Crested Butte, located in the upper valley of Gunnison County, is a true Colorado ski town that reminds us of the beauty of unplugging. There are no traffic lights, high-rise buildings, or big box stores, yet the town offers everything one could need on its main street, Elk Avenue. Receiving an average of 300 inches of snow per year, Crested Butte is known for its challenging ski slopes and 1,200+ miles of trails. For locals, life here centers around the endless outdoor recreational activities in any season—hiking, biking, skiing, water sports at Blue Mesa Reservoir, and more. The County of Gunnison, which includes Crested Butte, has a rich history dating back hundreds of years to the original Ute population. Ranching and mining ruled the region before skiing became the predominant industry, luring tourists from Denver and beyond. Today, both Crested Butte and Gunnison are known for their historic downtown squares with shopping, museums, and a range of dining options.
