Lupine, Gunsight, Connection, and Lower Loop Trail

If you are looking for a long distance hiking route near Crested Butte, Colorado that will allow you to take in the natural beauty of the Slate River Valley and its surrounding mountain peaks, then you will certainly want to explore the terrain along the Lupine, Gunsight, Connection, and Lower Loop Trail.

Setting out from the parking lot in Crested Butte, you will head east out of town and quickly cross over the banks of the Slate River. Here, you will climb uphill to the north and cross over the highway, before heading to the northwest along the eastern slopes of the Slate River Valley.

Take some time here to enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountain peaks, as well as the snaking banks of the river as it cuts across the valley floor. After reaching the northern terminus of the route, you will follow a wide switchback trail down into the valley, before crossing over Slate River Road and the river itself. Once you are on the opposite bank, you will make your way to the southeast along a route that runs parallel to the river, enjoying the views of Snodgrass Mountain and Crested Butte on the opposite side of the valley as you work your way back into Crested Butte where you began your adventure.