A woman known as the “Yurt Lady” has been living in a yurt at 9,300 feet elevation in rural Colorado for several years. Her property sits on 10 acres adjacent to a national forest, where she documents her experience transitioning from conventional housing to yurt living.
Design Details
- Location: Rural Colorado, 9,300 feet elevation
- Property: 10 acres adjacent to national forest
- Current Yurt: 16′ diameter (trial size)
- Planned Yurt: 30′ diameter (under construction)
- Background: Transitioned from oversized conventional home
Yurt Construction in Progress
High-Altitude Yurt Living Considerations
Living in a yurt at 9,300 feet presents unique challenges including extreme cold, heavy snow loads, high winds, and limited access during winter months. The Yurt Lady’s blog covers practical topics including:
- Staying warm in extreme temperatures
- Insulation strategies for yurts
- Construction timelines and building department approval
- Window and door considerations
- Dealing with high winds at elevation
Starting Small Before Scaling Up
The approach of living in a smaller 16-foot yurt before constructing a larger 30-foot permanent yurt allows for learning the realities of yurt living before committing to a larger structure. This trial period reveals what works and what needs adjustment.
Lessons from High-Altitude Yurt Living
- Start Small to Learn: A trial yurt reveals the realities of this lifestyle before building a permanent structure
- Elevation Creates Challenges: 9,300 feet brings extreme weather requiring robust heating and insulation solutions
- Building Department Familiarity Varies: Unique dwellings may require educating local officials about yurt construction
- Adjacent Public Land Adds Value: National forest access expands usable outdoor space beyond property boundaries
- Downsizing Motivation Matters: Frustration with maintaining oversized homes often drives the move to simple living
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Alex
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