Fall Fun and Adventure Await at the Elf Haus

Fall in the Rocky Mountains in Colorado is a magical time, and there’s no better place to enjoy it than at the Elf Haus in Fairplay, Colorado. With crisp, cool air, vibrant foliage, and plenty of cozy activities, it’s the perfect spot for a memorable autumn getaway. If you’re looking for an excuse to escape to the mountains, check out our Airbnb calendar for some remaining September and October dates. Leaf-peeping season is in full swing, and these scenic fall months are ideal for a relaxing retreat!

We’re currently spending time at the Elf Haus with Amy’s parents, soaking up everything this beautiful season has to offer. From cooking and relaxing in the cabin to exploring the local area, we’re embracing all things cozy. Here’s a little taste of what our days look like—and what you can look forward to on your own fall adventure.

Leaf-Peeping and Wildlife Spotting

Fairplay is surrounded by stunning aspen groves, which burst into brilliant gold during the fall. There are just the tiniest bits of color starting to pop right now. Leaf peeping is one of the highlights of autumn here, with scenic drives and hikes offering up-close views of the changing colors. Last night, while driving through the neighborhood looking for moose, we had an exciting encounter! A large bear crossed in front of our car, paused, and posed, giving us an unforgettable wildlife moment. Keep your eyes peeled—you never know what you’ll see in these wild and wonderful mountains!

Cozy Days at the Elf Haus

One of the best parts of staying at the Elf Haus is simply enjoying the cabin itself. Cooler temperatures inspire a desire for all things cozy, and we’ve fully embraced it! Amy’s been busy in the kitchen, whipping up some delicious homemade treats. Her latest creation? Spinach and feta puff pastries, sprinkled with everything bagel seasoning (in lieu of the sesame seeds in the recipe) —a perfect snack for a crisp fall day. We enjoyed them for Sunday morning brunch. They were a huge hit with everyone, and you can try them out yourself with the recipe we used here.

While indoors, we’ve been spending time relaxing by the fire, playing games, and just soaking up the peaceful atmosphere. But there’s also plenty of fun to be had outdoors. We recently bought a bullseye target from Costco and have been enjoying a few rounds of “axe throwing” (safe, family-friendly versions of course!). It’s been a blast and adds a little excitement to our laid-back mountain days. We have also heeded the advice of (almost) all of our guest reviews that say that one of their favorites is enjoying coffee on the deck in the morning. That never disappoints...especially if you have skilled barista in your crew to whip up some lattes. 

If you need some of the baking done for you, you can't go wrong picking up all things delicious at Bristlecone Bake Shop. We grabbed some pistachio croissants, a cinnamon roll, and a loaf of bread to get us through our stay. Nobody was, or ever is, disappointed with their goods. 

Altitude Adjustment Tips

If you’re planning to visit the Elf Haus and coming from sea level, altitude adjustment is something to keep in mind. Amy’s parents had some initial trouble acclimating to the higher elevation, but renting oxygen from Alma’s Gym was a game changer (be sure to call ahead and reserve a concentrator). It helped them mitigate altitude sickness symptoms, allowing them to fully enjoy their stay. We highly recommend this option if you or your loved ones need a little help with the altitude—you’ll be glad you did!

Book Your Fall Getaway

With September and October being such an amazing time to visit, now’s the perfect moment to book your stay at the Elf Haus. Our remaining fall dates are filling up fast, so head to our Airbnb calendar to secure your spot for a one-of-a-kind autumn experience. Whether you’re coming for the leaf-peeping, wildlife sightings, or just to enjoy a cozy retreat in the mountains, the Elf Haus is ready to welcome you.

Come visit us this fall and make some unforgettable mountain memories! 🍁