10/10 Excellent
Marlene Q.
11 July 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Home away from home
Marlene Q.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025
Entire home
5★ The Retreat @Starry Ridge. Private Trails, Horses & Mueller State Park
Family-friendly holiday home in Florissant
Photo gallery for 5★ The Retreat @Starry Ridge. Private Trails, Horses & Mueller State Park
Reviews
10 out of 10
Exceptional
1 bedroomSleeps 488.3 sq m
Popular amenities
Explore the area
- Place, Double Eagle Casino
- Place, Cripple Creek and Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad
- Place, Golden Nugget Cripple Creek Casino
Rooms & beds
1 bedroom (sleeps 4)
Large Bedroom
2 Single Beds and 1 Queen Bed
En suite bathroom
Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer
Spaces
Deck or patio
Kitchenette
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining area
About this property
5★ The Retreat @Starry Ridge. Private Trails, Horses & Mueller State Park
ESCAPE SKI RESORT CHAOS – DISCOVER COLORADO'S HIDDEN WINTER GEM
Why pay $300+/night for crowded Breckenridge lodging when you can experience authentic Colorado mountain living for a fraction of the price? Starry Ridge offers private snowshoe trails, rescued mustang encounters, and world-class stargazing—just 30 minutes from Mueller State Park's 90+ miles of winter trails.
WINTER AT STARRY RIDGE
Experience Colorado winter the way it's meant to be:
FREE Winter Trail Equipment: Snowshoes (adult sizes), microspikes, trekking poles, gaiters, sleds
Private Trails: 1.5 miles through pine forests, aspen groves & wildflower meadows
Mueller State Park: 30 min to 90+ miles of year-round trails & ranger programs
Rescued Mustangs: Meet our gentle horses (guided experiences available)
Dark Sky Stargazing: 15 min from Florissant Fossil Beds International Dark Sky Park
Peaceful & Affordable: 1/3 the price of ski resort lodging, zero crowds
Real Colorado—not tourist Colorado
YOUR MOUNTAIN SUITE
Western-inspired cozy retreat with private entrance (sleeps 4):
BEDROOM
- Queen bed + 2 twin XL beds
- Desk/workspace for remote work or journaling
- Mountain views & goat-watching from your window!
- Private en suite bathroom: walk-in shower, dual sinks
KITCHENETTE (Fully Equipped)
- Breville convection oven/air fryer/toaster combo
- Single-burner induction cooktop, microwave, crockpot
- Mid-size fridge/freezer, coffee maker, electric tea kettle
- Blender, food processor, hand mixer, spiralizer
- Cooking basics provided: oils, vinegar, salt, pepper, variety of spices
- Fresh herbs in pots when in season
LIVING AREA
- Comfortable L-shaped sofa for lounging
- Dining table seats 4
- Thoughtfully curated western décor
Private suite with excellent soundproofing, attached to the main home. Guests consistently praise the space as “the most peaceful stay imaginable.”
64 ACRES OF ADVENTURE
EXPANSIVE DECK (1,000 sq ft with Pikes Peak views)
- Two 6-burner Weber grills (we'll light them for you!)
- 4+ outdoor dining areas (seating for 4-8 each)
- Cozy lounge area with reclining loungers
- Ping-pong table
- Propane fire pit for evening warmth
- Shared only with your hosts (no other guests)
THE PROPERTY
- Private marked trails with hidden picnic spots & 360° views
- Mountaintop walking meditation labyrinth
- High meadows: badminton, croquet, Viking chess, soccer
- Granite outcroppings & wildflower meadows
- Wildlife viewing: elk, deer, mountain birds
- Historic 19th-century Bear Trap Ranch artifacts
MUSTANG WISDOM EXPERIENCES
Our on-site equine and nature-based wellness program offers:
- Equine-assisted coaching sessions (communication, presence, leadership, connection)
- "Executive Digital Detox" weekend retreats
- Family-friendly animal encounters
Perfect for individuals, couples, families, or small groups seeking meaningful connection with nature and themselves. Additional fee applies. Exclusive VRBO guest discounts available—just ask!
