crested butte & THE
elk MOUNTAINS
An old mining town and known as the wildflower capital of Colorado, the beautiful mountain town of Crested Butte is full of historic charm. A hiking, trail running, mountain biking and outdoor activity mecca, there’s so much to discover right from your doorstep. In the summertime, the meadows are bursting with colorful wildflowers and the rivers are rushing with clear water and happy fish. In the autumn, the trails are canopied in bright yellow aspen leaves that will leave you awe-inspired.
Each day, you’ll hike on winding trails that zig-zag through lush meadows full of colorful columbine and lupine, leading you to mountain passes that boast magnificent views of the surrounding high peaks. You’ll picnic alongside sparkling rivers and blue lakes and enjoy each others company as you discover the true beauty of the Elk Mountains.
Full of fantastic local restaurants, bars and cafés, you’ll have many options for enjoying the local, farm-to-table cuisine for which Colorado is so famous. Staying in the heart of downtown Crested Butte at a favorite unique lodge, you’ll experience the special local culture of one of our favorite places in the world.
“The thought, love & effort Pathways has placed in this venture is quite evident.”
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
Explore the historic, charming town of Crested Butte
Experience stunning views of the Elk Mountains as you hike through meadows, aspen groves and up to high passes with spectacular views
SUP, swim & picnic on a favorite local lake
Fly fish with a local guide on the Gunnison or Taylor River
Option to add a local guide for all or part of your trip
Accommodations: 5-star accommodations at Scarp Ridge Lodge
Enjoy a customized itinerary tailored to your preferred activity level, budget, accommodation preferences, interests & schedule
When to go: June - October
Start/End Airport: Gunnison Airport
Minimum recommended length: 7 days / 6 nights
Average Mileage: 6 - 10 miles/day (options to shorten or lengthen)
Pre- or post-trip ideas: Telluride, Boulder, Denver
how it works
All of our itineraries are handcrafted and completely customizable to your preferred travel dates, budget, accommodation preferences and activity level.
From the initial proposal, we’ll work with you to refine your itinerary until it’s just right. On your trip, we'll provide you with everything you need to enjoy a local, authentic Pathways experience and the liberty to explore at your own pace.
To request a personalized proposal, please complete the form below
and we’ll contact you to chat about next steps.
“Pathways did not miss a detail. So attentive from first contact phone call, each step of the trip design, and throughout the adventure. Everything just seamlessly worked.”
ACCOMMODATIONS
Where you stay on your Pathways trips will only enhance your experience. We'll work with you to select beautiful, authentic boutique lodging that will allow you to even more deeply connect with the local culture and cuisine of the place you're visiting.
The lodgings we choose are locally or family owned, making your stay welcoming, unique and personal - the best spots to end an active day with relaxation, delicious food & wine, gracious hospitality and fun.
Some of our favorite accommodations:
Scarp Ridge Lodge in Crested Butte
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