Discover the Tranquil Beauty of Meridian Lake
Experience the serene beauty of Meridian Lake in Crested Butte, CO, a perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of Crested Butte, Meridian Lake offers an idyllic escape for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. This stunning scenic spot is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and panoramic mountain views, making it an ideal destination for photography, hiking, and relaxation. Whether you seek adventure or tranquility, Meridian Lake is not to be missed during your visit to Colorado.
A brief summary to Meridian Lake
- Crested Butte, Colorado, 81224, US
Local tips
- Visit during early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy while soaking up the beautiful views.
- Wear comfortable shoes if you plan to hike the nearby trails.
- Check local weather conditions before your visit, as they can change quickly.
- Respect local wildlife and maintain a safe distance while observing.
Getting There
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Walking
From the center of Crested Butte, start at Elk Avenue. Head north on Elk Avenue until you reach the intersection with 6th Street. Turn left onto 6th Street and continue walking until you reach the end of the road where it intersects with Gothic Road. At Gothic Road, turn right. Continue along Gothic Road for about 1.5 miles. Look for the signs indicating the trailhead for Meridian Lake, which will be on your right. Follow the trail signs for approximately 0.5 miles until you arrive at Meridian Lake.
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Biking
Begin at the bike rental shops located along Elk Avenue in Crested Butte. Rent a bike and start heading north on Elk Avenue. When you reach the intersection with 6th Street, take a left onto 6th Street. Continue straight until it ends at Gothic Road. Turn right onto Gothic Road and bike for about 1.5 miles. Keep an eye out for the signage for the Meridian Lake trailhead on your right. Follow the trail for approximately 0.5 miles until you reach the scenic spot of Meridian Lake.
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Shuttle
Check with local shuttle services in Crested Butte that offer rides to popular hiking destinations. Some shuttles may have routes that include stops near Meridian Lake. Request to be dropped off at the Gothic Road trailhead, which is the closest access point to Meridian Lake. From the drop-off point, follow the marked trail for about 0.5 miles to reach the lake.
Discover more about Meridian Lake
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Meridian Lake
0.0 km
Experience the serene beauty of Meridian Lake in Crested Butte, CO, a perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Lower Loop Trailhead Parking
4.4 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Lower Loop Trailhead in Crested Butte, Colorado – your starting point for unforgettable outdoor adventures.
Three Ladies Park
4.5 km
Experience the charm of Three Ladies Park in Crested Butte, a serene playground surrounded by stunning Rocky Mountain views, perfect for families and nature lovers.
Pyramid Sled Hill
4.7 km
Discover the fun and excitement at Pyramid Sled Hill, a premier sledding destination in Crested Butte, Colorado, perfect for families and adventure seekers.
Elk Mountain Lodge
4.7 km
Experience the enchanting Elk Mountain Lodge in Crested Butte, Colorado, where comfort meets adventure in the heart of the Rocky Mountains.
Totem Pole Park
4.9 km
Experience the charm of Totem Pole Park in Crested Butte, a serene park featuring whimsical totem sculptures amidst lush landscapes and scenic walking trails.
Soupcon Restaurant
4.9 km
Experience the culinary artistry of Soupcon Restaurant in Crested Butte, where French cuisine meets local ingredients in an intimate setting.
Kochevar's Saloon
4.9 km
Discover the charm of Kochevar's Saloon in Crested Butte, Colorado—a historic bar offering a perfect blend of local culture, drinks, and fun.
Margaux’s (SlapBurger)
4.9 km
Discover Margaux's (SlapBurger) in Crested Butte for mouthwatering burgers, chicken wings, and a vibrant bar scene in a stunning mountain town.
Crested Butte, Colorado
4.9 km
Experience the enchanting beauty of Crested Butte, Colorado, where stunning mountain landscapes meet vibrant local culture for an unforgettable getaway.
The Eldo Brewery
4.9 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of The Eldo Brewery in Crested Butte, where craft beer meets delicious food and live music.
Mountain View Wear
4.9 km
Discover Mountain View Wear in Crested Butte, where fashion meets functionality for the perfect mountain lifestyle.
Bonez
5.0 km
Indulge in a flavorful fusion of Mexican cuisine and classic grill dishes at Bonez in Crested Butte, where every meal is a celebration of taste and community.
Montanya Distillers | Cocktail Bar
5.0 km
Experience handcrafted cocktails and local cuisine at Montanya Distillers, Crested Butte's top distillery and cocktail bar, where flavor meets mountain charm.
Public House Lofts
5.0 km
Discover comfort and modern charm at Public House Lofts in Crested Butte, your perfect gateway to adventure in the Colorado mountains.
Unmissable attractions to see
Crested Butte Mountain Resort
3.6 km
Experience the thrill of extreme terrain and stunning scenery at Crested Butte Mountain Resort, a Colorado gem with a vibrant mountain culture.
