Three Generations, One Cozy Cabin: Our Girls’ Getaways at Happy Bear Lodge in Salida, Colorado

There’s something magical about the Colorado mountains in spring—crisp air, snow-kissed peaks, and the promise of adventure around every bend. For our recent girls’ getaway, I was seeking a place that offered both serenity and proximity to nature. Happy Bear Lodge, nestled in Howard and managed by Piñon Vacation Rentals, turned out to be the perfect retreat for me, my daughter, and my mother.

First Impressions: A Warm Welcome

As we pulled up to Happy Bear Lodge, the rustic charm of the A-frame cabin immediately caught our attention. Surrounded by towering pines and with the Arkansas River flowing nearby, the setting was idyllic. The cabin’s exterior, with its natural wood finish and inviting porch, hinted at the comfort within.

Upon entering, we were greeted by a spacious open floor plan that seamlessly connected the living area, dining space, and kitchen. Large windows allowed natural light to flood in, highlighting the tasteful decor that blended modern amenities with mountain coziness. The fireplace became an instant favorite, promising warm evenings after our daytime explorations.

Comfort Across Generations

Traveling with three generations can be a balancing act, but Happy Bear Lodge catered to all our needs. The bedrooms were thoughtfully arranged, offering privacy and comfort. My daughter was thrilled with her bunk bed and I enjoyed the stunning loft space, complete with plush bedding and a view of the stars through the skylight.

Dining In: A Fully Stocked Kitchen That Feels Like Home

Instead of dining out, we embraced the joy of cooking together—and this cabin made that easier and more enjoyable than we imagined. The kitchen was incredibly well-stocked, far beyond your typical vacation rental. Every kitchen tool, gadget, and utensil we needed was right at our fingertips—from sharp knives and measuring spoons to blenders, cutting boards, and even a French press.

We were especially impressed by the thoughtful pantry details: condiments, oils, spices, and cooking essentials were all provided, saving us from buying a bunch of single-use ingredients. It felt like the kind of kitchen you could actually live in, not just pass through.

Most nights we cooked inside, but one evening we took full advantage of the outdoor grill. With the mountains as our backdrop, we grilled up a delicious dinner and ate outside on the deck. There was something about preparing a meal together, surrounded by trees and birdsong, that made it feel sacred and grounding.

Mornings were equally special. We made big breakfasts with eggs and fresh fruit, sipped coffee on the porch, and planned our day’s adventures with full bellies and full hearts.

Exploring the Great Outdoors

One of the best parts of staying at Happy Bear Lodge is how close you are to truly incredible hikes. With boots laced and snacks packed, we hit the trails to explore two standout adventures nearby:

Table Mountain via Rainbow Trail #1336

This hike was a highlight of the trip. Table Mountain via Rainbow Trail #1336 offered the kind of trail experience that leaves you awe-inspired. A moderate 5.3-mile out-and-back, the route winds through pine forests, open meadows, and quiet stretches of wilderness. We gained about 1,500 feet in elevation, which was just enough to make us feel accomplished without overdoing it.

The trail was well-marked and peaceful. My daughter was captivated by the birdsong and hidden patches of early wildflowers. About halfway through, we paused for snacks and water while taking in panoramic views that seemed to stretch endlessly across the valley.

Sand Dunes Trail (Part of the Arkansas Hills Trail System)

On another day, we explored the Sand Dunes Trail, located just east of downtown Salida and part of the extensive Arkansas Hills Trail System. Starting from the parking area by the F Street Bridge, the trail follows a narrow, beautiful canyon through the hills east of town, gradually climbing to County Road 173. This area is a popular multi-use trail network, designed with mountain biking in mind but equally beloved by hikers and trail runners.

The Sand Dunes Trail is split into two segments: Lower Sand Dunes Trail stretches from the trailhead to the Backbone Trail crossing, and Upper Sand Dunes Trail continues from there to the end of the route. It’s named for a sandy section about two-thirds of the way up the trail—a unique feature that gave us the fun surprise of hiking through soft terrain in the middle of the mountains.

While navigating the sandy stretch, we paused to admire the incredible views of the Sawatch Range, which form part of the dramatic Upper Arkansas Valley landscape. The mix of canyon walls, desert-like sections, and distant snowy peaks made this hike feel uniquely Colorado.

Since the trail system is popular among mountain bikers—many riding downhill at speed—we stayed alert and stepped aside often to let bikers pass safely. It was a great reminder of how these trails are shared and loved by a wide community of outdoor enthusiasts.

This trail offered a completely different landscape from our other hikes—less remote and wild, but filled with dynamic terrain, scenic overlooks, and a close connection to the town of Salida. It was the perfect way to blend adventure with convenience.

Evenings at the Cabin

After a full day outdoors, we’d return to Happy Bear Lodge to unwind. Inside, we’d cozy up by the fire, play games, and share stories. It was the kind of simple joy that modern life often rushes past—s’mores, laughter, soft music in the background. My daughter would nestle under blankets, my mom would sip tea, and I’d catch my breath, deeply thankful for these quiet moments.

Reflections on Our Stay

This trip to Happy Bear Lodge wasn’t just about getting away—it was about coming together. From trail adventures to home-cooked meals and starry-night soaks, every moment felt intentional and grounding.

The cabin itself is more than a place to stay. It’s a space that invites connection, encourages rest, and makes you feel gently tucked into the rhythm of nature. For a multigenerational stay, it was perfect—comfortable for my mom, magical for my daughter, and rejuvenating for me.

Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or an extended retreat, Happy Bear Lodge offers a soulful sanctuary in the heart of Colorado. I’ll always be grateful for the memories we made here—and something tells me, we’ll be back.