Spring Hikes in Crested Butte and Gunnison

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Never get caught on a snowy trail with this handy guide to spring hikes in Crested Butte and Gunnison! Collected in this article are some of the trails that melt out soonest in the Gunnison Valley. In addition, learn tips and tricks for getting the best hiking experience during your spring trip to Colorado. Keep reading to find the perfect spring hiking trail!

Where does the snow melt first?

Due to warmer temperatures and the lower elevation of Gunnison, the trails in Gunnison often melts before the ones in Crested Butte. Weather and snowpack affect how early the trails open. Expect Gunnison trails to thaw out between early April and mid-May. The Crested Butte trails with the most sun exposure can open as early as late May on a low snow year. Some high-elevation trails such as the 401 may not thaw out until early July. Check Crested Butte Mountain Bike Association’s trail conditions page to stay on top of trail openings.

Best spring hiking trails in Gunnison

Hartman Rocks Recreation Area

Hartman Rocks Recreation Area is a few miles southwest of Gunnison. It is managed by the Bureau of Land Management. Hartman Rocks is high desert that is characterized by fields of sagebrush and unique rock formations. The trails are rocky and technical, and many take you over rolling ridges. Hartman Rocks is multi-use. The trails in this area are open for hiking, biking and OHV. It’s also a popular rock climbing spot. You can find things to do there in winter and summer. In summer it’s one of the best places in Gunnison Valley to mountain bike. Located in the south valley, Hartman Rocks is often one of the first areas to melt out in the spring. Hartman Rocks has over 40 miles of trails. You can hike a short out-and-back or link trails together to make a long loop.

Spring hiking trails at Hartman Rocks

Evan’s Loop

An easy hike is Evan’s Loop. This loop contains the trails Broken Shovel, Lost Dog and Sea of Sage and is 2.7 miles long. It can be accessed from the McCabe’s entrance off U.S. Highway 50 west of Gunnison.

Bambi’s

Bambi’s Trail is an intermediate hike at Hartmans. It is 1.4 miles point-to-point and accessed from the south entrance to Hartman Rocks on Gold Basin Road. It is uphill in the beginning and gives access to other trails south of Powerline Road.

The Ridge

A challenging hike at Hartman Rocks is The Ridge. This trail is 1.2 miles one-way. It skirts the northeastern perimeter of Hartman Rocks. As the name suggests, this trail follows the steep cliff on the north edge of Hartman’s. This is actually the edge of an ancient crater. Take in views of Tomichi Creek and The Palisades as you pick your way through the rocky trail.

Four people hike in a rocky area

Dillion Pinnacles

Dillion Pinnacles is part of Curecanti National Recreation Area, which is managed by the National Park Service. Curecanti National Recreation Area encompasses Blue Mesa Reservoir, the largest body of water in Colorado. This easy out-and-back hike is 3.7 miles. This hike will give you views of Blue Mesa and the Dillion Pinnacles. This geological feature is volcanic breccia formed from volcanic activity in the area millions of years ago. The angular spires of the Dillion Pinnacles are several miles long and one of Curecanti’s most iconic features. This hike is between Gunnison and the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. Check that the park is open by viewing its current conditions if you plan to visit Black Canyon National Park in the spring.

Spring hiking in Crested Butte

Due to its higher elevation, Crested Butte usually stays cooler longer than Gunnison. It also typically takes longer for the snow to melt. This can make spring hiking nonexistent some years. Research trail conditions ahead of time to ensure they are open and ready to be hiked before heading out. Check out this snowmelt forecast map from the Rocky Mountain Biological Laboratory for estimates of when the snow will melt.

Lower Loop

This 2.8-mile point-to-point trail is moderately easy and accessible from town via Butte Avenue. It goes along the Slate River and a grassy hillside that is full of wildflowers later in the summer. It also gives you views of Gothic Mountain and Crested Butte (the mountain). This is one of the easiest and flattest trails in the Gunnison Valley.

A river and a trail with mountain peaks in the background

Caves Trail

The Caves Trail is located up Cement Creek in Crested Butte South. It is south-facing and one of the first trails to dry out in the north valley. The hike to the caves is less than a mile long, but the switchbacks are steep. As you hike up, you can see the caves to your right. The trail flattens out once you get closer to the caves. Along with the caves, you can see amazing views of surrounding peaks from the top, including Red Mountain and Cement Mountain. The slope across the canyon from Caves trail was the home of the first chairlift in Colorado. It was built in 1939 at Pioneer Ski Area. From the caves, you can turn around and hike back to the parking area for about a two-mile hike. For a longer hike take the Walrod Cutoff Trail to hike the Caves Loop Trail, which is 2.6 miles point-to-point.

Spring weather in Gunnison and Crested Butte

Rain, snow or sun are all weather possibilities for spring in Colorado. When recreating outside it’s important to plan ahead and prepare for multiple weather possibilities. With proper planning, you can still have a safe and enjoyable spring hiking experience. Check the weather before you head out and pack plenty of water, snacks and sunscreen. A raincoat and a warm layer aren’t a bad idea either.

Learn more about what to expect in spring in Crested Butte and Gunnison.

A sign that says "Jack's Trail" with another sign underneath that says "mud season closure." with plants and a hill in the background

Spring Trail Closures

Before going on a spring hike, make sure the trail is open and dry. Please be mindful of seasonal trail restrictions and closures for elk and sage grouse. Always follow the principles of Leave No Trace, and practice good trails etiquette. Avoid hiking when the trail is extremely muddy as this can damage the trail. Some trails also have wildlife conservation restrictions in spring. There are trails organizations in the Gunnison Valley that share info on trail closures and other restrictions. They are a good resource to check when making sure a trail is open. These organizations build and maintain trails in Crested Butte and Gunnison. Their hard work allows visitors and locals to be safe and enjoy the 1200+ miles of trails in the Gunnison Valley. Consider making a donation or volunteering for a trail work day so they can continue taking care of this wonderful resource.

Summer activities in Gunnison and Crested Butte

Planning a trip in spring, summer or fall? Learn more about events and things to do here.

Summer events in Crested Butte and Gunnison

Summer brings bike races, a wildflower festival, the rodeo, arts and classic car festivals, the Fourth of July, and more! Though you might be visiting for the outdoor recreation, attending an event can be a fun addition to your trip. Check out our summer guide to see if any events coincide with your visit.

Summer things to do in Gunnison and Crested Butte

There are many things to do in Crested Butte and Gunnison during the summer season. In addition to epic hiking, explore the 800-plus miles of singletrack trail via a mountain bike. Learn more about activities, outdoor sports and culture in the Gunnison Valley.

A mountain biker on a trail going through a field of flowers with tall pine trees in the background

Planning your trip

Now that you’ve picked out a few trails to hike, start planning the rest of your trip! Check out spring and summer flights and book early for the best rate to get here. Use the direct booking tool on our website to find a place to stay. Filter options such as desired amenities, dates, location, number of people in your group and more.