A secret gem tucked away in the far northwest corner of Ouray County is waking up this spring after nearly a decade of hibernation.

Elk Mountain Resort, once a private retreat for celebrities and those in elite sections of the military and or other high levels of government, was purchased last fall and the new owners are opening the place up to the public while retaining the upscale, high-end, yet rustic, feel.

The resort is located off of Dave Wood Road at about 9,300 feet in elevation adjacent t...