Summer in Crested Butte: Your Colorado Base for Hiking, Biking and Paddling

Looking for high altitude outdoor adventures, heart pumping action, and adrenaline rushes in the midst of colorful Colorado wildflowers?

Hiking and camping are some of the best things to do in Crested Butte in summer. Immerse yourself in Colorado’s wildflower capital, where the outdoor adventure opportunities are non-stop.

The Crested Butte Wildflower Festival is a 10 day long event that will take place July 7-16 in 2023.

Widely known as a mountain biking and skiing capital, Crested Butte offers all kinds of opportunities for outdoor recreation in summer and winter.

East Maroon Pass, a beautiful hike between Aspen and Crested Butte

Houses and cabins are popular options for a stay in Crested Butte — like this cozy bungalow just a five minute walk from the historic old town.

Don’t forget to bring your own stand-up paddleboard for one of the many picturesque alpine lakes in Crested Butte.

Driving mountain passes in summer is also a popular thing to do in Crested Butte, especially if you love navigating skinny hair-raising roads in a jeep or other 4 x 4.

Without further ado, here are the best things to do in Crested Butte.

Things to do in Crested Butte

Hiking in Crested Butte
Drive These Mountain Passes around Crested Butte
Best Places to Take Your Paddleboard
Crested Butte Campsites
Rent an RV near Crested Butte
Fly Fishing
Mountain Biking
Skiing Mt. Crested Butte
Where to Eat and Where to Stay
Lodges and Vacation Homes in Crested Butte

Hiking in Crested Butte

Crested Butte Colorado is dubbed the Wildflower Capital and the up close way to see them is by hitting some of these best Colorado hiking trails.

Whether immersed in summer wildflowers or gold Aspens in fall, hiking in Crested Butte is a real treat!

Hop on easy going trails or get your heart pumping with some tougher climbs capped off with rewarding views. We’ve listed a mix of both below.

Make sure you carry plenty of water and snacks with a durable, comfortable daypack made for Colorado trails.

One of the best things to do in Crested Butte is to take a hike!

Being one of two of the closest towns to the Maroon Bells - Snowmass Wilderness, get ready for jaw-dropping views and Colorado wildflowers galore.

NOTE: Aspen is another gateway to this wilderness, and the best way to see the Maroon Bells.

Considering the weather in Crested Butte, July is the best time of year to immerse yourself in Colorado wildflowers along the hiking trails.

Late September is ideal for seeing Aspens in Fall. June and October could easily mean trudging through snow if you’re up for it.

West and East Maroon Passes

For memories that will last a lifetime, hike between Crested Butte and Aspen over West Maroon Pass one day (allow 5-8 hours) and return by East Maroon Pass (allow 6-10 hours) the next day.

Colorado wildflowers near the end of summer in Crested Butte

Both routes offer spectacular views and an abundance of wildlife, Colorado wildflowers, and beautiful streams. Due to their length, both are labeled hard hikes.

Some girlfriends and I hiked the West Maroon Pass from Crested Butte to Aspen in late August. Then the next day we hiked back via the East Maroon Pass. This two day hike requires some serious planning ahead, but it is well worth the effort.

How to Hike Crested Butte to Aspen

While Aspen is on the north side of the Elk Mountains, Crested Butte is nestled up the south side. This mountain range runs from northwest to southeast between the two towns, with seven 14,000 foot peaks and several thirteeners.

There are so many family fun things to do in Aspen too.

Hiking up to the West Maroon Pass one summer in Crested Butte

Judd Falls

This easy 2.2 out and back trail takes you to an overview of the magnificent Judd Falls.

Start this short hike from the parking lot on the right side of Gothic Road, just after the little town of Gothic. Or drive your car up another 1/2 mile to a second parking lot to get a bit closer.

From Judd Falls, you can hop on Copper Creek Trail #983, which will eventually lead you to hike the East Maroon Pass over to Aspen.

Hike to Copper Lake from Crested Butte in summer

Trail 403

A moderate trail taking you up past 11,000’, Trail 403 also connects with other trails at the top if you want to add more miles to this 7.5 mile out-and-back.

Steep at the get-go, you’ll feel the burn, but the views of Gothic Valley and the wildflowers are worth it.

From Mt. Crested Butte, you’ll drive dirt road County Rd 317 / Gothic Road past the Judd Falls / Copper Creek Trailhead, until you reach Washington Gulch Campground. There you will find Trail 403 Trailhead.

