Crested Butte: The Last Great Colorado Ski Town
Discover Crested Butte: Colorado's historic ski town with stunning mountain scenery, outdoor adventures, and a vibrant, welcoming community.
Crested Butte, a former coal mining town nestled in the Elk Mountains, has transformed into a premier destination for skiing, mountain biking, and outdoor adventures. Known for its colorful downtown, friendly locals, and stunning mountain scenery, it offers a unique blend of history and recreation.
A brief summary to Crested Butte
- Crested Butte, Colorado, US
- Visit website
Local tips
- Take advantage of the free Mountain Express shuttle to get around town and to Mt. Crested Butte.
- Visit during the Wildflower Festival in July to witness the stunning displays of wildflowers.
- Explore the town's historic district to admire the well-preserved buildings from the mining era.
- Check the winter parking regulations, as overnight parking is restricted in certain areas.
- Bring layers, as the weather in the mountains can change quickly.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Gunnison-Crested Butte Regional Airport (GUC), the most convenient way to reach Crested Butte is via the Gunnison Valley RTA bus. The RTA provides free bus service from Gunnison to Crested Butte, with stops in Almont and Crested Butte South. The ride takes approximately 1 hour. Alternatively, airport shuttles like Alpine Express and Dolly's Mountain Shuttle offer door-to-door service. The cost for a shuttle is approximately $40-$60 per person. Once in Crested Butte, the Mountain Express provides free transportation around town and to Mt. Crested Butte. Buses run every 15-40 minutes depending on the season. This makes it easy to reach trailheads, restaurants, and other attractions without a car.
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Walking
Crested Butte is a compact and walkable town, with most attractions located within a few blocks of Elk Avenue. From the 4-Way Stop at the intersection of Elk Avenue and Highway 135, you can easily walk to most shops, restaurants, and galleries in the downtown area. To reach the Crested Butte Heritage Museum, walk east on Elk Avenue for about 3 blocks. For the Nordic Center, head north on 2nd Street. The walk to most destinations within town is generally flat and takes no more than 10-15 minutes.
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Driving
From Gunnison, take Highway 135 north for approximately 28 miles to reach Crested Butte. As you enter town, you'll arrive at the 4-Way Stop. Parking is available in public lots and on-street, but it can be limited, especially during peak seasons. Free 2-hour parking is available throughout downtown, and free long-term parking is available in public parking lots. Be aware of winter parking regulations, as overnight parking is restricted on Elk Avenue and in certain public lots between 2:00 am and 8:00 am. Parking at the Crested Butte Mountain Resort is free during the summer months. During winter, paid parking is available at Crested Butte Mountain Resort for $15 per day or $25 overnight.
Discover more about Crested Butte
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Bonez
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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)
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Discover Margaux's (SlapBurger) in Crested Butte for mouthwatering burgers, chicken wings, and a vibrant bar scene in a stunning mountain town.
Kochevar's Saloon
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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
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Experience the culinary artistry of Soupcon Restaurant in Crested Butte, where French cuisine meets local ingredients in an intimate setting.
Public House Lofts
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Discover comfort and modern charm at Public House Lofts in Crested Butte, your perfect gateway to adventure in the Colorado mountains.
Irwin Brewing Company’s Public House
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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.
Mountain View Wear
0.1 km
Discover Mountain View Wear in Crested Butte, where fashion meets functionality for the perfect mountain lifestyle.
Montanya Distillers | Cocktail Bar
0.1 km
Experience handcrafted cocktails and local cuisine at Montanya Distillers, Crested Butte's top distillery and cocktail bar, where flavor meets mountain charm.
Crested Butte, Colorado
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Experience the enchanting beauty of Crested Butte, Colorado, where stunning mountain landscapes meet vibrant local culture for an unforgettable getaway.
The Eldo Brewery
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Experience the vibrant atmosphere of The Eldo Brewery in Crested Butte, where craft beer meets delicious food and live music.
Sunflower
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Discover the vibrant flavors of local cuisine at Sunflower, a premier restaurant in Crested Butte, Colorado, where every dish tells a story.
The Wooden Nickel
0.1 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at The Wooden Nickel, a cozy steakhouse in Crested Butte, renowned for its quality steaks and warm atmosphere.
