The 25 Best Things to Do in Crested Butte, CO
👉 Jump To: Crested Butte in Winter | Year-Round | Food & Drink | Best Things
I’m a Colorado local and in this guide, I share my picks for the best things to do in Crested Butte! I’ve visited this mountain town in both summer and winter, which offer vastly different experiences. But there’s plenty of activities to enjoy, regardless of when you visit.
Discover outdoor recreation, scenic drives, fascinating history, and more. Also, be sure to bookmark my article on where to stay in Crested Butte. You’ll want at least a weekend to explore this off-the-beaten-path destination!
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Things to Do in Crested Butte in Winter
Crested Butte Mountain Resort
Hit the slopes in “the last great Colorado ski town” — or mountain bike miles of singletrack in the summer.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (970) 251-7022 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 4 pm daily (winter); 9 am – 5 pm (summer) | Lift Ticket Cost: Varies by date
Crested Butte Mountain Resort has more than 1,500 skiable acres and groomed trails for all skill levels. Though, the majority are best suited for advanced skiers and riders. I’ve been to a dozen ski resorts in Colorado and none have been as steep as Crested Butte! Ski the double black runs off the two upper mountain T-bars if you’re up for a serious challenge.
Two terrain parks and uphill access routes add even greater variety. Private and group lessons are also available on-site, as are gear rentals. For the most convenience, book one of several ski-in, ski-out lodges. I recently stayed at Grand Lodge Crested Butte and loved its easy access to the slopes.
Come summer, Crested Butte Mountain Resort offers lift-serviced mountain bike terrain. Explore 30+ miles of singletrack, with many trails dedicated solely to cyclists. Families will also want to check out the Adventure Park’s bungee jump trampoline, gem panning, and more.
Crested Butte Nordic Center
Experience the “nordic ski capital of Colorado”.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (970) 349-1707 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 4 pm daily | Trail Pass: $25 adults, $10 children under 17, $16 seniors ages 65-69, free 70+ | 👉 Browse Ski Gear on REI
In addition to the “last great ski town” and “wildflower capital,” Crested Butte claims one more grand title: the nordic ski capital of Colorado. This is due to the Crested Butte Nordic Center, a premier Nordic skiing destination with more than 30 miles of groomed trails.
Ski equipment rentals, lessons, and backcountry tours are available on-site. After a day of shuffling through snow, enjoy a five-course dinner with a view at the Magic Meadows Yurt. The cozy, heated space can seat up to 40. Note that reservations are required.
Fat Biking
Cycle across groomed trails in the Gunnison Valley.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (970) 349-1707 | Website | Entrance: free | 👉 Browse Cycling Gear on REI
In addition to skiing, the Crested Butte Nordic Center allows you to experience fat biking. Get your fat bike rental from The Alpineer, then explore the center’s 6 miles of groomed, beginner-friendly trails. You’ll find these at Town Ranch, the Recreation Path, Riverbend Connector, and Teocalli Connector.
The Crested Butte Mountain Bike Association also grooms trails throughout the Gunnison Valley. These include Gothic Road, Cement Creek Road, Snodgrass Mountain, and The Club at Crested Butte. The best part? Accessing both organizations’ trails is completely free!
Things to Do Year-Round
Downtown Crested Butte
Pop into art galleries, boutiques, bookshops, and breweries.
📍 Google Maps | Website | 👉 Browse Crested Butte Hotels on Booking.com
A stroll down Elk Avenue is a must when visiting Crested Butte. Charming shops and local eateries lie within colorful, historic buildings. Several art galleries are also found on Elk Avenue, all of which are part of the Crested Butte Creative District.
You’ll also find the National Historic District on this downtown strip, a distinction received in 1974. As you wander, take in the Victorian architecture that reflects the mining town’s past.
Gothic
Explore a former mining town, now inhabited by a scientific community.
Twenty minutes north of Crested Butte lies the famous ghost town of Gothic. During the mining boom of the late 1800s, the town had an estimated thousand residents, plus 200 buildings. Today, several of the original structures remain.
Technically, Gothic is accessible year-round. However, the dirt road is closed to vehicle traffic during the winter months. Plan to cross-country ski, fat bike, or snowshoe in when it’s snowy.
