Oh Be Joyful Campground – A Secluded Gem

One of the best campgrounds near Crested Butte is Oh Be Joyful. Tucked away on the banks of the East River, the Oh Be Joyful campground feels secluded yet close enough to enjoy Crested Butte. Operated by the U.S. Forest Service, it contains 21 first-come, first-served single campsites in a peaceful, shaded pine and spruce forest.

Each campsite at Oh Be Joyful contains a fire ring and picnic table. Vault toilets are centrally located in the campground but there is no potable water available. However, the scenic East River flows directly adjacent to the campground, perfect for filtering water. Oh Be Joyful is open June through September with nightly fees of $24 per site as of 2023. No RV camping is available but tents and passenger vehicles are welcome.

Nearby Recreation from Oh Be Joyful Campground

Oh Be Joyful campground places you close to an abundance of outdoor recreation around Crested Butte. Excellent hiking trails lead directly from camp including the scenic Trail 401 to Meridian Lake. This moderate 5-mile round trip hike gains 1,000 feet in elevation culminating in one of Crested Butte’s prettiest alpine lakes.

From Oh Be Joyful, you also have easy access to the 401 Trailhead that leads deeper into the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness Area. Expert backpackers can connect to the sublime West Maroon Trail with spectacular views of the Maroon Bells and Snowmass Mountain along the way.

If you have a properly equipped off-road vehicle, some of Colorado’s most iconic 4×4 trails also begin right from Oh Be Joyful Campground. Iconic routes like Gothic Road, Washington Gulch, and Schofield Pass offer stunning high-alpine scenery for advanced drivers.

For something less extreme, enjoy fishing in the East River right next to camp. Or simply relax at your private campsite and soak in the lovely scenery of aspen groves, wildflower meadows, and snow-capped peaks surrounding Oh Be Joyful.

RV and Car Camping Alternatives near Crested Butte

While Oh Be Joyful offers a scenic backcountry camping experience, Crested Butte has other options for RV and car camping. If you need more amenities, consider these alternatives:

Elk Creek Campground – Located only 4 miles from Crested Butte along Kebler Pass Road (Hwy 12). Contains 22 first-come, first-served RV and tent sites in a open, sunny meadow. Each site features a picnic table, fire ring, and parking spur. Vault toilets and potable water taps available. Nightly fee $24 per site as of 2023.

Lake Irwin Campground – Situated 8 miles from Crested Butte along Cement Creek Road (Hwy 738). Contains 11 RV and 8 tent sites in a lakeside ponderosa pine forest with incredible views. Sites have picnic table, fire ring, and parking spur. Vault toilets, water taps, and a dump station available. Electric hookups at some RV sites. Nightly fees $24-30 per site depending on amenities. Open June through September.

Dispersed Car Camping – Free backcountry camping is permitted on certain public lands around Crested Butte, including parts of the Gunnison National Forest. Ask for current regulations at the local ranger station. Practice Leave No Trace ethics when dispersed camping.

Best Time to Visit Crested Butte for Camping

Crested Butte offers excellent camping from late spring through early fall. July and August are peak season with warm sunny days ideal for hiking, biking, fishing and relaxing in camp. Temperatures range from 45-75°F on average. Afternoon thunderstorms are common so be prepared with rain gear.

June and September are excellent shoulder season options with smaller crowds and lower rates. Spring wildflowers and fall golden aspens create stunning scenery. Temperatures range from 30-65°F so pack layers. Snow typically melts out of the mountains by early June while light snowfall can start in September at higher elevations.

While winters are long and cold, Crested Butte also has Nordic skiing, fat biking, and snowshoeing opportunities from December through April. Backcountry yurts and cabins allow winter camping with proper gear. I sincerely hope you find this “Crested butte Camping Guide-Oh Be Joyful in 2024” article helpful.

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One of the most popular hikes in the Crested Butte area is the magnificent Judd Falls Trail. This moderate 3.4-mile out-and-back trail brings you through aspen groves and evergreen forests to a rewarding waterfall viewpoint.