Eleven Sopris House
0.1 km
Discover unparalleled luxury and adventure at Eleven Sopris House in Crested Butte - your ultimate Colorado ski resort destination.
Elk Avenue Prime
0.1 km
Experience culinary excellence at Elk Avenue Prime, the premier steakhouse in Crested Butte, Colorado, featuring exquisite steaks and an extensive wine collection.
Mc Gill's
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Experience the culinary delight of Mc Gill's in Crested Butte, where every meal feels like a warm embrace in a charming mountain town.
Unmissable attractions to see
Crested Butte Land Trust
0.2 km
Conserving Gunnison Valley's vistas, recreation, wildlife, and ranching heritage for future generations. Explore protected lands!
Crested Butte Nordic
0.3 km
Discover winter's magic at Crested Butte Nordic Center: 55km of groomed trails, rentals, lessons, and events for all ages!
Crested Butte Museum
0.3 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
0.5 km
Inspiring young minds through play and discovery in the heart of Crested Butte, Colorado. A must-visit for families!
Crested Butte Mountain Resort
3.8 km
Experience the thrill of extreme terrain and stunning scenery at Crested Butte Mountain Resort, a Colorado gem with a vibrant mountain culture.
Snodgrass Trailhead
6.0 km
Hike or bike through wildflower meadows with stunning mountain views at this popular Crested Butte trailhead.
Brush Creek Trailhead
6.5 km
Discover stunning wildflower meadows and panoramic mountain views on this easy and accessible trail near Crested Butte, Colorado.
Snodgrass Mountain
7.1 km
Hike or bike through wildflower meadows and aspen forests with stunning views of Crested Butte's iconic peaks.
Washington Gulch
8.5 km
Explore Washington Gulch near Crested Butte: Hike scenic trails, discover wildflower meadows, and uncover the history of this Colorado gem.
Gothic Mountain
9.8 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.
Kebler Pass
10.0 km
Experience Colorado's stunning fall colors and breathtaking mountain scenery on Kebler Pass, a seasonal scenic byway connecting Crested Butte and Paonia.
Judd Falls/Copper Creek Trailhead
10.7 km
Discover Judd Falls near Crested Butte: An easy hike to a stunning waterfall with breathtaking mountain views and vibrant wildflower meadows.
Rustler Gulch
13.6 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
14.3 km
Discover Gothic Natural Area: a blend of history, science, and stunning Rocky Mountain scenery near Crested Butte, Colorado.
Cinnamon Mountain
15.6 km
Hike to panoramic views from Cinnamon Mountain, a 13,336-foot peak in the heart of Colorado's stunning San Juan Mountains.
Essential places to dine
Ryce Asian Bistro
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Experience authentic Asian flavors at Ryce Asian Bistro - where every dish tells a story in Crested Butte's vibrant culinary scene.
Yukihana Sushi & Sake Bar
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Experience the finest sushi and sake at Yukihana Sushi & Sake Bar in Crested Butte - where tradition meets innovation in every bite.
Miette
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Discover the unique flavors of Colorado at Miette, where exquisite dining meets charming ambiance in Crested Butte.
The Hideout
0.1 km
Discover culinary excellence at The Hideout in Crested Butte - where fresh ingredients meet warm hospitality in a cozy setting.
Breadery
0.1 km
Discover the delicious flavors at The Breadery in Crested Butte—where fresh ingredients meet cozy ambiance.
Butte Bagels
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Discover the delightful flavors of fresh bagels at Butte Bagels in Crested Butte - where every bite starts your day right!
Bruhaus
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Discover Bruhaus in Crested Butte: where local ingredients meet international flair in an inviting atmosphere perfect for every traveler.
The Dogwood
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Discover The Dogwood in Crested Butte - where unique cocktails meet delicious dining in a cozy mountain setting.
The Slogar
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Experience authentic American cuisine at The Slogar in Crested Butte—where every meal is a celebration of local flavors and warm hospitality.
Birdies Golf Bar
0.2 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
0.2 km
Discover Momo's: An Asian culinary oasis in Crested Butte offering authentic flavors and cozy ambiance for an unforgettable dining experience.
IZAKAYA CABIN
0.3 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)
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Thailand at Thai Chili 78 in Crested Butte – a culinary haven for adventurous food lovers.
