Crested Butte Summit Path

Dogs Leashed

Features Fall Colors · Views · Wildflowers

If you ride the Silver Queen chairlift and then begin your hike, then this the easiest and most dramatic summit. Incredible views of the upper valleys and the town of Crested Butte reward you at the top. Despite the easy access, this is a highly exposed summit in an alpine environment. Thunderstorms and fast-moving weather can surprise you and ruin your day very quickly.

It is possible and not uncommon to hike the peak all the way from the base area, although it is most popular to do so after buying a ride up the Silver Queen chairlift.

Running this route is not common, but not impossible either.

From the top of the Silver Queen Express lift and Silver Queen Road, this trail winds its way up, around, and down until the final summit pitch. Along the way you'll see various educational signs teaching users about various wildflowers from the region!

After trotting through the trees and taking in some of the flower knowledge, you'll finally reach treeline. Slot yourself between the two boulders that continue the trail's upward trajectory and ascend a steep, short pitch.

Once atop this little knob, which is almost like a false peak, you'll see the summit's massive scree field to your right. Follow the trail as it descends around the eastern slope of the peak. Once at this pitches' bottom, turn right to start your uphill slog.

This final section is a loose and rocky slope all the way to the top. Be sure to take care here; many inexperienced folks will be on the trail due to its easy access from the chairlift.

Once at the top, enjoy the incredible views from the summit!

Common subalpine flowers such as Columbine, Lupine, Mule's Ear, Fireweed, and Larkspur. Raspberries grow on these slopes amid the mix of coniferous trees and Aspens.