- Afternoon thunderstorms are the rule during summer hiking season, so embark early and bring good rain gear.
- Several Crested Butte outdoor shops sell trail maps and have guided hiking information.
- Crested Butte is surrounded by hundreds of miles of trails, but some notables include Conundrum Trail, Swampy Pass Trail and West Maroon Pass.
Overview
Crested Butte hiking trails access some of the area's most pristine wilderness areas. Few activities allow for such unencumbered enjoyment as a quiet walk in the Crested Butte woods.
Where to go hiking & backpacking
Here's a sample of the stellar Crested Butte hiking trails:
Crested Butte Summit Trail
This moderate to difficult trail is only a little over a mile long (if you take the chairlift). Take the Silver Queen Chairlift to the trailhead and enjoy amazing views over town and beyond. For a longer option, there is the Upper Loop and Upper Upper Loop trails near the base of Mount Crested Butte (drive 1 mile on Hunter Hill Road to trailhead).
Green Lake Trail
This moderate trail is 4 miles long. It starts at the Crested Butte Nordic Center and ends at Green Lake.
West Maroon Pass (from Crested Butte to Aspen)
You can either run or book a shuttle for a one-way 9 mile hike or do a round trip to West Maroon Pass and back. This moderate hike begins at Schofield Park (13 miles from Crested Butte) and ends at Maroon Lake in Aspen.
Conundrum Hot Springs
This 18 mile (round-trip) trail is not for the faint of heart. From Gothic Road, hike trail #739 to Judd Falls, Copper Creek Trail, Triangle Pass, Conundrum Creek, and finally to the hot springs. It's best to run a shuttle and then stay the night out near the hot springs.
Guided Tours
Several different environmental organizations, private outfitters and activity clubs host guided hiking tours in the Crested Butte area. Explore some options and find a trip that's right for you.
More Resources
14erskiers.com features an extensive hiking trail suggestions for the area.