Paradise Cafe
0.6 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at Paradise Cafe in Crested Butte - where every meal is made with love and local ingredients.
Frank's Deli at Creative Catering
0.6 km
Discover delectable sandwiches and exquisite catering at Frank's Deli in Crested Butte – where local flavors meet mountain charm.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Chopwood Mercantile
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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
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Discover cycling paradise at Big Al's Bicycle Heaven in Crested Butte, Colorado - your ultimate destination for bike rentals, repairs, and adventure.
UNIQUE WEAR
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Explore Unique Wear in Crested Butte for a stylish selection of clothing that embodies mountain culture and fashion.
Crested Butte Angler: Fly Fishing Guides for the Gunnison River Drainage, Fly Shop, & Outdoor Store
0.1 km
Discover the ultimate fly fishing experience at Crested Butte Angler, your go-to shop for guided trips and premium outdoor gear in Colorado.
Colorado Mountain Love
0.2 km
Explore Colorado Mountain Love for unique outdoor apparel and local artisan goods, capturing the essence of Crested Butte's vibrant mountain culture.
Lavish
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Explore Lavish in Crested Butte for unique gifts that embody the spirit of Colorado's beautiful Rockies.
Poohs Corner Inc
0.2 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
0.2 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts at Pfister's Handworks in Crested Butte, where creativity meets mountain culture.
Shades of Crested Butte
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Explore Shades of Crested Butte for stylish sunglasses that elevate your outdoor adventures amidst Colorado's stunning landscapes.
Mountain Tops
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Discover unique t-shirts capturing Colorado's beauty at Mountain Tops, the ultimate souvenir shop in Crested Butte.
Milky Way Boutique
0.2 km
Explore unique women's fashion at Milky Way Boutique, Crested Butte's premier destination for stylish clothing, jewelry, and lingerie.
GRIT Crested Butte
0.2 km
Discover unique clothing and accessories at GRIT Crested Butte, a boutique that embodies the spirit of Colorado's outdoor culture.
Alley Hats
0.2 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.
Colorado Real Soap Co. aka Crested Butte Soap
0.2 km
Explore the beauty of handcrafted soaps at Colorado Real Soap Co. in Crested Butte, where nature meets artistry in every bar.
Vincent Cranberry’s Christmas Shoppe and Holiday Haberdashery
0.3 km
Discover the holiday spirit at Vincent Cranberry’s Christmas Shoppe, a magical destination for festive decorations and unique gifts in Crested Butte, Colorado.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Anthracite Spirits Company Tasting Lounge
0.3 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
32.9 km
Discover exquisite Swiss cuisine amidst breathtaking mountain views at Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro in Aspen Highlands, a top dining destination for tourists.
Crested Bucha
36.2 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
37.1 km
Discover the lively Wapiti Ridge Saloon in Gunnison, Colorado, where great drinks and live music create a memorable experience.
I Bar Ranch
37.2 km
Discover the energetic vibe of I Bar Ranch, a premier live music venue and enchanting wedding destination in picturesque Gunnison, Colorado.
Stark's Alpine Grill
37.5 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
37.6 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious comfort food at The Tavern Kitchen and Bar in scenic Snowmass Village, Colorado.
Zane's Tavern Snowmass
37.6 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
37.8 km
Experience the warmth of Base Camp Bar & Grill in Snowmass Village, where hearty meals and stunning views create the perfect mountain retreat.
The Lounge
37.9 km
Discover The Lounge in Snowmass Village, a cozy restaurant and bar offering hearty meals and signature cocktails amidst stunning mountain views.
Kenichi Snowmass
37.9 km
Experience the art of Japanese cuisine at Kenichi Snowmass, where fresh ingredients meet culinary excellence in a stunning mountain setting.
NEST Bar & Grill
37.9 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
38.0 km
Experience exceptional American cuisine with breathtaking mountain views at TORO Kitchen & Lounge in Snowmass Village, Colorado.
Mountain Social Bar & Lounge
38.1 km
Discover the perfect blend of relaxation and culinary delights at Mountain Social Bar & Lounge in Aspen, Colorado's alpine paradise.
Shadow Mountain Lounge
38.1 km
Discover the upscale ambiance and exquisite drinks at Shadow Mountain Lounge, a must-visit bar in the heart of Aspen, Colorado.