In Gothic, you’ll also find the Rocky Mountain Biological Lab. Every summer, the research center draws field biologists and students from around the country. These scientists study historical data and evolutionary processes found in the local ecosystems. Starting in June, the lab’s visitor center is open to the public.
Book a Bed & Breakfast
Stay in a renovated, historic suite while on your ski getaway.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (970) 251 8271 | Website | 👉 Book Purple Mountain Bed and Breakfast
What could be more charming than a bed and breakfast stay in a scenic mountain town? In this Coloradoan’s book, nothing competes.
You’ll find several local B&Bs in Crested Butte including Purple Mountain Bed and Breakfast. This adults-only stay is set within the previous Big Mine mining office. Now renovated, it features six comfortable rooms, an outdoor hot tub, a hot chocolate bar, and daily craft beer tastings.
See my full guide for more accommodations in downtown Crested Butte.
Crested Butte Museum
Examine artifacts that share local history and town pride.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (970) 349-1880 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 6 pm daily | Entrance: free under
The Crested Butte Museum is located along Elk Avenue and set within the town’s old general store. Artifacts lie within cases and along the walls, depicting all that made Crested Butte the place it is today. Mining history and Wild West days are discussed, as are the mountain bike and ski industries.
The town’s long-time residents are highlighted, too, pictured in a series of black and white portraits. The charming, miniature display of Crested Butte also exemplifies the town’s pride.
Center for the Arts Crested Butte
Attend a variety of events at this visual and performing arts venue.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (970) 349-7487 | Website | Entrance: Varies by event
The Center for the Arts Crested Butte is a visual and performing arts venue that hosts events year-round. These range from film screenings and concerts to writing workshops and knitting circles. There are also “watercolor and wine” nights, as well as “drawing and drinks” sessions — because who can say no to a cocktail and a bit of culture?
West Elk Loop
Drive along the Elk Mountains, stopping in mountain towns and scenic parks.
📍 Google Maps | 👉 Browse Rental Vehicles
The West Elk Loop Scenic and Historic Byway run along the Elk Mountain range, forming a lasso-shaped route that connects several Colorado mountain towns.
Farthest north, you’ll find Carbondale, followed by Paonia, Gunnison, and Crested Butte when heading clockwise. The byway also passes through the Black Canyon of the Gunnison, Curecanti National Recreation Area, and two of Colorado’s best state parks.
👉 Love road trips? Check out my 10-day Colorado itinerary!
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
Marvel at the sky above and the dramatic landscape below.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (970) 641-2337 | Website | Entrance: $30 7-Day Vehicle Pass | 👉 Buy an Annual National Parks Pass
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park makes for a great day trip from Crested Butte. It’s located roughly two hours from the mountain town and is one of the best national parks in Colorado.
The park is famed for its steep, deep, and narrow canyon. Note that recreational activities below the canyon rim, such as rock climbing and hiking, require a backcountry permit. I don’t recommend inner canyon recreation unless you’re extremely well versed in outdoor safety. It’s an incredible adventure but there’s plenty to do along the rim, too!
Take the South Rim drive and stop at several scenic overlooks. I also recommend a drive around the less popular North Rim, where I saw hardly a soul on my trip this past July. Regardless, the views from either end are stunning.
👉 Don’t miss: Stop at Curecanti National Recreation Area for even more outdoor fun on your way to the national park. It’s a prime spot for fishing and hiking!
Food & Drink
The Secret Stash
Party with the locals at this lively pizzeria.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (970) 349-6245 | Website | Hours: 11 am – 9 pm daily
Craving a beer and a slice? Head to The Secret Stash, an Elk Avenue mainstay and local favorite. Expect a lively atmosphere and robust menu featuring boozy beverages, pizza, pasta, wings, and more.
True fans opt for the “Booty & Bling” order: a 16” pie piled high with meat and cheese, plus a bottle of Cristal and a 420 bling hat. Yes, this spot is a vibe — and you’re going to love it.
