Crested Butte: The Last Great Colorado Ski Town
Discover Crested Butte: A historic Colorado mountain town with world-class skiing, mountain biking, and stunning wildflower displays.
Crested Butte, a former coal mining town nestled in the Elk Mountains, is now a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Known for its preserved historic buildings, wildflower displays, and extreme terrain, it offers a unique blend of history and adventure.
A brief summary to Crested Butte
- Colorado, US
Local tips
- Visit during the Wildflower Festival in July to experience Crested Butte's stunning floral displays.
- Take advantage of the free Mountain Express shuttle to get around town and to the ski resort.
- Explore the town's historic buildings and learn about its mining past at the Crested Butte Mountain Heritage Museum.
- Check parking regulations, especially during winter, as overnight parking is restricted in certain areas.
Getting There
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Walking
Crested Butte is a compact and walkable town. From most lodging in the downtown area, you can easily reach Elk Avenue, the main street, within a few minutes on foot. The town is relatively flat, making it easy to explore the shops, restaurants, and historic buildings. Be mindful of pedestrian crossings and traffic.
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Public Transport
The Mountain Express provides free bus service between Crested Butte and Mt. Crested Butte. Several routes serve different areas of town and the ski resort. The main transit hub in Crested Butte is at the 4-Way Stop on Elk Avenue. Check the Mountain Express website or app for schedules and real-time tracking. The Gunnison Valley RTA also provides free bus service from Crested Butte to Gunnison, with stops in between. This is useful if you are arriving from or heading to the Gunnison-Crested Butte Airport (GUC).
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Parking
Parking in Crested Butte can be limited, especially during peak seasons. Free 2-hour parking is available throughout downtown, and free long-term parking is available in public parking lots. However, overnight parking is restricted in certain areas from 2:00 AM to 8:00 AM. Be sure to check parking regulations before leaving your vehicle, especially during winter. Visit parkcrestedbutte.com for up-to-date information and parking maps. During the winter, paid parking is available at Crested Butte Mountain Resort for around $15 per day, $25 overnight.
Discover more about Crested Butte
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Pyramid Sled Hill
3.2 km
Discover the fun and excitement at Pyramid Sled Hill, a premier sledding destination in Crested Butte, Colorado, perfect for families and adventure seekers.
Purple Mountain Bed and Breakfast
3.3 km
Discover the charming Purple Mountain Bed and Breakfast in Crested Butte, where cozy accommodations meet stunning mountain views for the perfect getaway.
Columbine Condominiums
3.3 km
Experience the perfect blend of comfort and adventure at Columbine Condominiums in scenic Crested Butte, Colorado.
Crested Butte Wildflower Festival
3.4 km
Discover the breathtaking Crested Butte Wildflower Festival, where nature's beauty blossoms every summer in the heart of Colorado's majestic mountains.
Crested Butte Depot
3.4 km
Discover the Crested Butte Depot, a historic convention center nestled in the Rockies, where community spirit meets breathtaking alpine beauty.
Cristiana Guesthaus
3.5 km
Discover the charm of Cristiana Guesthaus in Crested Butte, a cozy lodge surrounded by stunning mountain landscapes and abundant outdoor adventures.
Crested Butte/Mt. Crested Butte Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Center
3.6 km
Explore Crested Butte like a local! Visit the Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Center for expert tips and resources to enhance your mountain experience.
Sherpa Cafe
3.6 km
Discover the flavors of Nepal and India at Sherpa Cafe, a cozy culinary retreat in Crested Butte, perfect for tourists seeking authentic Himalayan cuisine.
Center for the Arts Crested Butte
3.7 km
Explore the vibrant arts scene at the Center for the Arts in Crested Butte, where creativity, culture, and community come alive.
Calico Queen Tattoo
3.7 km
Discover your next tattoo masterpiece at Calico Queen Tattoo in Crested Butte, Colorado, where artistry meets personal expression in a welcoming atmosphere.
Old Town Inn
3.7 km
Discover the charm of Old Town Inn in Crested Butte, where cozy comfort meets stunning mountain adventures in the heart of Colorado.
Vaquera House
3.8 km
Experience the perfect blend of comfort and adventure at Vaquera House, your cozy retreat nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of Crested Butte, Colorado.
Crested Butte Collection - Kiley Flint
3.8 km
Explore Crested Butte with Kiley Flint - Your guide to finding the perfect mountain retreat in Colorado's stunning wilderness.
Camp 4 Coffee
3.8 km
Experience the best local brews and a cozy atmosphere at Camp 4 Coffee in Crested Butte, Colorado, where every cup tells a story.
Baldy’s Artful Sandwitchery
3.8 km
Discover the unique flavors of Baldy's Artful Sandwitchery, a top sandwich shop in Crested Butte, Colorado, known for its creative and delicious sandwiches.
