therE you are in the depths of Crested Butte’s backcountry. You’ve picked a perfect bluebird day to hike into a basin held in the grip of rugged peaks, some still wearing their winter white. You’re surrounded by bright yellow glacier lilies, nodding their heads in the gentle breeze. “It can’t get any better than this,” you think. Oh, yes it can. You could be in that idyllic spot with friends and engaging strangers who’ve made the trek with you. One of Crested Butte’s summer delights is social hiking. Throughout the season these groups of newcomers, visitors and longtime backcountry enthusiasts hike together, continuing a legacy born nearly three decades ago.
Nathan Bilow
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