Gunnison - Crested Butte

Travel Guide

Photo provided by Tom Runcie/Gunnison-Crested Butte Tourism Association
Photo provided by Nathan Bilow/Gunnison-Crested Butte Tourism Association
Photo provided by Tom Runcie/Gunnison-Crested Butte Tourism Association
Photo provided by Gunnison-Crested Butte Tourism Association
Photo provided by Nathan Bilow/Gunnison-Crested Butte Tourism Association
Climb the mountains, fish in the clear rivers and enjoy the authentic small town feel of pristine rural Colorado. 

Explore the full spectrum of the great outdoors in the Gunnison Valley. Gunnison-Crested Butte is known for its beauty no matter what the season. The rugged peaks of the Rocky Mountains frame canyons, rivers, wide green fields and laid-back, friendly towns.

Crested Butte is a classic Victorian mining town. Get a feel of that heritage when you explore the streets and see Victorian-era architecture. Just out of town is Crested Butte Mountain Resort, where you can ski and snowboard in winter, and hike, bike and zip line in summer. 

For great family fun, take the kids on a dog sled or snow mobile ride. Head to the Adventure Park at the base of the mountain to try the bungee trampoline, climbing wall and snow tubes. 

Find more winter sport activities at the Crested Butte Nordic Center, which offers Nordic cross country skiing lessons and snowshoeing tours of the backcountry. Bring your ice skates and get free admission to the center’s rink.

In the summer, fill your days with mountain biking, camping, fly fishing, and horseback riding. The Blue Mesa Réservoir is the largest body of water in the state and a famous fishing destination, especially for varieties of trout and salmon. The Gunnison Valley is home to the state record for brown, rainbow and lake trout, and the state record for kokanee salmon. The reservoir isn’t far from the spectacular Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, a perfect spot to hike and camp. The Gunnison Valley also has 750 miles (1,207 kilometers) of mountain bike trails, more than any mountain valley in America.

This region’s charms do not end with its natural wonders. Experience Gunnison’s “Cattlemen’s Days”, the oldest rodeo in Colorado. An event that proudly celebrates the area’s long ranching heritage.

Where to stay in Gunnison - Crested Butte

Default Image

Crested Butte South

While there might not be top attractions in Crested Butte South, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Slate River and Lake Grant.

Crested Butte South
Default Image

Skyland

While Skyland might not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Lake Grant and Slate River.

Skyland
Default Image

The Outlook

While there might not be top attractions in The Outlook, you can explore the larger area and discover places like West Wall Lift and Aspen Carpet.

The Outlook
Default Image

Red Mountain Ranch

While visiting Red Mountain Ranch, you might make a stop by sights like Taylor River and Crested Butte Town Park.

Red Mountain Ranch
High alpine lake.  Great hike.  3.5 miles from trail head.  431 elevation gain. Easy to hike, bike or xc ski.  Absolutely stunning especially with lilies.

Downtown Crested Butte

If you're spending some time in Downtown Crested Butte, Sea Level Spa and Trail 403 are top sights worth seeing.

Downtown Crested Butte
Elevation Hotel & Spa
Elevation Hotel & Spa
4 out of 5
500 Gothic Rd, Mount Crested Butte, Crested Butte, CO
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is P6,901 per night from 10 May to 11 May
P6,901
P10,227 total
includes taxes & fees
May 10 - May 11
Book a stay at this spa hotel in Crested Butte. Enjoy free WiFi, a full-service spa, and 2 bars/lounges. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (1,001 reviews)
"When the ski area shut down so did all the amenities like restaurants and bars, room service and this was not made known to customers staying"

Reviewed on Apr 10, 2025

Elevation Hotel & Spa
Grand Lodge Crested Butte
Grand Lodge Crested Butte
3 out of 5
6 Emmons Rd, Mount Crested Butte, Crested Butte, CO
Stay at this 3-star ski lodge in Crested Butte. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a free area shuttle. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in our ...
7.8/10 Good! (1,052 reviews)
great location
"best location in Crested Butte. close to chairlifts. close to bus to town. close to restaurants. beds in West tower are right next to the door, so you hear all the loud people coming in after hours."

Reviewed on Apr 6, 2025

Grand Lodge Crested Butte
Old Town Inn
Old Town Inn
2 out of 5
708 6th St, Crested Butte, CO
The price is P7,098 per night from 21 Apr to 22 Apr
P7,098
P8,049 total
includes taxes & fees
Apr 21 - Apr 22
Book a stay at this ski hotel in Crested Butte. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (434 reviews)
"Friendly and clean hotel with easy access to the bus line to get you up to the mountain and around town."

Reviewed on Apr 15, 2025

Old Town Inn
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
The Plaza Condominiums by Crested Butte Mountain Resorts
The Plaza Condominiums by Crested Butte Mountain Resorts
3 out of 5
11 Snowmass Road, Mount Crested Butte, Crested Butte, CO
Stay at this 3-star ski aparthotel in Crested Butte. Enjoy free WiFi, a free area shuttle, and a picnic area. Popular attractions Crested Butte Mountain Resort ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (125 reviews)
Wildflowers
"Comfortable with well stocked kitchen. Washer/dryer."

Reviewed on Jul 25, 2024

The Plaza Condominiums by Crested Butte Mountain Resorts
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Popular places to visit