Rustler Gulch: A Wildflower Paradise
Discover Rustler Gulch: Hike through wildflower-filled meadows, past cascading waterfalls, and beneath towering peaks in the heart of the Colorado Rockies.
Rustler Gulch, nestled in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness near Crested Butte, Colorado, is a stunning ravine renowned for its vibrant wildflower displays, cascading waterfalls, and panoramic mountain views. This moderate hike offers an immersive experience in a pristine alpine environment.
A brief summary to Rustler Gulch
- Colorado, US
Local tips
- Visit during the peak wildflower season (late June to early August) for the most vibrant displays.
- Bring waterproof shoes or sandals for creek crossings.
- Be prepared for sun exposure, as much of the trail is in open meadows.
- A high-clearance vehicle with 4WD is recommended to reach the trailhead, especially during high water.
- Pack out all trash and be bear-aware, as this is a wilderness area.
Getting There
-
Driving
From Crested Butte, head north on Gothic Road/County Road 317 for approximately 10.5 miles. Turn right onto Rustler Gulch Road (FR 317.2B). Passenger vehicles may need to park near the junction with Gothic Road or just before the East River crossing due to the rough road conditions. A high-clearance 4WD vehicle is recommended to proceed further. Limited parking is available near the trailhead. Note that during summer months, water trucks may douse the road, creating muddy conditions. There are no parking fees.
-
Walking
If parking before the East River, walk east along Rustler Gulch Road for about 1.1 miles to the trailhead. Be prepared to wade across the East River, which can be deep, especially during high runoff. Alternatively, a trail to the left offers a log crossing. From the river crossing, it's a steep, winding climb to the trailhead. Walking from the parking area adds approximately 2.2 miles round trip.
Discover more about Rustler Gulch
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Meridian Lake
8.8 km
Experience the serene beauty of Meridian Lake in Crested Butte, CO, a perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Crystal Mill
11.2 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich history of Crystal Mill, a must-see gem in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado.
Lower Loop Trailhead Parking
13.1 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Lower Loop Trailhead in Crested Butte, Colorado – your starting point for unforgettable outdoor adventures.
Pyramid Sled Hill
13.2 km
Discover the fun and excitement at Pyramid Sled Hill, a premier sledding destination in Crested Butte, Colorado, perfect for families and adventure seekers.
Three Ladies Park
13.2 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.
Elk Mountain Lodge
13.4 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
13.5 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.
Columbine Condominiums
13.5 km
Experience the perfect blend of comfort and adventure at Columbine Condominiums in scenic Crested Butte, Colorado.
Purple Mountain Bed and Breakfast
13.6 km
Discover the charming Purple Mountain Bed and Breakfast in Crested Butte, where cozy accommodations meet stunning mountain views for the perfect getaway.
Soupcon Restaurant
13.6 km
Experience the culinary artistry of Soupcon Restaurant in Crested Butte, where French cuisine meets local ingredients in an intimate setting.
Cristiana Guesthaus
13.6 km
Discover the charm of Cristiana Guesthaus in Crested Butte, a cozy lodge surrounded by stunning mountain landscapes and abundant outdoor adventures.
Kochevar's Saloon
13.6 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.
Crested Butte, Colorado
13.6 km
Experience the enchanting beauty of Crested Butte, Colorado, where stunning mountain landscapes meet vibrant local culture for an unforgettable getaway.
The Eldo Brewery
13.6 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of The Eldo Brewery in Crested Butte, where craft beer meets delicious food and live music.
Margaux’s (SlapBurger)
13.6 km
Discover Margaux's (SlapBurger) in Crested Butte for mouthwatering burgers, chicken wings, and a vibrant bar scene in a stunning mountain town.
Unmissable attractions to see
Gothic Natural Area
1.9 km
Discover Gothic Natural Area: a blend of history, science, and stunning Rocky Mountain scenery near Crested Butte, Colorado.
