Once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own 4.0 acres in the enchanting Turtle Lake area of Durango, Colorado—an extraordinary parcel located at the junction of the Falls Creek Archaeological Area and Durango’s beloved and majestic Hidden Valley. This secluded property sits across from the prominent Entrada white sandstone cliffs of Hidden Valley, where ancient prehistoric caves were once used by the Basketmaker culture. From your future home or retreat, enjoy magical 360-degree views of the fiery red cliffs rising above the Animas Valley, the sculptural white Navajo sandstone of Hidden Valley, and the soft rise of rolling meadows. Along its southern edge, the parcel directly borders Animas City Mountain (BLM public land), offering instant access to public open space and untamed wildlife habitat. Just 2.7 miles west, the Colorado Trail at Junction Creek features cascades, scenic creek crossings, and breathtaking viewpoints. A short 0.7-mile trip north on CR 205 leads to the San Juan National Forest, where alpine meadows, waterfalls, and miles of trails await. Golden eagles, falcons, great blue herons, foxes, bobcats, bears, and mountain lions are part of the thriving ecosystem that surrounds you. This is also a vital deer and elk migration corridor, where claret cup cactus, mariposa lily, paintbrush, mule’s ear, and prickly pear bloom in vibrant color throughout the warmer seasons. This area has the grandeur and beauty of a national park—yet downtown Durango is just an eight-minute drive away. Lee Street, a public right-of-way, borders the east side of the property, and La Plata County-maintained CR 205 ensures year-round access. With no HOA and no covenants, this is a rare opportunity to build or hold with ultimate flexibility. Electric service is already available at the lot line, and a well permit (#338859-) is in place. Build the dream home your heart desires with no limitations on square footage for the primary home—whether that’s a spacious luxury residence, barndominium, a yurt, a tiny home, or a container home—on this unique and inspiring property. The well is permitted for one household use. According to La Plata County land use regulations, the parcel allows for two structures in various combinations: a home and a barn, a home and an ADU, or a home and a guest house. If you choose to build both a home and a second house, water would need to be hauled to the second dwelling. Short-term rentals are permitted, and with no HOA or covenants to restrict your vision, the potential is wide open. Call La Plata County Planning Department with your questions about building a base camp, tent platforms, or yurts for short-term rental use. In keeping with the valley’s eco-friendly and off-grid charm, some guest casitas in the neighborhood utilize smart plumbing solutions—like composting toilets and hauled water delivered via easy-to-refill coolers—to address plumbing costs and permitting challenges. This is more than a piece of land—it’s a thriving canvas of archeological history, spectacular geology, and wild natural beauty. Properties like this are exceedingly rare in Durango, especially in such a majestic and desirable location with direct access to public lands and utilities already in place. Whether you’re seeking a private homesite, an adventurous mountain basecamp, or a long-term investment in one of Colorado’s most spectacular valleys, this mountain meadow oasis offers a truly unmatched opportunity.