I’ll cover everything you need to know before you go including trail highlights, directions, maps, when to visit, permit info, and more.

Overview & Trail Highlights

The Judd Falls Trail begins about 7 miles up Slate River Road from the town of Crested Butte. After a pleasant walk through the forest, you’ll arrive at the waterfall viewing area. Here, East River cascades over a 20-foot tall cliff, creating the breathtaking Judd Falls.

Highlights of the Judd Falls Trail include:

• Panoramic views of the surrounding Elk Mountains
• Towering aspens and evergreen trees provide shade
• Wildflowers bloom from July to September
• The refreshing mist from Judd Falls cools you on hot days
• Photogenic viewpoints along the river and waterfall
• A peaceful atmosphere with few other hikers

The trail is relatively flat and easy to follow, making it a popular choice for families and those newer to hiking. Adventurous hikers can continue past the falls viewpoints to explore the backcountry further.

Directions to the Judd Falls Trailhead

The trailhead for Judd Falls is located 7.2 miles up Slate River Road from the town of Crested Butte. Slate River Road is well-maintained but quite narrow and winding.

To reach the trailhead from Crested Butte, head north on 7th Street which turns into Slate River Road. Follow Slate River Road for 7.2 miles until you see a small parking area on your left. This graveled lot will fit 5-10 cars comfortably. The Judd Falls Trail begins across the road.

If the lot is full, park carefully off the roadside. Be sure not to block traffic or private driveways.

Judd Falls Trail Map

The Judd Falls Trail is easy to follow as long as you have a detailed map. I recommend using the Crested Butte Hiking & Biking Trail Map from Tomichi Maps. This waterproof and tear-proof map includes hiking trails, bike trails, landmarks, and more.

You can also find a Judd Falls Trail map online through AllTrails, MTBProject, and other sites. Make sure to download it ahead of time since cell service is spotty in the area.

When to Hike the Judd Falls Trail

Due to its moderate elevation around 9,000 feet, the Judd Falls Trail can be hiked July through September. Mid-August is peak wildflower season, making it the ideal time to visit.

Spring hiking is not recommended due to mud and fallen trees from the winter snowmelt. The trail may be closed in early summer due to wet or snowy conditions – be sure to check ahead of time for any trail closures.

In fall, the hike is open through September and even into October during warmer years. Expect cooler temperatures and changing aspens later in the season. Make sure to dress appropriately as mountain weather can change suddenly.

Permits, Fees & Regulations

No permit or fee is required to day hike the Judd Falls Trail. Make sure to practice standard trail etiquette and Leave No Trace principles on your hike.

Dogs are allowed but must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet. Be sure to clean up after your pet as the area is popular with other hikers and families.

Overnight backpacking is allowed with a free camping permit from the Gunnison National Forest. No fires or camping are allowed near Judd Falls itself.

What to Bring on the Judd Falls Hike

To have an enjoyable hike to Judd Falls, make sure you pack the 10 essentials:

• Sturdy hiking shoes – the trail can be rocky and uneven
• Water – bring at least 32 oz per person
• Snacks/lunch – hike takes 3+ hours roundtrip
• Rain jacket & extra layer
• Sun protection – hat, sunglasses, sunscreen
• First aid kit & medications
• Fully charged phone & portable charger
• Map of the trail
• Flashlight or headlamp if hiking at dawn/dusk
• Bear spray – required in Grizzly bear country

Other recommended items include hiking poles, insect repellent, camera, and plenty of food if you’ll be out for several hours.

Judd Falls Trail Description

The well-marked Judd Falls Trail begins across Slate River Road from the small parking area. A trail register here asks for your contact info in case of emergency.

Initially the trail heads uphill through a mixed forest of aspens, spruce, and fir trees. Wooden steps assist with short steep sections. In 0.4 miles you’ll pass a wilderness boundary sign as the trail levels out.

Enjoy the next 0.8 miles as the path winds through the shady forest alongside the East River. Brief peeks through the trees give you glimpses of the rugged Elk Mountains surrounding the valley. Listen for the rush of the river beside you.

