Crystal Mill: A Glimpse into Colorado's Historic Charm
Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich history of Crystal Mill, a must-see gem in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado.
Nestled in the stunning Rocky Mountains, Crystal Mill is a must-visit historical site that offers tourists breathtaking views and a window into Colorado's mining past. Its iconic wooden structure perched over a rushing river is one of the most photographed locations in the state, inviting you to capture its beauty while immersing yourself in the serene landscapes. Perfect for hiking enthusiasts, the trails leading to the mill are equally enchanting, making it a perfect day trip for nature lovers.
A brief summary to Crystal Mill
- 11520 Co Rd 3, Carbondale, Colorado, 81623, US
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
- Wear sturdy hiking boots as the trails can be rocky and uneven.
- Bring water and snacks, as there are limited facilities near the mill.
- Check weather conditions in advance, as they can change rapidly in the mountains.
- Consider visiting during the fall to experience the stunning autumn foliage.
Getting There
-
Car
From Gunnison, head west on US-50 W for approximately 32 miles. Turn left onto CO-135 N and continue for about 13 miles until you reach the intersection with CR-3. Turn right onto CR-3 and follow the road for about 11 miles. You'll reach the area near Crystal Mill. Note that the last part of the drive may require a high-clearance vehicle due to rough road conditions.
-
Public Transportation + Shuttle
Take a bus from Gunnison to Crested Butte via the Gunnison Valley RTA. Once in Crested Butte, you will need to arrange for a shuttle service that operates tours to Crystal Mill. It is advisable to book your shuttle in advance, as availability may vary. The total journey may take several hours, including waiting times.
-
Hiking/Walking
If you are adventurous and already in the area, you can hike to Crystal Mill from nearby trailheads. One popular route is to start from the Emerald Lake trailhead, which is approximately 5 miles from Crystal Mill. The hike is strenuous and requires good hiking gear. Make sure to carry enough water and snacks for the journey.
Discover more about Crystal Mill
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Crystal Mill
0.0 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich history of Crystal Mill, a must-see gem in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado.
Redstone Castle
17.0 km
Experience the enchanting allure of Redstone Castle, a historic landmark in Colorado, offering breathtaking views and rich heritage for every traveler.
Redstone Coke Oven Historic District
18.0 km
Explore the Redstone Coke Oven Historic District, where Colorado's industrial history meets stunning natural beauty in a unique historical landmark.
Meridian Lake
18.5 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
22.7 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Lower Loop Trailhead in Crested Butte, Colorado – your starting point for unforgettable outdoor adventures.
T-Lazy-7 Ranch and Snowmobiles
22.9 km
Explore the breathtaking winter landscapes of Aspen with thrilling snowmobile adventures at T-Lazy-7 Ranch, perfect for all skill levels and families.
Three Ladies Park
22.9 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
23.1 km
Experience the enchanting Elk Mountain Lodge in Crested Butte, Colorado, where comfort meets adventure in the heart of the Rocky Mountains.
Pyramid Sled Hill
23.2 km
Discover the fun and excitement at Pyramid Sled Hill, a premier sledding destination in Crested Butte, Colorado, perfect for families and adventure seekers.
Totem Pole Park
23.3 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
23.3 km
Experience the culinary artistry of Soupcon Restaurant in Crested Butte, where French cuisine meets local ingredients in an intimate setting.
Kochevar's Saloon
23.3 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.
Margaux’s (SlapBurger)
23.3 km
Discover Margaux's (SlapBurger) in Crested Butte for mouthwatering burgers, chicken wings, and a vibrant bar scene in a stunning mountain town.
Mountain View Wear
23.3 km
Discover Mountain View Wear in Crested Butte, where fashion meets functionality for the perfect mountain lifestyle.
Crested Butte, Colorado
23.3 km
Experience the enchanting beauty of Crested Butte, Colorado, where stunning mountain landscapes meet vibrant local culture for an unforgettable getaway.
Unmissable attractions to see
Cinnamon Mountain
7.7 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
8.7 km
Explore Colorado's Raggeds Wilderness: A backcountry haven of jagged peaks, deep canyons, and pristine alpine beauty for adventurous souls.
Maroon-Bells-Snowmass Wildnerness
9.2 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Colorado's Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness: iconic peaks, pristine lakes, and unforgettable hiking adventures.
Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness - White River
9.4 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Colorado's Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness: hiking, pristine lakes, and iconic mountain views await.
Gothic Natural Area
9.7 km
Discover Gothic Natural Area: a blend of history, science, and stunning Rocky Mountain scenery near Crested Butte, Colorado.
Rustler Gulch
11.2 km
Discover Rustler Gulch: Hike through wildflower-filled meadows, past cascading waterfalls, and beneath towering peaks in the heart of the Colorado Rockies.
West Maroon Creek
13.9 km
Discover the pristine beauty of West Maroon Creek, where crystal-clear waters meet iconic mountain views in the heart of the Colorado Rockies.
Gothic Mountain
14.0 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.
Judd Falls/Copper Creek Trailhead
14.1 km
Discover Judd Falls near Crested Butte: An easy hike to a stunning waterfall with breathtaking mountain views and vibrant wildflower meadows.