Camp 4 Coffee
Pick up a pastry and cup of joe from either cozy location.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (970) 349-5258 | Website | Hours: 6:30 am – 5:30 pm daily
Start your day’s adventures with a visit to Camp 4 Coffee. This local cafe has two locations, one in the more-so residential Crested Butte South and another off downtown’s Elk Avenue.
The southern location has a small indoor seating area, complete with stocked bookshelves. The Elk Avenue shop offers grab-and-go service; though, it’s lovely to hang out on the patio. Be sure to order its housemade baked goods, which are just as popular as its coffee.
Farmers Market
Sample local flavors and shop for artisan goods.
📍 Google Maps | Website | Hours: 9 am – 2 pm Sunday (Seasonal, May 25 – October 5, 2025)
The Crested Butte farmers market pops up on Elk Avenue from late May to early October. Stop by on Sundays to sample goods from local farmers and artisans. Vendors include Buckel Family Wine, Ellen’s Pickled Products, and Bees Company jams and preserves.
Businesses from Paonia, the agricultural neighbor of Crested Butte, add to the market selection. Stop by booths from Mountain Oven Bakery, Big B’s/Delicious Orchards, and more.
Best Things to Do in Crested Butte in Summer
Snodgrass Trail
Hike this seasonal trail for summer wildflowers and autumn colors.
Not to be confused with Snodgrass Mountain, Snodgrass Trail is 7.2 miles in length and gains just over 800 feet in elevation. Its long, winding descents make it a popular pick among mountain bikers, too.
Please adhere to seasonal trail closures, as the path is only accessible from late spring through fall. These seasons are the best times to visit regardless, as you’ll hike past wildflower meadows and dense aspen forests.
Walrod Loop
Be amazed by the blankets of wildflowers.
The Walrod Loop Trail is a moderate 4.5-mile route that gains 1,020 feet in elevation. It’s one of the best wildflower hikes in Crested Butte, drawing crowds during the Crested Butte Wildflower Festival. Bright fields of flowers and mountain views make for spectacular photos. Caves and a creekside descent add to the scenery.
Crested Butte Wildflower Festival
Hike countless trails in “Colorado’s Wildflower Capital.”
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (970) 349-3435 | Website | Dates: July 10-19, 2026 | Entrance: Varies by activity
Dubbed “Colorado’s Wildflower Capital,” Crested Butte is one of the state’s most popular destinations in mid- to late summer. Every July, the town hosts a 10-day Wildflower Festival that features guided hikes, plus various workshops and art classes. Learn firsthand about the region’s botany, birding, geology, and more at this beloved community event.
Mountain Biking
Cycle singletrack in the town that birthed the sport.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (970) 251-9169 | Website | Hours: 12 pm – 6 pm daily (summer); 12 pm – 6 pm Tue – Sat, closed Sun – Tues (winter) | Rental Cost: Varies by model, starting at $30 | 👉 Browse Cycling Gear on REI
Crested Butte is considered by many as one of the birthplaces of mountain biking. Since the ‘70s, mountain bikers have been riding the area’s singletrack. Some of these early enthusiasts came together to form the Crested Butte Mountain Bike Association. It’s now the world’s oldest mountain bike club.
Today, fans of the sports dream of riding in Crested Butte, home to 750 miles of biking trails. New and seasoned riders will find plenty of scenic places to explore, from Crested Butte Mountain Resort to Doctor Park and beyond. Head to Handlebar Bike & Board for route recommendations, as well as bike rentals.
Paddleboarding
Float along peaceful shores just outside of town.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (970) 309-1491 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 6 pm daily | Rental Cost: Varies by length, starting at $47 for 4 hours
Paddleboarding is one of the best Crested Butte summer activities, and Meridian Lake is a prime location. Collect your equipment rentals in town, then reach this beautiful lake via a 10-minute drive and a half-mile hike. Though short, the trail is steep with a sizable elevation gain of 280 feet.
Once there, you’ll be treated to peaceful scenery and an afternoon of fun. Pack a picnic, take a cool dip, and grab hold of the rope swing for a splashy thrill. Aside from Meridian Lake, other nearby paddle destinations include the Slate River, Emerald Lake, and Lake Irwin.
