4 Days

West Elk Leaf Peeping in Gunnison, Crested Butte & Paonia

Take a drive on through the largest aspen grove in the state at the height of fall color, indulge in some of the state's best eats and hike your days away in these towns.

Pro Tip: It's easy to get caught up in the moment when viewing fall colors on a scenic drive. For the best photos, Do Colorado Right by choosing a spot in a safe, designated parking area to really bask in fall's beauty. Keep in mind that these destinations are popular for leaf peeping, especially during peak weekends. Try visiting during lesser traveled times on weekdays to enjoy more of the colorful vistas. And while you're keeping an eye out for the golds, ambers and reds, don't forget to also look for pedestrians that may be taking in the scenery as well.

Sustainability Activity

Help Maintain Public Lands

The Crested Butte Conservation Corps (CBCC) maintains the public lands in and around the Crested Butte area. By donating to the CBCC, you will be supporting crews working in the backcountry six days a week.

Day 1

activity

Take an Art Tour

Stroll main street Gunnison and check out the art galleries to get a sense of the scenery in the area. Must-visits include the Open Your Eyes Gallery…

lunch

The Dive Gunnison

Modern pub with an upbeat vibe, serving Colorado craft beers, signature cocktails and a range of inspired grub - from poutine and avocado flatbread…

activity

Go for a Drive

Drive north on CO 135, 3.5 miles, then take a left onto Ohio Creek Road. You'll get to drive through the West Elk Wilderness area and see the iconic…

dinner

Garlic Mike's

Garlic Mike’s, invites you to enjoy the finest Italian cuisine this side of New Jersey on the beautiful Gunnison River in Gunnison Colorado. Red-checked…

activity

High Alpine Brewing Company

Located in downtown Gunnison, Colorado surrounded by epic terrain that locals embrace all year round. Family owned and operated, Scott and Stacey…

lodging

The Inn at Tomichi Village

The serene surroundings, and crisp mountain air make Tomichi Village the right choice for visitors searching for a combination of charm, peace and quiet,…

Day 2

breakfast

Almont Resort

Family owned since 1893, Almont Resort offers fireside and riverside dining, a full service cocktail lounge, and your choice of more than 20 cabins…

activity

Sink a Line

To get your blood pumping, go Kokanee Salmon fishing on the Gunnison and East Rivers with Willowfly Anglers.

lunch

Secret Stash

Come taste for yourself why we have been voted Best Pizza in Crested Butte every year since 2002 when we opened!

activity

Hike the Afternoon Away

Hike Upper Loop trails just outside of Crested Butte. These lightly trafficked routes will give you beautiful views and the chance to see some local…

dinner

Sherpa's Cafe

Authentic Himalayan cuisine. In a mission to share our love and culture, we opened Sherpa Cafe's door on July of 2010. Since then the Sherpa Café has…

activity

Montanya Distillers

Montanya Distillers is a Colorado craft distiller of award-winning rum, founded in 2008. The company moved its headquarters from Silverton, CO to Crested…

lodging

Elk Mountain Lodge

Located 1 block from Elk Ave, fine restaurants, and unique shops and galleries, the Elk Mountain Lodge has become the premier hotel in downtown Crested…

Day 3

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breakfast

McGill's At Crested Butte

Enjoy homemade breakfasts such as french toast with real maple syrup, eggs benedict, and fresh baked biscuits.

activity

Drive Kebler Pass

Just over the top of Kebler Pass lies the largest aspen grove in Colorado. To see it, take Whiterock Ave west out of Crested Butte. You won't be disappointed,…

activity

Keep on Hiking

Hike the Three Lakes Loop accessed from the Lost Lake Campground on Kebler pass. You can take Lost Lake Road #706 to the trailhead. This easy 2.8-mile…

Insider's Tip

Picnic Lunch

After breakfast, grab lunch to-go from Clark's Market and have a picnic during your Kebler Pass drive.

dinner

1-2-Thai Authentic Thai

Inspired by her mother who is a street food cook in Thailand, Alm and Tyson decided to begin a little business of their own. A Thai Food truck.

activity

Taste Paonia's Wine

Follow the West Elks AVA wine trail to discover some of Colorado's best wineries.

lodging

Bross Hotel Bed and Breakfast

The Bross Hotel is a graceful frontier hotel noted for its genuine hospitality located on the western slope of Colorado. The ten guest rooms all…

Day 4

breakfast

Bross Hotel Bed and Breakfast

The Bross Hotel is a graceful frontier hotel noted for its genuine hospitality located on the western slope of Colorado. The ten guest rooms all…

activity

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

No other canyon in North America combines the narrow opening, sheer walls, and startling depths offered by the Black Canyon of the Gunnison. Hiking…

activity

Explore the Waters of Blue Mesa Reservoir

Rent a kayak, canoe or stand-up paddleboard and make your way around the scenic Blue Mesa Reservoir.

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dinner

Berg Harvest

Berg Harvest is a family fruit farm located in Paonia, Colorado along the beautiful North Fork of the Gunnison river.  Named for Paul Berg, who…

activity

Gunnison Arts Center

An 1880s centerpiece for visual, literary and performing arts year-round. Exhibition gallery, 75-seat theater and clay center. Enjoy our art exhibitions…

lodging

Blue Mesa Outpost

Camp with us at 7,777 feet! Each of our accommodations envelope you with gorgeous views of Blue Mesa Reservoir and the surrounding Rocky Mountains…

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