WHY FAMILIES LOVE STARRY RIDGE
✓ Kids safely explore 64 acres under wide-open skies
✓ Meet rescued mustangs and friendly goats
✓ Lawn games for all ages: croquet, badminton, Viking chess
✓ Real outdoor adventure (not screens or tourist traps)
✓ Educational: wildlife spotting, nature, horsemanship
✓ Screen-free environment, plus games, puzzles & books encourages family connection
✓ Affordable compared to ski resort family lodging
NEARBY WINTER ACTIVITIES & YEAR-ROUND ATTRACTIONS
WINTER (15-120 min away)
- Mueller State Park: 30 min (90+ miles winter trails, ranger programs)
- Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument: 15 min (cross-country skiing, Dark Sky stargazing, fossils)
- Breckenridge ski resort: 90 min
- Monarch Mountain: 2 hours
YEAR-ROUND
- Pikes Peak: 30 min (iconic 14er summit, year-round access)
- Eleven Mile Canyon: 30 min (world-class fly fishing)
- Cripple Creek: 20 min (historic mining town, casinos, live theater)
- Colorado Springs: 1 hour (Garden of the Gods, restaurants, shopping, attractions)
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
ALTITUDE & WINTER ACCESS
- Elevation: 8,000-8,500 feet above sea level
- Stay well hydrated! If altitude-sensitive, spend 1-2 days in Colorado Springs (6,000 ft) first to adjust
- October-March: 4-WHEEL DRIVE REQUIRED with snow or all-season tires (non-negotiable for safety)
- Gravel mountain roads
PROPERTY DETAILS
- Working ranch: 4 acres near arena occasionally reserved for coaching clients (60+ acres always available to guests)
- No laundry facilities due to sensitive mountain septic system—please pack sufficient clothing for the duration of your stay
- No smoking outside vehicles (extreme wildfire risk—Colorado state law)
- No pets to protect our livestock and guardian dogs
- Service animals welcome per ADA guidelines—please notify us in advance
- Bedroom casement windows open wide—not safe for young children (close supervision required)
AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE (Convenience Items)
- Hand warmers: $8/pair
- Foot warmers: $8/pair
- Bundle: $25 for 4 pairs (saves $7!)
(Nearest store is 45 minutes away—we keep them stocked for your convenience)
YOUR HOSTS
We live on-site and are happy to help with grills, local restaurant tips, trail recommendations, or arranging horse experiences—but we're completely respectful of your privacy and space. Think of us as your built-in mountain concierge for authentic Colorado experiences.
WHAT TO BRING
WINTER ESSENTIALS (We provide trail equipment, but not clothing)
- Sturdy waterproof winter boots (insulated)
- Waterproof gloves & warm hat
- Warm layers (temperatures can drop below 0°F at night)
- Closed-toe shoes for horse activities
- Sufficient clothing for your entire stay (no laundry available)
ALWAYS BRING
- Sunscreen & sunglasses (high-altitude sun is surprisingly intense!)
- Camera for Pikes Peak sunrises, wildlife, and starry skies
- Reusable water bottle (hydration is key at altitude)
Book your affordable Colorado mountain escape today—where peace, adventure, and authenticity meet!
Why pay $300+/night for crowded Breckenridge lodging when you can experience authentic Colorado mountain living for a fraction of the price? Starry Ridge offers private snowshoe trails, rescued mustang encounters, and world-class stargazing—just 30 minutes from Mueller State Park's 90+ miles of winter trails.
WINTER AT STARRY RIDGE
Experience Colorado winter the way it's meant to be:
FREE Winter Trail Equipment: Snowshoes (adult sizes), microspikes, trekking poles, gaiters, sleds
Private Trails: 1.5 miles through pine forests, aspen groves & wildflower meadows
Mueller State Park: 30 min to 90+ miles of year-round trails & ranger programs
Rescued Mustangs: Meet our gentle horses (guided experiences available)
Dark Sky Stargazing: 15 min from Florissant Fossil Beds International Dark Sky Park
Peaceful & Affordable: 1/3 the price of ski resort lodging, zero crowds
Real Colorado—not tourist Colorado
YOUR MOUNTAIN SUITE
Western-inspired cozy retreat with private entrance (sleeps 4):
BEDROOM
- Queen bed + 2 twin XL beds
- Desk/workspace for remote work or journaling
- Mountain views & goat-watching from your window!
