If you know me well you know that I have a major soft spot in my heart for the quaint little mountain town of Crested Butte. I have visited Crested Butte several times now and have absolutely fallen in love with the small-town feel, down to earth people and obviously the views. Crested Butte is known for its immaculate wildflowers, top-notch ski hills, and can’t-miss fall colors. So if you’re looking to visit this iconic Colorado mountain town, this guide will point you in all the right directions to make the most of your trip. 

GETTING THERE

Crested Butte is a 4.5 hour drive from Denver. While the drive time is longer, it tends to be less trafficked than the front range mountain towns which is overall a large positive! If you’re flying, you can opt to fly into the Gunnison- Crested Butte Regional Airport. If you plan on visiting during winter months, do take snowy conditions into consideration for travel time/safety. 

LODGING

Old Town Inn – located right in the heart of the town of Crested Butte! They are locally owned + operated, extremely eco-friendly with their products and practices AND pet-friendly (which is a big deal for me). You can walk everywhere you need to go in town, or use their complimentary bikes to get around They also offer complimentary breakfast.

Grand Lodge Crested Butte – located on the mountain, you have ski-in-ski-out access to the slopes! So if you’re looking to ski/snowboard on your trip to Crested Butte, this is a great option for you! You can also enjoy their onsite restaurant and indoor/outdoor pool. 

Purple Mountain Bed + Breakfast – located within walking distance to the town of Crested Butte, this quaint B&B is the perfect option for anyone wanting to enjoy what the town of CB has to offer. Enjoy complimentary breakfasts, free airport shuttles, and a hot tub. This spot is also pet friendly. 

CAMPING

Oh Be Joyful Campground

Mt. Crested Butte Campground

Lake Irwin Campground

COFFE/BREAKFAST

• Camp 4 Coffee
• Butte Bagels (try their classic latke)
• Octopus Coffee
• Daily Dose

LUNCH/DINNER

• Bonez (tacos/margs)
• Montanya Distillery (get the loaded sweet potato fries!!!!!!!!!)
• Secret Stash (pizza), 
• Django’s (nicer meal/dessert)

DRINKS

• Montanya Distillery for the yummiest tropical bevs
• Dogwood for classy cocktails
• Kochevar’s Saloon, Talk of the Town or Eldo for dive bars with games

HIKING TRAILS

1. Woods Walk
2. Lost Lake
3. Emerald lake
4. Crested Butte Mountain
5. Oh Be Joyful Creek
6. West Maroon Pass
7. Judd Falls
8. Lower Loop Trail

OTHER ACTIVITIES

• Crested Butte Mountain to ski, board or check out the resort
• Nordic center for nordic skiing or snowshoe rentals
• Mountain biking
• Crested Butte Food + Wine Festival (July 20th 2022)
• Fishing
• Snowmobiling
• Leaf peeping in the fall (September- early October for best colors)
• Rent road bikes
• SUP on Emerald Lake or Lake Irwin

TIPS

1. Be aware of “off-season” between end of summer and ski season. Many places will be closed and the town is very slow. 
2. Check this calendar for more year-round events in Crested Butte.
3. If you visit during the summer, go in peek wildflower season (July through early August).
4. If you visit during the winter, you may want an all-wheel or 4-wheel drive vehicle for navigating the snow.
5. Prep your hiking legs! Start with a FREE week of my Fit for Hiking program. 

Is Crested Butte on your list of mountain towns to visit? If so, let me know if this guide has been helpful for you! 

Happy Trails,

Bradee