Maroon Bells Amphitheatre
14.6 km
Host your event surrounded by the iconic Maroon Bells, a stunning natural amphitheater perfect for weddings and gatherings.
Maroon Bells Scenic Area
14.7 km
Experience the majestic Maroon Bells: iconic peaks, stunning reflections, and unforgettable alpine scenery in the heart of the Colorado Rockies.
Maroon Lake Trailhead
14.8 km
Access breathtaking views and hiking trails at the Maroon Lake Trailhead, the gateway to Colorado's iconic Maroon Bells.
Washington Gulch
14.9 km
Explore Washington Gulch near Crested Butte: Hike scenic trails, discover wildflower meadows, and uncover the history of this Colorado gem.
Snodgrass Mountain
17.1 km
Hike or bike through wildflower meadows and aspen forests with stunning views of Crested Butte's iconic peaks.
Maroon Snowmass Trailhead
18.4 km
Explore the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness: Hike scenic trails, discover alpine lakes, and witness stunning mountain vistas near Snowmass, Colorado.
Essential places to dine
Up 4 Pizza
16.9 km
Experience mouth-watering pizza atop Snowmass Village's Big Burn Lift with stunning mountain views and cozy atmosphere at Up 4 Pizza.
Sam's
18.3 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Sam's in Snowmass Village - where delicious food meets breathtaking mountain views.
Alpin Room
18.8 km
Discover authentic French cuisine at Alpin Room in Snowmass Village—where alpine charm meets culinary excellence.
High Alpine Restaurant
18.9 km
Discover breathtaking views and exquisite local cuisine at High Alpine Restaurant in Snowmass Village - where mountain dining meets culinary excellence.
Ullrhof
18.9 km
Experience delightful American cuisine at Ullrhof in Snowmass Village, where hearty meals meet stunning mountain views.
Lynn Britt Cabin
20.0 km
Experience fine dining at Lynn Britt Cabin in Snowmass Village, where gourmet American cuisine meets breathtaking mountain scenery.
Elk Camp
20.4 km
Experience organic dining at Elk Camp in Snowmass Village - where fresh flavors meet breathtaking mountain views.
The Edge Restaurant and Bar - Snowmass
20.7 km
Discover authentic German flavors and fondue delights at The Edge Restaurant and Bar in Snowmass Village amidst stunning mountain views.
Last Chair
20.9 km
Discover Last Chair in Snowmass Village—a cozy bar & grill offering delicious food and drinks with stunning mountain views.
Il Poggio
20.9 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Il Poggio in Snowmass Village - where delicious food meets breathtaking mountain views.
The Stew Pot
20.9 km
Discover delightful American cuisine at The Stew Pot in Snowmass Village - where comfort meets culinary excellence amidst stunning mountain views.
New Belgium Ranger Station
20.9 km
Discover delicious local cuisine at New Belgium Ranger Station in Snowmass Village - where culinary excellence meets breathtaking mountain views.
Venga Venga
21.0 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Venga Venga in Snowmass Village—where every meal is a celebration of taste and community.
The Artisan
21.2 km
Experience the perfect blend of local flavors and mountain charm at The Artisan in Snowmass Village - where every meal is a celebration.
Woodstone Grille
21.2 km
Experience local flavors at Woodstone Grille in Mt. Crested Butte - A cozy retreat offering delicious meals after your mountain adventures.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Snowmass Sports
20.9 km
Discover outdoor adventures at Snowmass Sports with top-notch bicycle rentals, ski gear, and expert repairs in Snowmass Village, Colorado.
Strafe Outerwear (Snowmass)
20.9 km
Discover stylish, high-performance snow sports apparel at Strafe Outerwear in Snowmass Village, where adventure meets fashion.
Local Color of Snowmass
20.9 km
Discover unique women's fashion at Local Color of Snowmass, where style meets the stunning scenery of Aspen.
Four Mountain Sports - Snowmass Mall
21.0 km
Discover exhilarating biking adventures at Four Mountain Sports - Snowmass Mall, your gateway to Colorado's stunning outdoor trails.
Snowmass Mall
21.0 km
Experience the best of shopping and dining at Snowmass Mall, where boutique charm meets breathtaking mountain views.
Snowmass T-Shirt Co
21.0 km
Explore Snowmass T-Shirt Co for unique souvenirs that capture the spirit of Colorado's mountain lifestyle, perfect for every tourist.
Chopwood Mercantile
23.3 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
23.3 km
Discover cycling paradise at Big Al's Bicycle Heaven in Crested Butte, Colorado - your ultimate destination for bike rentals, repairs, and adventure.
Four Mountain Sports - Two Creeks
23.3 km
Explore the slopes of Snowmass Village with Four Mountain Sports - Two Creeks, your trusted partner for ski and snowboard rentals and expert advice.
Crested Butte Angler: Fly Fishing Guides for the Gunnison River Drainage, Fly Shop, & Outdoor Store
23.4 km
Discover the ultimate fly fishing experience at Crested Butte Angler, your go-to shop for guided trips and premium outdoor gear in Colorado.