In 1.3 miles you’ll arrive at the lower falls overlook. Here there’s a nice view of East River plunging 15 feet into a small rocky pool. Photograph the waterfall framed by colorful wildflowers and watch for rainbows in the mist.

After soaking in the views, continue on the main trail uphill for another 0.2 miles to the Judd Falls viewpoint. At the end of the maintained trail take time to admire the powerful 20-foot cascade spilling into the valley below.

From the viewpoint you can also see where East River originates from high on the slopes of Mount Axtell in the distance. When you’re ready, carefully make your way back down to the trailhead to complete the 3.4 mile out-and-back hike.

Continue Exploring the Crested Butte Area

A day hike to Judd Falls is just one of the many adventures awaiting in the Crested Butte area. Nearby hikes lead to scenic vistas of Snodgrass Mountain, Gothic Mountain and Mount Crested Butte. Multi-day backpackers can explore the remote wilderness of the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness.

The wildflower capital of Colorado, Crested Butte explodes with vibrant colors every July and August. Ride mountain bikes on the vast singletrack network surrounding the town. Try your hand at rock climbing or paddle boarding on one of the alpine lakes.

Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping action or a peaceful mountain escape, Crested Butte delivers. Its rugged beauty and charming mountain town make it a can’t-miss destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Conclusion

The moderate 3.4 mile Judd Falls Trail rewards hikers with a refreshing waterfall viewpoint and peaceful nature escape. This scenic hike through the Gunnison National Forest is suitable for most ages and abilities. I sincerely hope you find this “Crested butte Hiking guide for Judd Falls Trail IN 2024” article helpful.

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In both summer and winter, Crested Butte has no shortage of things to do outside. From hiking and biking to skiing and snowboarding, Crested Butte has an activity for every outdoor enthusiast. The unique geography of Crested Butte, surrounded by towering peaks, makes for incredible vistas and adventures right from town.

Hiking and Backpacking

Crested Butte has over 750 miles of hiking trails that range from easy walks along rivers and through flower-filled meadows to challenging high-alpine scrambles up rugged peaks.

Some of the top day hikes near Crested Butte in 2024 include the scenic hike to Copper Lake, the wildflower-filled Paradise Divide, the dramatic views from the summit of Mt. Emmons, and the spectacular Elk Mountain Grand Traverse. Multi-day backpacking trips into the remote reaches of the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness and West Elk Wilderness offer even more adventure.

The best part about hiking and backpacking around Crested Butte is that stunning scenery is available right from town, no long drive required. From the popular Judd Falls trail to the challenging Teocalli Ridge, hikers of all abilities can find trails matching their interests. And with over 200 miles of trails accessible directly from downtown Crested Butte, enjoying a walk in nature is easy.

Mountain Biking

Crested Butte is known as the birthplace of mountain biking and remains a top mountain biking destination in 2024. With over 750 miles of singletrack surrounding Crested Butte and lifts providing access to incredible high-alpine riding, it’s a mountain biker’s paradise.

The Evolution Bike Park at Crested Butte Mountain Resort has one of the longest lift-served riding seasons in Colorado. Expert riders can enjoy technical downhill and enduro trails like Trail 401 and Teocali Ridge well into fall. Beginner and intermediate riders have miles of fun machine-built trails like Rambo and Uley’s to explore.

For backcountry riding, the 401 Trail network weaving in and out of high-alpine basins offers stunning views and challenging singletrack. The Colorado and Gothic Trails provide multi-day riding opportunities through peaceful aspen groves and wildflower meadows. And the iconic Alpine Loop Scenic Byway connects Crested Butte to other legendary Colorado mountain biking towns like Ouray, Silverton, and Lake City.

With more mountain bike trail maintenance and construction planned in 2024, Crested Butte retains its top spot for mountain biking. From grueling races like the Grand Traverse to family-friendly rides around Paradise Park, riders of all abilities can experience epic trails.

