For those who love hiking, snowshoeing is your winter counterpart. From groomed trails to pristine backcountry wilderness, snowshoeing gives you all-access exploration of surrounding areas in Crested Butte. If you choose to use the Crested Butte Nordic Center groomed track, be sure to purchase a day pass at the Nordic Center, located at 620 2nd St. in the town of Crested Butte.
Need a place to stay? The Nordic Inn has it all with free parking, an outdoor hot tub, and friendly staff.
Miles of Exploration
Click photos to view gallery
Ungroomed Trails
| Trail | Area | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|
| Snodgrass | Washington Gulch |  |
| Upper Upper Loop | Brush Creek | |
| Brush Creek | Brush Creek |  |
| Long Lake | Washington Gulch | |
Groomed Trails
| Area | Location | Nordic Pass Required | Groomed |
|---|---|---|---|
| East Side | By the School | Yes | Yes |
| The Bench | Behind the Nordic Center | Yes | Yes |
| Magic Meadows | Peanut Lake/Slate River | Yes | Yes |
| Riverbend | 2 miles east of town | No | Yes |
| Gothic | End of Gothic Road | No | Snowmobile Track |
| Snodgrass | End of Gothic Road | No | No |
| Brush Creek | 3 miles east of town | No | Snowmobile Track |
| Washington Gulch | 4 miles north of town | No | Snowmobile Track |
Click to view maps
Crested Butte Nordic Center
620 2nd St, Crested Butte, CO 81224
(970) 349-1707 • Website • Map
If you fly into the Gunnison Airport, it may be difficult to transport your snowshoes. The Crested Butte Nordic Center offers $20 rentals for snowshoes, boots, and poles. Additionally, rentals are 20% off for seniors (65+) and free for kids 17 and under. You can snowshoe all of their trails (over 50km!) and the Nordic Center also offers guided backcountry tours, starting at $90 for a half day and $60 for each additional person. Tours meet at The Nordic Center and are available 7 days a week. Bring a backpack with essentials such as water, layers, and sunscreen.
Irwin Guides
218 Maroon Ave, Crested Butte, CO 81224
(970)-349-5430 • Website • Map
Irwin Guides also offer a unique backcountry guiding experience. Your half day snowshoe experience is guaranteed to be a time to remember for you, friends, and family. Explore open meadows, aspen groves, and dark timber, while enjoying pristine views and wildlife during this all inclusive tour. $175 for one person and $125 each for a party over two.
Featured Lodging
The Nordic Inn is the perfect base camp for Crested Butte adventure. Nestled near the base area of Mt. Crested Butte, this is an ideal spot for exploring the Gothic Valley, skiing at the resort, and its a short walk to the bus loop, so you can get to town without worrying about driving.
