Crested Butte Upper and Lower Loop
The Crested Butte Upper and Lower Loop is a great hiking trail outside of Crested Butte, Colorado that will lead you through a valley for scenic views of the surrounding Elk Mountains. While out on the trail, you will hike through the valley alongside the banks of the Slate River, before looping around to traverse the foothills of Mount Emmons on the return leg. This moderate length route doesn’t feature much in the way of elevation gain, making it suitable for casual adventurers.
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Route Description for Crested Butte Upper and Lower Loop
If you are looking for a fun adventure in the Crested Butte area of the Elk Mountains, look no further than the Crested Butte Upper and Lower Loop. This moderate length route features beautifully scenic views of the surrounding mountains and nearby Slate River, as well as fairly laidback terrain, making it ideal for a quick weekend excursion without straying too far from town.
Setting out from the car park, you will make your way to the northwest until you arrive at the banks of the Slate River. Here, you will continue along the water’s edge to the northwest as you enjoy some nice views of the surrounding mountain peaks.
After reaching the edge of the forest, you will turn to the southwest and climb slightly uphill into the foothills of Mt Emmons. Here, you will traverse some light woodland terrain and enjoy some wonderfully scenic views of the valley spread out before you, including the stunning Snodgrass Mountain as a backdrop to the northeast, before making your way into the trailhead where you began.
Getting to the Crested Butte Upper and Lower Loop Trailhead
The trailhead for the Crested Butte Upper and Lower Loop can be found at the Peanut Lake parking lot along CR4.
Route Information
Crested Butte Upper and Lower Loop Elevation Graph
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