- Private en suite bathroom: walk-in shower, dual sinks
KITCHENETTE (Fully Equipped)
- Breville convection oven/air fryer/toaster combo
- Single-burner induction cooktop, microwave, crockpot
- Mid-size fridge/freezer, coffee maker, electric tea kettle
- Blender, food processor, hand mixer, spiralizer
- Cooking basics provided: oils, vinegar, salt, pepper, variety of spices
- Fresh herbs in pots when in season
LIVING AREA
- Comfortable L-shaped sofa for lounging
- Dining table seats 4
- Thoughtfully curated western décor
Private suite with excellent soundproofing, attached to the main home. Guests consistently praise the space as “the most peaceful stay imaginable.”
64 ACRES OF ADVENTURE
EXPANSIVE DECK (1,000 sq ft with Pikes Peak views)
- Two 6-burner Weber grills (we'll light them for you!)
- 4+ outdoor dining areas (seating for 4-8 each)
- Cozy lounge area with reclining loungers
- Ping-pong table
- Propane fire pit for evening warmth
- Shared only with your hosts (no other guests)
THE PROPERTY
- Private marked trails with hidden picnic spots & 360° views
- Mountaintop walking meditation labyrinth
- High meadows: badminton, croquet, Viking chess, soccer
- Granite outcroppings & wildflower meadows
- Wildlife viewing: elk, deer, mountain birds
- Historic 19th-century Bear Trap Ranch artifacts
MUSTANG WISDOM EXPERIENCES
Our on-site equine and nature-based wellness program offers:
- Equine-assisted coaching sessions (communication, presence, leadership, connection)
- "Executive Digital Detox" weekend retreats
- Family-friendly animal encounters
Perfect for individuals, couples, families, or small groups seeking meaningful connection with nature and themselves. Additional fee applies. Exclusive VRBO guest discounts available—just ask!
WHY FAMILIES LOVE STARRY RIDGE
✓ Kids safely explore 64 acres under wide-open skies
✓ Meet rescued mustangs and friendly goats
✓ Lawn games for all ages: croquet, badminton, Viking chess
✓ Real outdoor adventure (not screens or tourist traps)
✓ Educational: wildlife spotting, nature, horsemanship
✓ Screen-free environment, plus games, puzzles & books encourages family connection
✓ Affordable compared to ski resort family lodging
NEARBY WINTER ACTIVITIES & YEAR-ROUND ATTRACTIONS
WINTER (15-120 min away)
- Mueller State Park: 30 min (90+ miles winter trails, ranger programs)
- Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument: 15 min (cross-country skiing, Dark Sky stargazing, fossils)
- Breckenridge ski resort: 90 min
- Monarch Mountain: 2 hours
YEAR-ROUND
- Pikes Peak: 30 min (iconic 14er summit, year-round access)
- Eleven Mile Canyon: 30 min (world-class fly fishing)
- Cripple Creek: 20 min (historic mining town, casinos, live theater)
- Colorado Springs: 1 hour (Garden of the Gods, restaurants, shopping, attractions)
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
ALTITUDE & WINTER ACCESS
- Elevation: 8,000-8,500 feet above sea level
- Stay well hydrated! If altitude-sensitive, spend 1-2 days in Colorado Springs (6,000 ft) first to adjust
- October-March: 4-WHEEL DRIVE REQUIRED with snow or all-season tires (non-negotiable for safety)
- Gravel mountain roads
PROPERTY DETAILS
- Working ranch: 4 acres near arena occasionally reserved for coaching clients (60+ acres always available to guests)
- No laundry facilities due to sensitive mountain septic system—please pack sufficient clothing for the duration of your stay
- No smoking outside vehicles (extreme wildfire risk—Colorado state law)
- No pets to protect our livestock and guardian dogs
- Service animals welcome per ADA guidelines—please notify us in advance
- Bedroom casement windows open wide—not safe for young children (close supervision required)
AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE (Convenience Items)
- Hand warmers: $8/pair
- Foot warmers: $8/pair
- Bundle: $25 for 4 pairs (saves $7!)
