Crested Butte Nordic maintains 55 kilometres of groomed Nordic trails, each with their own twists and turns. You can’t really go wrong with any trail, but we’ve compiled a few of the must-ski Nordic trails around Crested Butte.

Magic Meadows (4.6K)

The name here says it all. Magic Meadows is one of the most popular Nordic trails in Crested Butte, and for good reason. It begins at the Peanut Lake Trailhead (just one mile west of Crested Butte proper) and provides access to mountainside yurts. Stop by the Backcountry Bistro or Magic Meadows Yurt to eat a great meal and replenish for your trip back.

Mike’s Mile (2.3K; dog friendly)

This Nordic trail is a part of Crested Butte’s history as a mining town. Take this mellow trail along an old railway grade as you make your way from Slate River Valley to Gunsight Bridge. As an out-and-back, you can do this trail in the morning and still have a full day.

Ruthie’s Run (5K)

As a maintained race course, Ruthie’s Run includes challenging hills, fast descents, and breathtaking views. Trek your way through aspen groves, spruce forests, and open meadows. Because of the ups and downs on this trail, it’s generally considered an intermediate to advanced option.

Town Ranch (3K; dog friendly)

Town Ranch is mellow, but that doesn’t mean it’s boring. This trail is open to dogs, fat bikes, and anyone looking to take in views of Crested Butte as they get in some good cardio. Because Town Ranch is an east-facing trail, it can still be enjoyable in the late afternoon.

Whether you’re a Nordic aficionado or you’re looking for a new way to experience Crested Butte, you can’t go wrong with the miles and miles of well-maintained Nordic skiing around town.

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At the end of October, Colorado saw massive amounts of snow in the mountains. Snow was on the ground across almost the entire state. Crested Butte got a nice little boost! 

Throughout the first week of November, the snow continued to build. Four inches fell between Thursday and Saturday! This weekend, yet another storm passed through. Snowfall exceeded predictions, leaving the town coated in a blanket of thick, white powder. Now, the snowpack is well above the statewide median.

But that’s not all! In the next few days, all signs indicate that another snowstorm will strike. An additional five inches is expected to fall. The start of ski season is looking fantastic! Read more about snow in Crested Butte at https://opensnow.com/location/crestedbutte 

Ski season has been slow to start this year because of abnormally dry, warm weather. Many resorts that typically open in the middle of the month were forced to postpone opening. Crested Butte is currently set to open November 23rd, 2022. 

Are you excited for the start of ski season? We sure are! Start planning your trip today so you can make the most of the wonderful winter weather on Crested Butte’s stunning slopes! 

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Fat Bike Tour

Fat bikes have become more popular in the winters in Crested Butte as a unique way to get around and see the outskirts of town. We are well on our way to becoming a Fat Biking Mecca, in fact. In case you are wondering, they are literally bikes with fat tires made for trudging through the snow and mud. Test your abilities and take a scenic ride. You can rent one of these bikes from several locations including, The Alpineer, Big Al’s Bicycle Heaven, or Crested Butte Sports.

Winter Horseback AdventureA chance to get close to wildlife in the mountains and try something you may not have

before, join the lovely staff of Fantasy Ranch for a one hour horseback ride. On these rides there are often animal sightings including elk, deer, big horn sheep, and even bald eagles! Enjoy a chance to warm up in the middle with a stop for hot cocoa by the fireplace. A rugged experience bringing you closer to nature.

Snowmobiling
Scenic winter rides done right. Snowmobiles are a fun way to move around the mountains and access Crested Butte abundant backcountry. Check out a snowmobile tour with Action Adventures for an adrenaline filled day away from the hustle and bustle of the resort. The tour included a fast paced trail ride through the Gunnison National Forest followed with some off-trail powder riding. And if you would rather go at your own pace and are comfortable with your abilities, take a rental our on your own through Action Adventures  or Colorado Adventure Rentals. 

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After a slow start to the season, Crested Butte is finally starting to catch up to its median snowfall. At the beginning of the month, a massive amount of snow was dumped across the property, with approximately 17 inches falling in Crested Butte. Seasonal totals are starting to surge, with plenty more to come throughout the rest of winter and into spring. 

What does this mean for you? Backcountry skiing is quite dangerous at the moment, as avalanche risk is high, but resort skiing, which is well-maintained and protected, is looking excellent. 

According to OpenSnow, the last five days have brought 3 inches of snow, and this weekend is expected to bring 5 more. The predicted “slow and steady” snowfall over the course of the next week bodes well for skiers looking to tackle some winter runs.

Looking for a detailed snow forecast? Check out OpenSnow! With forecasts, snowfall histories, snow cams, and more all organized by ski resort, they’ve got all of the information you need to plan your next ski trip! 

Now is the time to hit the slopes! Schedule your next vacation to Crested Butte today!

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Last weekend, Mother Nature decided to return and offer some help with a huge snowstorm dropping 10 inches or more on the mountain. 

This early snow will help give crews a great base layer to get as much terrain open as possible for opening day. The 10 day forecast is showing lots of sun but cool weather, perfect for more snowmaking.