Judd Falls/Copper Creek Trailhead
3.1 km
Discover Judd Falls near Crested Butte: An easy hike to a stunning waterfall with breathtaking mountain views and vibrant wildflower meadows.
Gothic Mountain
3.9 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.
401 Trail
4.3 km
Experience world-class mountain biking on the 401 Trail, with breathtaking alpine views and vibrant wildflower meadows near Snowmass.
Cinnamon Mountain
5.4 km
Hike to panoramic views from Cinnamon Mountain, a 13,336-foot peak in the heart of Colorado's stunning San Juan Mountains.
Washington Gulch
5.8 km
Explore Washington Gulch near Crested Butte: Hike scenic trails, discover wildflower meadows, and uncover the history of this Colorado gem.
Snodgrass Mountain
6.6 km
Hike or bike through wildflower meadows and aspen forests with stunning views of Crested Butte's iconic peaks.
Snodgrass Trailhead
9.0 km
Hike or bike through wildflower meadows with stunning mountain views at this popular Crested Butte trailhead.
Crested Butte Mountain Resort
10.9 km
Experience the thrill of extreme terrain and stunning scenery at Crested Butte Mountain Resort, a Colorado gem with a vibrant mountain culture.
West Maroon Creek
12.5 km
Discover the pristine beauty of West Maroon Creek, where crystal-clear waters meet iconic mountain views in the heart of the Colorado Rockies.
Ragged Wilderness
12.9 km
Explore Colorado's Raggeds Wilderness: A backcountry haven of jagged peaks, deep canyons, and pristine alpine beauty for adventurous souls.
Crested Butte
13.2 km
Discover Crested Butte: A historic Colorado mountain town with world-class skiing, mountain biking, and stunning wildflower displays.
Maroon Lake Trailhead
13.3 km
Access breathtaking views and hiking trails at the Maroon Lake Trailhead, the gateway to Colorado's iconic Maroon Bells.
Maroon Bells Amphitheatre
13.3 km
Host your event surrounded by the iconic Maroon Bells, a stunning natural amphitheater perfect for weddings and gatherings.
Maroon Bells Scenic Area
13.3 km
Experience the majestic Maroon Bells: iconic peaks, stunning reflections, and unforgettable alpine scenery in the heart of the Colorado Rockies.
Essential places to dine
Umbrella Bar
10.5 km
Experience breathtaking views and delightful grill cuisine at Umbrella Bar in Crested Butte – your perfect retreat after outdoor adventures.
Highlife Crust & Crafts
10.6 km
Experience the best of mountain dining at Highlife Crust & Crafts with artisanal pizzas and local flavors in Crested Butte.
Woodstone Grille
10.6 km
Experience local flavors at Woodstone Grille in Mt. Crested Butte - A cozy retreat offering delicious meals after your mountain adventures.
A Bar Above CB
10.7 km
Experience the flavors of Crested Butte at A Bar Above CB – where local ingredients meet exceptional culinary craftsmanship.
Tin Cup Ice Cream & Desserts
10.7 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.
Crested Butte Burger Company
10.8 km
Discover mouthwatering burgers and friendly service at Crested Butte Burger Company - your ultimate stop for delicious meals in Colorado's mountain paradise.
Butte 66
10.8 km
Experience mouthwatering grilled delights at Butte 66 in Crested Butte - where local flavors meet stunning mountain views.
José Crested Butte
10.9 km
Discover authentic Mexican cuisine at José Crested Butte - where every dish is crafted with passion and flavor in mind.
billy barr
10.9 km
Discover Billy Barr in Crested Butte: where cocktails meet breakfast bliss in a cozy mountain setting.
Iron Horse Tap
10.9 km
Discover Iron Horse Tap: A delightful grill experience with local flavors amidst Crested Butte's stunning mountain scenery.
Uley's Cabin
11.5 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
11.6 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
11.6 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
13.4 km
Discover Gas Cafe One Stop in Crested Butte: A unique blend of delicious food, coffee, and convenience in one charming location.