Washington Gulch
3.6 km
Explore Washington Gulch near Crested Butte: Hike scenic trails, discover wildflower meadows, and uncover the history of this Colorado gem.
Snodgrass Trailhead
3.8 km
Hike or bike through wildflower meadows with stunning mountain views at this popular Crested Butte trailhead.
Crested Butte Land Trust
4.9 km
Conserving Gunnison Valley's vistas, recreation, wildlife, and ranching heritage for future generations. Explore protected lands!
Gothic Mountain
4.9 km
Hike to the summit of Gothic Mountain for breathtaking views of Crested Butte and the surrounding Elk Mountains. A challenging climb with a rewarding panorama.
Crested Butte
4.9 km
Discover Crested Butte: Colorado's historic ski town with stunning mountain scenery, outdoor adventures, and a vibrant, welcoming community.
Crested Butte Museum
5.0 km
Discover Crested Butte's vibrant past at the Mountain Heritage Museum, exploring mining, skiing, and mountain culture in a historic setting.
The Trailhead Children's Museum
5.1 km
Inspiring young minds through play and discovery in the heart of Crested Butte, Colorado. A must-visit for families!
Crested Butte Nordic
5.2 km
Discover winter's magic at Crested Butte Nordic Center: 55km of groomed trails, rentals, lessons, and events for all ages!
Judd Falls/Copper Creek Trailhead
6.0 km
Discover Judd Falls near Crested Butte: An easy hike to a stunning waterfall with breathtaking mountain views and vibrant wildflower meadows.
Rustler Gulch
8.8 km
Discover Rustler Gulch: Hike through wildflower-filled meadows, past cascading waterfalls, and beneath towering peaks in the heart of the Colorado Rockies.
Gothic Natural Area
9.4 km
Discover Gothic Natural Area: a blend of history, science, and stunning Rocky Mountain scenery near Crested Butte, Colorado.
Brush Creek Trailhead
9.4 km
Discover stunning wildflower meadows and panoramic mountain views on this easy and accessible trail near Crested Butte, Colorado.
Cinnamon Mountain
10.8 km
Hike to panoramic views from Cinnamon Mountain, a 13,336-foot peak in the heart of Colorado's stunning San Juan Mountains.
Kebler Pass
10.9 km
Experience Colorado's stunning fall colors and breathtaking mountain scenery on Kebler Pass, a seasonal scenic byway connecting Crested Butte and Paonia.
Essential places to dine
Woodstone Grille
3.3 km
Experience local flavors at Woodstone Grille in Mt. Crested Butte - A cozy retreat offering delicious meals after your mountain adventures.
Highlife Crust & Crafts
3.4 km
Experience the best of mountain dining at Highlife Crust & Crafts with artisanal pizzas and local flavors in Crested Butte.
A Bar Above CB
3.5 km
Experience the flavors of Crested Butte at A Bar Above CB – where local ingredients meet exceptional culinary craftsmanship.
Tin Cup Ice Cream & Desserts
3.5 km
Indulge in delicious ice cream and desserts at Tin Cup Ice Cream & Desserts in beautiful Mt. Crested Butte – where every scoop tells a story.
billy barr
3.5 km
Discover Billy Barr in Crested Butte: where cocktails meet breakfast bliss in a cozy mountain setting.
Iron Horse Tap
3.5 km
Discover Iron Horse Tap: A delightful grill experience with local flavors amidst Crested Butte's stunning mountain scenery.
Crested Butte Burger Company
3.5 km
Discover mouthwatering burgers and friendly service at Crested Butte Burger Company - your ultimate stop for delicious meals in Colorado's mountain paradise.
José Crested Butte
3.5 km
Discover authentic Mexican cuisine at José Crested Butte - where every dish is crafted with passion and flavor in mind.
Butte 66
3.5 km
Experience mouthwatering grilled delights at Butte 66 in Crested Butte - where local flavors meet stunning mountain views.
Umbrella Bar
4.4 km
Experience breathtaking views and delightful grill cuisine at Umbrella Bar in Crested Butte – your perfect retreat after outdoor adventures.
Uley's Cabin
4.7 km
Discover Uley's Cabin: A rustic dining gem in Colorado serving local cuisine amidst stunning mountain views.
The Ice Bar at Uley's Cabin
4.7 km
Experience après-ski like never before at The Ice Bar at Uley's Cabin—where mountain views meet cozy vibes in Crested Butte.
Gas Cafe One Stop
4.8 km
Discover Gas Cafe One Stop in Crested Butte: A unique blend of delicious food, coffee, and convenience in one charming location.
Yukihana Sushi & Sake Bar
4.9 km
Experience the finest sushi and sake at Yukihana Sushi & Sake Bar in Crested Butte - where tradition meets innovation in every bite.
