9 Things You Must Do On Your First Crested Butte Visit

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Thinking about planning a trip to the Butte this season? These are our most recommended things to do once you get here. Make note of this list for the next time you are lucky enough to find yourself taking in these sights.

1. Breathe

Get outside and take a few deep breaths. Our fresh mountain air doesn’t get much better anywhere in this country. Far from the crowded cities, and far from any industrial center, you can find places outside to enjoy the air.



2. Get a Lift

The base area of Mt. Crested Butte is where you can catch a ride up the Silver Queen lift. This exhilarating experience delivers amazing views of the surrounding mountains. For those in shape and up for a challenge, you can hike to the summit! If you need an actual taxi service to the airport or anywhere in/out of the valley, Black Canyon Limo has you covered.



3. Festivals/Events

Summer comes with plenty of special events celebrating food, drink, music, art, sport, and nature that can only be experienced here in the high Rockies. Check out some of the upcoming events below to find the perfect one for you!


4. Stroll down Elk Ave

When was the last time you did this? Not for exercise or to get somewhere, but to just breathe and take in the sights. Crested Butte is an extremely pedestrian-friendly town with historical buildings, mountain views, and plenty of places to stop in and visit. It's easy to shop locally when nearly all the businesses are not chains and unique to the area.


    5. Hike or Snowshoe

    Looking to get outside and enjoy some views? You'll never run out of trails to snowshoe here, or new views to find! There's a trail here to suit everybody: flat, short, steep, and long.



    6. Dine Out

    This was probably already on the itinerary, but it still surprises us how much great food is available in a town this size. Choose from pretty much any cuisine and be delighted. This complete dining guide will help narrow down the choices. For the best steakhouse in CB, there's always Elk Ave Prime ↓



    7. Look Up at Night

    Crested Butte lies close to the heart of the Elk Mountain Range in the Colorado Rockies. It's also home to light ordinances and some of the darkest skies at night. We love to enjoy our favorite views here with the stars. It's one of the most serene feelings for us.


      8. Cross Country Ski or Mountain Bike

      Crested Butte is home to miles of gorgeous cross-country skiing tracks! Ranging all skill levels, it's easy to explore the valley off the slopes and on the tracks. Rent your skis and grab your trail passes right at Crested Butte Nordic Center.


      9. Cool Off on the Water

      There are a bunch of lakes and rivers surrounding Crested Butte that you can enjoy. Stand-up Paddling is one of our favorite activities in the summer, but you can also canoe, kayak, or just jump into some cold and refreshing water. In need of some gear? Wheelies & Waves has you covered for rentals including life jackets.

        Featured Lodging

        Elevation Hotel

        • Crested Butte's Only Slopeside Hotel
        • Mountainside Accommodations
        • Home of multiple culinary concepts, bars and lounges: Jose, the Matchstick Lounge & the billy barr
        • Pet friendly • Family Friendly
        • 3 Hot Tubs •Spa + Fitness Center
        • On-Site Guide Services
        • On-site Ski + Bike Rentals

        Take 25% OFF with promo code: travelcb
        500 Gothic Road • (970) 251-3000 • Map


        Check Availability

        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.