The Upper Loop to Tony's Trail is an easy loop starting from town and giving great views of Whetstone Mountain, aspens, and of course wildflowers. Due to its low elevation and west facing aspect this is one of the first trails to open up every spring.
This is a great hike for those without access to a vehicle. There are NO dogs allowed on McCormick Ranch Property. You cannot get to Tony's Trail or leave Tony's Trail with a dog. Thats the East end of Elk Ave, across the cattle guard, all the way to Tony's.
Need a place to stay? Take 25% OFF lodging at Elevation Hotel with promo code: travelcb
| Highlights: | Wildflowers, Aspen |
| Difficulty: | Moderate |
| RT Length: | 6.5 miles |
| Approx. Time: | 3 hours |
| Elevation Gain: | 554 feet |
| Max Elevation: | 9,302 feet |
| Trailhead Elevation: | 8,748 feet |
| Travel Time to TH: | 5 minutes |
Click photos to view multi-season gallery
Directions
From the town of Crested Butte, head North on Highway 135 (or 6th Street at it’s marked in town) towards Mt. Crested Butte. Turn right onto Gothic Ave. heading East towards Rainbow Park. At the end of Gothic Ave, the street turns left onto 9th Street. Once you turn left onto 9th Street the paved Rec. Path will be visible on the right. Park anywhere along 9th Street. Begin walking North along the Rec. Path towards Mt. Crested Butte. Map
Route
Start on the Crested Butte recreation path [1] heading towards Mt. Crested Butte. Follow along the paved path as it weaves its way through wildflowers up the mountain. Cross Gothic Road [2] and continue on up the path. Turn right on Hunter Hill Road [3] go a short distance and turn right again on the continuation of HHR on the right. Hike down, then up past The Overlook turnoff. The singletrack starts at the first hard left switchback, where there is a parking area [4] and a trail sign MAP. After a couple moderate climbs, descend a rocky section then head through the open meadows offering great views of Whetstone and Crested Butte [5]. After a half mile or so of hiking in the open, you'll meet up with Tony's Trail [6]. Follow Tony's Trail as it winds its way down to a dirt road [7]. Take a right and follow the dirt road across a cattle guard and back into town.
Trail Map & Profile
There are NO dogs allowed on McCormick Ranch Property. You cannot get to Tony's Trail or leave Tony's Trail with a dog. Thats the East end of Elk Ave, across the cattle guard, all the way to Tony's.
Enjoying this trail? Help support the people who maintain it. Donate to the Crested Butte Conservation Corps.
Featured Lodging
Elevation Hotel
Take 25% OFFÂ with promo code: travelcb
500 Gothic Road • (970) 251-3000 • Map
Crested Butte Mountain Resort’s ski-in/ski-out hotel is not only conveniently located, but features a luxurious mountain experience. Elevation Hotel is a combination of mountain charm and contemporary urban design. Discover fine dining at the 9380 restaurant located within the building, spa, and full-service hotel amenities that also include a free town shuttle.