Miette
4.9 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Big Al's Bicycle Heaven
4.9 km
Discover cycling paradise at Big Al's Bicycle Heaven in Crested Butte, Colorado - your ultimate destination for bike rentals, repairs, and adventure.
Chopwood Mercantile
4.9 km
Explore the charm of Chopwood Mercantile in Crested Butte, where unique gifts and outdoor gear come together for the perfect Colorado experience.
Crested Butte Angler: Fly Fishing Guides for the Gunnison River Drainage, Fly Shop, & Outdoor Store
5.0 km
Discover the ultimate fly fishing experience at Crested Butte Angler, your go-to shop for guided trips and premium outdoor gear in Colorado.
UNIQUE WEAR
5.0 km
Explore Unique Wear in Crested Butte for a stylish selection of clothing that embodies mountain culture and fashion.
Lavish
5.0 km
Explore Lavish in Crested Butte for unique gifts that embody the spirit of Colorado's beautiful Rockies.
Vincent Cranberry’s Christmas Shoppe and Holiday Haberdashery
5.0 km
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Cottonwood Tees
5.0 km
Experience the charm of Colorado fashion at Cottonwood Tees, a family-friendly clothing store in Crested Butte offering stylish apparel for everyone.
Zacchariah Zypp & Co
5.0 km
Explore Zacchariah Zypp & Co in Crested Butte for stunning handcrafted jewelry and a unique shopping experience amidst the Rockies.
Casa Bella
5.0 km
Explore Casa Bella in Crested Butte for unique gifts, home goods, and local treasures that capture the spirit of Colorado's mountains.
Pfister's Handworks
5.0 km
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Poohs Corner Inc
5.0 km
Explore the enchanting world of toys at Pooh's Corner Inc in Crested Butte, where imagination knows no bounds and every corner is filled with delight.
Colorado Mountain Love
5.0 km
Explore Colorado Mountain Love for unique outdoor apparel and local artisan goods, capturing the essence of Crested Butte's vibrant mountain culture.
Shades of Crested Butte
5.0 km
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Mountain Tops
5.0 km
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Milky Way Boutique
5.0 km
Explore unique women's fashion at Milky Way Boutique, Crested Butte's premier destination for stylish clothing, jewelry, and lingerie.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Anthracite Spirits Company Tasting Lounge
5.0 km
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Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro Aspen Highlands
28.9 km
Discover exquisite Swiss cuisine amidst breathtaking mountain views at Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro in Aspen Highlands, a top dining destination for tourists.
Stark's Alpine Grill
32.9 km
Experience culinary excellence at Stark's Alpine Grill in Snowmass Village, where every dish offers a taste of Colorado's rich flavors amid stunning mountain views.
The Tavern Kitchen and Bar
33.0 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious comfort food at The Tavern Kitchen and Bar in scenic Snowmass Village, Colorado.
Zane's Tavern Snowmass
33.0 km
Discover Zane's Tavern in Snowmass Village, where hearty grill favorites meet a lively atmosphere in the heart of Colorado's stunning mountains.
NEST Bar & Grill
33.4 km
Discover the culinary delights of NEST Bar & Grill in Snowmass Village, where outdoor dining meets exquisite flavors in a stunning mountain backdrop.
Mountain Social Bar & Lounge
34.3 km
Discover the perfect blend of relaxation and culinary delights at Mountain Social Bar & Lounge in Aspen, Colorado's alpine paradise.
Shadow Mountain Lounge
34.3 km
Discover the upscale ambiance and exquisite drinks at Shadow Mountain Lounge, a must-visit bar in the heart of Aspen, Colorado.
The Wine Bar
34.4 km
Experience the best of wine and culinary delights at The Wine Bar, a cozy gem in Aspen, Colorado, perfect for your next dining adventure.
39 Degrees Lounge
34.4 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere at 39 Degrees Lounge in Aspen, where expertly crafted cocktails meet delicious bites in a cozy setting.
Ponyboy Aspen
34.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Aspen at Ponyboy, a cocktail bar with a creative drink selection and a lively atmosphere.
Silver City Aspen
34.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Aspen at Silver City Aspen, a lively bar with live music and sports for unforgettable evenings.
The Sterling Aspen
34.6 km
Discover nightlife at The Sterling Aspen, where exquisite cocktails and vibrant events create unforgettable evenings in the heart of Colorado.
Hooch Craft Cocktail Bar
34.6 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Aspen at Hooch Craft Cocktail Bar, where handcrafted cocktails and a cozy atmosphere await.
Caribou Club
34.7 km
Experience the elegance of Caribou Club in Aspen, where fine dining meets vibrant nightlife in a sophisticated atmosphere.
