Yurts in Colorado provide the perfect home for experiencing the best backcountry adventures.
Picture this: waking up to the crisp mountain air, surrounded by towering peaks and untouched nature, all while enjoying the comfort and coziness of a rustic yet charming yurt.
I’m talking about a warm room, stove, bed, and even an outhouse. Backpacking has its charms (no doubt about it), but there’s something magical about venturing out into the wild without worrying about a tent, campsites, or propane.
Yurt camping seamlessly blends the thrill of outdoor exploration with the allure of a home away from home. Imagine settling into a snug yurt nestled in the heart of the wilderness, where the only sounds you hear are the rustling of leaves and the distant melodies of birds.
That’s Colorado yurting for you.
In this guide, we’ll uncover the hidden gems of Colorado’s yurt camping scene, showcasing the best yurts for rent, each with its own unique charm and access to an array of thrilling activities.
What Is Yurt Camping in Colorado?
Yurt camping in Colorado is a unique and immersive outdoor experience that combines the comfort of shelter with the adventure of camping in the outdoors.
A yurt is a circular, tent-like structure with a wooden frame and a fabric covering. Yurts have been used for centuries by various cultures, particularly those in Central Asia, as portable and durable dwellings.
In Colorado, yurts are used for camping and provide a cozy, sheltered accommodation option in the wilderness.
Here’s what you can expect from yurt camping in Colorado:
- Comfortable Accommodation: While they offer a rustic feel, they often come with amenities such as bunk beds or sleeping platforms, wood-burning stoves or propane heaters for warmth, and simple kitchen facilities.
- Scenic Locations: Yurts are strategically placed in some of Colorado’s most beautiful remote areas. Whether you’re nestled in the mountains, near a pristine lake, or surrounded by dense forests, the location of yurts offers breathtaking views and easy access to outdoor activities.
- Year-Round Adventure: During the warmer months, you can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, fishing, wildlife watching, and more. In the winter, many yurts are accessible for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and even backcountry skiing or snowboarding.
- Connection to Nature: Yurt camping allows you to fully immerse yourself in nature without sacrificing some comforts.
- Group-Friendly: Yurts are often designed to accommodate small groups, making them ideal for families, friends, or even solo adventurers. They provide a communal and cozy setting.
- Unique Experience: Yurt camping provides a balance between traditional tent camping and cabin stays. It’s a great way to introduce newcomers to camping and offer seasoned campers a new and exciting way to explore the outdoors.
Plus, you don’t have to pack a tent or a stove. That’s a win-win.
Know-Before-You-Go to Your Colorado Yurt
Before embarking on a yurt camping adventure in Colorado, there are a few important things to keep in mind to ensure a safe, enjoyable, and memorable experience. Here’s what you should know before you go:
- Reservations and Availability: Many yurts in Colorado require advance reservations, especially during peak seasons. Make sure to plan ahead and secure your reservation.
- Packing Essentials: Yurt camping combines elements of both traditional camping and cabin stays. Pack accordingly, including sleeping bags, warm clothing, cooking utensils, food, water, and personal items.
- Yurt Amenities: Some yurts offer basic cooking facilities, wood-burning stoves or heaters, and sleeping platforms, while others might be more rustic. Review the amenities provided by the specific yurt you’re renting.
- Weather Conditions: Colorado weather can be unpredictable. Be prepared for sudden changes in temperature, precipitation, and wind. Check weather forecasts before your trip and pack layers of clothing to stay comfortable.
- Navigation: Some yurts are located in remote or backcountry areas. Familiarize yourself with the route, trail conditions, and any potential hazards. Carry a map, compass, or GPS device, and let someone know your itinerary.
- Lighting: Yurts generally do not have electricity. Bring headlamps, flashlights, or lanterns for lighting during the evening.
- Cooking and Food: If your yurt has cooking facilities, plan your meals and bring the necessary ingredients. Securely pack food to prevent attracting wildlife. Follow safe cooking practices, especially with open flames or stoves.
- Water Sources: Confirm the availability of potable water sources. Depending on the yurt’s location, you might need to bring your own water or treat water from natural sources.
- Wildlife Awareness: Colorado is home to various wildlife, including bears. Store food securely to prevent attracting animals. Follow bear safety guidelines and know how to store food properly.
Best Rustic Yurts in Colorado
1. Golden Gate Canyon Yurts
- Closest town: Golden
- Best season: Year-round
- Sleeps: 4-6 people
- Amenities: Cozy sleeping quarters, wood-burning stoves or propane heaters, basic kitchen facilities, picnic table, fire ring, vault toilets nearby
- Minimum stay: 2 nights
- Rates: $100-$140 per night
- Learn more
Gold Gate Canyon Yurts offer a comfortable and rustic yurt camping experience within Golden Gate Canyon State Park, just a short drive from the town of Golden. Nestled amidst the breathtaking Front Range mountains, these yurts provide an ideal escape for nature enthusiasts, families, and small groups year-round.
