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Chalet

1st Chair Chalet - Monarch/Garfield - Creek Side Mountain Getaway

Photo gallery for 1st Chair Chalet - Monarch/Garfield - Creek Side Mountain Getaway

Exterior
Exterior
Living area
Outdoor dining
Outdoor dining

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedrooms1+ bathroomSleeps 4

Popular amenities

  • Onsite parking available
  • Pet-friendly
  • Kitchen
  • Barbecue
  • Deck or patio
  • Free Wi-Fi

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 4)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Single Bed and 1 Double Bed

1 bathroom, 1 half bathroom

Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only

Half Bathroom

Toilet

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Dining area

About this property

1st Chair Chalet - Monarch/Garfield - Creek Side Mountain Getaway

Come stay in our Monarch/Garfield/Salida Colorado mountain home/house/cabin.
View lots of pictures. Search 1st Chair Chalet on Facebook.
Enjoy a getaway in this quaint and private mountain home surrounded by Aspens next to a roaring creek.
Nestled high in the Rockies in the historic town-site of Garfield, The 1st Chair Chalet is just 3 miles to Monarch Mountain Skiing, 16 miles to historic downtown Salida, and walking distance to Monarch Lodge's amenities.
This cozy 2 story, 2 bedroom, 2 bath chalet sits by the the South Fork of the Arkansas River with private fishing access. The creek cascades and eddies through the back yard creating a mesmerizing visual and sonic landscape enjoyable from the redwood deck.
Sleeps up to 4 with 1 queen in an upstairs bedroom and 1 full and 1 twin in another upstairs bedroom.
Garfield, CO (also known as Monarch), elevation 9500', is six miles east of the Continental Divide surrounded by the San Isabel National Forest. Garfield originated as a mining town in the early 1800's. In the latter part of the century a fire swept through town leaving only 3 original buildings. Scattered throughout the area you will find foundations of original mining cabins from 200 years ago.

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

Pets allowed: limit 2 total
No pets on bedding. No pets left unattended.
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
No smoking indoors.

Important information

You need to know

Property # 7090245
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
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit

About the area

Monarch

Located in Monarch, this chalet is in the mountains and on the waterfront. Salida Museum and Art Matters Gallery & Studio are cultural highlights, and some of the area's landmarks include SteamPlant Theater and Event Center and Hancock Ghost Town. Rocky Mountain Mini Golf and Mt. Shavano Fish Hatchery are also worth visiting. Enjoy the area's slopes with skiing, and don't miss out on the sledging.
View more Chalets in MonarchOpens in a new window
Map
Salida, CO

What's nearby

  • Elation Ridge - 6 min drive - 6.6 km
  • Orcs - 7 min drive - 8.1 km
  • Lodgeview - 7 min drive - 8.5 km
  • Southbound - 7 min drive - 8.5 km
  • Monarch Ski Area - 8 min drive - 8.8 km

Getting around

  • Gunnison, CO (GUC-Gunnison-Crested Butte Regional) - 60 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Sidewinder Saloon - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Gunbarrel Cafeteria - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Elmo's Bar At Monarch - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Cliffhangers - ‬5 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is 1st Chair Chalet - Monarch/Garfield - Creek Side Mountain Getaway pet-friendly?

Yes, this chalet allows pets (limit 2 total). Some restrictions may apply, so please contact the property for more details.

How much is parking at 1st Chair Chalet - Monarch/Garfield - Creek Side Mountain Getaway?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at 1st Chair Chalet - Monarch/Garfield - Creek Side Mountain Getaway?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at 1st Chair Chalet - Monarch/Garfield - Creek Side Mountain Getaway?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is 1st Chair Chalet - Monarch/Garfield - Creek Side Mountain Getaway located?

Situated on the waterfront, this chalet is steps from San Isabel National Forest and within 6 mi (10 km) of Elation Ridge and Mirkwood Bowl. Orcs and East Trees are also within 6 miles (10 km).

