Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Crested Butte, Colorado, is a gem for skiing enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Known as “The Last Great Colorado Ski Town,” the area offers a blend of rich history and modern amenities, making it an ideal destination for a Crested Butte family vacation. The town, founded in the late 1800s during the mining boom, has preserved its charming, historic atmosphere while providing access to world-class skiing at Crested Butte Mountain Resort. This resort is renowned for its varied terrain, stunning vistas, and family-friendly environment, making it a perfect spot for a memorable spring break.
Crested Butte Mountain resort Location
Crested Butte family vacation: A Growing Tradition
Our family has found a new spring break tradition in Crested Butte, now going strong for two consecutive years. Its proximity to the Denver area, just over a four-hour drive, makes it an accessible escape without the hustle and bustle of I-70 and larger ski resorts like Breckenridge and Vail. This year, we enjoyed a three-night stay, which gave us three full days of skiing and quality family time.
The Perfect Stay at Elevation Hotel & Spa
This year, we stayed at the Elevation Hotel & Spa, which turned out to be an excellent choice for our family. Previously, we opted for an Airbnb, but due to late booking, we secured a room at the Elevation Hotel on points. The hotel’s ski-in, ski-out location made our stay incredibly convenient, and the ski valet service was a game-changer, especially for families with kids. No more lugging equipment up to our room – a small perk for adults but a huge relief when traveling with children.
The hotel’s amenities were a hit with everyone. My wife and our two younger kids could easily take a break and return to the room, while my eight-year-old and I continued to ski. The indoor swimming pool, indoor and outdoor hot tubs, and game area with foosball and table tennis provided plenty of entertainment off the slopes. Our suite was spacious enough for our family of five, and the hotel’s location, just a five-minute drive to downtown Crested Butte, allowed us to explore the town and enjoy dinner there every night.
Skiing at Crested Butte Mountain Resort
Crested Butte Mountain Resort is a fantastic choice for families, offering a variety of terrain that caters to all skill levels. Despite being smaller than some of the big-name resorts, it never feels too small. The abundance of green and blue runs makes it perfect for our family, especially for my two boys, ages six and eight, who are progressing from beginners to more confident skiers. My four-year-old daughter is still learning, using ski leashes for control, but we hope she’ll be skiing independently next year.
Our favorite lift was the Red Lady Express, a four-seater with access to numerous beginner runs. Once we were comfortable there, my oldest and I ventured to the Silver Queen Express, which offers stunning views and access to challenging black diamonds. The whole family occasionally joined us, taking Silver Queen Road to Paradise Bowl for a mix of blue runs. The Paradise Express lift was another favorite, providing blue run access to many enjoyable trails and a great lodge for lunch at the base.
Crested Butte Resort Trail Map
Considering another resort? We love Keystone too!
Exploring the Town of Crested Butte
The charm of Crested Butte extends beyond the slopes. The town’s central street, Elk Avenue, is filled with unique shops, restaurants, and a friendly atmosphere. Our kids loved visiting Pooh’s Corner toy shop.
Our favorite Crested Butte Restaurants with Kids
- Pizza: The Secret Stash
- Mexican: Bonez
- Asian Cuisine: Ryce
- Breakfast: Butte Bagels
- Quick Mexican Bites: Teocalli Tamale
We’ll be Back
Crested Butte has become a cherished destination for our family, offering a perfect blend of adventure, convenience, and charm. The town and resort cater beautifully to families, providing memorable experiences both on and off the slopes. We look forward to continuing this tradition and creating more lasting memories in the winters to come.
