Kebler Pass: A Scenic Colorado Escape
Experience Colorado's stunning fall colors and breathtaking mountain scenery on Kebler Pass, a seasonal scenic byway connecting Crested Butte and Paonia.
Kebler Pass, reaching 10,007 feet, is a seasonal mountain pass connecting Crested Butte and Highway 133 near Paonia. Known for its stunning aspen groves, especially vibrant in the fall, the 30-mile drive offers breathtaking views and access to hiking, biking, and camping.
A brief summary to Kebler Pass
- Colorado, US
Local tips
- Visit during late September or early October for the best fall colors, but be aware that this is also the busiest time of year.
- Check road conditions before you go, especially during the shoulder seasons (May/June & Oct/Nov), as weather can be unpredictable.
- Bring your camera! Kebler Pass is one of the most photographed locations in Colorado, especially during the fall.
- Consider camping at Lake Irwin or Lost Lake for a full fall experience, but book in advance, as sites fill up quickly.
Getting There
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Driving
From Crested Butte, take Whiterock Avenue (County Road 12) west out of town. This road becomes Kebler Pass Road. The drive to the summit is approximately 30 miles and takes about two hours. Be aware that the road is gravel and can be rough in places. There are several pull-offs along the way to stop and take photos. Parking is available at various trailheads and scenic viewpoints. Be aware that parking can be limited, especially during peak season.
Discover more about Kebler Pass
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Lower Loop Trailhead Parking
9.8 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Lower Loop Trailhead in Crested Butte, Colorado – your starting point for unforgettable outdoor adventures.
Bonez
10.0 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.
Margaux’s (SlapBurger)
10.0 km
Discover Margaux's (SlapBurger) in Crested Butte for mouthwatering burgers, chicken wings, and a vibrant bar scene in a stunning mountain town.
Three Ladies Park
10.0 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.
Kochevar's Saloon
10.0 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.
Soupcon Restaurant
10.0 km
Experience the culinary artistry of Soupcon Restaurant in Crested Butte, where French cuisine meets local ingredients in an intimate setting.
Eleven Sopris House
10.0 km
Discover unparalleled luxury and adventure at Eleven Sopris House in Crested Butte - your ultimate Colorado ski resort destination.
Big Mine Ice Arena
10.0 km
Discover the enchanting Big Mine Ice Arena in Crested Butte, Colorado, where ice skating meets breathtaking mountain views for a perfect winter adventure.
Eleven Scarp Ridge Lodge
10.0 km
Discover luxurious comfort and adventure at Eleven Scarp Ridge Lodge in Crested Butte, where the beauty of the Rockies meets exceptional hospitality.
Irwin Brewing Company’s Public House
10.0 km
Experience the best of Crested Butte at Irwin Brewing Company’s Public House, where craft beers and delicious food come together in a lively atmosphere.
Public House Lofts
10.0 km
Discover comfort and modern charm at Public House Lofts in Crested Butte, your perfect gateway to adventure in the Colorado mountains.
Mountain View Wear
10.0 km
Discover Mountain View Wear in Crested Butte, where fashion meets functionality for the perfect mountain lifestyle.
Montanya Distillers | Cocktail Bar
10.0 km
Experience handcrafted cocktails and local cuisine at Montanya Distillers, Crested Butte's top distillery and cocktail bar, where flavor meets mountain charm.
Elk Mountain Lodge
10.1 km
Experience the enchanting Elk Mountain Lodge in Crested Butte, Colorado, where comfort meets adventure in the heart of the Rocky Mountains.
MINER'S CABIN
10.1 km
Discover the charm of Miner's Cabin in Crested Butte, Colorado—a cozy holiday home perfect for outdoor adventures and serene getaways.
Unmissable attractions to see
Crested Butte Nordic
10.0 km
Discover winter's magic at Crested Butte Nordic Center: 55km of groomed trails, rentals, lessons, and events for all ages!
Crested Butte
10.0 km
Discover Crested Butte: Colorado's historic ski town with stunning mountain scenery, outdoor adventures, and a vibrant, welcoming community.
Crested Butte Land Trust
10.1 km
Conserving Gunnison Valley's vistas, recreation, wildlife, and ranching heritage for future generations. Explore protected lands!
Crested Butte Museum
10.3 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
10.5 km
Inspiring young minds through play and discovery in the heart of Crested Butte, Colorado. A must-visit for families!