Explore numerous hiking trails that wind through pine forests, meadows, and rocky outcrops, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. During the winter months, the park transforms into a snowy wonderland, inviting visitors to experience cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
2. 10th Mountain Division Hut Association
- Closest town: 34 various huts and yurts located across the Rocky Mountains; nearest towns may include Aspen, Vail, Leadville, and Minturn.
- Best season: Winter for skiing and snowshoeing; summer and fall for hiking and mountain biking.
- Sleeps: Varies by hut, typically accommodating 6-16 people in bunk-style accommodations.
- Amenities: Bunk beds, wood-burning stoves for heating, kitchen facilities with propane stoves, cookware, and utensils. Outhouses or composting toilets are available—no electricity, running water, or cell service.
- Minimum stay: Varies by hut, generally 2 nights on weekends and holidays, 1 night on weekdays.
- Rates: Rates vary depending on the hut, the season, and membership status. Members receive discounted rates.
- Learn more
The 10th Mountain Division Hut Association operates a network of backcountry huts in the Colorado Rocky Mountains, honoring the legacy of the 10th Mountain Division soldiers who trained in the area during World War II. These huts provide a unique and immersive experience in the wilderness, facilitating outdoor recreation and appreciation for the alpine world.
Almost all the huts are located above 10,500 feet, so you’ll be in for a real high-altitude adventure.
During the winter months, visitors can enjoy backcountry skiing and snowboarding in the pristine powder of the Rocky Mountains. Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are also popular activities. In the warmer months, hikers and mountain bikers can explore the nearby trails, which offer breathtaking views, alpine meadows, and wildflower displays.
The huts also provide an excellent opportunity for stargazing on clear nights.
3. Pearl Lake Yurts
- Closest town: Steamboat Springs
- Best season: Summer
- Sleeps: Maximum of 6
- Amenities: Electric heat and power, ceiling fan, light, skylight, table and chairs, bunk beds, picnic table, and fire ring
- Minimum stay: 2 nights
- Rates: $90/night
- Learn more
Make your reservation early because while Pearl Lake has 36 campsites, it only has 2 available yurts for rent. Pearl Lake has plenty of hiking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing, but the best time to visit is during the summer.
Summertime lets you make the most of the main attraction: Pearl Lake. Fish, kayak, paddleboard, canoe—there are endless things to do on the water. And since you’re in a cozy yurt, you’ll have the perfect spot to crash at the end of the day (as opposed to a warm, crammed tent).
4. Marble Mountain Yurt
- Closest town: Marble
- Best season: Winter for backcountry skiing and snowboarding; summer for hiking and mountain biking.
- Sleeps: Up to 6 people
- Amenities: Cozy sleeping quarters with bunk beds, wood-burning stove for heating, propane cook stove, basic cookware, and utensils. Outhouse toilet nearby. No electricity or running water.
- Minimum stay: 2 nights
- Rates: Rates range from $145 to $225 per night, depending on the season and membership status.
- Learn more
Accessible only by a scenic hike or backcountry skiing in the winter, this yurt promises an authentic and immersive experience amidst the splendor of the Rocky Mountains.
Indulge in the epitome of hut-style glamping with this modern mountain yurt off the grid. Enjoy the sunshine while soaking up breathtaking panoramic mountain vistas on an expansive one-acre haven perched above the charming town of Marble, CO.
With seamless access to public lands and a treasure trove of backcountry skiing, hiking, biking, serene lakes, and winding rivers, the Marble Mountain Yurt offers a retreat that caters to every adventurer’s heart.
5. Mancos Yurts
- Closest town: Mancos
- Best season: Spring, summer, and fall for hiking, wildlife watching, and enjoying outdoor activities.
- Sleeps: Up to 6 people
- Amenities: Cozy sleeping quarters with bunk beds, propane heater for chilly nights, basic kitchen facilities with cookware and utensils. Outhouse toilet nearby. No electricity or running water.
- Minimum stay: 2 nights
- Rates: Rates range from $100 to $125 per night
- Learn more
The region surrounding Mancos Yurts is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and culture seekers alike. Explore Mancos State Park, or take a trip over to Mesa Verde to explore ancient cliff dwellings and gain insights into the lives of the ancestral Pueblo people who once called this region home.
There are also plenty of nearby hiking trails throughout the Mancos Valley, and you’ll find lakes and rivers for fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
6. Tennessee Pass Nordic Center Yurts
- Closest town: Leadville
- Best season: Winter for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing; summer and fall for hiking and mountain biking.
