Hiking
Lift-Served Hiking
Hike to the summit of Mt. Crested Butte or just take a stroll through aspens and wildflower-soaked meadows. No matter what you decide, the views of the Elk Mountain Range are spectacular and the air is pristine.
Details:
- All guests must be able to approach the chairlift load point under their own power.
- Dogs are not permitted on the chairlift.
- Children in carrier packs are not permitted on the chairlift.
- This activity is weather dependent.
- To help us ensure a safe mountain experience for all, guests will be required to wear face coverings in certain areas. This includes in lines, when loading and unloading chairlifts and in indoor resort facilities. Learn more about our commitment to safety here.
Featured Hikes
Check our Summer Terrain Status for up to date information on lift and trail status.
Be prepared for a hike in the high country with sturdy closed-toe shoes, layers, a hat, sunscreen and water! Remember to stay on designated trails and roads, and always pack out waste.
Hikes Accessible from the Silver Queen Express Lift:
Hike To The Peak
Ride to the top of the Silver Queen Express and venture to the summit of the famed Mount Crested Butte on this moderately difficult hike. The Peak of Mt. Crested Butte is 12,162 feet. From the top of the Silver Queen Express, it’s a 2 mile round-trip hike but hikers can expect a rather strenuous climb, navigating rocks and gaining over 1,200 feet in elevation. Soak in the views of the Gunnison Valley, the East River, Elk Mountains, San Juans, and the Raggeds Wilderness all the way to the Maroon Bells from the summit of Mt. Crested Butte. This two to three hour experience will be worth the hike, with some assistance from the Silver Queen lift of course.
Hike To The High Lift and Picnic Shelter
Take the Silver Queen lift up the mountain and adventure through the beginning portion of the peak trail through a high alpine interpretive walk identifying flora and fauna. The High Lift will be on the left hand side just a short ways up and provides a great location to take pictures. Remember to stay on designated trails! Continue along the Peak trail just beyond the middle station of the High Lift and you will come to a picnic shelter. You guessed it, the perfect location for a snack (also keep in mind as a retreat from inclement weather).
Hike To The Monument Overlook
After taking in the views from the scenic chairlift ride to the top of the Silver Queen Express, take a short walk down the service road to the Monument access trail on the left hand side. This moderately rugged trail rewards you with excellent views from a very unique location.
Hikes Accessible from the Base Area:
Hike To Umbrella Bar
From the base area, hikers are encouraged to follow the Up and Away trail until the intersection with the Columbine trail to the Painter Boy trail.
Full Day Adventures:
Hike To Aspen
This all-day experience is one not to be missed. Enjoy our pristine wilderness while you make the journey over an epic mountain pass to Aspen. Wildflowers, marmots and porcupines were seen on the beautiful West Maroon Trail connecting Crested Butte to Aspen. This beautiful hike, though rather strenuous, is one of the most amazing hikes one can embark on in the Gunnison Valley.
