Colorado Hiking and Backpacking Around Crested Butte+Gunnison

Hiking and Backpacking

EXPLORE GUNNISON AND CRESTED BUTTE, COLORADO

Since Gunnison County is surrounded by millions of acres of public land, you can often start your Colorado hiking and backpacking right out the door of your lodging. When summer arrives and the snow recedes, hitting the local hiking trails is one of the best ways to explore the scenic Rocky Mountains around the Gunnison Valley. Hiking gives you an intimate look at Colorado wildflowers in summer and dramatic aspen leaves in fall. Overnight backpacking adds to the adventure when exploring any of the five wilderness areas within an easy drive of Gunnison or Crested Butte.

Hiking trail map

Beginner, intermediate and advanced hiking trails in Crested Butte and Gunnison

With more than 1,000 miles of hiking trails in the Gunnison Valley, you’re guaranteed to find one that suits your ability level. Browse the map to see everything from easy walking trails near town to epic expert hiking routes.

Crested Butte on Trailforks.com

MT. CRESTED BUTTE & CRESTED BUTTE, COLORADO HIKING TRAILS

The northern part of Gunnison County is dominated by high peaks, but that doesn’t always mean difficult Colorado hiking. Known as the wildflower capital of the state, many of the trails that follow the rivers and streams outside Crested Butte are covered with wildflowers throughout the summer. These trails are mellow and have minimal elevation gain along the way. Gunnison National Forest, the West Elk Wilderness, the Raggeds Wilderness and the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness are all located near Crested Butte. These areas offer a variety of hikes, including intermediate and difficult hiking trails. They are some of the best Colorado hikes. If peak-bagging is your thing, be sure to climb Crested Butte while you’re here. From the base area of Crested Butte Mountain Resort in Mt. Crested Butte, either ride the Silver Queen lift from the base area (you’ll need to purchase a ticket), or start hiking at the bottom (free). There are also several fourteeners near the Gunnison Valley, including the Collegiate Peaks via Salida and the San Juans near Lake City.

a woman and a do hiking through an aspen grove on whetstone mountain in crested butte

Hiking to Aspen from Crested Butte

Explore Colorado’s iconic Maroon Bells

Hiking from Crested Butte to Aspen via West Maroon Pass or East Maroon Pass is one of the most beautiful hikes in Colorado. Learn about planning a hike or backpacking trip in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness Area. Find out where to get permits, hiring a shuttle, routes to take and more!

Hike to Aspen

ALMONT & GUNNISON, COLORADO HIKING TRAILS

Almont and Taylor Canyon offer spectacular timber and beautiful canyon scenery. With great trails for mountain biking and trail running, this area is a great home base for a multi-sport vacation. Gunnison, Colorado hiking and backpacking is dominated by endless high-desert vistas and unique rock formations. Hartman Rocks Recreation Area offers a large multi-use trail system, or visit Curecanti Recreation Area and The Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park for unique Colorado hiking. Fossil Ridge Wilderness and Gunnison National Forest have some of the best hikes in the area.

Gunnison hiking trails

Explore places to hike in Gunnison.

Gunnison on Trailforks.com

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

Keep Colorado wild

For the best hikes in Crested Butte, purchase a Colorado hiking and backpacking trail map when you get here. You can also talk with locals and/or personnel at your lodging property to find the best hikes.

Colorado often gets brief, but strong, thunderstorms during the afternoon in the summer. Check the weather before you go, pack the proper gear and always start hikes early, especially if you plan to be above treeline. Don’t be afraid to turn around if a storm moves in.

Always practice Leave No Trace while hiking or backpacking. This will help you stay safe and keep Gunnison Valley beautiful and preserved for many years to come! Learn more about sustainable practices in the backcountry.

Gear shops can point you in the right direction, and experienced Colorado hiking guides can show you the best Colorado hikes you never would have found on your own.

Hiking etiquette

Respect Right of Way: Uphill hikers have the right of way. If you’re hiking downhill, step aside to let them pass. Bicyclists should yield to hikers, and both hikers and bikers yield to horses and pack animals.
Be Friendly: Greet fellow hikers with a smile or a simple “hello” when passing. It keeps the trail welcoming for everyone.
Stay on the Trail: Stick to the designated trail to avoid damaging the surrounding vegetation. Straying off-path can hurt the environment.
Respect Wildlife: Keep a safe distance from animals and never feed or disturb them. Observing from afar ensures both your safety and theirs.
Avoid Hiking in Muddy Conditions: If the trail is wet or muddy, avoid hiking to prevent damage. If you encounter mud, stay on the trail and hike straight through it rather than around it.
Keep Noise to a Minimum: Avoid playing loud music as it can disturb wildlife and fellow hikers. Appreciate the natural sounds around you.
Be Prepared: Always carry enough water, snacks, and sunscreen. Check the weather forecast before heading out and be ready for sudden changes in conditions.

Snowshoeing IN GUNNISON and CRESTED BUTTE

Winter hiking in Colorado

If you love hiking in the summer and fall, chances are good you’ll also enjoy snowshoeing. The groomed cross-country ski trails around Gunnison and Crested Butte allow snowshoers. Some backcountry trails can also be suitable for snowshoers. Before embarking on a backcountry snowshoe adventure, make sure you possess the necessary education and equipment to travel through avalanche terrain. Also be aware that some summer trails are closed to winter use.

Explore snowshoeing options