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 163 out of 179 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 14 out of 179 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 179 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 179 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 179 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Staff & service

8.0/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Christian M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
I went on a solo trip and stayed here and it was incredible! 10 minutes from the Monarch, 15 minutes from Poncha. It’s nestled next to a spring that’s soothing. I’ll stay here again and again!
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Steve T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful cabin!

Wold highly recommend!
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lydia B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Cozy Cabin near great skiing

Had a wonderful time at this cozy, peaceful cabin nestled amongst beautiful aspen and pine beside a running creek. Only minutes away from great skiing at Monarch Mountain. Enjoyed the lovely décor with everything we needed for a great getaway with friends.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Zac O.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect Ski Cabin

Great cabin close to Monarch Mountain. We would stay here again.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 17 Jan 2023
Thanks! You hit the perfect storm. Glad you picked up chains on the way.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Joshua Y.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Best cabin in Garfield!

3rd time staying here. Always a great time in the High Country!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
So cozy, clean and comfortable. Loved the close proximity to Monarch, just a few minutes away.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2019
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jeff L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

An absolutely wonderful place to stay!

We had a wonderful experience and thoroughly enjoyed our stay. My wife and I wanted a place to just sit back and relax, and 1st Chair was exactly what we needed. From the hot tub, to the wood stove, to the sounds of the river, it was truly amazing!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sean G.

Awesome!! Very clean, super convenient and the owners were great to work with.

The property was clean and well maintained. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay and would use this place again if we make it back to Colorado.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2018
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Pam B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Garfield House

Property was clean with comfortable beds. Close to Salina and Poncha Springs. Off road trails for hiking and riding nearby.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Rachel A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful place to stay and relax

We loved this chalet. We felt very comfortable and loved opening the sliding door to let the sounds of the river come through. The kitchen has everything you will need to cook meals. The back deck is large and we spent a lot of time out there. We will definitely be back!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Aaron R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great little cabin on the mountain

This is a great cozy little cabin at 9500 feet in the small town of Garfield. Perfect to get away from the big city life. The mountain stream behind cabin is beautiful. Bruce was nice. A great musician who plays in the town of Salida on occasion. This place was close to everything we needed. Would book again. Enjoyed the week we stayed here.
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

weslie m.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing.

The cabin was perfect in every way! We were able to unplug for a few days and have some family time. The property was stocked with everything you need to for your stay, plus extras! Shovels, supplies, wood, sleds, games, towels- Bruce really has thought of everything. The house was perfectly clean, 100 stars!
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2024
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Lauren Q.

Perfect little cabin in the woods!

Perfect little cabin in the woods. Kitchen was stocked with EVERYTHING we needed. Hot tub was AWESOME after our ski day at Monarch. We were 2 couples with 2 babies. Only a few minutes drive to Monarch for a great day on the hill. Snow conditions were excellent! Thanks for a great couple days away!
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2017
Response from VrboOwner on 18 Mar 2020
Thanks! I sent the clothes yesterday. -Bruce
Verified

8/10 Good

Shelly B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Winter Break

Cabin was cozy, loved the fire and rustic over all feel. The back patio overlooking the stream was so relaxing even though we didn’t get to sit out there! The lovely snow made up for it. Only one note-not a complaint, very limited WiFi speed and no cell service. Actually helped me unplug for a while but important to note if you need to have a connection for work or any other reason.
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 19 Feb 2025
So sorry the wifi wasn't up to speed. We will be switching to a better service however the existing wifi does work for phone service though there is a slight delay being satellite. Sometimes it helps to reboot the cell phone and make sure it's set for wifi calling. I encourage guests to call me for any problems during their stay.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tambra W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Back to Nature

Away from TV internet traffic and stress! The constant sound of the stream is so comforting!!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Barbara F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Spectacular!

