8 best mountain cabin amenities guests will love

An A-frame on a snowy peak. A log home tucked in a pine forest. Few things come close to the magic of a mountain cabin. The ultimate rustic retreat, mountain cabins attract travelers wanting to adventure by day and cozy up by night. After decorating your cabin to attract more guests and stocking it with all the vacation rental essentials, consider purchasing some extra amenities that go above and beyond.

“Providing these extra touches show guests you’re thinking about every moment of their stay,” says Alex McBride, Vacasa’s Senior Manager of Home Quality and Design. “Best of all, they can make guests want to book again year after year.”

“Guests notice the details, so make sure they’re the kind that’ll push them to leave a 5-star review,” she added. Here are eight top-rated mountain cabin amenities that will win guests over.

1. Sleds and snow tubes

Snow days are the best days of a mountain getaway. Help your guests make the most of it by providing all the essentials for a fun-filled snow day. Think sturdy sleds and toboggans, and inflatable snow tubes. Safety is top priority, so do your research to find options that have some safety features built in.

For instance, look for sleds with steering mechanisms and runners. When shopping for snow tubes, look for longer lasting options such as those made with polyester canvas or Cordura® nylon, and featuring tow straps and hard plastic bottoms.

2. Trail guides

Even if your guests aren’t ski warriors or avid hikers, they’ll still likely want to explore the forests, slopes, and nature surrounding them. Lead them in the right direction by providing some trail suggestions—such as best trails for families, for a view, for a relaxing nature walk, or for some serious elevation gain. You can also leave behind some books on local trails so guests can learn more about the area and explore the paths that best suit their group.

3. Cozy textiles

It’s always sweater weather in a mountain cabin. Give your vacation home some of that characteristic warmth by adding plush textures throughout. Think nubby knits or faux fur throws draped over your couch. In the bedrooms, toss quilted velvet or tartan pillows onto the beds. Or, place large, thick area rugs around the home so guests don’t have to walk on cold, bare wood floors.

4. Outdoor furniture

No matter the season, outdoor sitting and dining areas are a hit with guests and sought-after spaces. Invest in large, cozy outdoor sectionals, comfy armchairs, or dining tables—all which create places to gather for great conversations. You’ll want pieces that are weather resistant and ultra-durable, such as furniture made of POLYWOOD® lumber and Sunbrella® fabric.

5. A fireplace or fire pit

Fireplaces and outdoor fire pits are especially desired amenities in the mountains and colder climates. After all, there’s nothing cozier than the warm glow of flickering flames and crackling wood. Make sure to provide the fire-starting essentials, including:

• Fireplace tool set
• Stack of wood
• Kindling
• Long matches or utility lighter
• Safety instructions
• Marshmallow roasting sticks
• Fire extinguisher

6. Boot tray

It’s bound to happen—guests are going to drag the outside in. Help them keep your place free of snow and mud tracks by providing a designated spot for their soaked winter and ski boots. Place a tray at all entrances to your cabin.

7. Hooks and storage

After an adventure-packed day on the slopes, your guests will usually walk in and immediately need a place to offload all their gear. Think skis, ski jackets, hats, gloves, poles, and more. Unlike any other vacation rental, mountain cabins demand extra thought for storage and places to hang bulky gear.

8. Games

Mountain cabins were meant to hunker down in once the sun sets and the temperatures drop. Keep your vacation home stocked with fun activities like card games, board games, and perhaps even a ping pong table. Supply games for a variety of ages and group types, from girlfriend getaways to family trips.