Paddling and Boating

The rivers around Crested Butte offer pristine paddling opportunities through remote wilderness and stunning canyons. Calm sections of river make for peaceful float trips while Class III-V rapids provide heart-pounding whitewater.

The nearby Taylor River remains a top paddling spot in 2024. Sections like Spring Creek and Almont have fun Class II-III rapids for inflatable kayak rides in summer. Expert kayakers and rafters run the big water Class IV-V rapids of the Taylor below the dam during the early summer melt season.

The scenic Gunnison River north of Crested Butte also sees exciting rafting in 2024. The popular Class III-IV rapids of the Lower Gunnison through the Black Canyon provide thrills, views, and a sense of remoteness just minutes from town.

Multi-day paddling adventures are also possible right from Crested Butte. Kayakers and packrafters can access incredible wilderness by linking sections of rivers like the Taylor and East River. And stand up paddleboarders and recreational kayakers can enjoy calm water paddling on high-alpine lakes around Crested Butte.

With some of Colorado’s most iconic paddling easily accessible, Crested Butte continues to be a paddling hub in 2024. From family-friendly float trips to extreme whitewater, the rivers and lakes around Crested Butte offer superb boating.

Climbing and Mountaineering

The soaring peaks surrounding Crested Butte have incredible rock, ice, and alpine climbing. From moderate routes on small crags to challenging ascents up 14,000-foot peaks, climbers and mountaineers are drawn to the area.

Excellent rock climbing for all abilities can be found right outside of town for quick cragging sessions or multi-pitch big wall routes. Moderate toprope climbs line the walls of the Peanut and the Treasury while the more advanced testpieces of Paradise and Teocalli Forks see hard lead climbing.

Ice climbing is superb in the Crested Butte area as well. Hyalite Canyon south of town has dozens of frozen waterfalls up to 200 feet tall offering climbing from beginner WI3 to advanced WI6. For alpine climbing, the Anthracites and East Beckwith Mountain have incredible moderate mountaineering routes.

Towering 14ers like Mount Emmons (14,435’), Redcloud Peak (14,034’), and Sunshine Peak (14,001’) also have classic climbing routes to their summits. The standard Northeast Ridge of Emmons is one of the more straightforward 14ers while the stunning East Face Direct is much more difficult.

With endless peaks and crags surrounding town, Crested Butte remains a climbing and mountaineering mecca in 2024. The variety and quality bring climbers from beginners looking to learn to some of the best alpinists in the country.

Trail Running

Crested Butte is a trail runner’s playground, with hundreds of miles of scenic singletrack surrounding town. From rolling meadows to steep mountain passes, trail runners can link together routes varying from easy jogs to challenging uphill-downhill runs covering thousands of feet of elevation change.

Some classic Crested Butte runs include the scenic Paradise Divide Loop with huge wildflower meadows and panoramic views. The rugged Peanut Lake Loop climbs up and over Snodgrass Mountain before bombing back down through aspen groves. And the iconic 401 Trail has buffed singletrack contouring high above town with vistas in all directions.

The Crested Butte area also hosts a number of destination trail running events that attract elite trail runners from around the country in 2024. Races like the Crested Butte Bike & Brews Duathlon, the Pearl Pass Mountain Run, and the Grand Traverse Mountain Run cover incredible point-to-point courses.

With the rugged and wild Elk Mountains surrounding town, trail runners will continue enjoying scenic running on Crested Butte’s unparalleled trail network in 2024 and beyond.

Winter Sports

Crested Butte is known for its incredible winter scenery and ample snowfall, allowing winter sports enthusiasts to take advantage of over 750 skiable acres, extensive nordic trails, and endless backcountry snow.

As one of Colorado’s top ski towns, Crested Butte Mountain Resort has fantastic on-mountain terrain for all abilities, minimal crowds, and renowned ski instructors. Expert skiers and riders flock to the Extreme Limits terrain filled with steep chutes, cliffs, and tight tree runs. While beginners learn on wide groomed trails with dedicated slow zones.

