Discover the Untamed Beauty of West Elk Wilderness
Explore the stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife of West Elk Wilderness, a nature preserve in Colorado's Rocky Mountains.
The West Elk Wilderness in Colorado offers breathtaking landscapes filled with rugged mountains, serene forests, and abundant wildlife. This nature preserve is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking tranquility amidst nature's grandeur.
A brief summary to West Elk Wilderness
- Gunnison, Colorado, 81230, US
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit during the fall for spectacular foliage and fewer crowds.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as facilities are limited in the wilderness.
- Check trail conditions before heading out, especially in spring and fall.
- Wildlife is most active during early morning and late afternoon.
- Be sure to carry a map or GPS, as cell service may be unreliable.
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car, start your journey from Gunnison, CO, which is the closest town to West Elk Wilderness. From Gunnison, take CO-135 N for about 20 miles. Look for signs directing you to the West Elk Wilderness. Once you reach the entrance, you may need to park at designated areas. Be aware of any parking fees that may apply.
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Public Transportation
If you are using public transportation, you can take a bus from Gunnison to Crested Butte, which operates seasonally. From the Crested Butte bus station, you will need to arrange for a taxi or rideshare service to take you closer to the West Elk Wilderness trailheads. Be sure to check the bus schedule in advance for availability and potential costs.
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Hiking
Once you arrive at the West Elk Wilderness area, you will need to hike to explore the wilderness. Various trailheads provide access to different parts of the wilderness. Make sure to carry a map and follow trail markers. Additionally, check for any required permits or fees for hiking in the area.
Discover more about West Elk Wilderness
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests
12.9 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests, a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts in Colorado.
Rocky Rides
22.2 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Rocky Mountains with Rocky Rides, your reliable transportation service for unforgettable adventures.
Big Mine Ice Arena
24.8 km
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Mikey's Pizza
24.9 km
Experience the best pizza in Crested Butte at Mikey's Pizza, where delicious flavors and a cozy atmosphere meet!
Eleven Scarp Ridge Lodge
24.9 km
Discover luxurious comfort and adventure at Eleven Scarp Ridge Lodge in Crested Butte, where the beauty of the Rockies meets exceptional hospitality.
Eleven Sopris House
24.9 km
Discover unparalleled luxury and adventure at Eleven Sopris House in Crested Butte - your ultimate Colorado ski resort destination.
Crested Butte News
24.9 km
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MINER'S CABIN
24.9 km
Discover the charm of Miner's Cabin in Crested Butte, Colorado—a cozy holiday home perfect for outdoor adventures and serene getaways.
Bonez
25.0 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.
Crested Butte Avalanche Center
25.0 km
Explore the majestic backcountry of Crested Butte safely with essential avalanche forecasts and expert advice from the Crested Butte Avalanche Center.
Margaux’s (SlapBurger)
25.0 km
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Irwin Brewing Company’s Public House
25.0 km
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Kochevar's Saloon
25.0 km
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Public House Lofts
25.0 km
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Soupcon Restaurant
25.0 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
West Elk Peak
1.3 km
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Kebler Pass
17.4 km
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Crested Butte Nordic
24.8 km
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Crested Butte
25.0 km
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Crested Butte Land Trust
25.1 km
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Crested Butte Museum
25.2 km
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The Trailhead Children's Museum
25.3 km
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Gunnison State Wildlife Area
26.5 km
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Curecanti National Recreation Area
27.1 km
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Dillon Pinnacles
27.1 km
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Crested Butte Mountain Resort
28.7 km
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I.O.O.F. Park
29.2 km
Explore I.O.O.F. Park in Gunnison, Colorado—a peaceful retreat with picnic spots, a charming bridge, and breathtaking mountain views.
Washington Gulch
29.5 km
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Brush Creek Trailhead
29.6 km
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Jorgensen Park
29.8 km
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Essential places to dine
The Slogar
24.9 km
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Ryce Asian Bistro
24.9 km
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Yukihana Sushi & Sake Bar
25.0 km
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Miette
25.0 km
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The Hideout
25.0 km
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Breadery
25.0 km
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Birdies Golf Bar
25.1 km
Experience indoor golfing like never before at Birdies Golf Bar, where delicious grill cuisine meets fun-filled sports entertainment in Crested Butte.
Butte Bagels
25.1 km
Discover the delightful flavors of fresh bagels at Butte Bagels in Crested Butte - where every bite starts your day right!
Bruhaus
25.1 km
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Frank's Deli at Creative Catering
25.1 km
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The Dogwood
25.1 km
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Momo's
25.1 km
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IZAKAYA CABIN
25.2 km
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Thai Chili 78 (Crested Butte Location)
25.3 km
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Paradise Cafe
25.3 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Durango Organics Crested Butte
24.9 km
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Chopwood Mercantile
24.9 km
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Big Al's Bicycle Heaven
25.0 km
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Woodland Custom Furniture Inc
25.0 km
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Colorado Mountain Love
25.1 km
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UNIQUE WEAR
25.1 km
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Lavish
25.1 km
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Crested Butte Angler: Fly Fishing Guides for the Gunnison River Drainage, Fly Shop, & Outdoor Store
25.1 km
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Misty Mountain Too
25.1 km
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Clark's Market & Pharmacy Crested Butte
25.1 km
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Poohs Corner Inc
25.1 km
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Pfister's Handworks
25.1 km
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Shades of Crested Butte
25.1 km
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Mountain Tops
25.1 km
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Milky Way Boutique
25.1 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Anthracite Spirits Company Tasting Lounge
25.2 km
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Wapiti Ridge Saloon
28.9 km
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Crested Bucha
29.0 km
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I Bar Ranch
31.0 km
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Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro Aspen Highlands
56.4 km
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Stark's Alpine Grill
58.9 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
58.9 km
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Zane's Tavern Snowmass
59.0 km
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The Artisan
59.2 km
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Base Camp Bar & Grill
59.3 km
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Kenichi Snowmass
59.3 km
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The Lounge
59.3 km
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NEST Bar & Grill
59.5 km
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TORO Kitchen & Lounge
59.5 km
Experience exceptional American cuisine with breathtaking mountain views at TORO Kitchen & Lounge in Snowmass Village, Colorado.
Two Creeks Cafe
60.7 km
Experience the best of American barbecue in a cozy setting at Two Creeks Cafe, the perfect dining destination in Snowmass Village.