- Sleeps: Up to 6 people
- Amenities: Cozy sleeping quarters with bunk beds, wood-burning stove for heating, propane cook stove, basic cookware, and utensils. Outhouse toilet nearby. No electricity or running water.
- Minimum stay: 2 nights
- Rates: Rates range from $190 to $240 per night.
- Learn more
Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains near Leadville, the Tennessee Pass Nordic Center Yurts offer a year-round haven for those seeking a serene retreat surrounded by breathtaking alpine beauty. With minimal light pollution, the yurts provide exceptional stargazing opportunities.
When winter blankets the landscape, these yurts become a gateway to an outdoor wonderland. Glide through pristine snow-covered trails with cross-country skis or snowshoes. The Nordic Center offers groomed trails suitable for all skill levels, allowing you to explore the snowy scenery at your own pace.
As the snow melts, the area transforms into a lush paradise for hikers and mountain bikers. Embark on trails that wind through wildflower-filled meadows, offering spectacular views of the surrounding mountains.
7. Sylvan Lake Yurts
- Closest town: Eagle
- Best season: Summer and fall for hiking, fishing, and enjoying Sylvan Lake.
- Sleeps: Up to 6 people
- Amenities: Comfortable sleeping quarters with bunk beds, wood-burning stove for heating, propane cook stove, basic kitchen supplies, and utensils. Outhouse toilet nearby. No electricity or running water.
- Minimum stay: 2 nights
- Rates: Rates range from $125 to $150 per night.
- Learn more
Sylvan Lake Yurts offer a secluded escape in White River National Forest. The yurts are a stone’s throw away from the crystal-clear waters of Sylvan Lake, and you’ll find an extensive network of trails to explore nearby. Discover hidden waterfalls, vibrant wildflower meadows, and commanding panoramic views.
8. Ridgway State Park Yurts
- Closest town: Ridgway
- Best season: Year-round, each season offering unique charm and outdoor activities.
- Sleeps: Up to 6 people
- Amenities: Cozy sleeping quarters with twin-sized bunks, two queen-sized futons, a propane heater for comfort, and basic kitchen facilities with cookware and utensils. A fridge and a small oven are included. Outhouse toilet nearby. Running water nearby.
- Minimum stay: 2 nights
- Rates: Rates range from $150 to $165 per night.
- Learn more
Explore the San Juan Mountains’ captivating landscapes, whether hiking through alpine meadows, embarking on backcountry adventures, or simply soaking in the breathtaking vistas that unfold in every direction.
You’ll also be right by Ridgway Reservoir, meaning you can go boating, fishing, or paddleboarding. There’s even a little beach area and a playground for the kiddos.
You’re just a short drive away from Walmart in Montrose if you need to stock up on groceries on the way, and you’ll find plenty of hot springs in Ouray and Ridgway to soak and relax.
9. Unaweep Canyon Yurt
- Closest town: Gateway
- Best season: Year-round, offering diverse outdoor experiences in every season.
- Sleeps: Up to 6 people
- Amenities: Cozy sleeping quarters with bunk beds, propane heater for comfort, basic kitchen facilities with cookware and utensils, and a special feature of WiFi connectivity. Outhouse toilet nearby. Full bath with running water and electricity.
- Minimum stay: 2 nights
- Rates: Rates range from $150 to $200 per night.
- Learn more
The Unaweep Yurt at Thimble Rock offers a harmonious blend of rustic charm and modern connectivity. Surrounded by towering rock formations and the embrace of nature, this yurt provides an exceptional opportunity to escape while staying connected—if you’re into that kind of thing.
Embark on captivating hikes through Unaweep Canyon, discovering the geological marvels and rugged beauty that define the area. There’s also nearby biking, rock climbing, and horseback riding. It’s an outdoor lover’s paradise.
10. Snow Mountain Ranch Yurts
- Closest town: Granby or Estes Park
- Best season: Winter for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and winter wonderland adventures; summer and fall for hiking, mountain biking, and embracing the mountain beauty.
- Sleeps: Up to 6 people
- Amenities: Cozy sleeping quarters with bunk beds and double beds, wood-burning stove for heating, propane cook stove, basic kitchen supplies, and utensils. Shared bathhouse nearby with showers and restrooms.
- Minimum stay: 2 nights
- Rates: Rates range from $80 to $125 per night.
- Learn more
The YMCA of the Rockies provides yurts in both Snow Mountain Ranch (Granby) and right outside Estes Park. Both provide close proximity to Rocky Mountain National Park and tons of other outdoor adventures.
Hike, bike, or even go resort skiing at Winter Park—these yurts provide perfect locations for getting outside and enjoying the best the Rocky Mountains offer.
