Fall in the high country is punctuated by vibrant golden color and cool, crisp weather. This presents the perfect opportunity to explore Crested Butte’s numerous aspen-lined trails. Colors tend to peak toward the end of September and beginning of October. Since this window is so short, we’ve provided a list of some of the best hikes to fully enjoy the season. All of our trails are mobile-friendly! Click through to the trail guides on your phone, take screenshots (since you probably won’t have cell service), and get out there!
Beaver Ponds via Ohio Pass
Difficulty: Easy
Roundtrip: 1.1 miles
Approx Time: 1 hour
Location: Ohio Pass
A short, but rewarding hike takes you through dense aspen forest up to the Beaver Ponds. The nearby Anthracite Range can be reflected in the ponds on a calm day. A scenic drive via Ohio Pass is also part of the experience and where you can spot the Castles off in the distance.
For the full trail guide: CLICK HERE
Tony’s Trail to Upper Upper Viewpoint
Difficulty: Easy
Roundtrip: 2.8 miles
Approx Time: 1.5 hours
Location: Near Town
Hike this trail straight from your front door in town. It’s accessible from the east side of Crested Butte and connects to awesome aspen-filled trails that hug the mountain. This is also a great choice if you don’t have access to a vehicle.
For the full trail guide: CLICK HERE
Snodgrass Mountain
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Roundtrip: 2-4 miles
Approx Time: 2 hours
Location: Near Town
Just across from Mt. Crested Butte lies Snodgrass. Tall and dense aspen groves line the base, making it a great choice for a quick out and back hike (no need to summit). Turn around 1 – 2 miles in, where some of the best scenery can be found. Be sure to keep off the closed portion, which traverses around the mountain and down into Washington Gulch (Snodgrass Trail).
For the full trail guide: CLICK HERE
3 Lakes Loop
Difficulty: Easy
Roundtrip: 2.8 miles
Approx Time: 1.5 hours
Location: Kebler Pass
No fall hiking guide would be complete without a trip to Kebler Pass. It’s home to the largest aspen forest in the state. The 3 Lakes Loop is one of our favorite Kebler trails for leaf peeping. It offers great treks through aspen groves with the pinnacle showcasing a wide swath of the entire valley. The loop is perfect for a short hike with lake access.
For the full trail guide: CLICK HERE
Woods Walk
Difficulty: Easy
Roundtrip: 2.8 miles
Approx Time: 1.5 hours
Location: Town
A short hike from town, this is one of our easiest trails. Even though it’s close to town, there is a beautiful view up valley towards Paradise Divide and a great look at Mt. Crested Butte.
For the full trail guide: CLICK HERE
Deer Creek Trail
Difficulty: Moderate
Roundtrip: 6.9 miles (out & back)
Approx Time: 3.5 hours
Location: Gothic Valley
Expansive mountain views and numerous aspen groves make this another great choice for fall. Some of the best views of Gothic Mountain and Crested Butte Mountain Resort can be seen from various points on this trail.
For the full trail guide: CLICK HERE
Full Crested Butte Hiking Guide: CLICK HERE
Featured Event
Join us for the 7th edition of Emma Coburn’s Elk Run 5k! Race in person in Crested Butte, Colorado to run in paradise at 9,000ft elevation or participate virtually anywhere in the world. Our aim is to provide an epic race day experience for everyone while raising money for a great local charity. In total, we have raised $265,000 for Living Journeys, a charity that supports local residents who are battling cancer. The 2023 Elk Run 5k will be run in honor of Emma’s mom, Annie, who passed away in January 2023 after a three year battle with Stage 4 colon cancer. We hope to make Annie proud!