Taylor River Lodge Is A Timeless Adventure Giving A Genuine Nod To Historic Colorado

Photos courtesy of Taylor River Lodge, Eleven Experience

Run by the world-renowned Eleven hospitality group–which boasts bespoke luxury lodges in Chile, Iceland, France, New Zealand, Canada, the Bahamas and Colorado–Taylor River Lodge is located in Taylor Canyon on the shores of the Taylor River. Nestled into the barely-on-the-map town of Almont (halfway between Gunnison and Crested Butte) is a haven of respite as well as outdoor ventures.

The lodge, which began operations in 2016, was previously a general store that catered to the region’s fly-fishing aficionados. Upon renovation, all the charming details were preserved (D-log cabin kits, cribbage boards, curated bookshelves and, of course, lots of fishing gear), giving the property a nostalgic nod in combination with modern amenities. The lodge’s cluster of cabins tucked into the woods seemed to be the perfect setting for the three-day adventure that awaited our family of four.

After a gobsmackingly beautiful drive from Boulder, we arrived at the mouth of Taylor Canyon. With every breath, the canyon’s unique beauty and nature’s magic began to take effect, calming my entire body. 

For good old fashion fun, the Copper John Game Cabin is where it’s at with a pool table, darts, foosball, vintage board games and a collection of guitars to set the mood

Rest

Upon arrival, we were warmly greeted with gooey chocolate chip-molasses cookies (a major plus for our two young kids) and ushered to our lodging, the Golden Stone cabin. The log cabin was impeccably decorated, and each window faced yet another magnificent view of the property. The familial feel of the cabin helped us all settle in before we went off to explore the rest of the lodge community. 

Snowshoeing on a blanket of fresh snow and listening to the quiet of the forest offers a special kind of peacefulness

Playing 

Our family is pretty adventurous and has had its fair share of outdoor excursions, but what set this trip apart were the curated experiences offered to us. The team at the lodge crafted ventures specific to our needs, satiating our bookworm daughter, high-energy son, extreme sports hubby, and me, who simply wanted to have a good time outside while breaking a sweat. 

The Bath House invites guests to swim and soak in the warm saltwater pool. Complete with a reclaimed barn wood ceiling, antique antlers and a retractable floor-to-ceiling window to bring the outdoors in

Rosie (my 9-year-old) and husband, Cameron, embarked on an all-day backcountry ski tour while Rey (my 5-year-old) and I relaxed at the lodge. After a quick and easy Nordic ski jaunt around the property, Rey and I were ready to test out the pool and hot tub. Next, we settled into some game time together at the Copper John game cabin, eagerly awaiting the return of our more adventurous counterparts. 

I began our final day with an early morning yoga session and then joined the family for our final outing: a snowshoeing tour of the property. 

Dining

The on-site private chef-prepared meals for the duration of our stay, crafting menus just for us. From breakfast to lunch on the go, to curated dinners featuring local provisions, the food at the resort was not only fuel but also a thing of culinary beauty, tantalizing the taste buds of even the pickiest eaters (my kids included). 

We were able to choose our meals ahead of our trip, allowing for maximum enjoyment without the hemming and hawing over a menu. Each meal had a hint of local flare without being too complicated. (I am still dreaming of the fresh citrus-and-burrata salad and elk tenderloin.) And our children were able to dine on elevated kids meals that included kale salad, seasonal veggies and “fancy” desserts.

Guided Yoga Nidra helps lull guests to sleep with deep breath work, soothing sounds and aromatherapy

Wellness

With no phone service and a bathhouse of infinite possibilities, we enjoyed the opportunities to unwind. The kids enjoyed playing Marco Polo in the saltwater pool and taking quick dips in the hot tub. Cameron and I experienced the serenity of sound-bathing massage therapy (a deeply immersive listening experience) and yoga. 

As if I wasn’t relaxed enough, I topped off the trip with a custom message at the tranquil spa–which was even more enjoyable being surrounded by a winter wonderland. And while I relaxed, the kids got a private cookie-making class with the chef–a total win all the way around! 

As we departed for the journey home, I held on to the calm, quaint, snow-filled memories this backcountry oasis provided—and started to plan our next visit. Perhaps we will return in the summer and add rushing water, alpine flowers, chirping birds, bighorn sheep and the occasional moose that can be seen in Taylor Canyon to our list of memories at Taylor River Lodge. 

THE DETAILS
Taylor River Lodge
10931 County Road 742, Almont
elevenexperience.com
970-299-9517

By room from $1,050/night.
Starting at $14,300 per night for a private buyout based on 24 guests.
Taylor River Lodge is closed Tuesday and Wednesday nights.

Following a career in high-end retail management in California and New York, Jordan Martindell now calls Boulder home, blending her love of aesthetics and the outdoors. She documents her adventures for a variety of magazines and websites.