READ: 13 Stunning Crested Butte Summer Hikes in 2023

Gothic Road takes you to epic scenic views and hikes in summer

Mount Emmons (aka Red Lady) via Copley Lake

Hike to quiet Copley Lake alone, or continue on to Mount Emmons, nicknamed Red Lady.

Round trip to Copley Lake is 3.5 miles, but you’ll climb 1000’ to get there. Give yourself 3 hours for this shorter, moderate hike with Colorado wildflowers.

Continue hiking to the Red Lady Summit / Mt. Emmons and you’ll stand above tree line at 12,390’. This is an all day hike over 10 miles long and you’ll climb an arduous 3,390’ feet.

Find Indian Paintbrush along the hiking trails in Crested Butte in summer

PRO TIP: Make sure you have the right daypack packed with plenty of water and snacks and the proper hiking footwear.

Osprey Day Packs are the best we have found for hiking in Colorado.

To reach the trailhead from Crested Butte: Take Whiterock Ave west out of town where it turns into Kebler Pass Road. Drive 4.2 miles up the road, becoming dirt a few miles in, until you reach a small parking area on the left side. You will see 2 unmarked trails a few yards up the road from there on the right-hand side. Take the trail that is further up the road.

Check TravelCrestedButte.com for any trail notifications before heading up.

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Drive Cool Mountain Passes in Crested Butte

One of the best things to do in Crested Butte in summer is to take a scenic drive!

Surrounded by tantalizing mountain passes and stunning mountain peaks, off road fanatics flock here for great OHV trails too.

Only one of these mountain passes mentioned below is open year round, meaning summer is your time to drive them.

Kebler Pass lies due west of Crested Butte, along Colorado Road 12.

Schofield Pass is directly north, past Gothic along Colorado Road 317.

Monarch Pass, a popular view point, can be found to the west on US-50.

Cottonwood Pass connects Crested Butte to Buena Vista.

For the latest road updates, visit Colorado Department of Transportations.

Cottonwood Pass

For a different route to and from Crested Butte, Cottonwood Pass connects you with Buena Vista. This recently resurfaced, beautiful and less-busy pass runs past numerous campgrounds all through Taylor Park, and past Taylor Reservoir.

During this winding, scenic drive, you will climb up through the Collegiate Peaks between Crested Butte and Buena Vista.

Cottonwood Pass is not open for the winter, closing after the first big snowfall and re-opening sometime around mid-May.

To drive Cottonwood Pass from Crested Butte, drive south to Almont along CO-135. From Almont, take CO-742 east toward Taylor Park Reservoir. Just past the Reservoir, turn right onto CO-209, which turns into CO-306 after about 14 miles. Continue down CO-306 until you reach Buena Vista.

Kebler Pass

Kebler Pass is a wonderful high-mountain pass connecting Crested Butte with Paonia in the west. It’s also a gorgeous seasonal shortcut to Aspen in the Roaring Fork Valley.

Taking you through the Gunnison National Forest, Kebler Pass is one of the best spots to see Colorado’s fall aspens.

This gravel road is open for traffic from approximately mid-June to mid-October. It's closed every winter after the first substantial snowfall.

Pearl, Taylor, and Schofield Passes also offer shorter distances between Crested Butte and Aspen but require a 4-Wheel Drive. You can also bike on these roads.

Schofield Pass

Infamous for being the most deadly pass in Colorado, driving Schofield Pass requires a 4 Wheel Drive is one of the most dangerous off road expeditions in the state.

If you are up for the hair-raising challenge, this 15 miles of rocky terrain connects Marble with Crested Butte. Soak in the breathtaking, isolated wilderness views.

NOTE: Schofield Pass is closed for most of the year due to snowy and muddy conditions. It is typically open for a month or two in the Late Summer, beginning in August.

Schofield Pass is generally accessible by most high clearance vehicles. However, for those that are continuing northbound to Crystal, a 4x4, ATV, or Jeep is required.

Access Schofield Pass at the end of Gothic Road/ Country Rd 317, which is north of Mt. Crested Butte.

PRO TIP: Pearl, Taylor, and Schofield Passes offer shorter distances but require a 4-Wheel Drive. You can also bike on these roads.

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Monarch Pass

Monarch Pass is one of the most breathtaking and fun high elevation mountain passes in Colorado. Open year round unless a big winter storm hits.

