Gothic Mountain: A Crested Butte Icon
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.
Gothic Mountain, a striking peak in the Elk Mountains near Crested Butte, Colorado, offers challenging hikes and stunning panoramic views. Named for its distinctive, spire-like appearance resembling Gothic architecture, it's a favorite among hikers seeking a rewarding climb.
A brief summary to Gothic Mountain
- Colorado, US
Local tips
- Start your hike early to avoid afternoon thunderstorms, which are common in the high country during the summer months.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as the hike is strenuous and can take several hours.
- Wear sturdy hiking boots and be prepared for rocky and uneven terrain.
- Check the weather forecast before you go, and be prepared for changing conditions.
- Consider using trekking poles to help with the steep climb and descent.
Getting There
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Driving
From Crested Butte, take Gothic Road (Route 135) north for 1.75 miles to Washington Gulch Road. Turn left onto Washington Gulch Road and drive for another 7.75 miles up the gulch, past the 'town' of Elkton. The road becomes a dirt road. Continue another 1/4 mile past the old parking area to the new trailhead and parking area. Be aware that the road steepens and may require 4x4. Parking at the Snodgrass Trailhead is free.
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Public Transport
During the summer, the Mountain Express bus provides service from Crested Butte and Mt. Crested Butte to the Gothic Townsite and Judd Falls Trailhead. From the Gothic Townsite, it's a short distance to the base of Gothic Mountain and Trail 403. A one-way fare is approximately $6.
Discover more about Gothic Mountain
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Meridian Lake
4.9 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
9.3 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Lower Loop Trailhead in Crested Butte, Colorado – your starting point for unforgettable outdoor adventures.
Three Ladies Park
9.4 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
9.5 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
9.6 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
9.8 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
9.8 km
Experience the culinary artistry of Soupcon Restaurant in Crested Butte, where French cuisine meets local ingredients in an intimate setting.
Kochevar's Saloon
9.8 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.
Columbine Condominiums
9.8 km
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Margaux’s (SlapBurger)
9.8 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
9.8 km
Experience the enchanting beauty of Crested Butte, Colorado, where stunning mountain landscapes meet vibrant local culture for an unforgettable getaway.
The Eldo Brewery
9.8 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of The Eldo Brewery in Crested Butte, where craft beer meets delicious food and live music.
Mountain View Wear
9.8 km
Discover Mountain View Wear in Crested Butte, where fashion meets functionality for the perfect mountain lifestyle.
The Secret Stash
9.8 km
Discover the unique flavors of The Secret Stash, where pizza meets creativity in the heart of Crested Butte, Colorado.
Bonez
9.8 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.
Unmissable attractions to see
Judd Falls/Copper Creek Trailhead
1.8 km
Discover Judd Falls near Crested Butte: An easy hike to a stunning waterfall with breathtaking mountain views and vibrant wildflower meadows.
Washington Gulch
2.0 km
Explore Washington Gulch near Crested Butte: Hike scenic trails, discover wildflower meadows, and uncover the history of this Colorado gem.
Snodgrass Mountain
3.1 km
Hike or bike through wildflower meadows and aspen forests with stunning views of Crested Butte's iconic peaks.
Rustler Gulch
3.9 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
4.5 km
Discover Gothic Natural Area: a blend of history, science, and stunning Rocky Mountain scenery near Crested Butte, Colorado.
Snodgrass Trailhead
6.0 km
Hike or bike through wildflower meadows with stunning mountain views at this popular Crested Butte trailhead.
Cinnamon Mountain
6.7 km
Hike to panoramic views from Cinnamon Mountain, a 13,336-foot peak in the heart of Colorado's stunning San Juan Mountains.
401 Trail
7.3 km
Experience world-class mountain biking on the 401 Trail, with breathtaking alpine views and vibrant wildflower meadows near Snowmass.
Crested Butte Mountain Resort
7.5 km
Experience the thrill of extreme terrain and stunning scenery at Crested Butte Mountain Resort, a Colorado gem with a vibrant mountain culture.
Crested Butte Land Trust
9.8 km
Conserving Gunnison Valley's vistas, recreation, wildlife, and ranching heritage for future generations. Explore protected lands!
