Outdoor Activities
Hikes, bikes, horseback rides, rafting…you name it! We hope you will have a chance to spend a couple mornings taking in the beauty of CB. If physical exertion is not your cup of tea, we hope at the very least you can take the scenic drive up Gothic Road.
By Foot, Wheel, Boat, Hoof & more…
Click the link below to view an insanely comprehensive list of Crested Butte’s plethora of outdoor activities such as: Scenic Drives, Hiking, Fishing, Biking, ATV, Rock Climbing, Horseback Riding and more!
Our Favorite Easy Access Hikes
Snodgrass Trail - More Hills
Close to town lies a short but rewarding hike through thick aspen groves and lush wildflower meadows. Snodgrass Trail also showcases mountain views including superb panoramas of Mt. Crested Butte.The further you go, the prettier it gets! We highly reccomend if you like hills. *This trail also offers horseback rides
Woods Walk Trail: No Hills
Being the closest to town and one of the easiest trails in the area, Woods Walk is a great choice for those wanting to dip their toe into the water of Crested Butte hikes. Even though it’s not on an incline, there are great views, ribboning rivers, wildflowers and aspens shimmering along the trail.
Our Favorite Scenic Drive
Scenic Drive: Gothic Road to Emerald Lake
Taking Gothic Road outside of the Town of Crested Butte will lead you up to the ski area of Mt. Crested Butte. From here you’ll continue through Mt. CB to the old town site of Gothic.
Gothic has a unique vibe with the Rocky Mountain Biological Institute, which has been established since the late 1920’s, and conducts a slew of biodiversity studies. Grab a cup of coffee at their cafe and head towards Emerald Lake.
Emerald Lake is a short and sweet hike to one of the most picturesque high alpine lakes in the area with beautiful emerald colored waters in a basin of steep pine and wildflower covered hillsides.
Please Note 4WD might be required after Judd Falls Trailhead:
Reaching Emerald Lake may require a 4WD vehicle, depending on road conditions. You’re welcome to keep driving, but be prepared to turn back if needed. Either way, the route is beautiful—your scenic drive will at least take you as far as Judd Falls/Copper Creek Trail, which is absolutely worth the trip .
Exploring Town
Crested Butte is one of the most charming mountain towns we have ever visited. To add even more wonder and whimsy to the downtown strip, our wedding weekend falls on the same weekend as the Crested Butte Art Festival. The streets will be lined with art vendors and musical performances. It’s not to be missed!
If you plan to extend your trip or dine between events, Crested Butte packs a punch when it comes to top notch restaurants.
Crested Butte Arts Festival
Crested Butte is one of the most charming mountain towns we’ve ever visited. As a bonus, our wedding weekend coincides with the Crested Butte Art Festival, when downtown comes alive with art vendors and live music—a truly magical scene.
Restaurants
If you’re extending your trip or looking for a bite between events, Crested Butte delivers with an impressive lineup of top-notch restaurants. Recommendations coming soon.