The nordic center at Crested Butte Nordic has over 60km of scenic trails for cross country skiing and winter fat biking. The trail network spans peaceful forests and connects to awesome on-mountain routes like the Teocalli Bowl. Backcountry skiers also take advantage of endless powder turns in the Elk Mountains surrounding town.

Other winter activities like snowshoeing, ice skating, sledding, and more are also easily accessible from Crested Butte. Or visitors can relax with a warm drink as they take in the charming mountain town covered in twinkling holiday lights.

With few crowds, reliable snowfall, and seemingly endless terrain, Crested Butte remains a top winter destination in 2024 for skiers, riders, and winter enthusiasts of all kinds.

Conclusion

In 2024 Crested Butte retains its reputation as an outdoor recreation mecca. With incredible hiking, biking, paddling, climbing, trail running, and winter sports right from town, Crested Butte has an adventure for everyone.

The charming and historic mountain town surrounded by the soaring Elk Mountains continues to be a top basecamp for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you seek peaceful walks through wildflower meadows or heart-pounding descents down rugged peaks, Crested Butte is an ideal destination in 2024 and beyond. I sincerely hope you find this “Outdoor Activities in Crested Butte In 2024″ article helpful.

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Gunnison: Gunnison, the gateway to Crested Butte, is home to many premium stargazing spots. Remote, scenic Hartman Rocks Recreational Area is arguably the best place in Gunnison to observe stars. Whether you observe along a hiking trail or from the parking lot, you’ll have spectacular views! Another superb viewing spot is Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park– a large, beautiful park with a variety of lookouts. For more formal viewing, head to Gunnison Valley Observatory during their public viewing hours. 

Ten Peaks: Ten Peaks has awesome panoramic sky views. Stargaze with a drink and/or a bite of food at Umbrella Bar! 

Of course, it is easy to find stargazing spots with low light pollution if you venture a little bit outside of Crested Butte city limits. Find a park or trail in a low population, high elevation city for the best viewing! 

Stargazing is a great way to create lasting memories without spending money. You’ll love it! Where do you like to stargaze when you’re in town? Let us know in the comments!  are some of the best places to go if you’re looking for stellar local views! 

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Fantasy Ranch is an excellent riding stable located in Crested Butte. They operate out of different locations throughout the year, depending on the season. This winter, rides will leave from Almont Resort, which is approximately 20 minute south of Crested Butte. Rides are offered Monday through Friday, and last from 1 PM until 3 PM, with a stop in the middle to warm up with some hot cocoa by a fire. 

Winter horseback rides are so exciting! You’ll be able to experience the enchantment of the winter landscape up close, and you might even encounter some unique wildlife, such as elk, mule deer, big horn sheep, or bald eagles. 

Not interested in riding on horseback? You can still partake in the fun by enjoying one of Fantasy Ranch’s private sleigh rides. 

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There are also ladies bike nights where ladies can get together to meet other female riders and friends.  Meet for stellar lift-served mountain biking, plus a post-ride beer!   Open to women ages 21 and older, these group rides are presented in conjunction with the Women’s Work Force at the Crested Butte Mountain Bike Association and geared towards taking several twilight laps on intermediate level Bike Park trails with like-minded women.  

The Ladies Bike Night tickets are available for sale at the Crested Butte Mountain Bike Shop for $10 and include twilight lift access from 4:30-7 p.m. and a post-ride beer at Butte 66 at 7 p.m. (included with the Ladies Bike Night ticket purchase and valid that day only).  Sounds like a great deal for bike ticket and a beer…and maybe a few new friends!

Photo:  Bikers enjoy lift service and bike trails at Crested Butte Mountain Resort

Another unique event at Crested Butte Mountain Resort is the Full Moon Dinners at Twin Peaks.  Taking place on Tuesday, July 16^th from 7 to 9 p.m.   Join at the Umbrella Bar at Ten Peaks and enjoy a sunset dinner with dessert under the moonlight.  Tickets are for sale online and include a complimentary glass of house wine or draft beer with a delicious dinner starting at 7 p.m.

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