This enchanting mountain retreat is offered for the first time ever in a coveted location, minutes from Salida, and across from the Arkansas River. This 3-bedroom, 2-1/2 bath home sits on almost 13 acres. Tabeguache Creek creates the northern boundary of the property. A glass vestibule entrance to the first level opens to a tiled sitting area, with floor-to-ceiling windows and knotty pine walls. This level also has a bedroom with attached full bath, and laundry closet. A short flight of stairs brings you to the main level great room with stunning views of the Collegiates, an open kitchen, spacious breakfast bar, dining area with views of the Arkansas River, large windows with fabulous natural light, tongue & groove vaulted ceilings, a cozy gas stove and convenient half-bath. French doors lead to the large deck to savor unobstructed views of the Collegiate Range, Buffalo Peaks and Sangre de Cristos. Watch gorgeous sunrises and sunsets on Mt. Shavano. Relax and enjoy stargazing, meteor showers, bird watching, and cool breezes. Two more bedrooms and a full bath are privately located on the upper level. Every room has a view. The oversized 2-car garage has great storage and a workbench area. Domestic well (Permit #152133-A) allows water use for ordinary household purposes, stock watering, and irrigation of up to one acre of lawn and garden. Bring the horses and livestock. Additional deeded water rights include a 20% interest in the Spaulding Ditch No 42 water right and the Spaulding Ditch Enlargement water right from Tabeguache Creek that could be used for irrigation of pasture. The county-maintained road off Hwy 285 is within 30 minutes of Monarch Ski Mountain, Buena Vista, and a dozen 14ers. Minutes to rafting and fishing in Browns Canyon National Monument and Arkansas Headwaters Rec. Area--Big Bend. Dog Friendly Salida is a mecca for art, culture, entertainment, theatre, dining, and outdoor recreation. Welcome to a nature-lovers paradise!