3 Reasons why Crested Butte, CO is a MUST in July

Crested Butte Colorado is possibly the last true mountain town in the U.S. It has some of the most stunning scenery and wildlife the nation has to offer.

At a robust 4 hours from the Colorado Springs/Denver region, Crested Butte, sit at 8,885 feet of elevation, is a want to see mountain community. The area is easily accessible in the summer and fall. When the continental divide closes travel takes longer through a southern route.

Crested Butte’s quintessential mountain town vibe and ski resort have helped give it the reputation as Colorado’s last great ski town. Today though, I’m going to share what makes it so special in the summer and why if you are a mountain or wildlife lover it NEEDS to be on your bucket list.

The Wildflowers

The wildflowers are easily described as breath-taking, spectacular, and jaw-dropping in their abundance. We traveled to CB this year during the annual wildflower festival. We saw some of the most exquisite summer views of wildflowers in the nation.

Wildflowers on Kebler Pass near Crested Butte, CO in July

Skyrocket along Kebler Pass near Crested Butte, CO in July

There is something special and unique about the exact location of Crested Butte, it’s elevation, the time of year in July, the weather, and climatology of the region all work together to create something so special. People travel the world and nation to see it. We’ve been fortunate enough to travel to the region several times, over 20 years, in the summer and this year did not disappoint.

Corn Lily, Queen Anne's Lace, and Larkspur meadow near Crested Butte, CO in July — Corn Lily, Queen Anne’s Lace, and Larkspur meadow near Crested Butte, CO in July

The Scenic Driving & Hiking

Travelers experience the splendor of the Crested Butte area by car, mountain bike, or on foot. This year, we enjoyed traveling through the scenery this year by car with the addition of several short hikes.

The Ohio Pass provides spectacular scenery for hiking and driving. We found a short family-friendly trail with towering Corn Lily and Queen Anne’s Lace. After a trailside lunch we drove through a cathedral of aspen groves to return to our lodging for a relaxing evening.

Bull Moose along Ohio Pass near Crested Butte, CO

Kebler pass is another beautiful area to explore with many scenic views. Kebler is home to one of the largest Aspen groves in the United States. We enjoyed the drive on CR 12 and FSR 706 to the easy stopping point of Lost Lake before heading to our next destination. Kebler provided scenic stopping points and short hikes to take in the wildlife and mountain views.

Doe in a Corn Lily meadow near Crested Butte CO in July

The Town

The town itself is incredibly charming and welcomes tourists like locals. It’s easy to enjoy multiple trips to town. Starting at approximately 1st street, Elk Ave travels the length of the town (six blocks) ending at the park.

Our favorite local spot aside from the delightful whole food grocery is Camp 4 Coffee. We enjoy Camp 4 Coffee on every visit and it will always be my favorite Iced Latte!

I also recommend the local pizza restaurant, The Secret Stash and their world champion pizza, The Notorious F.I.G. It’s delicious and memorable. As a standby on the menu, we’ve enjoyed eating it over and over on our visits.

Camp 4 Coffee in Crested Butte Colorado in July

CB, as the locals call it, was incorporated in 1880. Its main industry was mining. It has maintained its historical integrity while providing modern amenities to tourist and residents.

For decades, mining was the primary source of revenue for Crested Butte. In 1952 the demand for coal declined and The Big Mine closed. Then the ski area opened in 1962 which facilitated the town’s growth. It is now a four-season mountain playground.

Source linked here.

Crested Butte is worth the journey and I can honestly say from experience each visit brings beauty, adventure, and memories that will last a lifetime.