Mount Crested Butte, Gunnison County, Colorado
The Conundrum with Warm Rewards
Mount Crested Butte is a small town in northern Colorado with an area of approximately 1.5 square miles. In 2000, the census recorded a little over 700 people in the town. Along with its neighboring town, Crested Butte, Mount Crested Butte serves as one of the great ski towns of Colorado. The area is known as a popular escape for mountain biking, skiing, and hiking, among other outdoor activities.
The Conundrum Trail
There are numerous hiking trails around the town, but one of the most popular is the hike to Conundrum hot springs. The Conundrum Trailhead begins at an altitude of over 8,500, with the hot springs reaching heights of about 12,000 feet. There are many peaks that can be admired along the 8.5 mile hike. Another beautiful view is that of Conundrum Creek, with its clear waters and rainbow trout flowing along this mountainous region. The trail is lined by lush meadows and pine forests with abundant wildlife such as deer, squirrels, and birds.
The Conundrum Hot Springs
Conundrum hot springs is rated as one of the top ten hiking locations in North America. This Colorado hot spot is famous for its secluded springs and amazing views of the Rocky Mountains. While this is a rather long and arduous hike, it is highly rewarding since the hot springs are a good place to relax, unwind, and rest. This area is basically undeveloped, so this makes for a beautiful wilderness location. Since the hot springs are located at around 12,000 feet above sea level, the views are breathtaking. Snow-capped mountain peeks, pristine lakes, and lush forests await the eager eyes of hikers.
There are numerous pools that make up the hot springs. Craters of rock form these wondrous pools, the shapes of which have been helped along throughout the years of visitation. The larger hot springs can fit several people and are over 3 feet deep. These pools usually average around 102 degrees Fahrenheit, although the temperatures of the springs may differ depending on the season. The Conundrum hot springs offer an astounding view of the unending snow patches, alpine forests, and rocky peaks of the Rocky Mountains. At 12,000 feet, visitors are able to observe a number of peaks climbing heights of over 14,000 feet. The view alone makes for a rewarding journey, but having the option to sit in a relaxing, warm pool while admiring the view is an experience to remember for a lifetime.
Other Trails in the Area
As mentioned earlier, there are numerous other hiking trails for visitors to choose from. These trails vary from the beginner’s hiking trails to the more strenuous intermediate and expert trails. No matter which trail you choose, however, the scenery, wildlife and natural terrain of the areas in and around Mount Crested Butte will not disappoint.
Accommodation in Mount Crested Butte
The towns of Crested Butte and Mount Crested Butte offer numerous accommodation possibilities for visitors. The Crested Butte Mountain Resort is one of the more popular venues for accommodations.
For more information on Crested Butte Mountain Resort, you can go to the following website Official website.
Here is a map marked with the locations of Elevation Hotel & Spa and other accommodation options:
View Larger Map
How to get to Mount Crested Butte
There are basically two ways to get to this location: by airplane or by ground transportation. For air travel, the Gunnison-Crested Butte Airport is located in between Mount Crested Butte and Crested Butte. For ground transportation, highways 12 and 135 run right through Crested Butte, which is connected to Mount Crested Butte by Gothic Road.
Sources:
Mount Crested Butte Town Site
Crested Butte Town Site