Charming Stays Await
For those seeking convenience, lodging at the base of Mount Crested Butte, like The Lodge at Mountaineer Square, offers unparalleled access to the lifts,
with various room types and amenities including pools and saunas. Guests with an Epic Pass can enjoy discounts here. For a touch of luxury and adventure, the Eleven Scarp Ridge Lodge in historic downtown provides a high-end experience in a converted saloon, complete with a saltwater pool and rooftop hot tub, often including backcountry excursions. Alternatively, the Vaquera House offers a more intimate bed-and-breakfast feel with 10 rooms, boasting daily homemade breakfasts, evening refreshments, and a game room, plus a hot tub with mountain views, ensuring a cozy and personalized retreat.
Culinary Delights Found
Crested Butte's food scene offers memorable experiences, from the inventive live-fire cooking at Two Twelve, where their vegan cauliflower 'fried rice' is a standout dish, to the elevated on-mountain dining at Uley’s Cabin. Uley’s, a ski-in/ski-out rustic lodge, features both a refined indoor menu and a casual outdoor option, perfect for hearty lunches and delightful drinks like their special s'mores hot cocoa. For a casual bite, Butte Bagels serves freshly made bagels daily, transforming into a smash burger joint by night. No visit is complete without experiencing Secret Stash, a beloved local institution renowned for its award-winning pizzas, such as the unique Notorious F.I.G., and its eclectic, globally curated decor.
Après-Ski Vibes
When the ski day concludes, Crested Butte offers distinct après-ski options. The Eldo Brewery, the town's only locally owned and operated brewery, serves its own crafted beers in a relaxed setting that occasionally hosts live music. For spirits enthusiasts, Montanya Distillers offers expertly crafted cocktails from their award-winning, female-founded rum distillery located at high altitude. On the mountain, the Paradise Warming House, situated at the base of the Paradise Express Lift, provides a convenient spot for an end-of-day drink or a snack, with special discounts for Epic Pass holders on food and non-alcoholic beverages.
Beyond the Slopes
Crested Butte’s appeal extends beyond downhill skiing, notably as a premier destination for Nordic skiing, often called the 'Nordic Ski Capital of Colorado.' The Crested Butte Nordic Center grooms numerous cross-country trails stretching through the valley, accessible from town. The town also boasts a vibrant arts community, recognized as a Certified Creative District, featuring galleries and programming across various artistic disciplines. For those seeking adventure in the backcountry, snowmobiling is a popular way to explore the mountain passes when they're closed to vehicles, with local outfitters offering guided and unguided rentals.
Navigating the Mountain
Crested Butte Mountain Resort, part of the Epic Pass system, offers a challenging experience with over 60 percent of its 165 trails rated for advanced or expert skiers, including 'Rambo,' North America's steepest lift-serviced tree run. However, it caters to all levels with three beginner magic carpets and numerous green and blue runs for progression. Lift tickets can be purchased online, with significant savings for advance bookings. Gear rentals are available at the resort base, with options for delivery. For those with an Epic Pass, the 'Epic Mountain Rewards' program offers benefits like discounted rentals. The resort also features a robust ski and snowboard school, with highly experienced instructors, some of whom are legendary figures in the sport, ready to guide skiers of all ages, starting from 3 years old.
Optimal Timing and Access
The prime season for skiing Crested Butte generally runs from late January through mid-March, ensuring a stable and ample snowpack. This period also hosts significant events like the Alley Loop cross-country ski race and the Al Johnson race, known for their festive atmosphere and challenging courses. For more budget-friendly options on lift tickets and lodging, visiting in early to mid-December before the holiday rush is advisable. The most convenient airport is Gunnison-Crested Butte Regional Airport (GUC), a short drive away, with shuttle services readily available. Alternatively, flying into Denver International Airport (DEN) and driving approximately 4.5 hours offers another route, though a car is less necessary upon arrival due to Crested Butte's walkable nature and free public bus system.