11. Yurts at Poncha Pass
- Closest town: Poncha Springs
- Best season: Year-round, offering a range of activities each season, from winter sports to summer hikes.
- Sleeps: Up to 2 people per yurt
- Amenities: Cozy sleeping quarters with bunk beds and double beds, wood-burning stove for heating, propane cook stove, basic kitchen supplies, and utensils. Hot showers, modern toilets, and running water.
- Minimum stay: 2 nights
- Rates: Rates range from $80 to $125 per night.
- Learn more
Experience the magic of sleeping beneath the starlit sky within elegant vaulted domes. Each yurt is thoughtfully designed as a fully-equipped tiny home for two. Indulge in the luxury of hot showers, modern toilets, a comfortable queen bed, and a well-appointed kitchen and living space that envelop you in all the creature comforts of home.
Nestled in the remote headwaters of the majestic Sangre De Cristo mountains, these yurts offer you the opportunity to venture into the great outdoors while basking in stylish relaxation.
Wander up the road to soak in the tranquil beauty, take a refreshing dip in the invigorating cold plunge, witness the remarkable Earthship construction, or enjoy a hike into the vast foothills to the north.
12. Nelson Mountain Yurt
- Closest town: Creede
- Best season: Summer for off-roading
- Sleeps: Up to 4 people
- Amenities: Composite toilet, woodstove, propane heater, cookstove, refrigerator, solar lighting, bedding, and basic kitchen utensils. No running water, but it provides water jugs for your stay.
- Minimum stay: 2 nights
- Rates: Rates range from $150 to $200 per night
- Learn more
Located high within the formidable San Juan Mountains, this elevated mountain haven is an adventure that dares the intrepid. Accessible via the storied Bachelor Loop, the journey begins with a steep ascent. Brace yourself for the terrain—a 4X4 equipped with low gear isn’t just a luxury. It’s a necessity!
And if you’ve got off-road prowess, consider it a bonus.
Note that the yurt sits at 11,242 feet above sea level with rapidly changing conditions. Early arrival is recommended due to its 1.7-mile distance from the maintained Bachelor Loop.
You want off the grid? Here it is.
13. Royal Gorge Yurts
- Closest town: Cañon City
- Best Season: Year-round, offering a diverse range of activities every season.
- Sleeps: Up to 4 people
- Amenities: Cozy sleeping quarters with bunk beds and a double bed, wood-burning stove for heating, propane cook stove, basic kitchen supplies, and utensils. Shared bathhouse nearby with showers and restrooms.
- Minimum Stay: N/A
- Rates: $200 per night
- Learn more
Immerse yourself in the marvel of the Royal Gorge Bridge, one of the world’s highest suspension bridges. Walk across the gorge or take the gondola for breathtaking panoramic views.
Ziplines, train rides, rafting trips—you name it, the Royal Gorge Region has it.
14. Screwball Ranch Yurt
- Closest town: Cedaredge
- Best Season: Year-round, each season offering unique charm and outdoor activities.
- Sleeps: Up to 6 people
- Amenities: 900 square feet, 3/4 bath, equipped kitchen, wood stove, propane heater, solar electricity, skylight, twin beds, and two full-sized futons.
- Minimum Stay: 2 nights
- Rates: N/A
- Learn more
The Screwball Ranch Yurt is just 15 minutes from the charming town of Cedaredge, Colorado. You’ll be right next to the world’s largest flat-topped mountain, Grand Mesa—and it’s just a short drive from the Black Canyon of the Gunnison.
You get private use of 80 wooded acres of land plus private access to another 6,000 acres of BLM land—that’s a lot to explore. There are miles and miles of biking, ATV, hiking, and horseback trails for you to discover just outside your yurt.
15. Wolf Creek Backcountry Pass Creek Yurt
- Closest town: Pagosa Springs
- Best Season: Winter for backcountry skiing and snowboarding; summer and fall for hiking, mountain biking, and exploring alpine beauty.
- Sleeps: Up to 6 people
- Amenities: Cozy sleeping quarters with bunk beds and a double bed, wood-burning stove for heating, propane cook stove, basic kitchen supplies, and utensils. Outhouse toilet nearby. No electricity or running water.
- Minimum Stay: 2 nights
- Rates: Rates range from $177 to $275 per night.
- Learn more
The Pass Creek Yurt offers snug backcountry accommodations for both winter and summer adventures. Accessible by a one-mile hike or bike ride in summer or a three-mile ski or snowshoe journey in winter, this yurt warmly embraces you with its unassuming charm.
Start Your Next Colorado Adventure
Whether you’re staying in a yurt in Colorado or just settling into a backcountry camping spot, there’s limitless adventure out your door. It’s up to you to find it and make it happen.
Looking for more adventure ideas? Check out all the secret (and not-so-secret) trails Colorado has to offer.