Unmissable attractions to see
Crested Butte Mountain Resort
2.6 km
Discover Crested Butte Mountain Resort, where stunning alpine views meet thrilling winter sports and cozy lodgings for the ultimate getaway.
Brush Creek Trailhead
3.3 km
Discover stunning wildflower meadows and panoramic mountain views on this easy and accessible trail near Crested Butte, Colorado.
The Trailhead Children's Museum
3.7 km
Inspiring young minds through play and discovery in the heart of Crested Butte, Colorado. A must-visit for families!
Crested Butte Museum
3.8 km
Experience the rich history of Crested Butte, Colorado, at the Crested Butte Museum, where the past comes alive through captivating exhibits and local stories.
Crested Butte Land Trust
4.0 km
Conserving Gunnison Valley's vistas, recreation, wildlife, and ranching heritage for future generations. Explore protected lands!
Crested Butte Nordic
4.2 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and exhilarating winter sports at Crested Butte Nordic, Colorado's ultimate ski resort and ice skating destination.
Snodgrass Trailhead
4.3 km
Hike or bike through wildflower meadows with stunning mountain views at this popular Crested Butte trailhead.
Snodgrass Mountain
6.9 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Snodgrass Mountain in Colorado, a paradise for hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Washington Gulch
9.4 km
Explore the stunning landscapes of Washington Gulch, a premier hiking area in Crested Butte, where nature and tranquility come together in perfect harmony.
Gothic Mountain
10.0 km
Discover Gothic Mountain in Colorado, a breathtaking peak known for its stunning views, rich biodiversity, and outdoor adventures.
Judd Falls/Copper Creek Trailhead
10.2 km
Discover Judd Falls near Crested Butte: An easy hike to a stunning waterfall with breathtaking mountain views and vibrant wildflower meadows.
Rustler Gulch
13.2 km
Explore Rustler Gulch, a breathtaking ravine in Colorado renowned for its stunning trails, vibrant wildlife, and serene natural beauty.
Kebler Pass
14.1 km
Experience the stunning natural beauty of Kebler Pass in Colorado, renowned for its vibrant fall colors and breathtaking mountain views.
Gothic Natural Area
14.4 km
Discover Gothic Natural Area: a blend of history, science, and stunning Rocky Mountain scenery near Crested Butte, Colorado.
Pearl Pass
14.9 km
Experience the rugged beauty and thrilling adventure of Pearl Pass, a scenic mountain pass in Colorado that captivates nature lovers and adventurers.
Essential places to dine
The Ice Bar at Uley's Cabin
1.7 km
Experience après-ski like never before at The Ice Bar at Uley's Cabin—where mountain views meet cozy vibes in Crested Butte.
Uley's Cabin
1.7 km
Discover Uley's Cabin: A rustic dining gem in Colorado serving local cuisine amidst stunning mountain views.
The Club at Crested Butte
2.3 km
Experience exquisite dining and outdoor adventures at The Club at Crested Butte - where culinary excellence meets breathtaking scenery.
Paradise Warming House
2.3 km
Discover delightful cuisine and cozy ambiance at Paradise Warming House in Crested Butte – your culinary retreat amid stunning Colorado scenery.
Iron Horse Tap
2.6 km
Discover Iron Horse Tap: A delightful grill experience with local flavors amidst Crested Butte's stunning mountain scenery.
José Crested Butte
2.6 km
Discover authentic Mexican cuisine at José Crested Butte - where every dish is crafted with passion and flavor in mind.
Butte 66
2.6 km
Experience mouthwatering grilled delights at Butte 66 in Crested Butte - where local flavors meet stunning mountain views.
billy barr
2.7 km
Discover Billy Barr in Crested Butte: where cocktails meet breakfast bliss in a cozy mountain setting.
Crested Butte Burger Company
2.7 km
Discover mouthwatering burgers and friendly service at Crested Butte Burger Company - your ultimate stop for delicious meals in Colorado's mountain paradise.
A Bar Above CB
2.7 km
Experience the flavors of Crested Butte at A Bar Above CB – where local ingredients meet exceptional culinary craftsmanship.
Tin Cup Ice Cream & Desserts
2.7 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.
Umbrella Bar
2.8 km
Experience breathtaking views and delightful grill cuisine at Umbrella Bar in Crested Butte – your perfect retreat after outdoor adventures.
Highlife Crust & Crafts
2.8 km
Experience the best of mountain dining at Highlife Crust & Crafts with artisanal pizzas and local flavors in Crested Butte.
Woodstone Grille
2.9 km
Experience local flavors at Woodstone Grille in Mt. Crested Butte - A cozy retreat offering delicious meals after your mountain adventures.