Monarch Pass (US-50) reaches a height of 11,312 feet at the top of the Continental Divide, offering awesome vistas of the surrounding mountains and peaks.

Monarch Pass connects the western side of US-50 (Crested Butte, Gunnison, Montrose) with the eastern (Salida, Buena Vista, Colorado Springs).

Ski Monarch Mountain in winter and hop on a tram to climb another 700 feet to the top of Monarch Ridge.

From Crested Butte, head south on CO-135 to Gunnison. Take US-50 east (toward Salida) just over 40 miles to the summit of Monarch Pass.

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Best Places to STand up Paddle in Crested Butte

For more fun things to do in Crested Butte in summer, bring your paddle boards or kayaks.

Paddling in Crested Butte in summer is divine. So far, we’ve launched our favorite inflatable paddleboards on the lakes and river listed below and we can’t wait to get them out there again.

Lake Irwin

Lake Irwin is the nearest lake to town accessible by car, this lake is a gem for both tourists and locals.

Fish, hike, camp, kayak, canoe and sup paddle here in summer.

HEADS UP: Construction has been DELAYED and Lake Irwin IS OPEN for the 2022 Season!!

Lake Irwin Campground is going to be remodeled and closed during the 2023 season. But locals say the lake will still be accessible. Please adjust your plans accordingly.

Lower Slate River

Take Butte Ave. east past 9th St to access the Slate River Recreational Path Bridge for the put in. Take out is the HWY 135 Bridge just past Crested Butte Country Club.

Meridian Lake (aka Long Lake)

There is a short strenuous hike uphill to Meridian Lake, or the much easier, longer trek to this long lake. Meridian Lake in Crested Butte is a popular recreation area in both summer and fall. Closer to town, this natural lake is known for its fantastic views, abundant Colorado wildflowers in summer and yellow aspens in fall.

Not only can you take your paddleboard on Meridian Lake, you are welcome to take a refreshing swim here too. Strap your inflatable paddleboard on your back, this one’s worth the hike.

Read our April 2022 review of the best inflatable paddle boards out there.

Compare these Versatile Paddle Boards

Emerald Lake

An idyllic lake with fantastic views for days, Emerald Lake is a great lake for paddling in Crested Butte, especially after your hike along the West Maroon Pass.

This little sparkling lake is nestled in the Elk Mountains along Schofield Pass, 5.6 miles past Gothic.

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Lost Lake — Pack a picnic, grab your inflatable paddleboards or floating tubes from (rent from Wheelies and Waves), and head up to Lost Lake for a full day of family fun in Crested Butte. From Crested Butte go 16 miles west of town on County Road 12. Go south on 706 to Lost Lake campground.
*Upper Slate River — not beginner friendly. Starting here gives you a longer paddle, but only if you’re experienced. The put in is at Gunsight Bridge.

Don’t own? Rent stand-up paddleboards, electric bikes, kayaks and float tubes from Wheelies and Waves in both Gunnison and Crested Butte (summer only).

Isle Pioneer Paddle Board is great for beginners

Best Inflatable Paddle Boards for Beginners

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The Best Crested BUtte Campsites

Camping in Crested Butte is a great way to experience this epic mountain town to the full.

Immerse your family in the magic of the outdoors with the best RV rentals.

From camper vans to travel trailers, motorcoaches and more, there rentals imaginable all over the United States. Some owners will even deliver and set up the camper for you if you don’t want to haul or drive it yourself.

Save $50 OFF your next Outdoorsy RentAL - Use Promo Code “RADFAMILY” HERE

Lake Irwin

Lake Irwin Campground sits on the western banks of its picturesque namesake lake at 10,200’. Just 9 miles up from Crested Butte, campers enjoy the area for its abundant hiking trails, fishing and Colorado views.

Lake Irwin Campground is going to be remodeled during the 2023 season. The entire campground will be CLOSED to all public access during 2023. Please adjust your plans accordingly.

Oh Be Joyful

Approximately 5 miles from Crested Butte, Colorado, Oh Be Joyful Campground offers 30 campsites along the Slate River. Getting its name from nearby Oh Be Joyful Creek, you’ll see massive waterfalls and colorful Colorado wildflowers in summer.

Sitting at 9,000 feet in elevation, the mountain views here are spectacular. A prime camping spot in Crested Butte.