(Nearest store is 45 minutes away—we keep them stocked for your convenience)
YOUR HOSTS
We live on-site and are happy to help with grills, local restaurant tips, trail recommendations, or arranging horse experiences—but we're completely respectful of your privacy and space. Think of us as your built-in mountain concierge for authentic Colorado experiences.
WHAT TO BRING
WINTER ESSENTIALS (We provide trail equipment, but not clothing)
- Sturdy waterproof winter boots (insulated)
- Waterproof gloves & warm hat
- Warm layers (temperatures can drop below 0°F at night)
- Closed-toe shoes for horse activities
- Sufficient clothing for your entire stay (no laundry available)
ALWAYS BRING
- Sunscreen & sunglasses (high-altitude sun is surprisingly intense!)
- Camera for Pikes Peak sunrises, wildlife, and starry skies
- Reusable water bottle (hydration is key at altitude)
Book your affordable Colorado mountain escape today—where peace, adventure, and authenticity meet!
Add dates for prices
Amenities
Kitchen
Free WiFi
Outdoor space
Parking available
Mountain view
Barbecue
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9.4 out of 10, (11 reviews)
House Rules
Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 18
Check out before 12:00 PM
Children
Children allowed: ages 0–17
Bedroom windows are not safe for young children.
Events
No events allowed
Pets
No pets allowed
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
Check-out instructions
The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Gather used towels
Remove personal items and remove leftover food and drinks
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
If you use any robes, please place with towels near entry door
Place any dirty dishes in the dish bucket and leave next to the door
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
Important information
You need to know
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
This property uses solar energy, plus eco-friendly cleaning products
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
We should mention
This property does not have any lifts
About the area
Florissant
Located in Florissant, this holiday home is in a rural area and in the mountains. Outlaws & Lawmen Jail Museum and Butte Theater are cultural highlights, and some of the area's landmarks include Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument and Old Homestead House Museum. Travelling with kids? Consider Cripple Creek and Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad and Ice Castles. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Florissant, CO
What's nearby
- The Brass Ass Casino - 25 min drive - 28.8 km
- Century Casino - 25 min drive - 28.8 km
- Double Eagle Casino - 26 min drive - 29.2 km
- Cripple Creek and Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad - 26 min drive - 29.2 km
- Golden Nugget Cripple Creek Casino - 26 min drive - 29.2 km
Getting around
Restaurants
- Pioneer Take & Bake Pizza and Subs - 27 min drive
- The Coffee Barn - 27 min drive
- Triple Crown Casinos - 23 min drive
- Lombard's Restaurant - 23 min drive
- Jackass Cafe - 28 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Reviews
10
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window10/10
Cleanliness
10/10
Check-in
10/10
Communication
9.8/10
Location
10/10
Listing accuracy
Reviews
10/10 Excellent
Kyle S.
7 Jan 2022
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great experience
Kyle S.
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2021
10/10 Excellent
Michelle A.
8 Nov 2021
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Fall Break With College Age Kids
Michelle A.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2021
10/10 Excellent
Shayna W., Elkins, AR USA
8 Nov 2021
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Absolutely wonderful!
Shayna W.
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2021
10/10 Excellent
Verified traveller
28 Oct 2021
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Vacation
Verified traveller
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2021
10/10 Excellent
Greg L.
29 Sept 2021
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Tranquil, Peace and Quiet, Perfect Get Away
Greg L.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2021
10/10 Excellent
Lyssa J.
20 Sept 2021
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A Relaxing, Wonderful Time
Lyssa J.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2021
10/10 Excellent
Charlotte B.
2 Aug 2021
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Fantastic Family Getaway
Charlotte B.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2021
10/10 Excellent
Heath B.