Schofield Pass
Travel to Marble via an infamous, yet scenic mountain pass.
Schofield Pass joins Marble and Crested Butte — and is known as the most deadly pass in Colorado. But don’t let that deter you from visiting! This warning is directed at off-road vehicle drivers (who should be highly experienced if attempting this route).
Those less accustomed to backcountry terrain should consider biking or hiking the 14-mile pass. Backpackers are welcome, too, as dispersed campsites are available throughout. The difficult trail rewards visitors with stunning views of Emerald Lake, Devils Punch Bowl, and the iconic Crystal Mill.
West Maroon Pass
Trek to Aspen, a famed Colorado destination with plenty to do.
📍 Google Maps | 👉 Browse Hiking Gear on REI
West Maroon Pass is a popular summer backpacking route that connects Aspen to Crested Butte. The strenuous 8-mile trail gains 2,165 feet in elevation, passing through wildflower fields and aspen groves. Views of the Colorado Rockies amaze and you’ll likely spot wildlife, too.
The trail is best accessed from June through October. Enjoy some of the fun things to do in Aspen before venturing back to the trail. Hands down, it’s one of the top hikes in Colorado.
Fantasy Ranch
Take a scenic horseback ride on Snodgrass Mountain.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (970) 349-5425 | Website | Hours: 8 am – 8 pm Mon – Sat, Closed Sun | Entrance: $115 per person
In the summer, Fantasy Ranch hosts one to two-hour horseback rides on Snodgrass Mountain. Take in river and valley views while keeping an eye out for local wildlife. Often, visitors will see elk, mule deer, bighorn sheep, and bald eagles on their ride.
🧳 Need packing tips? See my Colorado packing list for a local’s recommendations.
Crested Butte Adventure Park
Work out kids’ energy at this thrilling summer attraction.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (970) 251-7022 | Website | Hours: Seasonal, 10 am – 4:30 pm (6:30pm on twilight nights) | Entrance: $50 adults and children 5+, $28 under 5
Crested Butte Adventure Park is one of the best summer activities at Crested Butte Mountain Resort. Children will love these attractions, which include a bungee jump trampoline and a rock climbing wall. There’s also Tin Cup Mining Co., an interactive gem panning experience. Unlimited play is accessible with a full-day ticket.
Kebler Pass
Take a scenic drive to Colorado wine country.
Kebler Pass is a portion of the West Elk Loop Scenic and Historic Byway. It connects Crested Butte with Paonia, a mountain town known for its agriculture and culinary scene. Several wineries and farm-to-table restaurants draw summer visitors to the destination. If you visit, I especially recommend stops at Qutori Winery and Black Bridge Winery.
The scenic drive is generally accessible from May to November and is a popular leaf-peeping spot in the autumn months. Note that it’s largely a packed dirt road; though, 4WD is not required. Several primitive campsites are found along Kebler Pass, perfect for pitching a tent or parking a camper van.
Our Outdoorsy van rental made this one of the best Colorado road trips!
📚 Related Reading: Outdoorsy Review (My Honest Experience Renting an RV)
Fishing
Cast a line into alpine lakes and Gold Medal waters.
Crested Butte features several stocked rivers and reservoirs, plus some of the best fishing lakes in Colorado. A few of locals’ favorite places to cast a line include the Taylor River, Blue Mesa Reservoir, and Peanut Lake.
The nearby Gunnison River is an especially lucky fishing spot, known for the United States’ largest Kokanee salmon. The migration occurs every September; though, you can enjoy the river’s Gold Medal waters year-round.
This title is designated to places that produce 60 pounds of trout per acre. And, at least a dozen trout must measure fourteen inches or greater — enough to feed a family!
Judd Falls Trail
Venture to a scenic waterfall on this short, but steep hike.
Judd Falls Trail is just 2.2 miles in length, but gains a sizable 462 feet in elevation. It takes hikers past pines and aspens, leading to a lovely waterfall and mountain overlooks. Local herds of cows and the occasional hiker will keep you company on the summer trail.
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Thanks for reading! Leave me a comment if you need more help planning your trip to Crested Butte. And for more travel inspiration, see our list of can’t-miss Colorado destinations.
