8705 County Road 224, Salida, CO 81201

Welcome to Lake in the Aspens Ranch, where luxury meets wilderness on 120 acres of pristine Colorado high country. Located just 2.5 hours west of Denver, and a short 15-min drive from Salida, CO, the ranch offers the perfect blend of seclusion and convenience. Nestled and surrounded by the San Isabel National Forest, this unique retreat features a stunning main log home, 2 charming guest cabins, and a breathtaking 9-acre private lake.Improvements The centerpiece of the Ranch is the remarkable log home, offering 4 bedrooms and 3 baths. Designed with the rustic charm that embodies Colorado mountain living, the open floor plan features massive Douglas Fir logs, vaulted ceilings, and a cozy stone fireplace. The gourmet kitchen boasts granite countertops, an attractive gas range, and custom pine cabinets. Step outside onto the expansive 1,200 square foot deck, where you can take in the serene views of the lake and the snow-capped Rocky Mountains-some of the best vistas in all of Colorado. High-end finishes include in-floor heating, a luxurious 5-piece master bath, hickory wood floors, tongue-and-groove vaulted ceilings, and a walk-out basement. The residence has been meticulously maintained and is being sold fully furnished, complete with equipment, and much more. Two additional guest cabins overlook the lake and offer lucrative short-term rental opportunities or serve as cozy retreats for family and friends. These cabins have a successful history on VRBO, often fully booked from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Additional improvements include a large storage barn, a well house, and a backup generator shed. The Jewel of the Property: The 9-Acre Lake The properties crown jewel is its private 9-acre lake, located just steps from the main lodge. Certified by the Colorado Division of Wildlife, this lake is home to trophy-sized brown, rainbow, and cutthroat trout, with some fish exceeding 5 pounds. 8 aerators maintain the lake's pristine condition year-round, and the property comes with adjudicated water rights. Whether you're an avid angler or simply enjoy the tranquility of waterfront living, this lake offers endless opportunities for recreation and relaxation. Land and Recreation Surrounded by hundreds of thousands of acres of the San Isabel National Forest, providing endless outdoor adventures. Multiple streams wind through the property, lined with large aspen stands, and the meadows and water sources attract abundant wildlife, including elk, moose, and deer. Situated at approximately 9,000 feet in elevation, the property offers prime hunting opportunities on its grounds and in the adjacent National Forest. For outdoor enthusiasts, the ranch provides access to a wide range of activities, including fishing, whitewater rafting, kayaking, horseback riding, ATVing, snowmobiling, and downhill skiing. The property is also a gateway to some of Colorado's most iconic recreational spots, including Mt. Taylor (13,561 ft), Mt. Shavano (14,232 ft), and the historic Colorado Trail, which stretches nearly 500 miles from Denver to Durango. Year-Round Access Accessibility is never an issue at the Ranch. The property is accessible year-round via County Road 224, which is maintained and plowed by the county. Despite its secluded setting, the ranch is just 15 minutes from the charming town of Salida, 30 minutes from Buena Vista, and 2.5 hours from Denver. The slopes of Monarch Ski Resort are also just 15 minutes away, making this property a prime location for year-round recreation. Conclusion Lake in the Aspens is more than just a property; it's a legacy. With its unique combination of luxury, natural beauty, and unparalleled recreational opportunities, this ranch offers an exceptional chance to own a piece of Colorado's most sought-after mountain real estate. Whether you're looking for a year-round residence, a seasonal retreat, or a corporate getaway, the ranch is an investment that you and your family can cherish for generations to come. This is the type of mountain property that you could own forever, passing it down from generation to generation. Don't miss the opportunity to make this extraordinary ranch your own.