Crested Butte
9.8 km
Discover Crested Butte: Colorado's historic ski town with stunning mountain scenery, outdoor adventures, and a vibrant, welcoming community.
Crested Butte Museum
9.9 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
9.9 km
Inspiring young minds through play and discovery in the heart of Crested Butte, Colorado. A must-visit for families!
Crested Butte Nordic
10.1 km
Discover winter's magic at Crested Butte Nordic Center: 55km of groomed trails, rentals, lessons, and events for all ages!
Brush Creek Trailhead
13.2 km
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Essential places to dine
Woodstone Grille
7.2 km
Experience local flavors at Woodstone Grille in Mt. Crested Butte - A cozy retreat offering delicious meals after your mountain adventures.
Highlife Crust & Crafts
7.2 km
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A Bar Above CB
7.3 km
Experience the flavors of Crested Butte at A Bar Above CB – where local ingredients meet exceptional culinary craftsmanship.
Tin Cup Ice Cream & Desserts
7.3 km
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Crested Butte Burger Company
7.3 km
Discover mouthwatering burgers and friendly service at Crested Butte Burger Company - your ultimate stop for delicious meals in Colorado's mountain paradise.
Umbrella Bar
7.4 km
Experience breathtaking views and delightful grill cuisine at Umbrella Bar in Crested Butte – your perfect retreat after outdoor adventures.
Butte 66
7.4 km
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José Crested Butte
7.4 km
Discover authentic Mexican cuisine at José Crested Butte - where every dish is crafted with passion and flavor in mind.
billy barr
7.4 km
Discover Billy Barr in Crested Butte: where cocktails meet breakfast bliss in a cozy mountain setting.
Iron Horse Tap
7.5 km
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Uley's Cabin
8.3 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
8.3 km
Experience après-ski like never before at The Ice Bar at Uley's Cabin—where mountain views meet cozy vibes in Crested Butte.
Paradise Warming House
8.7 km
Discover delightful cuisine and cozy ambiance at Paradise Warming House in Crested Butte – your culinary retreat amid stunning Colorado scenery.
Gas Cafe One Stop
9.6 km
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Butte Bagels
9.8 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Big Al's Bicycle Heaven
9.8 km
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Crested Butte Angler: Fly Fishing Guides for the Gunnison River Drainage, Fly Shop, & Outdoor Store
9.8 km
Discover the ultimate fly fishing experience at Crested Butte Angler, your go-to shop for guided trips and premium outdoor gear in Colorado.
Chopwood Mercantile
9.8 km
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Vincent Cranberry’s Christmas Shoppe and Holiday Haberdashery
9.9 km
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Cottonwood Tees
9.9 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
9.9 km
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UNIQUE WEAR
9.9 km
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Casa Bella
9.9 km
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Lavish
9.9 km
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Pfister's Handworks
9.9 km
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Poohs Corner Inc
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Shades of Crested Butte
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Mountain Tops
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Colorado Mountain Love
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Milky Way Boutique
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Anthracite Spirits Company Tasting Lounge
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Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro Aspen Highlands
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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
28.2 km
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The Tavern Kitchen and Bar
28.2 km
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Zane's Tavern Snowmass
28.3 km
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NEST Bar & Grill
28.7 km
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Three Peaks Bar & Grille
30.2 km
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Mountain Social Bar & Lounge
30.4 km
Discover the perfect blend of relaxation and culinary delights at Mountain Social Bar & Lounge in Aspen, Colorado's alpine paradise.
Shadow Mountain Lounge
30.4 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
30.6 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
30.6 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere at 39 Degrees Lounge in Aspen, where expertly crafted cocktails meet delicious bites in a cozy setting.
Ponyboy Aspen
30.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Aspen at Ponyboy, a cocktail bar with a creative drink selection and a lively atmosphere.
Black Saddle Bar & Grille
30.6 km
Discover a delightful culinary experience at Black Saddle Bar & Grille in Snowmass Village, where mountain views meet mouthwatering flavors.
The Sterling Aspen
30.7 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
30.7 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Aspen at Hooch Craft Cocktail Bar, where handcrafted cocktails and a cozy atmosphere await.
