Estimate anchored to list price ($1,685,000) and AVM ($1,589,589), adjusted for unique riverfront, multi-cabin income potential, and local market conditions. No live comparable sales search performed — verify with broker or appraiser.
Three-Cabin Riverfront Compound on the St. Vrain — Rare Retreat
818 Riverside Drive is a distinctive riverfront compound that brings authentic Colorado character together with compelling rental and retreat possibilities. The offering includes three renovated historic cabins arranged across approximately 1.10 acres with nearly 300 feet of private frontage on the St. Vrain River. The cabins collectively provide roughly 3,250 square feet and seven bedrooms—comfortably accommodating groups, family gatherings, or multi-unit income use.
Step outside and the river becomes your backyard: firepit sites, riverside lounging, fly-fishing access and room for RV parking or campsite setups create an enviable outdoor program. Inside, each cabin retains its cottage/cabin personality while showing evidence of thoughtful renovation — offering clean, functional spaces for guests or long-term occupants. An existing detached garage/storage structure adds flexibility for conversion to recreation, expanded living, or additional rental space pending permits.
The compound suits a variety of buyer types. Operate the property as a destination short-term rental for mountain-bound visitors to Rocky Mountain National Park and Estes Park, live in the primary cabin and rent the others for supplemental income, or maintain it as a private multi-generational retreat. Location is a standout: Lyons’ restaurants, breweries and music venues are minutes away, and Boulder is within commuting distance for those seeking both mountain life and city access.
Practical considerations: riverfront parcels in this corridor frequently fall within FEMA flood zones and are subject to riparian setbacks and town permitting; prospective buyers should verify floodplain status, insurance costs, utility connections and STR registration history. When those factors are accounted for, 818 Riverside Drive represents a rare opportunity to own a multi-cabin riverfront compound in Boulder County—an offering that rarely appears on market.
A 1940 cabin on 1.1 acres.
Building
Site & utilities
Riverside (Lyons riverfront community)
Researched nearby locations
Location
818 Riverside Dr, Lyons, CO 80540
The Riverside sector of Lyons is a low-density river corridor characterized by a mix of historic cabins, newer mountain homes and riparian open space. Residents enjoy easy access to the town’s restaurants, breweries and frequent music events, while outdoor enthusiasts benefit from immediate water access and nearby trail networks. The neighborhood attracts second-home buyers, outdoor recreationists, and locals who value a quieter, nature-adjacent lifestyle.
Exceptional access to river-based activities, nearby mountain trails and Rocky Mountain National Park for hiking, fishing, skiing and biking.
A factual market snapshot around 818 Riverside Dr.
Lyons and the greater Boulder County market continue to command a premium for properties with unique natural amenities like river frontage and mountain access. Inventory in the mountain towns tends to be tight, especially for compound-style listings that support multiple guest units. Over the past 12 months the market has shown modest appreciation; motivated buyers can still find opportunities where condition, permitting, or regulatory clarity creates negotiation leverage. For this property, the premium is concentrated in the river frontage and guest capacity—factors that support strong seasonal STR demand. Verify permit and flood constraints to size net returns and insurance costs before finalizing an offer.
Residential/rural riverfront; likely single-family / small multi-structure residential use. Local ordinances and floodplain overlays likely apply.
Zoning
Research-indicated uses
- Single Family Residence
- Multiple Accessory Structures
- Short Term Rental (May Be Allowed With Town Permitting/Registration)
- Accessory Dwelling/Guest Units (Subject To Local Code)
What the research supports — and what is still worth verifying.
Key findings
- Listed price: $1,685,000 (AVM ~ $1,589,589)
- Lot size: 47,916 SF (~1.10 acres); building area ~3,250 SF
- 7 bedrooms across three cabins; year built: 1940 with renovations noted
- Strong outdoor recreation demand and limited supply of riverfront compounds
- Probable floodplain/riparian restrictions and local STR permitting requirements
What stands out about this property.
Interior Features
- Three renovated historic cabins offering 7 total bedrooms
- Approximately 3,250 total finished square feet
- Flexible layout ideal for groups, retreats, or multi-unit rental
- Cozy, cottage and cabin-style interiors (renovation details in disclosures)
Exterior & Lot
- ~1.10 acres with nearly 300' of private St. Vrain River frontage
- Detached garage/storage structure with conversion potential
- Riverside terraces, firepit areas and RV/camp parking zones
- Riparian landscape and mature river corridor vegetation
Location & Neighborhood
- Riverside community — short drive to Lyons downtown (shops, eateries, breweries)
- Easy access to Rocky Mountain National Park and Estes Park
- Approximately 35 minutes to Boulder; Denver International Airport accessible for regional travel
- Active outdoor recreation neighborhood with trail, bike and fishing access
Walkability & Recreation
- Walkability Rating: 40/100
- Immediate access to riverside walking and local trailheads
- Close to mountain biking routes and fly-fishing spots
- Short drive to national park trailheads and alpine recreation
Sources & research confidence.
See where the property research came from and how confidence varies by field.