Crested Butte's Unique History
History of the town of Crested Butte, Colorado.

Crested Butte, CO - Then & Now

Ute Indians Flourish
The beautiful East River Valley, where current day Crested Butte rests, was once home to the nomadic Ute Indians. The Utes residing in the rugged mountains surrounding Crested Butte are thought to have lived some 1000 years in the western sections of the Colorado Rockies.

Mining Means Big Business
Fast forward a bit to when gold mining began in the mountains around Crested Butte. As the news spread of getting rich quick, eager miners flocked to nearby Gunnison, Colorado and of course Crested Butte. With gold mining at the forefront of the community, Crested Butte's western charm came alive. Victorian style architecture predominately made up the majority of housing & buildings dotted throughout the town of Crested Butte. This Victorian flare gives Crested Butte its current day character.

Crested Butte Turns to Coal & Silver
In the 1860s and 1870s coal and silver mines began to open in the surrounding area and many little mining towns formed. However, when silver mining hit on hard times, many of these towns failed. Crested Butte was in a better position to survive because it served as a supply town to the surrounding area.

Crested Butte Is Established
Crested Butte is officially established as a town in 1880.

Ranching in Crested Butte, CO
The other industry that supported Crested Butte was ranching. As cattle ranching etched its way into Crested Butte's unique history, the cowboy-infused community took on a new appeal.

Mt. Crested Butte Is Born
Mt. Crested Butte - A ski area was born! The official opening date of Mt. Crested Butte was in 1961. Mt. Crested Butte continued to develop the mountain into a world class ski resort. With new on & off mountain developments, the future of Mt. Crested Butte was boundless.

Modern Day Crested Butte
We are all fortunate to be able to stroll down Elk Avenue in Crested Butte and witness the town as it was in the early years of its rich western heritage. Nowadays, Crested Butte offers an unchallenged combination of heritage & sophistication.

Experience Historical Crested Butte
Crested Butte continues to shape its own history. Let us guide you to the treasures hidden within this Colorado mountain town. Begin planning your Crested Butte, Colorado vacation today.