Situated north of Gunnison in the Elk Mountains of southwestern Colorado, the small mountain escape of Crested Butte sits amidst ski runs, cattle ranches, and dense wilderness. This iconic mountain town is renowned for its rustic laid-back atmosphere, wild spirit, awe-inspiring landscapes, and challenging ski runs. The outstanding beauty of the area is only surpassed by the genuine, down-to-earth atmosphere of the Crested Butte community.
All-season outdoor recreation drives the unique local culture in Crested Butte. During the winter months, Crested Butte Mountain Resort provides exceptional skiing and snowboarding. Avid skiers will surely appreciate that Forbes has named Crested Butte one of the Best 6 Ski Resorts in Colorado. Though the area’s extreme ski terrain is home to some of the steepest and most technical runs in the state, this still leaves about 15% of the mountain for beginners.
When the snow melts, the area transforms into a premier destination for mountain biking and hiking. Hundreds of miles of singletrack trails wind through vibrant wildflower meadows, earning the town its official title as the Wildflower Capital of Colorado.
While Crested Butte sits in a more secluded setting than many of the more upscale ski resorts in Colorado, that is precisely part of its charm. The rugged characteristics of the area have earned it the moniker as “Colorado’s Last Great Ski Town.” Sitting at an elevation of 8,885 feet, and located about 4 to 5 hours from the urban sprawl of Denver, Crested Butte remains highly accessible to travelers seeking fresh mountain air in a laid-back setting.
As with many of Colorado’s mountain towns, history buffs can appreciate the rich heritage of this former silver supply camp and coal mining town. Established in 1878, the settlement originally supplied coal to power silver mining camps across the state. Today, the downtown area retains much of its original Victorian architecture. The Crested Butte Nationally Registered Historic District features beautifully preserved 19th-century storefronts that now house local boutiques, craft restaurants, and art galleries.
Come discover Crested Butte’s outstanding summers - at the peak of wildflower season - or its adrenaline filled winter offerings. This is the perfect destination for an off-the-beaten-path Rocky Mountain adventure.
