Crested Butte Trails: Brush Creek

In Biking Guide, Hiking guide, Trail by

This hike is easy and close to town, which makes it a great option for those coming from low elevations on a short stay.  In the summer months, the wildflowers usually don’t get much better with Aspen sunflower blanketing entire hillsides.  Don’t expect much shade either, so bring the sunblock and/or protective clothing.

Highlights:Wildflowers, 13er views: Teocalli, White Rock
Hike Difficulty:Easy
Bike Difficulty:Beginner
RT Length:4.29 miles
Approx. Hike Time:2 hours
Elevation Gain:315 feet
Max Elevation:9,134 feet
Trailhead:West Brush Creek
Trailhead Elevation:8,949 feet
Travel Time to TH:10 minutes


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Directions

From the Town of Crested Butte: Drive 2 miles south on CO 135 and make a left onto County Road 738 (Brush Creek Road). Continue on another 1.9 miles as pavement turns to dirt and look for the parking lot of the trailhead on your left side.


Route

Brush Creek trail is straightforward and offers expansive views most of the way from the start. There may be a few smaller creeks to cross, depending on the season, but usually not anything more than a trickle. Pass through a couple of small aspen groves and enjoy views of the entire East River Valley. This is an out and back, so feel free to turn around at any point.

The route is very mountain bike friendly, and a great challenge if you are just getting into mountain biking. The two track offers a few rocks and creek crossings that will keep you honest. The climb back up from the East River Valley will also prove to be a small but good challenge.

The wildflowers on this trail are but a taste of what can be experienced when you attend the CB Wildflower Fest. The main event is only a week in July, but there are over 200 wildflower programs in the month to celebrate the season.

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Please don’t pick, cut, or walk on wildflowers or other plants. Removing wildflowers from the wild can adversely affect pollinators and other animals that depend on that species for food and cover, and can affect the flowers long-term survival in that location.

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This is a pet friendly trail, abide by the leash law at all times. Yield trail right of way to all others when hiking with your dog. Tread lightly on the trail to avoid damaging the ecosystem and remember to pack out all doggy doo.

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This is a popular bike trail, watch out for bikers. If biking yield to horses, hikers, and uphill riders. Don't ride trails when muddy and bike to the trailhead if possible. Be considerate to other users, the land, and local landowners.


Click photos to view multi-season gallery


Trail Map & Profile



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