Lost Lake Campground

Mentioned above as a great lake for stand up paddleboards, Lost Lake is also an ideal place for families to camp. Kids and parents alike will enjoy fishing and hiking around Lost Lake, Dollar Lake and Lost Lake Slough.

Beckwith Pass provides breathtaking vistas of the Ruby Mountain Range. The wildflowers in this region are phenomenal during mid-July and early August.

Take out the guesswork with our free camping gear checklist

The Dyrt on Dispersed Camping

Get the Dyrt on dispersed camping in Crested Butte, Colorado. Try the Washington Gulch area, for example, managed by the USDA Forest Service.

A DYRT PRO guide had this to say: “Accessible in our 2WD Sprinter van, there were many spots in this area. We found a nice spot off the road through some trees, so it was nice and quiet. Fire pits were available.

Get a FREE 7 Day Trial using DYRT PRO. With their Trip Planner, choose your route, discover campgrounds and start building the ultimate camping trip.

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Outdoorsy RV Rentals

Rent one of these 5 Star Rated RV Rentals near Crested Butte and make your outdoorsy time unforgettable!

You can experience the magic of the outdoors with the best RV, camper van, and travel trailer rentals imaginable all over the United States.

Save $50 with Promo Code “Radfamily" when you Book your Outdoorsy RV Rental here

Own an RV? Earn over $50,000 per year

List your RV for free and rent whenever you want, with full renter verification and vehicle insurance options.

Learn More About Listing Your RV

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Fly Fishing in Crested Butte

Crested Butte offers access to some of the best fishing in Colorado. Whether you prefer float fishing from rafts or multi-day backpacks between alpine lakes, one of the best ways to fish and maximize your experience here is to go with a guide.

Since we are not rad anglers, we suggest you learn more about fishing in Crested Butte.

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Mountain Biking in Crested Butte

Did you know Crested Butte is known as the home of the mountain bike?

According to Irwin Guides, Crested Butte is home to the best singletrack mountain biking trail that Colorado has to offer. Hundreds of miles of high alpine bike trails in Crested Butte means there is something for everyone.

Want to try an electric bike? Wheelies and Waves offers Pedego electric bikes to rent and they can tell you the best places to ride ebikes in Crested Butte!

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Skiing Crested Butte

Crested Butte skiing is one of the best things to do.

On many a skier's wish list, experts love Crested Butte Mountain as the resort offers 1,547 skiable acres with trails and terrain for every level of skier or snowboarder.

Experts, beginners, and everything in between love skiing or snowboarding in Crested Butte.

Here’s a first timer’s guide to skiing at Crested Butte Mountain Resort in Colorado.

RELATED: Families Choose These Cheap Places to Ski in Colorado

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crested butte secret stash pizza — Pinhead Pesto Pizza at Secret Stash

Where to Eat

Secret Stash Pizza - Try the Notorious Fig Pizza, the Winner of the World Champion Pizza Challenge, or the You’re Driving Me Caprese. Local Brews and a Salad Bar too. 303 Elk Ave, Crested Butte, CO

Camp 4 Coffee - Locally roasted craft coffee. Baked goods. Repeatedly voted Best Cup of Joe in Crested Butte. 402 1/2 Elk Ave. Crested Butte, CO

Where to Stay in Crested Butte

Nordic Inn

The Nordic Inn is our choice when it comes to affordable lodging in Mt. Crested Butte. Wonderfully renovated, the Nordic Inn is the first and only remaining hotel in Mt. Crested Butte from the first year the ski area opened in 1963.

This cozy little bed and breakfast type lodge has everything you need, including a hot tub.

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If you just need one or two nights in Crested Butte, stay at th Nordic Inn in Mount Crested Butte, closer to lots of great trailheads

Elevation Hotel and Spa

The Elevation Hotel & Spa is the only full-service ski-in / ski-out hotel at Crested Butte Mountain Resort. But this entirely renovated property isn’t just great in the winter, but a fantastic base for summer time family adventures too.

Vacation homes in Crested Butte

Whether you’re traveling with friends or family, Crested Butte vacation homes have the best amenities for hanging out with your favorite people.

Houses and cabins are popular options for a stay in Crested Butte — like this cozy bungalow just a five minute walk from the historic old town.

Browse Crested Butte Vacation Homes

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What is near Crested Butte

We live in Colorado, and we love all the outdoorsy fun our sunny, adventure filled state offers. Here are more destinations we think your family will love exploring together: