
Driving to Crested Butte, Colorado
After a scenic drive through the mountains, we arrived in Crested Butte and checked into our cozy accommodation at the Grand Ledge Crested Butte . We drove from Denver and it was around a 4 hour, incredibly scenic drive. For this adventure we decided to bring Otto along. We were pleasantly surprised to find numerous dog friendly hotels in Crested Butte and lots of other dogs at our hotel.
This hotel was a gem, complete with a hot tub, a heated pool, and convenient indoor storage for our mountain bikes—essential for an adventure-packed trip like this. During winter, the same storage is perfect for skis and snowboards, making this spot an ideal base for both summer and winter travelers.
Biking the Legendary 401 Trail in Crested Butte
Our second day was all about tackling one of the most famous mountain biking trails in the area—the 401 Trail. After a light breakfast, I geared up and headed out to experience this iconic trail firsthand.
The adventure began with a moderate 5-mile climb up the Gothic Road to Schofield Pass. As I pedaled my way up, I could feel the elevation right away. The first 5 miles is not technical, but the high elevation adds a level of difficulty to this climb. Once I reached the trailhead, the real fun began!
At the top of Schofield Pass, the 401 Trail officially starts. The trail initially presents a tough 1.3-mile climb through dense trees, reminding me that we're over 11,000 feet above sea level. However, the climb was worth every pedal stroke. As the trees thinned out, I was rewarded with stunning 360-degree views of the Elk Mountains. The high altitude and steep drops on either side of the trail added an extra thrill to the ride, but the exhilarating descent that followed was pure joy. The trail is fast and flowy, winding through fields of wildflowers and offering some of the best alpine views I've ever seen.
The descent continued through a series of switchbacks before reaching Rustler's Gulch, where I paused to catch my breath. From here, the trail climbs again, passing through a rocky drainage area that required some careful bike handling. The final descent brought me back down to Gothic, where I finished the ride on a high note.
The 401 Trail in Crested Butte, Colorado is not overly technical or difficult trail wise, but the high elevation, and dramatic views make this a must-do trail!
Photography Workshop and Exploring Gothic, Colorado
While I tackled the 401 Trail, Emily joined a photography workshop in Gothic, a small village just outside of Crested Butte. This wasn't just any photography class—it was part of the annual Wildflower Festival. Crested Butte is known as the wildflower capital of Colorado, and we were lucky enough to visit during peak bloom. The workshop took full advantage of the stunning scenery, with participants capturing the vibrant colors of the local flora in their natural habitat.
After the workshop, we spent the afternoon exploring Gothic. This area is rich in history and natural beauty, with plenty of trails and old mining roads to explore. We wrapped up the day with a relaxing soak in the hotel’s hot tub, reminiscing about our adventures so far.
Exploring Crested Buttee with Otto
On our final day in Crested Butte, we decided to take it easy and enjoy some of the nearby hiking trails with our German Shepherd, Otto. Crested Butte is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering trails for all levels and several dog friendly trails! Otto loved every moment of it.
We chose a moderate hike that provided stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Otto ran around, full of energy, exploring every nook and cranny while we soaked in the fresh mountain air and the peacefulness of the trail. It was the perfect way to unwind and savor the last moments of our trip.
Before heading home, we took one last walk around town with Otto, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere and reflecting on our incredible five days in Crested Butte, Colorado. The combination of adventure, natural beauty, and a dog-friendly community made this trip truly special—one for the books.
Top Things to Do in Crested Butte
If you're planning your own trip, here are some must-do activities in Crested Butte:
- Mountain Biking: Trails like the 401 Trail are a must for any mountain biker.
- Photography: Capture the stunning wildflowers and alpine scenery, especially during the Wildflower Festival.
- Hiking: Explore the numerous hiking trails that range from easy strolls to challenging climbs.
- Downtown Exploration: Enjoy the lively downtown area, filled with shops, bars, and restaurants.
- Winter Sports: In the winter, Crested Butte is a haven for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts.
Wrapping up our trip to Crested Butte
Whether you're looking for adrenaline-pumping adventures or a peaceful retreat in nature, Crested Butte, Colorado, is the perfect destination. Our five days in Crested Butte were filled with unforgettable experiences, from conquering the 401 Trail to enjoying the town's unique charm. If you're planning a trip, make sure to include these activities on your itinerary for an amazing experience in this mountain paradise.
Find day trips and things to do near Denver, Colorado
Discover Fantastic Deals: Hotels, Flights, Rental Cars, and Bundles!
We are delighted to be in partnership with Expedia, a trusted name in the travel industry. We have consistently relied on their outstanding services for hotel accommodations, flight bookings, car rentals, and even vacation packages. Start your search today for your upcoming adventure!