Crested Butte, Colorado is a hidden gem in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. Tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the big cities, Crested Butte offers a unique blend of adventure, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an action-packed adventure, Crested Butte has something for everyone. Here are the best things to do in Crested Butte.
Best Things to Do In Crested Butte, Colorado
1. Ski or Snowboard at Crested Butte Mountain Resort
Crested Butte Mountain Resort is one of the top ski resorts in Colorado, offering world-class skiing and snowboarding. With over 1,500 acres of skiable terrain, 121 trails, and 16 lifts, there’s something for every skill level. The resort also offers a variety of other winter activities, including snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and ice skating.
2. Hike or Bike the Scenic Trails
During the summer months, Crested Butte’s scenic trails come alive with hikers and bikers. The town has over 750 miles of trails, ranging from easy nature walks to challenging backcountry hikes. Some popular trails include the Lower Loop, Upper Loop, and Gothic Trail. You can also take a scenic drive along Kebler Pass, one of the most beautiful drives in Colorado.
3. Explore the Wildflower Capital of Colorado
Crested Butte is known as the Wildflower Capital of Colorado, and for good reason. During the summer months, the town is filled with vibrant wildflowers in every color of the rainbow. The Wildflower Festival, held annually in July, is a great time to explore the local flora and fauna.
4. Soak in the Natural Hot Springs
Just a short drive from Crested Butte, you’ll find several natural hot springs. The most popular are the hot springs in nearby Mount Princeton, which offer stunning mountain views and a relaxing soak in natural mineral water. You can also visit the hot springs in Ouray, known as the “Switzerland of America.”
5. Visit the Crested Butte Mountain Heritage Museum
The Crested Butte Mountain Heritage Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in the town’s rich history. The museum features exhibits on mining, skiing, and local culture, as well as a collection of artifacts and photographs from the town’s past.
6. Take a Scenic Drive
Crested Butte and the surrounding areas are filled with breathtaking vistas and scenic drives. Some popular drives include the West Elk Loop, the Million Dollar Highway, and the Alpine Loop. Each drive offers its own unique beauty, from towering peaks to rushing rivers.
7. Go Fishing
Crested Butte is a great destination for anglers, with plenty of rivers and streams teeming with fish. Some popular fishing spots include the Taylor River, East River, and Gunnison River. You can also hire a guide to take you to some of the best hidden fishing spots in the area.
8. Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride
For a truly unique experience, take a hot air balloon ride over Crested Butte. You’ll soar over the mountains and valleys, taking in the stunning scenery from a new perspective. It’s a great way to celebrate a special occasion or just enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
9. Go Horseback Riding
Experience the beauty of Crested Butte on horseback. Several local outfitters offer guided horseback rides through the mountains and valleys, giving you a chance to see wildlife and take in the scenery in a unique way.
10. Enjoy the Local Cuisine
Crested Butte’s culinary scene offers a variety of delicious options to satisfy any palate. From farm-to-table restaurants to cozy cafes, there’s something for everyone. Local favorites include The Sunflower for breakfast, The Brick Oven Pizzeria for dinner, and Secret Stash for gourmet pizzas and craft cocktails.
Best Times of Year to Visit Crested Butte, Colorado
Crested Butte, Colorado is a charming mountain town that offers year-round outdoor adventures, stunning natural scenery, and a vibrant local culture. With so much to offer, it can be difficult to decide when the best time to visit is. In this article, we’ll take a look at the different seasons in Crested Butte and help you decide when to plan your trip.
Summer (June – August)
Summer in Crested Butte is a magical time, with wildflower meadows, rushing rivers, and sunny blue skies. The town is buzzing with activity, with outdoor concerts, art festivals, and farmer’s markets. This is the best time of year to go hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and rafting. The temperatures are warm, with daytime highs in the 70s and 80s, but it can get chilly at night, so be sure to pack layers. If you’re looking for a lively atmosphere and a wide range of outdoor activities, then summer is the best time to visit Crested Butte.
Fall (September – November)
Fall in Crested Butte is a photographer’s dream, with stunning colors of gold, red, and orange as the aspens turn. This is a great time of year for hiking, biking, and scenic drives. The town is less crowded than in the summer, and the temperatures are cooler, with daytime highs in the 50s and 60s. Fall is also the time for harvest festivals, wine tastings, and craft fairs. If you’re looking for a peaceful getaway with plenty of natural beauty, then fall is the best time to visit Crested Butte.
Winter (December – February)
Winter in Crested Butte is all about skiing and snowboarding. The town is transformed into a winter wonderland, with over 1,500 acres of skiable terrain, 121 trails, and an average of 300 inches of snowfall per year. There are plenty of other winter activities as well, including snowshoeing, ice skating, and sleigh rides. The town is bustling with energy, with live music, festivals, and holiday events. The temperatures can be chilly, with daytime highs in the 20s and 30s, so be sure to pack warm clothing. If you’re a snow enthusiast, then winter is the best time to visit Crested Butte.
Spring (March – May)
Spring in Crested Butte is a time of renewal and transition. As the snow melts, the town comes back to life, with the first signs of spring appearing in the valleys and foothills. This is a great time of year for hiking, mountain biking, and exploring the town’s cultural offerings. The temperatures are mild, with daytime highs in the 40s and 50s, but it can still snow in the higher elevations, so be prepared for changing weather. Spring is also the time for wine tastings, art exhibits, and cultural events. If you’re looking for a quieter getaway with plenty of natural beauty and cultural offerings, then spring is the best time to visit Crested Butte.
The best time to visit Crested Butte depends on your preferences and interests. Summer offers a lively atmosphere and a wide range of outdoor activities, fall offers natural beauty and peaceful surroundings, winter offers world-class skiing and snowboarding, and spring offers a mix of cultural offerings and natural beauty. No matter when you visit, you’re sure to be captivated by the stunning scenery, vibrant culture, and outdoor adventures that Crested Butte has to offer.
