,500-square-foot deck, and the property's river and riverfront trails. The farm also has a 45-acre riparian habitat that guests are welcome to explore when not cycling or hiking.
The unit itself is sunny and cheerful, with colorful furniture, a bright and sparkling kitchen, two full bedrooms, one additional sunroom/bedroom, and a jetted Jacuzzi tub.
Availability to book is scattered until the end of November.
Rating: 4.99
COVID-19 cleaning procedures: This home is cleaned in line with local Mesa County and CDC guidelines
A cliff house near Mesa Verde, $220
Book this home built into the canyons starting at $220 per night on Airbnb
Travelers who really want to head for the hills will love the Sage Canyon Cliff House in Cortez, near Mesa Verde, that is quite literally built into the cliffs. Colossal rock faces even serve as walls in the living room and lounge, with natural wood construction for the rest of the home to accentuate the eco-chic vibes.
The home also includes an outdoor teepee for added lounge space, plus plenty of indoor reading nooks naturally shaped from rock. There's no TV, but Wi-Fi and an Apple HomePod are offered for streaming. And, if you have Verizon, you'll likely have cell service, too. This unique home has one bedroom and sleeps up to three guests.
There are walking trails around the property, with additional hiking and biking accessible nearby on the lightly trafficked Ute Mountain trails, and Mesa Verde National Park is only a 15-minute drive from the front porch. Mountain bikers will also love this location as it's very close to Phil's Trails, one of the state's most famous (and beautiful) trail systems.
Current availability to book begins in December.
Rating: 5.0
COVID-19 cleaning procedures: This home participates in Airbnb's Enhanced Clean program, meaning the host is committed to a rigorous cleaning protocol developed with leading health and hospitality experts.
A multi-level tree house with hot tub in Carbondale, $295
Book this tree house with a private hot tub starting at $295 per night on Airbnb
This actual tree house is supported by four huge spruce trees and rises 25 feet off the forest floor. Built in 1971, it sits on two lush acres with a creek running right underneath, and includes multiple balconies and decks, including one with hanging market lights, cozy seating, and a wood-burning stove.
The home has one lofted bedroom with a Queen-sized bed under skylights for stargazing, a sofa bed, plus another pull-out sofa in the living room to sleep a maximum of six guests. There's also a private hot tub, high-end kitchen, multiple hammocks, and a rock shower. But as with most treehouses, there is no Wi-Fi.
From the treehouse, it's a 30-minute drive to Aspen and Snowmass, or an even shorter drive to Glenwood Hot Springs, one of the country's largest natural hot springs. Other nearby socially distanced activities include hiking in White River National Forest or whitewater rafting on the Roaring Fork River.
This home is currently available to book beginning at the end of October, through February of 2021.
Rating: 4.83
COVID-19 cleaning procedures: No specific COVID policies are mentioned, and this home does not participate in the Enhanced Clean program, however, the owner is an Airbnb Superhost.
A handcrafted log home in Granby, $325
Book this handcrafted log home starting at $325 per night on Airbnb
If a family trip to Rocky Mountain National Park is on your vacation bucket list, book this handcrafted log home in Granby, Colorado. Just south of Lake Granby, the house is only a 20-minute drive to the national park's Grand Lake entrance station.
The log-cabin-style home sleeps up to eight and has three bedrooms, the roomiest of which has one King-sized bed and two Doubles. In the living room, find floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking Lake Granby and the Indian Peaks Wilderness. There are also a slew of coveted features such as smart TVs, high-speed Wi-Fi, granite countertops, and even an indoor hot tub set just off the living room. It's the perfect spot to soak sore legs after an active day of hiking in Colorado's most famous national park.
Availability to book is currently quite limited, but check back as it is subject to change.
Rating: 4.9
COVID-19 cleaning procedures: This home participates in Airbnb's Enhanced Clean program, meaning the host is committed to a rigorous cleaning protocol developed with leading health and hospitality experts.
Miner's cabin with private hot spring, $350
Book this restored miner's cabin with a private hot spring starting at $350 per night on Airbnb
This restored miner's cabin from the 1800s blends rustic mountain appeal with serious creature comforts. Interiors are all done up in wood, centered around a wood-burning stove and a knotty pine ladder that leads up to a lofted sleeping area. Outside, however, guests may indulge in a private hot spring tub with an infinity edge and moody LED lighting.
There's also a pull-out couch, but no Wi-Fi, so this is a great place to get off-the-grid and spend time with someone special. A deck offers privacy and connects to stairs and a footbridge for a lovely walk over the rushing waters of Cottonwood Creek.
The nearest town is Buena Vista, a mountain town nearly surrounded by national and state forests. It also offers excellent access to several of the state's 14'ers (peaks over 14,000 feet high).
Availability is limited until December when it opens up through next year.
Rating: 4.99
COVID-19 cleaning procedures: This home participates in Airbnb's Enhanced Clean program, meaning the host is committed to a rigorous cleaning protocol developed with leading health and hospitality experts.
