Switchback Basecamp is a rugged mountainside retreat perched above Idaho Springs on five private acres. Two cabins — The Big Divide and The Little Divide — sit just apart, perfect for groups seeking space and solitude. The road up is steep, rocky, and narrow. A high-clearance 4WD or AWD is required year-round, with chains needed October through May. If you're up for the climb, the reward is total peace, big views, and wild Colorado quiet.
The Big Divide
The Big Divide is the main home on the ridge, with over 4,300 square feet of living space and three bedrooms. Vaulted ceilings, exposed brick, and panoramic windows create a space that feels grounded and elevated all at once. Cook in the spacious kitchen, hang out by the fireplace, or pour a drink and watch the sky shift behind the peaks. There’s a game room with foosball, Smart TVs, and plenty of seating for your whole crew.
In the summer, unwind on the deck with a cold drink and a round of lawn games as the sun sets. In the winter, cozy up after a powder day and soak in the quiet stillness all around.
What You’ll Find Inside the Big Divide
-3 bedrooms (2 king beds, 2 twin beds)
-2 full bathrooms
-Fully stocked kitchen with stove, oven, Keurig, dishwasher, blender, and more
-Dining area and breakfast bar
-Fireplace and foosball table
-2 Smart TVs
-Washer/dryer
-Starlink WiFi
What You’ll Find Outside The Lookout
-Large deck with grill, outdoor dining, and a swing
-Seating area
-Cornhole and Giant Connect 4
-Secluded forest surroundings
-Big mountain views and star-filled skies
The Little Divide
Just down the hill from The Big Divide, The Little Divide is a smaller, lofted cabin with its own kitchen, laundry, and plenty of charm. It’s perfect for early risers, grandparents, or guests who want a little more privacy while staying connected to the group. There’s a cozy living space, a pullout sofa, a half bath downstairs, and a full king suite upstairs with a private deck and sunrise views of the Continental Divide.
What You’ll Find Inside The Little Divide
-1 bedroom (king bed in loft)
-1.5 bathrooms
-Fully stocked kitchen with gas range, oven, Keurig, and ice maker
-Dining area and island seating
-Queen pullout sofa
-2 Smart TVs
-Washer/dryer
-Work desk with a mountain view
-Starlink WiFi
What You’ll Find Outside The Little Divide
-Deck off the loft with adirondack chairs
-Back porch with dining and a swing
-Secluded forest surroundings
-Direct access to National Forest trails
Booking the Entire Basecamp
Booking Switchback Basecamp as a whole means having the entire property to yourselves. You’ll get the benefit of separate sleeping spaces and living areas while still being close enough to share meals, games, hikes, and fireside laughs. It’s the ideal setup for extended families, friend groups, or small retreats that want to disconnect together.
Combined Setup
-4 total bedrooms
-Sleeping for up to 10 guests
-3.5 bathrooms
-2 kitchens
-3 decks
-Full privacy across the five-acre property
**What to Know Before You Book**
This isn’t a drive-up-and-plug-in kind of property. The road is steep, rocky, and unpaved — especially the last half mile. You’ll need a 4WD or AWD vehicle with high clearance year-round, and in the Winter, chains may be required. If you’re not comfortable with rough mountain roads, this might not be your spot — but if that sounds like part of the fun, you’re going to love it up here.
Other Things to Note
-You will need the right vehicle. A high-clearance 4WD or AWD is required to reach the property. The last half mile is steep, rocky, and more like a forest service road. If you’re not used to mountain driving, plan accordingly.
-Winter access can be tricky. From late October through early May, snow and ice are likely. Chains are required during Winter months.
-Plan to arrive before dark in Winter months.
-There is no air conditioning. Luckily, you’re over 8,000 feet in elevation. Even in summer, open windows and mountain air keep things cool.
-No trailers or off-road vehicles. The road is narrow with tight turns, and there’s no space to park or turn trailers around.
-You’re in the woods. Expect wildlife, bugs, and starry skies. You may see deer, foxes, or the occasional elk. Cell service can be hit or miss, though WiFi is strong.
-There are exterior security cameras. They monitor the driveway and entrances for safety but don’t record interior spaces or private areas.
-Smoking indoors is strictly forbidden and will result in a minimum fine of $500. Guests are welcome to smoke outside.
-This is a quiet zone. No parties or events allowed. Sound travels far in the mountains, and neighbors value their peace and space.
-Switchback Basecamp features two separate units that are about 100 yards apart.
-We do not provide refunds regarding discomfort, unwillingness, or being unable to travel the road due to not having 4WD or chains when required.
-There is a non-refundable pet fee of $100/reservation (2 dogs max)
Guest Access
Switchback Basecamp is a private five-acre retreat made up of two separate cabins: The Big Divide and The Little Divide. Each has its own driveway, entrance, and plenty of privacy — close enough to feel connected, but far enough apart to spread out. When rented together, they create a perfect setup for group getaways, multi-family trips, or anyone who wants more room to roam.
Clear Creek County STR License #STR25-089