24 July 2021
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Our family had a wonderful time at Starry Ridge! The views were amazing.
Heath B.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2021
10/10 Excellent
Lindsay D.
11 July 2021
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful Property
Lindsay D.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2021
About the host
Hosted by Erika Lehmann
We're Colorado transplants with a deep love for nature and the outdoors. John is a geologist from London, and Erika, originally from Pennsylvania, now runs Mustang Wisdom, our on-site equine program. We have 7 children, all of whom are grown now, with just two older teens still living on the property. We all enjoy the beauty and tranquility of life at Starry Ridge.
Our goal in hosting is simple: to provide our guests with a peaceful retreat, offering a much-needed break from the stresses of city and suburban life. Whether it's relaxing in the serene surroundings or exploring the land, we want you to feel recharged and rejuvenated during your stay.
In addition to the beauty of the land, we’ve embraced eco-friendly practices, such as using our goats for natural fire mitigation. Rather than relying on herbicides, our goats help control vegetation and reduce fire risk, all while providing a peaceful, sustainable solution to land management.
Our goal in hosting is simple: to provide our guests with a peaceful retreat, offering a much-needed break from the stresses of city and suburban life. Whether it's relaxing in the serene surroundings or exploring the land, we want you to feel recharged and rejuvenated during your stay.
In addition to the beauty of the land, we’ve embraced eco-friendly practices, such as using our goats for natural fire mitigation. Rather than relying on herbicides, our goats help control vegetation and reduce fire risk, all while providing a peaceful, sustainable solution to land management.
Why they chose this property
We were looking for a vacation home with plenty of space for our children to explore and enjoy the fresh mountain air. When we discovered Starry Ridge, we instantly fell in love with the breathtaking views of Pikes Peak, the magnificent rock formations, the high meadows, and the hidden picnic spots. Every year, we seem to uncover a new gem or a clue to the property's rich history—this land was once home to the Ute people and later used for historic ranching.
What began as a vacation retreat quickly became our full-time home because we found it so hard to leave. We've heard the same from our VRBO guests—they never want to leave! We find joy in every corner of this land, whether it's hiking the trails, relaxing by the seasonal stream, or simply watching the sunset together as a family.
What began as a vacation retreat quickly became our full-time home because we found it so hard to leave. We've heard the same from our VRBO guests—they never want to leave! We find joy in every corner of this land, whether it's hiking the trails, relaxing by the seasonal stream, or simply watching the sunset together as a family.
What makes this property unique
At Starry Ridge, there’s truly something for everyone. The expansive 1,000 sq. ft. deck, surrounded by towering pines, firs, and junipers, is the perfect spot for a family BBQ, while the kids enjoy a lively game of ping-pong. Afterward, take a scenic hike up the mountain, where you'll find high meadows ideal for a friendly match of badminton or croquet.
Throughout the property, you'll encounter our friendly horses, playful goats, and loyal livestock guardian dogs, who are an integral part of the ranch experience. Guests can interact with the horses and goats, but to ensure their safety and well-being, guests are not permitted to cross fences into their pens unless they are participating in a host-guided activity.
Whether you’re relaxing and stargazing, exploring the hidden trails, or soaking in breathtaking views of Pikes Peak and the majestic rock formations, every corner of Starry Ridge offers a unique connection with nature. From secret picnic spots to glimpses of the land’s fascinating history, Starry Ridge promises a truly special retreat.
Throughout the property, you'll encounter our friendly horses, playful goats, and loyal livestock guardian dogs, who are an integral part of the ranch experience. Guests can interact with the horses and goats, but to ensure their safety and well-being, guests are not permitted to cross fences into their pens unless they are participating in a host-guided activity.
Whether you’re relaxing and stargazing, exploring the hidden trails, or soaking in breathtaking views of Pikes Peak and the majestic rock formations, every corner of Starry Ridge offers a unique connection with nature. From secret picnic spots to glimpses of the land’s fascinating history, Starry Ridge promises a truly special retreat.
Languages:
English
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