We stayed here in June when the river was at its peak raging flow. It was a magnificent setting in a beautiful aspen grove that glowed brilliantly in the rain while soaking in the hot tub. Absolutely wonderful. The cabin was just right for four of us - only suggestion would be to add a nice table and chairs for 4-6 on the deck for outdoor dining.
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2023
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Raelene H.

Perfect Ski Getaway

1st Chair Chalet was a wonderful getaway for our family. The cabin is nicely appointed and equipped with all that we needed for our ski vacation. It was clean and well-maintained; cozy but comfortable for our family of 5. The area had received over 4 feet of snow in the 5 days preceding our visit, yet they had cleared it from the parking area, front entrance and deck. We would highly recommend 1st Chair Chalet and wouldn't hesitate to stay there again. Thank you for opening up your retreat to us!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

David H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

What we expected

We expected a special stay and it was. We never were able to get the Hot Tub hot, but not sure if it was our fault or the tubs, but no big deal!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 18 Mar 2020
Sorry the hot tub wasn't great for you guys. It is working properly. There is a thermostat knob on the control panel. It may need to be turned up an hour or so before use. It maxes out at 104 degrees. Please let us know if you had that turned up all the way and it still didn't heat up. Let us know if you come again, we'll make sure it's cranking.
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Beth M.

Perfect!!

The 1st Chair Chalet was perfect! We loved it. It was so comfortable and so well thought out from the linens to the kitchen. We cooked many meals and had everything we needed to put out a spread. There was more than enough space and we were so happy we could bring the dogs. We skied two days and were so thankful to be so close to Monarch and to get back after a day of skiing and get in the hot tub! The area is beautiful and the cabin is right on the river and we loved listening to it at night. Just perfect.
Response from VrboOwner on 18 Mar 2020
Thanks Beth, We're glad you will be returning so soon! That's great that you liked the sheets enough to order your own. We have new fleece sheets and micro-suede comforters on all the beds now. yours, Bruce & Trina
Verified

8/10 Good

Mike R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, listing accuracy
Disliked: Communication

Great Clean getaway

the cabin was a perfect small and very clean place and had everything that I needed. Everything worked and I felt I had access to everything I wanted. It would have been nice to have some steps to the creek/river as it may be hard for an older person or a non-athletic person. for me it was fine, but you had to hold onto trees and carefully navigate the short walk to the water. Too many trees to fish, but the sound took care of being close to the highway. Salida was the closest town and was really a treat to go downtown to the river.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Becca C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Kindness during a pandemic

Bruce was a great host. We pulled into the cabin area just as Monarch Mountain was closed for Coronavirus precaution. Bruce called and checked on us and offered us a refund if we felt we needed to leave. However, his cabin was a perfect place to isolate ourselves from virus exposure and enjoy the mountain air and snow to play in. We were able to rest, connect as a family, and prepare ourselves for next steps. The house was comfortable and clean with a lovely mountain side view next to the gentle river. We look forward to returning under different circumstances.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 7 Apr 2020
I'm sorry this family made a long journey for a ski trip. They were very gracious under the circumstances. Note that VR and I are giving 100% refunds for any Covid related cancellation at any time regardless of our normal cancellation policy.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Blake C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great little cabin

Cabin is in our favorite little area. It fit our needs for our family of four. It was stocked with every thing we needed. Hot tub was nice to sit in after hiking, fishing, rafting, etc.... and the deck is right on the South Ark. We slept with the windows open each night to the sound of the rushing water just below. It was great. One thing to note is that laundry must be done at the lodge, the machines only take quarters, and the lodge does not make change. We enjoyed our stay very much in this cabin and made some great memories. The only thing we might change would be the futon. The padding is pretty thin making it a bit uncomfortable. We would definitely book again.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 11 Oct 2022
Thanks for your review. The futon is gone replaced with a comfy leather sofa. I'll look into the laundry problem.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Annie M.

Perfect for Our Family!