Here is a shot of Crested Butte after the storm

Now is the time to start planning for this season. Crested Butte has made significant changes to this years operating protocol. 

Need to find the perfect vacation home? Check out of favorites 

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Enjoy Exciting Events 

In Crested Butte, February is packed full of action! 

If you love music, then you should check out an upcoming concert. There’s Galactic on February 6, Donovan Frankenreiter on February 10, and The Wood Brothers on February 26! 

Looking for a magical event that truly captures the spirit of Crested Butte? Check out the Magic Meadows Yurt Dinner on February 12! Ski or snowshoe a one mile trail out to a yurt, where you’ll enjoy a five course dinner and live music. This event sells out every year, so be sure to buy tickets beforehand! 

History lovers will adore the Historic Pub Crawl taking place on February 20! At this fun event, you’ll learn history while enjoying libations at three locations throughout Crested Butte with local historians presenting at each location. You’ll get a commemorative mug, a drink at each location, and light snacks!

Feel like getting creative this February? Join local artist Karen Hill for Watercolor + Wine on February 2 or 16! You’ll learn how to create a beautiful watercolor painting while sipping a glass of wine or a beer. No painting experience is necessary! 

Have the Perfect Valentine’s Day

Crested Butte is a lovely place to spend Valentine’s Day! There are plenty of romantic activities to add to your schedule.

Looking for flowers? Bramble & Bloom gorgeous floral arrangements- as does Misty Mountain Floral. Pair your flowers with some chocolates from Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory. 

Make reservations for an elegant dinner at one of Crested Butte’s many romantic restaurants. Soupçon is a French-American bistro located in a historic mining-era cabin. They have classics of all types, from escargot to foie gras to filet mignon! Lil’s Sushi Bar & Grill is a local favorite date night spot that has great sushi rolls and authentic Japanese food. The Dogwood is an American restaurant and bar that is adults-only at all times. They serve a limited but tasty menu. 

After dinner, snuggle up and watch a movie at Majestic Theatre or go for a starlit stroll around town!

What are you looking forward to doing in Crested Butte this February? Tell us in the comments! 

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The next time you’re skiing the steeps of Crested Butte, consider having a go at one of these featured runs.

1. Teocalli Bowl

Less crowded than its other High Line lift neighbors, Teocalli bowl has some of the best hike-to terrain on the mountain. If you hike to the right at the top of the lift, there are some great trees and chutes to drop into. Once you’re in the middle of Teocalli Bowl, hang right and ride between Lair’s Bench and Wolf’s Lair to get in some great untracked turns.

2. Headwall Glades

A popular area of the mountain, Headwall Glades is a steep section of trees accessed through the Halfpipe Gully. One of the best parts of Headwall Glades is an area between Powder 8 Gully and Big Shute. It’s like an amusement park of skiing in these glades, and you really can’t go wrong with any line you choose.

3. High Life

The High Life area is legendary as the most extreme inbounds terrain in the country. It’s not just that the area is steep; it’s also that it’s incredibly technical. Situated off the North Face Lift and between the Spellbound Bowl and North Face runs, you’ll see the High Life cliff band,If you’re up for the challenge, High Life has a few different options that are each incredible. Check out The Ramp for the easiest option, though it’s still quite the stomach-churning adventure.

If you’re prepared for the challenge of Crested Butte, try out these runs or opt for friendlier in-bounds terrain. Either way, you’ll be able to appreciate the awe-inspiring landscape and terrain of Crested Butte.

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Speaking of September weather, Crested Butte received its first dusting of snow yesterday.  It was a mild day to start, then the rain storms rolled in the evening.  Snow enthusiasts woke up to that beautiful view of snow-capped white mountain peaks.  Whether it sticks around is the question.  Temperatures are back in the 70’s with abundant sunshine this weekend. 

The first snow typically has us winter enthusiasts excited about the upcoming ski season.  With the first snow day, it seems appropriate to start counting down the days to ski season.  Some people start counting down the days as early as springtime when the mountain closes.  It must give them hope to start ticking down those numbers.  I prefer to wait until fall, or at least when the first snow arrives.  Crested Butte is currently 75 days away from the 2019/20 ski season.  Yippee.  That is close enough, yet far enough to still enjoy summery/fall weather. 

If you have not already noticed, I do love September in Crested Butte.  In fact, it may be my favorite month.  I can’t wait to leaf peep all of the aspen trees that will soon start to peak (typically third week in September).  I love riding my bike over the golden aspen leaves that have freshly fallen to the ground.  The trail is a golden pathway where the leaves crisp lightly below my tires.  The ultimate day is a bluebird, sunny sky, with temperatures in the 60’s.  We are so fortunate to have many of these perfect days in Crested Butte.

If biking is not your thing, pull out a pair of sneakers or hiking boots and take a walk in the woods.  The hiking is just as beautiful as biking this time of year.  Bonus, there are trails for all levels.  From those tiny toddler legs, to the avid hiking enthusiast.  Stop by the Visitor Center downtown for up to date trail information.  The staff can share the best hiking, biking and site seeing tips.

It is not too late to book a last minute September vacation to Crested Butte.  Check out visitingcrestedbutte.com for lodging deals.  I hope to see you on the trails!

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