Washington Gulch
12.1 km
Explore Washington Gulch near Crested Butte: Hike scenic trails, discover wildflower meadows, and uncover the history of this Colorado gem.
Crested Butte Mountain Resort
12.9 km
Experience the thrill of extreme terrain and stunning scenery at Crested Butte Mountain Resort, a Colorado gem with a vibrant mountain culture.
Snodgrass Mountain
13.3 km
Hike or bike through wildflower meadows and aspen forests with stunning views of Crested Butte's iconic peaks.
Gothic Mountain
14.2 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.
Snodgrass Trailhead
14.4 km
Hike or bike through wildflower meadows with stunning mountain views at this popular Crested Butte trailhead.
Judd Falls/Copper Creek Trailhead
15.9 km
Discover Judd Falls near Crested Butte: An easy hike to a stunning waterfall with breathtaking mountain views and vibrant wildflower meadows.
Brush Creek Trailhead
16.3 km
Discover stunning wildflower meadows and panoramic mountain views on this easy and accessible trail near Crested Butte, Colorado.
Cinnamon Mountain
16.3 km
Hike to panoramic views from Cinnamon Mountain, a 13,336-foot peak in the heart of Colorado's stunning San Juan Mountains.
Ragged Wilderness
16.6 km
Explore Colorado's Raggeds Wilderness: A backcountry haven of jagged peaks, deep canyons, and pristine alpine beauty for adventurous souls.
West Elk Peak
17.0 km
Conquer West Elk Peak, the highest point in the West Elk Mountains, for stunning views and a true wilderness experience in Colorado.
Essential places to dine
Ryce Asian Bistro
10.0 km
Experience authentic Asian flavors at Ryce Asian Bistro - where every dish tells a story in Crested Butte's vibrant culinary scene.
The Slogar
10.0 km
Experience authentic American cuisine at The Slogar in Crested Butte—where every meal is a celebration of local flavors and warm hospitality.
Yukihana Sushi & Sake Bar
10.0 km
Experience the finest sushi and sake at Yukihana Sushi & Sake Bar in Crested Butte - where tradition meets innovation in every bite.
Miette
10.0 km
Discover the unique flavors of Colorado at Miette, where exquisite dining meets charming ambiance in Crested Butte.
The Hideout
10.1 km
Discover culinary excellence at The Hideout in Crested Butte - where fresh ingredients meet warm hospitality in a cozy setting.
Breadery
10.1 km
Discover the delicious flavors at The Breadery in Crested Butte—where fresh ingredients meet cozy ambiance.
Butte Bagels
10.1 km
Discover the delightful flavors of fresh bagels at Butte Bagels in Crested Butte - where every bite starts your day right!
Bruhaus
10.1 km
Discover Bruhaus in Crested Butte: where local ingredients meet international flair in an inviting atmosphere perfect for every traveler.
The Dogwood
10.1 km
Discover The Dogwood in Crested Butte - where unique cocktails meet delicious dining in a cozy mountain setting.
Birdies Golf Bar
10.2 km
Experience indoor golfing like never before at Birdies Golf Bar, where delicious grill cuisine meets fun-filled sports entertainment in Crested Butte.
Momo's
10.2 km
Discover Momo's: An Asian culinary oasis in Crested Butte offering authentic flavors and cozy ambiance for an unforgettable dining experience.
IZAKAYA CABIN
10.3 km
Discover the authentic flavors of Japan at Izakaya Cabin in Crested Butte – where fresh sushi meets cozy mountain charm.
Thai Chili 78 (Crested Butte Location)
10.4 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Thailand at Thai Chili 78 in Crested Butte – a culinary haven for adventurous food lovers.
Frank's Deli at Creative Catering
10.4 km
Discover delectable sandwiches and exquisite catering at Frank's Deli in Crested Butte – where local flavors meet mountain charm.
Paradise Cafe
10.5 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at Paradise Cafe in Crested Butte - where every meal is made with love and local ingredients.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Chopwood Mercantile
10.0 km
Explore the charm of Chopwood Mercantile in Crested Butte, where unique gifts and outdoor gear come together for the perfect Colorado experience.
Big Al's Bicycle Heaven
10.1 km
Discover cycling paradise at Big Al's Bicycle Heaven in Crested Butte, Colorado - your ultimate destination for bike rentals, repairs, and adventure.