UNIQUE WEAR
23.4 km
Explore Unique Wear in Crested Butte for a stylish selection of clothing that embodies mountain culture and fashion.
Lavish
23.4 km
Explore Lavish in Crested Butte for unique gifts that embody the spirit of Colorado's beautiful Rockies.
Colorado Mountain Love
23.4 km
Explore Colorado Mountain Love for unique outdoor apparel and local artisan goods, capturing the essence of Crested Butte's vibrant mountain culture.
Vincent Cranberry’s Christmas Shoppe and Holiday Haberdashery
23.4 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
23.4 km
Experience the charm of Colorado fashion at Cottonwood Tees, a family-friendly clothing store in Crested Butte offering stylish apparel for everyone.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Stark's Alpine Grill
20.9 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
20.9 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious comfort food at The Tavern Kitchen and Bar in scenic Snowmass Village, Colorado.
Zane's Tavern Snowmass
20.9 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
21.7 km
Discover the culinary delights of NEST Bar & Grill in Snowmass Village, where outdoor dining meets exquisite flavors in a stunning mountain backdrop.
Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro Aspen Highlands
22.7 km
Discover exquisite Swiss cuisine amidst breathtaking mountain views at Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro in Aspen Highlands, a top dining destination for tourists.
Anthracite Spirits Company Tasting Lounge
23.4 km
Experience the essence of Colorado at Anthracite Spirits Company Tasting Lounge, where handcrafted drinks meet a cozy atmosphere in Crested Butte.
Three Peaks Bar & Grille
23.7 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
23.9 km
Discover a delightful culinary experience at Black Saddle Bar & Grille in Snowmass Village, where mountain views meet mouthwatering flavors.
Mountain Social Bar & Lounge
28.3 km
Discover the perfect blend of relaxation and culinary delights at Mountain Social Bar & Lounge in Aspen, Colorado's alpine paradise.
Shadow Mountain Lounge
28.3 km
Discover the upscale ambiance and exquisite drinks at Shadow Mountain Lounge, a must-visit bar in the heart of Aspen, Colorado.
Hefner Lounge
28.4 km
Indulge in a sophisticated atmosphere at Hefner Lounge, Aspen's premier destination for cocktails and socializing amidst stunning mountain views.
The Sterling Aspen
28.5 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
28.5 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Aspen at Hooch Craft Cocktail Bar, where handcrafted cocktails and a cozy atmosphere await.
The Wine Bar
28.5 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.
Escobar Aspen
28.6 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Escobar Aspen, an unforgettable bar experience nestled in the heart of Aspen, Colorado.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Matchstick Productions Lounge
21.4 km
Discover the cozy elegance of Matchstick Productions Lounge in Crested Butte, where mountain charm meets modern delight for an unforgettable experience.
ASPENX Mountain Club
28.5 km
Discover the elite nightlife at ASPENX Mountain Club, where luxury meets excitement in the heart of Aspen's vibrant social scene.
GALA Aspen
28.5 km
Discover GALA Aspen, the ultimate lounge experience blending sophistication, great drinks, and vibrant nightlife in the heart of Colorado's ski haven.
Glenwood Vaudeville Revue
57.3 km
Enjoy a delightful evening of laughter and entertainment at the Glenwood Vaudeville Revue, where dinner meets classic vaudeville charm in scenic Colorado.
1880 Tapas & Spirits
59.1 km
Experience the authentic taste of Spain at 1880 Tapas & Spirits, where every dish is a celebration of flavor in a charming atmosphere.
Ol' Miner Steakhouse
59.2 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at Ol' Miner Steakhouse in Gunnison, Colorado, where every meal is a celebration of flavors and family.
Last Resort
59.2 km
Discover Last Resort in Gunnison, Colorado: a compassionate haven for those seeking recovery from alcoholism amidst stunning natural beauty.
The Dive Gunnison
59.2 km
Experience the heart of American comfort food at The Dive Gunnison, where local flavors meet a welcoming atmosphere for every traveler.
Anejo Bistro & Bar
59.3 km
Savor authentic Mexican cuisine and vibrant flavors at Anejo Bistro & Bar, a top dining destination in Gunnison, Colorado.
Gunnison Roping Club, Inc.
59.6 km
Discover the heart of cowboy culture at Gunnison Roping Club, where tradition meets excitement in the beautiful Colorado landscape.
I Bar Ranch
60.1 km
Discover the enchanting I Bar Ranch in Gunnison, Colorado, where live music meets stunning outdoor settings for unforgettable experiences.
Horse Farm
68.1 km
Explore the serene beauty of Leadville's Horse Farm, where equestrian adventure meets stunning mountain landscapes in Colorado.
Leadville Rod & Gun Club
72.1 km
Discover the thrill of shooting sports amidst the stunning landscapes of Leadville, Colorado. Perfect for enthusiasts and novices alike.
Pastime Saloon
73.1 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife and rich history at Pastime Saloon, a beloved bar and historical landmark in Leadville, Colorado.
Two Mile Brewing Co
73.1 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Colorado craft beer at Two Mile Brewing Co, an inviting brewpub in the heart of Leadville.
