Us Texans know that Colorado is our playground, from Aspen to Vail to Telluride, we know how to Apres ski our way around the naturally alluring state of Colorado. There is a place that doesn’t come with much fame as the aforementioned but this charming ski town off the beaten path has stole our hearts. We love it so much we have decided to build our ski home here. While you stroll down Elk Avenue on a snowy evening, you can’t help but feel charmed by the frontier gaze of the shops and restaurants, which are now painted in such bright colors that it seems like they’ve sprung up from the page of a child’s art painting.There are many ski towns to choose from here in the U.S. but I want to share with you why Crested Butte is such a hidden gem.

Wanderlust Routes

Fly into Gunnison - Gunnison will be the closest option and places you only 30 minutes outside of Crested Butte. Flights do lighten in the summer so keep that in mind if traveling outside of ski season.

Fly into Montrose - Montrose will offer a few more flight options and places you an hour and fifty minutes outside of Crested Butte. The drive is very scenic and it could be a more affordable option.

Drive in - The ol’ road trip approach is always available. No matter if you come from the north, south, east or west you will enjoy a picturesque excursion.

Wanderlust Hotels

Scarp Ridge Lodge - Located in downtown Crested Butte this quaint gem is the former Croatian saloon which still has its Wild West facade like much of the town. The interiors have been transformed with reclaimed iron from the old mills in town and generous amenities, like an indoor saltwater pool and rooftop hot tub.

Sopris House - Next door to Scarp Ridge resides this cozy four bedroom home. This is a great option if you re traveling with a group of up to 8. It has the original tin ceiling and mountain town touches like a massive buffalo head in the dining room, a private saloon, and hot tub and sauna to boot!

The Lodge at Mountaineer Square - If you are looking for a ski base camp, this is the location you want to choose. This ski in/out resort on Mt. Crested Butte and is steps away from hiking and biking as well as shopping, ski area services and restaurants.

Home Rentals - There are so many other great homes to rent via these rental sites. If the above options don’t quite fit your family or group needs just take a gander at some beautiful Mountain View homes that Crested Butte has to offer.

Wanderlust Experiences

Ski - Well this is the classic reason we love to visit ski towns. Mount CB offers great family friendly slopes but don’t worry fearless skier, you can trek over to the black slopes and channel your inner Lindsey Vonn.

Snowmobile - One of my favorite experiences to do in any ski town! I grew up on four wheelers and back roads so this definitely makes me nostalgic but in a far more panoramic view.

Snowshoe - I’m going to be honest here, I have never done this because you won’t find me not skiing. But for my non skiers this is a great physical activity when looking for a nature experience.

Royal Apres - Celebrate the open of ski season with champagne and dance parties! Typically starting the weekend after Thanksgiving.

Rock on Ice - Who doesn’t love a shot luge? I know, no one… so this will be your next best thing. Observe the ice artists carving temporary masterpieces throughout the weekend in mid December.

Winter Photoshoot - As a blogger I appreciate a great local photographer to show you the most picturesque places that only the locals know. Take advantage of the most beautiful backdrop, hire a photographer and capture your vacation memories with everyone in the picture!

Mountain High Music Festival - If you find yourself here in mid January you’ll want to grab some tickets to this musical fare. The Mountain High Music Festival presents a diverse lineup of the world's best performers along with the most buzzed about, up-and-coming talent for an eclectic mix of mile-high musical performances. The festival will once again raise money and awareness for Tough Enough To Wear Pink and the Adaptive Sports Center, by showcasing the faces, voices, and stories behind some of today’s biggest hit songs.

Colorado Crafted - Bring your costumes up to Mt. Crested Butte to taste the best breweries, wineries, cideries, distilleries and local fare that Colorado has to offer! Typically help in early February.

Christmas is CB - If you’re dreaming of a white Christmas, this is the place to live the dream. With Santa visits, tree lightings, hot cocoa bar, cookie decorating and much more through out the month of December, you can truly be living in a Christmas dream come true. If the time is available, stay for the New Years parade and fireworks.

Sunset Soiree - Guests meet at Trackers Bar and Lounge in Mountaineer Square. From there, they will take you to your sleigh ride adventure to the Umbrella Bar at Ten Peaks. Tickets are $60 and must be purchased in advance online. Tickets include heavy hors d'oeuvres, one glass of house wine or draft beer, dessert and the sleigh ride from the base area to the Umbrella Bar and back. Typically scheduled in

Pond Skim - An end of ski season celebration where contestants skim across water on their skis and snowboards all while trying to put out the best trick in the craziest costume. Come get in your last turns of the season and go out with a bang or just watch the madness unfold!

Wanderlust Cuisine

Elk Ave Prime - Bacon and wine lovers rejoice! Being one of the few restaurants to offer up a good steak this restaurant has become a favorite but not because of the steak, although they are mouthwatering. I honestly believe I found the best bacon I have EVER had here and I dream of it regularly. Pairing it with the largest wine selection in the valley, this is the place a cozy Apres ski dinner is made for.

Secret Stash - A pie after the the ski day is a classic choice but where you get it is not. Secret Stash is an eclectic local shop with a buzzy bar. Lined with decor from international travels. You’ll be busy looking around, shopping in the boutique and laughing with the waitstaff, that you’ll almost forget why you came.

Tin Cup Pasty - Enjoy a bit of comfort food with this cute shop on Elk Ave. With about 10 pasty options you can grab a few and share with your group. The owner was super sweet and they are dog friendly!

Bonez - They say to come here for margaritas, mariachi, and mayhem! This lively tequila bar and local fav is packed for a fun time. From the hanging bar lights, the friendly wait staff, to great Tex-mex, this is a great choice for a lively bunch.

Octopus Coffee - Start your day with a warm cup of Joe at this local shop. Crested Butte does not have a Starbucks, and we it like that way. You can grab some yummy breakfast burritos here too!

Uley’s Sleigh Ride Dinner - Take the mountain cat up the mountain to enjoy a scenic dinner atop the mountain. This is a must do experience and don’t forget to dress warm for the way up.

Wanderlust Luggage

Wanderlust Itinerary

I didn’t want to offer a full itinerary like I usually include in the section as many would include only skiing and eating. If you have only a short weekend, take advantage of all the ski time you can get it but if you are planning a longer week stay or if you are not a skier then take advantage of the wanderlust experiences on the other extra days.

If you’re looking for the adventure of a ski town but the quiet of a relaxing retreat, I think you’ll find Crested Butte a choice you won’t regret. It has inspired us to build there and I hope it inspires you to visit the last great Colorado ski town. As always, please message me with any questions you may have about this destination.

Stay wandering!