We challenge you to check off each of these adventures during your next visit to Crested Butte. Whether you are skiing, exploring or just enjoying the views, we’ve created a bucket list of definite must-dos for everyone in Crested Butte.
1. Explore Elk Avenue
The town of Crested Butte was developed in the late 19th Century as a supply town to the numerous coal and silver mines in the surrounding area. As the mining operations began to decline, Crested Butte was able to grow and survive based on a long history of ranching. Today, this rich history of mining and ranching is still prevalent in the town’s identity.
Downtown Crested Butte consists of one main street: Elk Avenue. Elk Ave – as the locals refer to it – is a quaint five-block stretch of colorful Victorian storefronts and funky metal sculptures that are truly unique to Crested Butte’s charm. Dozens of restaurants, bars and shops line downtown’s National Historic District, but be prepared; you won’t find any Starbucks or chain stores here. In fact, you won’t find a single traffic light either.
2. Ski or Ride at Crested Butte Mountain Resort
Beginners to experts can challenge their mettle on the varied slopes of Crested Butte Mountain Resort. Naturally-divided terrain provides unique and tailored zones for all ability levels, therefore maximizing the 1,547 acres of skiable terrain. CBMR has long been known for featuring some of the most extreme inbounds skiing in North America, but the resort has also placed an emphasis on the beginner and intermediate terrain. Over half of CBMR’s runs are designated as intermediate.
3. Sleigh Ride Dinner at Uley’s Cabin
On Wednesday through Sunday evenings, guests are encouraged to set course for a warmly lit cabin in the woods for a fine dining experience that will not soon be forgotten. A snowcat-drawn sleigh will be your steed for the evening as you are whisked to a prix fixe dinner at Uley’s Cabin. The entire meal has a French flair, making each course unique, yet familiar; familiar in that the cuisine is definitively Colorado, evocative of the valley in which you’ll be dining.
4. Venture Cross Country with CB Nordic
There is no better way to experience the serenity of Crested Butte than via the over 50 kilometers of meticulously groomed Nordic trails crisscrossing the town and valleys. Venture out on the trails with classic or skate skis, but don’t forget the family – kids 17 and under receive free rental equipment and trail passes.
5. Soar Above the Rest
Experience a bird’s eye view of Crested Butte as skiers and snowboarders cruise below. At CBMR, guided Zipline Tours are a year-round adventure. The tours include five ziplines ranging in length from 120 to 400 feet that are connected by suspended wooden bridges and towering platforms. Children and adults alike rave about this unexpected winter activity and cherish it as a great way to get off of their ski legs – literally.
