6 Free Things to do in Crested Butte

Since you’ve already knocked these 9 things off your list, we’ve added a few more to ensure you make the most of your trip here. The best part is you don’t have to spend a dime on these activities. If you’re in need of a place to stay the Elevation Hotel has 25% OFF lodging with promo code: travelcb

Each one is special and more often than not, truly spectacular. The peacefulness you’ll experience is total bliss. And once the sun hits the peaks, you’ll swear you’re on another planet. In winter, this is usually around 7am. Summertime kicks it back a good hour or more. There’s no better way to start the day!

To truly get the inside scoop on Crested Butte, just ask a local. Your barista, waitress, or shop owner will typically point you in the right direction for some great food, trails, and fun. We live here because we all share a love of this place and are happy to tell you all about it (and perhaps inspire you to move as well!)

You don’t need to be a hippie to appreciate our aspen trees. Peak fall colors only last a couple weeks, but brighten the days with golden hues. In winter, stoic groves inspire some of the best black and white photography. Spring unleashes a sea of neon green upon the mountainsides. Summer trails wind through aspen stands accompanied by the gentle sound of leaves fluttering in the wind. These trees are part of what makes Crested Butte a mountain paradise.

With cool temps experienced any time of the year in CB, feeling the flickering flames of a campfire is one of those primal joys. Fire pits can be also found around base area including right in front of the 9380 Elevation Hotel restaurant.

Lakes and rivers are all around the upper Gunnison Valley and provide the perfect respite from daily life. Fish, relax on the shores, or go for a float. There’s nothing more refreshing than a dip in the ice cold waters fed by our snowy mountains.

There are a remarkable number of benches around town and stashed on a few backcountry trails. You’ll notice a couple on the Rec Path connecting the towns of CB and Mt. CB. The Lower Loop and Lupine trails also sport a couple. Bring a book or a snack and chill out on one of these perfectly placed seats. Their views can’t be beat!

Elevation Hotel and Spa is Crested Butte’s only slopeside hotel. No matter the season, Elevation’s mountainside accommodations offer stunning views and unrivaled access to trails and the lifts at Crested Butte Mountain Resort. New must-see culinary concepts, bars and lounges include José, the Matchstick Lounge and the billy barr.