Total Days: 3 days | Accommodations: Airbnb | Traveled with: Friends | Transportation: Car though there is shuttle service | Type of Trip: Outdoor adventure and mountain exploration | Highlights: Hiking, biking, scenic beauty
Welcome to Crested Butte, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of the Colorado Rockies. If you are going to make the journey here, it’s to embrace the stunning alpine landscapes and trails, and a vibrant mountain town filled with charm and adventure.
DAY 1
Arrive in Crested Butte and check into your accommodation. Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Butte Bagels in the town center, fueling up for the adventures ahead.
Tip: the most popular spots will have long lines during peak hours so go early or wait until after the morning rush.
There are over 300 miles of hiking trails in Crested Butte, ranging from easy to challenging. Some of the most popular hikes include the Rustler Gulch Trail, the Kebler Pass Trail and the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness. Lace up your hiking boots and head to the trailhead for a scenic hike in the surrounding wilderness. Crisp mountain air and breathtaking vistas await!
Return to Crested Butte and indulge in a well-deserved dinner at Secret Stash, known for its pizza – both typical and bold. End your evening with ice cream at Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory and a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Crested Butte, admiring the town’s colorful Victorian architecture.
DAY 2
It’s an early morning wake-up today, but breakfast is motivation. You’re heading to the Gas Cafe within the Exonn Gas Station for the best breakfast sandwiches in town.
Then gear up for a thrilling day of mountain biking. Crested Butte is renowned as a mountain biking mecca, offering a wide range of trails for all skill levels. Rent a bike from one of the local outfitters and hit the trails, exploring the breathtaking alpine landscapes. Consider riding the iconic Lower Loop Trail or the Snodgrass Trail.
In the afternoon, have a picnic lunch at the Slate River Reservoir, a scenic spot with stunning views of the surrounding mountains amidst the natural beauty of Crested Butte.
Enjoy an après-bike beer at the Irwin Brewing, a local favorite. After heading back to your accommodation to freshen up, seek out dinner at the Elk Avenue Prime, a fine-dining establishment with a focus on seasonal ingredients.
DAY 3
For breakfast today, try McGill’s for diner-style pancakes and eggs. Then, embark on a white water rafting adventure on the nearby rivers. Join a guided tour and navigate the exhilarating rapids, surrounded by awe-inspiring natural beauty.
For lunch, try tacos at Mexican hot spot, Bonez. Then stop at Scout’s General, Zacchariah Zypp or Paragon Art Gallery for one-of-a-kind gifts or souvenirs to bring home with you.
There are several picturesque drives in the area, including the Kebler Pass Scenic Byway and the Million Dollar Highway. On the way out of town, take the scenic route with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
