5 Ways to Maximize Your Crested Butte Trip

Posted on Feb. 10, 2023
You made it! Welcome to the untamed destination at the end of the road. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Crested Butte explorer, you’ll want to make the most out of your time in our magical snow globe. Read on for five tips on how to maximize your trip:
Friends enjoy a freshly groomed trail in Crested Butte, CO.

1. Plan Ahead

Don’t kill those first day vibes by waiting in line for lift tickets, lesson reservations or rentals. Book lessons and reserve your rental equipment in advance online! You will save time and money. Plus, Epic Pass holders get 20% off lessons and rentals with Epic Mountain Rewards. If you arrive in time, head over to the Adventure Center located in Mountaineer Square the night before your first day on the mountain to pick up your tickets. 

2. Know the Mountain

It's a good idea to check lift and terrain status on our website, along with the weather report, for each day on the mountain. The safety for our guests and employees is our number one priority, and our mountain operations team maintains the highest standard for opening and operating lifts and terrain in the morning and throughout the day. Stay up to date with the links above. Even better – download the EpicMix app to view real-time lift and terrain status right on your phone.

3. Wait it Out 

If you’re visiting on a powder day, or during one of our popular periods such as a holiday weekend or spring break, time your tracks! Stoke is high on days like these, but lift lines in the base area often clear out by mid-morning as our lifts move guests up and around the mountain. Consider enjoying a long breakfast to fuel up for your day on the hill and arriving late to make the most of your trip. 

4. Explore More of the Mountain

Once you’re on the mountain, point your skis toward mid-mountain lifts like Paradise Express, East River Express, Prospect lift, Painter Boy lift and Gold Link lift. These lifts access plenty of varied terrain for all levels, not to mention three awesome on-mountain restaurants and bars to keep you fueled and happy all day — all with no need to return to the base area until the last bell.

5. Eat Smart

I’m not just talking about eating more veggies. The most popular times in our restaurants are during the mid-day lunch rush. So do as the locals do: eat early, eat late, and ski high noon. The best part? You’ll enjoy shorter lift lines in the early afternoon and avoid the afternoon “hangries” by heading in for après before everyone else does. 

We'll see you on the slopes!