This cabin in the charming little community of Garfield was just perfect for our family's ski vacation! In the past, we've always stayed down in town, but with three young skiers, we wanted to be a bit closer to Monarch---in case we needed to take a break (or a nap for the littlest one!). Other than being close to the ski resort, some of my favorite things about the cabin are: the wood burning stove, the babbling creek in the back, the beautiful forest, the great supply of movies, the coziness on a snowy night, the fact that you can bring your furry friend along! My boys favorite things: all the beautiful space to explore, the hot tub on the deck, the snow shovels and sleds (yes, they love to shovel snow!), and the fun trail up into the mountains. We got "snowed in" the last night of our stay, with 14 inches of snow falling. This cabin was the perfect place to be---with the snowing falling outside and our fire roaring inside. Bruce was an excellent host and very great to communicate with. I highly recommend staying here!
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2018
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Chaundra M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Family Ski Vacation

Our trip began with my minivan getting stuck in the snow near the cabin. I turned too sharp. Lol. Luckily the owner was dropping by and helped me out! Bruce was very kind and helpful. We went to Walmart and bought me chains. Handy needed them before, but had tons of snow my van needed the extra help. The cabin by the river was amazing. Had every amenity you need for the stay. Loved waking up to the sound of the rushing river. Hot tub was amazing after a day on the slopes. The wood stove was so nice to have to keep the downstairs warm. There is heat but we live a fire. Kids used sleds and played on hills nearby the Chalet. We were there 7 nights. Be prepared to live out of suitcase bc dresser was full of movies. Not a big deal bc it was fun watching the movies provided. Just mentioning that in case u were needing drawer space. A few hangars in closet, so if you have lots to hang up, bring your own. We had a wonderful time and enjoyed this adorable cabin. Great place to I wind and spend time with family and friends. I will miss waking up to beautiful snow, the rushing river, and surrounding landscape. Loved 1st Chair Chalet!!!
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 18 Mar 2020
Thanks for your great review and suggestions. We'll get more hangers up there and see about some more drawer space.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Deb M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Loved the Monarch Pass area

Very nice cabin. It was exceptionally clean and the beds super comfortable with fresh and good quality linens and towels available. The cabin makes for a nice home base. It was cool enough that we enjoyed coming home from our adventures every day and building a fire in the woodstove (thanks for having so much firewood and kindling available) after relaxing on the deck by the beautiful creek that runs behind the cabin. The stars were amazing! We also enjoyed meeting Harry, the sweet neighborhood dog who visited regularly to hang out with us on the deck. The dogs (and even the humans) in the area were friendly but not intrusive. We tried the hot tub once, but it died about 10 minutes into the soak. It was back on the next night but the jets weren't very strong so we opted to skip it, though it is a nice amenity to have available and it's in a great spot to enjoy the scenery. We've learned after only two VRBO experiences that the VRBO definition of "private" is very different from ours, so we were a little surprised and disappointed that there were houses so close. Thankfully, they were mostly unoccupied while we were there so we only had to get used to the vehicles on the close local roads and the highway above Garfield. We live in a rural setting far away from roads and neighbors, so we tend to prefer that on vacation, so most folks would probably be ok with the Garfield experience. Turns out it was a very quiet area so our concern upon arriving was never a real problem, just not our personal preference kind of location. My only suggestion would be to replace the hard as a rock futon with something more comfy. Though there are plenty of seating options, most aren't conducive to sitting by the fireplace or curling up with a good book. We had bag chairs with us so that helped to provide better seating inside and on the deck and we never used the TV/DVD set up (though the DVD/VHS library is impressive!) so we didn't need to use seating facing that direction. The spiral staircase was solid and perfect for the cabin and just a fun and unique feature that reminding me of The Monkees TV show every time I came down it, so that was fun. Great time, great trip - thanks for sharing your cozy cabin.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 16 Sept 2022
Hi Deb, Thank you for your thorough review. The futon is gone.! We got a nice leather sofa in it's place. I encourage guests to call me if there is ever an issue such as yours with the hot tub. yours, Bruce

About the host

Hosted by Bruce Hayes

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Premier Host

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