Responsible Travel in Gunnison Crested Butte

Enjoy the mountains. Leave No Trace.

By traveling responsibly during your visit to Colorado’s beautiful Gunnison Valley, you’re not only helping preserve these lands for the next visitor, but for future generations to come. Whether you were drawn here by the epic mountain biking, beautiful hiking or any of the other things to do, tread lightly so the next visitor can have the same amazing experience.

fat bikers riding down trail

Winter trail etiquette

Tips for downhill skiing, fat biking and more

When exploring Colorado’s beautiful mountains via skis, fat bike or snowshoes, following the rules makes for a safer, more enjoyable experience for everyone. Learn more about the downhill skiing safety code, where you’re allowed to ride a fat bike, and more!

Brush up on winter trail etiquette
snowshoe

Where to Hike and Snowshoe in Crested Butte in Winter

Winter vs. Summer trail use

Hiking and snowshoeing is permitted on Town Ranch, the Rec Path, Whetstone Vista, Green Lake Trail and the drainages (Slate River Road, Gothic Road, etc.). The summer trails along Peanut Lake Road, including the Woods Walk, the Budd Trail and the Lower Loop, are closed to all use in winter. Snowshoes are allowed on CB Nordic’s groomed trails with the purchase of a CB Nordic day pass. Dogs are only allowed on certain groomed trails; please visit CB Nordic’s dog policy webpage for more information. Fat bikes are permitted on open backcountry trails and a few groomed trails. Check out CB Nordic’s fat biking page for more information on this unique activity.

Learn more
A bus drives in Crested Butte, Colorado

Getting Around Gunnison and Crested Butte

Public transportation in the Gunnison Valley

If you don’t have a car, you can easily walk, bike or utilize the free buses to get around the Gunnison Valley. The RTA bus regularly runs between Gunnison and Crested Butte, making visiting both towns convenient. The Mountain Express Shuttle services Crested Butte and Mt. Crested Butte. Shuttles from Gunnison-Crested Butte Regional Airport are also available. Some hotels and bed and breakfasts offer bikes for guests to use.

Gunnison Valley Bus Info

SPRING TRAIL CLOSURES IN GUNNISON

Seasonal trail closures at Hartman Rocks and Signal Peak

Some trails in Gunnison are closed during specific dates in spring to protect wildlife, including elk, deer and the Gunnison sage grouse. Others are closed seasonally for mud and winter conditions. Obey all posted signs you encounter, and never travel on muddy trails. Click the button below for dates and more details. 

More details
Five people sit around a campfire. There are tents set up in the background

Camping in Crested Butte

There are many places to camp in the Gunnison Valley for tent camping, RVs and fifth-wheel trailers. Research camping spots before your trip to avoid surprises—for example, expecting a toilet at camp but finding out that there are none when you arrive. With recent changes to camping regulations around Crested Butte, it’s more important than ever to plan your trip before you arrive. Check out different camping options in Gunnison Valley. 

Find a campsite

From the blog

More tips on how to lighten your footprint when traveling to Crested Butte and Gunnison.

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Animals and Birds of Gunnison, Colorado

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Bees and Butterflies of Gunnison, Colorado

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Plants of Gunnison, Colorado

Check out this guide to learn about plants you might see while outside in Gunnison: This guide explores the iconic plants of Gunnison, Colorado, from vibrant wildflowers to foundational species […]
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Summer Trails Etiquette in Gunnison and Crested Butte

Most of the trails in Gunnison and Crested Butte, Colorado, are multi-use. Make sure you know who has the right of way, what to do if you see wildlife and […]
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