The western slope of the Rocky Mountains has always been called the Real Colorado. This side of The Centennial State hosts the largest number of 14’ers. All this breathtaking greenery has given rise to some extreme skiing destinations, as well as some of Colorado’s most treasured eclectic mountain towns.
As a mountain surf town, Crested Butte lives for its hip local arts and theater scene and an absurd number of annual concerts and festivals. Beneath Gothic Mountain (12,625 feet), a strip of colorfully painted historic buildings up and down Elk Avenue date back to the 1800s, when Crested Butte stood at the forefront of Colorado’s coal country.
Above a town strangely forgotten by time, the Rocky Mountain singletrack is simply not the best for mountain bikers. Set against some of the most physically inspiring backdrops in the West, our Crested Butte trip offers a full immersion in Colorado’s centuries-old cycling culture.
You’ll experience exhilarating roller coaster climbs fueled by the rejuvenating mountain air. After that, you’ll begin some very rewarding downhills. The excitement of the trip, combined with the unique sights, is sure to put a smile on your face. The rocky mountains of Colorado beckon to you from the rich culture of ancient Indians to mining towns frozen in time.
Day 1: We meet in Gunnison, south of Aspen, in the western mid-latitudes of Colorado. We head north to Crested Butte (population 1487; elevation 8885 feet). Covering an area of less than one square mile, this 19th-century mining town has been transformed into Colorado’s last great ski town, immaculately situated in a wide valley. Passing the brightly colored Victorian homes, we find the modern, beautiful Grand Lodge Resort, our base for the next five days.* After refueling in the afternoon, we set out on a short walking tour of the accommodations, as well as the nearby Wildflower Spa. (Crested Butte is the wildflower capital of Colorado, by the way.) Swapping road clothes for riding gear, we climb, starting with our first ride just outside of town. Dissolving in dense aspen groves, smeared with broad strokes of wildflowers. Traveling through the wildly varied and enormous flowers that fill or occasionally obscure the trail, our route into the 1.6 million-hectare Gunnison National Forest closes near the beginning of the Bush Creek Trail, depending on the route taken.
Day 2 : Before the Mountain Bike Hall of Fame moved to Fairfax, California, it was based here. Now, if there were a consensus among HoF inductees, most would call today’s ride not just the best in Crested Butte… but the best in Colorado. You’ll climb through dense aspen groves, cross a stream, climb some more and be rewarded with beautiful views. To the east, the Elk Mountains and the surrounding Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness loom. Encompassing 181,535 acres, Maroon Bells can lay claim to at least six of Colorado’s 53 fourteener peaks: the peak says 14,000 feet. As you descend to the top of the enchanting single track, you quickly begin to understand why Crested Butte is known for offering some of the world’s best alpine skiing. You can’t help but smile as you pass through the abundant fields of wildflowers between the sprawling aspen groves. During the long descent, try not to be hypnotized by the kaleidoscopic rays of sunlight filtered by the fluttering leaves of the aspen.
Day 3: Today we race at the Crested Butte Mountain Bike Park, which is suitable for every type of rider. Much like Baskin-Robbins for a set of fat tires, Evolution includes 30 miles of downhill and cross-country trails, a skills area, a dual slalom course, and any number of both natural and man-made obstacles. Tonight, we share our anecdotes and the best moments of the day over a great meal at Crested Butte’s best brewery, Elk Avenue.
Day 4 : Our penultimate trip to Crested Butte. With more names than an upscale law firm, Deadman’s Reno Flag Bear stretches for 22 miles. Today’s route, created at an elevation of 2700 feet, connects the Reno watershed with the Flag and Bear Creek trails. Metaphorically, expect nothing less than classic; feature-rich, and in the best possible way. Set amidst the stunning Sement Creek area, the sequence of big climbs is followed by an equal number of great descents. Fans of the many twists and turns will love the final act: a descent consisting of no less than 28 turns, culminating in Deadman’s Gulch.
Day 5: Epic is the only way to describe our finale. Fast, flowing and diverse, the Teocalli Ridge Loop trail is a favorite among Crested Butte locals. No more so than in the fall months when the aspens are turning, the landscape is seemingly painted in sunny yellows, rich reds, and whimsical oranges. Measuring 23 miles from end to end, Dr. Park begins at a staggering elevation of 10,090 feet. An ascent of 2,100 feet with an accompanying descent of 2,100 feet, the Teocalyptic Ridge is prone to some technical moments. Several high ridges with exposure, framed by large meadows and dense forest, further distinguish it. Thanks to Teocalli’s connection to the Crested Butte trail network, we can also add extra miles if you didn’t get enough of Rocky Mountain High. After finishing lunch on the trail, we head back to Gunnison.