Gas Cafe One Stop
3.4 km
Discover Gas Cafe One Stop in Crested Butte: A unique blend of delicious food, coffee, and convenience in one charming location.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
the yarn studio
3.4 km
Discover your creative side at The Yarn Studio in Crested Butte, Colorado, where vibrant yarns and crafting community come together.
Scout's General Store
3.6 km
Explore the unique offerings of Scout's General Store in Crested Butte, a perfect blend of gifts, clothing, and cozy coffee moments.
Resilient Threads
3.7 km
Explore Resilient Threads in Crested Butte for unique, eco-friendly fashion that tells a story and supports sustainable living.
The Alpineer
3.7 km
Explore Crested Butte with The Alpineer - your trusted bicycle rental and outdoor equipment shop for unforgettable adventures.
Retail Therapy
3.7 km
Discover unique fashion treasures at Retail Therapy in Crested Butte, blending style with the essence of Colorado's mountain life.
Rooted Apothecary
3.7 km
Discover natural wellness at Rooted Apothecary in Crested Butte, where herbal remedies and holistic products create a unique shopping experience.
Mountain Tails
3.7 km
Discover Mountain Tails, the ultimate pet supply store in Crested Butte, Colorado, where quality products meet friendly service for your furry friends.
Crested Butte Ace Hardware
3.7 km
Explore Crested Butte Ace Hardware, your essential destination for tools, paint, and home improvement supplies in the heart of Colorado's picturesque town.
Paradox Footwear
3.7 km
Discover the perfect footwear for your Colorado adventures at Paradox Footwear in Crested Butte, where quality meets comfort.
Rumors Coffee and Tea House
3.8 km
Discover the perfect blend of coffee, tea, and books at Rumors Coffee and Tea House in Crested Butte, Colorado.
Townie Books
3.8 km
Explore Townie Books in Crested Butte, where every page invites you to discover new adventures in literature surrounded by stunning mountain views.
Misty Mountain Too
3.8 km
Explore the floral beauty of Crested Butte at Misty Mountain Too, where every bouquet tells a story of nature's artistry and local charm.
Clark's Market & Pharmacy Crested Butte
3.8 km
Discover local flavors and convenience at Clark's Market & Pharmacy in the heart of Crested Butte, your essential shopping destination for groceries and health needs.
Mabuhay Limited
3.8 km
Explore Mabuhay Limited: An Art Gallery and Antique Store in Crested Butte, Colorado, featuring unique jewelry and interior design treasures.
Mountain Earth Organic Grocer
3.9 km
Discover a treasure trove of organic delights at Mountain Earth Organic Grocer in Crested Butte, the ultimate stop for health-conscious travelers.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Anthracite Spirits Company Tasting Lounge
3.9 km
Experience the essence of Colorado at Anthracite Spirits Company Tasting Lounge, where handcrafted drinks meet a cozy atmosphere in Crested Butte.
Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro Aspen Highlands
30.5 km
Discover exquisite Swiss cuisine amidst breathtaking mountain views at Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro in Aspen Highlands, a top dining destination for tourists.
Mountain Social Bar & Lounge
35.4 km
Discover the perfect blend of relaxation and culinary delights at Mountain Social Bar & Lounge in Aspen, Colorado's alpine paradise.
Shadow Mountain Lounge
35.4 km
Discover the upscale ambiance and exquisite drinks at Shadow Mountain Lounge, a must-visit bar in the heart of Aspen, Colorado.
39 Degrees Lounge
35.4 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere at 39 Degrees Lounge in Aspen, where expertly crafted cocktails meet delicious bites in a cozy setting.
Ponyboy Aspen
35.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Aspen at Ponyboy, a cocktail bar with a creative drink selection and a lively atmosphere.
The Wine Bar
35.4 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.
Silver City Aspen
35.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Aspen at Silver City Aspen, a lively bar with live music and sports for unforgettable evenings.
Hooch Craft Cocktail Bar
35.7 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Aspen at Hooch Craft Cocktail Bar, where handcrafted cocktails and a cozy atmosphere await.
The Sterling Aspen
35.7 km
Discover nightlife at The Sterling Aspen, where exquisite cocktails and vibrant events create unforgettable evenings in the heart of Colorado.
Caribou Club
35.7 km
Experience the elegance of Caribou Club in Aspen, where fine dining meets vibrant nightlife in a sophisticated atmosphere.
J-Bar
35.8 km
Discover J-Bar, Aspen's premier bar offering a stylish ambiance, delicious cocktails, and a lively atmosphere perfect for any occasion.
Stark's Alpine Grill
35.9 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.
New Belgium Ranger Station
35.9 km
Discover the New Belgium Ranger Station in Snowmass Village, where craft beers and local cuisine create unforgettable dining experiences.
Venga Venga
35.9 km
Discover Venga Venga: A vibrant restaurant in Snowmass Village serving exquisite Southwestern cuisine amidst stunning mountain views.