Butte Bagels
13.6 km
Discover the delightful flavors of fresh bagels at Butte Bagels in Crested Butte - where every bite starts your day right!
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Big Al's Bicycle Heaven
13.6 km
Discover cycling paradise at Big Al's Bicycle Heaven in Crested Butte, Colorado - your ultimate destination for bike rentals, repairs, and adventure.
Crested Butte Angler: Fly Fishing Guides for the Gunnison River Drainage, Fly Shop, & Outdoor Store
13.6 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
13.7 km
Explore the charm of Chopwood Mercantile in Crested Butte, where unique gifts and outdoor gear come together for the perfect Colorado experience.
Vincent Cranberry’s Christmas Shoppe and Holiday Haberdashery
13.7 km
Discover the holiday spirit at Vincent Cranberry’s Christmas Shoppe, a magical destination for festive decorations and unique gifts in Crested Butte, Colorado.
Cottonwood Tees
13.7 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
13.7 km
Explore Zacchariah Zypp & Co in Crested Butte for stunning handcrafted jewelry and a unique shopping experience amidst the Rockies.
Casa Bella
13.7 km
Explore Casa Bella in Crested Butte for unique gifts, home goods, and local treasures that capture the spirit of Colorado's mountains.
UNIQUE WEAR
13.7 km
Explore Unique Wear in Crested Butte for a stylish selection of clothing that embodies mountain culture and fashion.
Lavish
13.7 km
Explore Lavish in Crested Butte for unique gifts that embody the spirit of Colorado's beautiful Rockies.
Pfister's Handworks
13.7 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts at Pfister's Handworks in Crested Butte, where creativity meets mountain culture.
Poohs Corner Inc
13.7 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.
Shades of Crested Butte
13.7 km
Explore Shades of Crested Butte for stylish sunglasses that elevate your outdoor adventures amidst Colorado's stunning landscapes.
Mountain Tops
13.7 km
Discover unique t-shirts capturing Colorado's beauty at Mountain Tops, the ultimate souvenir shop in Crested Butte.
Scout's General Store
13.7 km
Explore the unique offerings of Scout's General Store in Crested Butte, a perfect blend of gifts, clothing, and cozy coffee moments.
Colorado Mountain Love
13.7 km
Explore Colorado Mountain Love for unique outdoor apparel and local artisan goods, capturing the essence of Crested Butte's vibrant mountain culture.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Anthracite Spirits Company Tasting Lounge
13.7 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
21.4 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
24.3 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
24.4 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious comfort food at The Tavern Kitchen and Bar in scenic Snowmass Village, Colorado.
Zane's Tavern Snowmass
24.4 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
24.8 km
Discover the culinary delights of NEST Bar & Grill in Snowmass Village, where outdoor dining meets exquisite flavors in a stunning mountain backdrop.
Three Peaks Bar & Grille
26.4 km
Experience the flavors of Colorado at Three Peaks Bar & Grille, where mountain views meet delicious local cuisine in the heart of Snowmass Village.
Black Saddle Bar & Grille
26.7 km
Discover a delightful culinary experience at Black Saddle Bar & Grille in Snowmass Village, where mountain views meet mouthwatering flavors.
Mountain Social Bar & Lounge
27.1 km
Discover the perfect blend of relaxation and culinary delights at Mountain Social Bar & Lounge in Aspen, Colorado's alpine paradise.
Shadow Mountain Lounge
27.1 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
27.2 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
27.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere at 39 Degrees Lounge in Aspen, where expertly crafted cocktails meet delicious bites in a cozy setting.
Ponyboy Aspen
27.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Aspen at Ponyboy, a cocktail bar with a creative drink selection and a lively atmosphere.
The Sterling Aspen
27.4 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
27.4 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Aspen at Hooch Craft Cocktail Bar, where handcrafted cocktails and a cozy atmosphere await.
