What to Do in Crested Butte in Winter When You’re Not Skiing

Crested Butte is often hailed as one of the best destinations for a ski trip in Colorado, but there’s so much more to this charming mountain town than its legendary slopes. If you’re tagging along on a Crested Butte ski trip but prefer activities off the skis, you’re in luck. With an array of unique winter experiences, Crested Butte offers plenty to keep non-skiers entertained. Here’s a guide to the top things to do during your Crested Butte winter vacation when you’re not hitting the slopes.

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we will earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. We recommend products we have personally used or verified. Read the full disclosure here.

---

Don’t have time to read the whole article? Find the top Crested Butte hotels!

Pin this for later!

1. Explore Nordic Trails

A Crested Butte ski trip doesn’t have to be all downhill. The Crested Butte Nordic Center offers over 50 kilometers of groomed trails for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. These trails wind through serene alpine meadows and snow-covered forests, providing an incredible way to experience the outdoors at your own pace. Rentals and lessons are available for beginners.

One of our favorite activities hosted by the Nordic Center are the Magic Meadows Yurt Dinners. Be sure to reserve these well in advance.

---

2. Enjoy a Snowcat Ride to Dinner at Uley’s Cabin

Mid-mountain dining is a must-do for any Crested Butte ski trip. During the day, skiers can take the Red Lady Express to this cozy retreat for gourmet food and craft cocktails, surrounded by stunning mountain views. After the ski area closes, take a snowcat pulled sleigh ride up for a multi-course dinner experience. Be sure to make reservations well in advance.

---

3. Try Fat Biking

Fat biking is a fun and unique way to explore Crested Butte’s winter landscape. Many trails near town, like Slate River Road, are ideal for this adventure. We’ve rented our fat bikes from Big Al’s Bicycle Heaven in town on our past trips. Crested Butte Sports also rents fat bikes at the base of the mountain. Glide over packed snow for a thrilling ride that’s sure to add excitement to your ski trip.

---

---

4. Stroll Through Historic Downtown Crested Butte

The heart of Crested Butte is its historic downtown, a vibrant area filled with colorful buildings, boutique shops, and cozy cafés. Whether you’re browsing for souvenirs, enjoying a cup of hot cocoa, or simply soaking in the charm, it’s a must-visit spot on any Crested Butte winter getaway. A few of our favorite spots to stop in while in downtown are:

• Camp4Coffee: not only does Camp4Coffee have excellent coffee, the vibes are pure Crested Butte. There is another location near the base of the ski mountain, but the ambience in town is worth a visit;
• Townie Books: in addition to the bookstore, visitors can enjoy their coffee and tea house;
• Paragon Art Gallery: displays the work of local artists and a rotating collection of guest artists;
• Scout’s General Store: for a wide selection of local goods.

---

5. Embark on a Sleigh Ride

Few experiences capture the magic of winter like a horse-drawn sleigh ride. Lazy F Bar Ranch offers enchanting rides through snow-covered meadows, complete with blankets and hot cocoa. It’s a romantic and family-friendly activity that complements your Crested Butte ski trip perfectly.

---

---

6. Ice Skating at Big Mine Ice Arena

Add some classic winter fun to your Crested Butte ski trip with a visit to the Big Mine Ice Arena. This covered outdoor rink offers skate rentals and an unforgettable skating experience with mountain views.

---

7. Indulge in Crested Butte’s Culinary Scene

Crested Butte’s dining options rival its winter adventures. A few of our favorite Crested Butte dining experiences (in addition to Uley’s Cabin mentioned above) are:

• Wood-fired pizza at Secret Stash;
• Mexican food at Bonez;
• Burgers and tacos at the Last Steep;
• French & American cuisine in a mining cabin at Soupçon Bistro;
• Cross country ski or snowshoe on torchlit trails to the Magic Meadows Yurt Dinners.

---

8. Join a Snowshoeing Tour

Snowshoeing is an accessible and rewarding way to explore the snowy trails around Crested Butte. Guided tours through areas like Snodgrass Mountain or Gothic Valley provide insights into the region’s natural beauty and history. Rent snowshoes at Crested Butte Nordic or sign up for a back country tour with Irwin Guides.

---

9. Discover the Crested Butte Museum

Immerse yourself in the area’s history at the Crested Butte Museum. From mining and skiing history to exhibits on the town’s unique culture, it’s a fascinating way to spend a snowy afternoon.

---

10. Pamper Yourself with a Spa Day

After all the excitement of a Crested Butte ski trip, take some time to relax with a spa day. Visit Elevation Spa in Mount Crested Butte or The Creekside Spa in town for massages, facials, and other treatments that will leave you refreshed.

---

---

11. Photograph Crested Butte’s Winter Beauty

Crested Butte is a dream destination for photographers. From the alpenglow on Mount Crested Butte to frost-covered aspen trees, there’s no shortage of stunning winter scenery to capture during your ski trip.

12. Visit the Gunnison Valley Hot Springs

Every Crested Butte ski trip needs a relaxing moment, and the nearby Waunita Hot Springs Ranch offers just that. A soak in these natural mineral pools is the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring the winter wonderland.

Crested Butte Ski Trip Wrap-Up

Even if skiing isn’t on your agenda, a Crested Butte ski trip is packed with memorable experiences. From cozy sleigh rides to adventurous fat biking and tranquil hot springs, this winter paradise offers something for everyone. Bundle up, embrace the magic of the season, and enjoy your unforgettable Crested Butte ski trip—whether or not you hit the slopes. If you’re not sure which Colorado ski town to pick, take our bonus quiz to determine your best Colorado ski destination!

Where to Stay in Crested Butte

One of the main choices in Crested Butte is whether to stay in town or on the mountain. They are only a 10 minute drive apart, and well connected by the bus. We personally prefer to stay in town, making it easy to walk to shops, restaurants, concerts, and to some of the trails (such as the lower loop). In winter, this makes for easy cross country skiing as well. Others prefer to stay in Mt. Crested Butte, for closer access to the chairlifts, alpine skiing in winter, and some of the great trails. This is truly a personal preference and both areas have their highlights.

There are a wide range of places to stay in Crested Butte, ranging from hostels to B&B’s to luxury villas. Here are some of our top recommendations:

Vaquera House	Wonderful upscale rooms with terrace, garden, free bikes, and an on-site restaurant with room service. Guests can play tennis and pool.
Public House Lofts	The Public House has large modern suites located right on the main street, with a restaurant and bar conveniently downstairs. The shuttle to the ski mountain stops just across the street.
3 Bedroom In Town Home	3 bedroom fully renovated vacation rental on Whiterock Avenue in town. Easy walking distance to all that the town has to offer from this beautiful home.
Purple Mountain Bed & Breakfast	Cute B&B conveniently located in town, with available breakfast, garden, hot tub, and free bikes.
Crested Butte Hostel	Well rated hostel with both dorm rooms and private rooms most with shared bathrooms. Conveniently located to downtown and to the buses running to the mountain.

Search for additional lodging options below:

How to Get to Crested Butte

By Car	The drive from Denver takes 4-4.5 hours. Check road conditions carefully during the winter. During summer, enjoy the drive over beautiful Cottonwood Pass en route to Crested Butte.
By Air	Gunnison-Crested Butte Regional Airport is about 30 minutes from Crested Butte. Rent a car or take a bus or shuttle service from there.
By Public Transportation	Within the Gunnison-Crested Butte area, there are plenty of bus routes available. Taking a bus from Denver can be more challenging, though it is doable.

Check out these car rental tips for your Colorado ski vacation before reserving your car.

If you enjoyed this post, pin it for later!