Crested Butte is a quintessential Colorado mountain town with a rich history and excellent opportunities for outdoor activities. The town might be referred to as ‘scrappy’ by a storyteller, as it was known as “the town that wouldn’t die” after the mining decline. It now has a historic district with a reputation as Colorado’s wildflower capital and the “birthplace” of mountain biking. Oh – and it’s one of the state’s top spots for skiing, too.

History:

The Ute people were the first residents of Crested Butte, according to Gunnison + Crested Butte. Europeans and gold miners eventually made their way into the area, pushing the Ute out until about 1880.

The town of Crested Butte began as supply town for the silver mining communities that grew around it in 1878. It was incorporated in 1880.

The town got its name in 1873 from Ferdinand V. Hayden. From the top of what is now Teocalli Mountain, Hayden gazed at Crested Butte and Gothic and dubbed them “the crested buttes.”

After coal beds were discovered outside Crested Butte in 1880, coal mines in the town became the most productive in the Colorado Rockies. After the silver collapse, Crested Butte managed to survive with its coal mines, remembered as “the town that wouldn’t die.”

After its mining heyday, Crested Butte transformed into the ski town and popular tourist destination we know it as today. Crested Butte Mountain Resort opened in 1961, starting off the town’s history as a destination for outdoor recreation. And according to Gunnison + Crested Butte, the area is also one of the spots where mountain biking was first pioneered.

Outdoor recreation:

Crested Butte Mountain Resort – offers 1,547 acres of some of Colorado’s finest skiable terrain.

Mountain biking – Crested Butte features incredible mountain biking, including the famous 401 Trail (and much more).

Hiking – Crested Butte is renowned for its wildflower hikes, especially near Crested Butte Mountain and the surrounding area.

Water sports – spots like Lake Irwin and surrounding rivers offer chances for water sports like fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.

Culture:

Crested Butte Wildflower Festival – this ten day festival offers over 150 workshops in wildflower expertise each July.

Historic Elk Avenue – strolling down this street will make you feel like you’re walking back in time to Crested Butte’s 1800s mining era. The street features Victorian storefronts that are painted fun colors and world-class shopping and dining.

Center for the Arts – hosts everything from concerts, theater, and film to gallery exhibits and culinary arts classes.

Crested Butte Mountain Heritage Museum – this museum “preserves, shares, and celebrates the history and traditions of crested Bute and the Gunnison Valley.”

Dining:

The Secret Stash – features famous pizza and a lively atmosphere.

Soupcon – serves high-end, French-inspired dishes in a historic 1800s cabin.

Bonez – serves contemporary Mexican food and tequila.

The Gourmet Noodle – this is a popular Italian spot in Crested Butte.

Lodging:

Old Town Inn – this charming boutique hotel is located in the heart of Crested Butte, providing easy access to shopping, dining, hiking, skiing, and more.

The Lodge at Mountaineer Square – offers great access to the mountain, as it’s only steps away from the ski lifts.

The Wanderlust Hostel – a popular and affordable choice.

Getting there:

According to Google Maps, Crested Butte is about a four hour and 30 minute drive from Denver.

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