Quick Info
Two areas: Downtown Crested Butte (historic, walkable) and Mount Crested Butte (ski-in/ski-out). Connection: Free bus between them. Character vs convenience: Downtown for atmosphere, mountain for ski access.
Crested Butte lodging splits between two distinct areas: historic downtown and the ski mountain 3 miles away. Each offers a different experience, and the free bus connecting them makes either a viable base. Your choice depends on priorities—authentic mountain town character or slope-side convenience.
Downtown Crested Butte
The historic town centered on Elk Avenue offers:
- Victorian-era buildings and authentic character
- Walking distance to restaurants, bars, and shops
- Lower prices than slope-side in many cases
- More variety in dining and nightlife
Lodging types: Historic inns, small hotels, vacation rentals, B&Bs. Quality varies—some properties have been updated, others maintain rustic charm (with rustic plumbing).
Trade-off: You'll bus or drive to ski. The free bus runs frequently, but you're dependent on the schedule.
Mount Crested Butte
The purpose-built base village at the ski area offers:
- Ski-in/ski-out access from many properties
- Walking distance to lifts
- Condo-style units with kitchens
- Convenient for early-morning first chair
Lodging types: Condos and hotel units, mostly modern construction. The Grand Lodge and Elevation Hotel are the main hotel options.
Trade-off: Less dining variety, less character. The mountain village feels more generic than the historic downtown.
How to Choose
Choose downtown if:
- Atmosphere and dining matter
- You want the "real" Crested Butte experience
- You're visiting in summer (closer to hiking, biking, events)
- Budget is a priority
Choose the mountain if:
- Ski access is your top priority
- You want to ski early and avoid the bus
- You have young kids and gear to manage
- You value modern amenities over character
Tips
Book early for peak periods. Wildflower Festival, Arts Festival, and holiday ski weeks fill up months in advance.
Use the free bus. It's reliable and eliminates parking hassles. Many visitors stay downtown and bus to ski.
Check vacation rental options. Crested Butte has many privately-owned condos and homes on rental sites. These often offer more space and kitchen access than hotels.
Consider Gunnison. The valley town 30 minutes away offers budget lodging. Not convenient for a ski-focused trip, but works for budget travelers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Crested Butte expensive?
Less than Aspen or Vail, but not cheap. It's a remote destination with limited inventory—prices rise in peak seasons. Summer is generally more affordable than ski season.
How reliable is the bus?
Very. It runs every 10-15 minutes during peak times. You'll wait a few minutes, but it's consistent and free.
Can we stay downtown and ski easily?
Yes. Many visitors do exactly this. Take the morning bus, ski all day, return for dinner downtown. Works well.
What about driving between?
Easy in good weather. The road is plowed in winter, but icy mornings require caution. The bus is often easier.