UNIQUE WEAR
10.1 km
Explore Unique Wear in Crested Butte for a stylish selection of clothing that embodies mountain culture and fashion.
Colorado Mountain Love
10.1 km
Explore Colorado Mountain Love for unique outdoor apparel and local artisan goods, capturing the essence of Crested Butte's vibrant mountain culture.
Crested Butte Angler: Fly Fishing Guides for the Gunnison River Drainage, Fly Shop, & Outdoor Store
10.1 km
Discover the ultimate fly fishing experience at Crested Butte Angler, your go-to shop for guided trips and premium outdoor gear in Colorado.
Durango Organics Crested Butte
10.1 km
Explore high-quality herbal products and local wellness solutions at Durango Organics Crested Butte, your gateway to nature's bounty.
Lavish
10.1 km
Explore Lavish in Crested Butte for unique gifts that embody the spirit of Colorado's beautiful Rockies.
Poohs Corner Inc
10.2 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.
Pfister's Handworks
10.2 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts at Pfister's Handworks in Crested Butte, where creativity meets mountain culture.
Shades of Crested Butte
10.2 km
Explore Shades of Crested Butte for stylish sunglasses that elevate your outdoor adventures amidst Colorado's stunning landscapes.
Mountain Tops
10.2 km
Discover unique t-shirts capturing Colorado's beauty at Mountain Tops, the ultimate souvenir shop in Crested Butte.
Milky Way Boutique
10.2 km
Explore unique women's fashion at Milky Way Boutique, Crested Butte's premier destination for stylish clothing, jewelry, and lingerie.
Alley Hats
10.2 km
Explore the charm of Alley Hats, a unique gift shop in Crested Butte, offering a variety of stylish hats and souvenirs perfect for every traveler.
GRIT Crested Butte
10.2 km
Discover unique clothing and accessories at GRIT Crested Butte, a boutique that embodies the spirit of Colorado's outdoor culture.
Colorado Real Soap Co. aka Crested Butte Soap
10.2 km
Explore the beauty of handcrafted soaps at Colorado Real Soap Co. in Crested Butte, where nature meets artistry in every bar.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Anthracite Spirits Company Tasting Lounge
10.3 km
Experience the essence of Colorado at Anthracite Spirits Company Tasting Lounge, where handcrafted drinks meet a cozy atmosphere in Crested Butte.
Crested Bucha
36.8 km
Discover Crested Bucha, the unique bar in Gunnison Valley offering artisanal drinks and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for relaxation and socializing.
Wapiti Ridge Saloon
37.4 km
Discover the lively Wapiti Ridge Saloon in Gunnison, Colorado, where great drinks and live music create a memorable experience.
I Bar Ranch
38.3 km
Discover the energetic vibe of I Bar Ranch, a premier live music venue and enchanting wedding destination in picturesque Gunnison, Colorado.
Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro Aspen Highlands
39.0 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
41.6 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
41.7 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious comfort food at The Tavern Kitchen and Bar in scenic Snowmass Village, Colorado.
Zane's Tavern Snowmass
41.7 km
Discover Zane's Tavern in Snowmass Village, where hearty grill favorites meet a lively atmosphere in the heart of Colorado's stunning mountains.
Base Camp Bar & Grill
42.0 km
Experience the warmth of Base Camp Bar & Grill in Snowmass Village, where hearty meals and stunning views create the perfect mountain retreat.
Kenichi Snowmass
42.0 km
Experience the art of Japanese cuisine at Kenichi Snowmass, where fresh ingredients meet culinary excellence in a stunning mountain setting.
The Lounge
42.0 km
Discover The Lounge in Snowmass Village, a cozy restaurant and bar offering hearty meals and signature cocktails amidst stunning mountain views.
NEST Bar & Grill
42.2 km
Discover the culinary delights of NEST Bar & Grill in Snowmass Village, where outdoor dining meets exquisite flavors in a stunning mountain backdrop.
TORO Kitchen & Lounge
42.2 km
Experience exceptional American cuisine with breathtaking mountain views at TORO Kitchen & Lounge in Snowmass Village, Colorado.
Two Creeks Cafe
43.3 km
Experience the best of American barbecue in a cozy setting at Two Creeks Cafe, the perfect dining destination in Snowmass Village.
Three Peaks Bar & Grille
43.9 km
Experience the flavors of Colorado at Three Peaks Bar & Grille, where mountain views meet delicious local cuisine in the heart of Snowmass Village.
