Crested Butte, Colorado, brings visitors every year thanks to the breathtaking outdoor attractions. The mountains of this area are unlike anywhere else in the country, so you should make a point to see them at least once!
When you’re staying in one of our Crested Butte vacation rentals, be sure to take a trip to Kebler pass for some of the best hiking in Crested Butte!
Learn About Kebler Pass
Kebler Pass is a beautiful high-mountain pass that connects Crested Butte with Paonia in the west. If you’re trying to get to Aspen, especially during the fall, Kebler Pass is a great shortcut that offers incredible views and a quick passage through the forest. Plus, it’s home to some of the most impressive Crested Butte hiking!
The highest you’ll get here is just over 10,000 feet above sea level. As you make your way through the Gunnison National Forest, you’ll see one-of-a-kind fall aspens around every turn, including one of the nation’s biggest aspen groves!
Directions to Kebler Pass
If you want to experience Kebler Pass for yourself, you’ll need to know how to get there from your Crested Butte house rental. First, you’ll want to make your way to CO-12 (Whiterock Avenue) heading west. CO-12 will take you over Kebler Pass and will eventually lead you to Highway 133. If you turn right, you’ll head south toward Paonia and Somerset, or you can choose to head north toward Carbondale.
All in all, the journey lasts about 30 miles and usually takes about two hours to drive.
Things to Do in Kebler Pass
Once you make your way to Kebler Pass, you can do more than just enjoy the views from your car. Get outside and enjoy nature while you’re here!
Kebler Pass hiking trails are one of the biggest attractions in this area. You’ll be able to explore the area at your own pace while getting an up-close view of the aspens with every step. If you’re not an experienced hiker, don’t worry. There is an easy 2.2-mile loop trail for you to check out. Along the way, you’ll make your way near Irwin Lake and are unlikely to run into too many other people. There is another option for more advanced hikers: the Three Lakes Trail, which runs 3.4 miles in a loop.
Biking is another great way to explore Kebler Pass, and luckily, bikes are welcome at all points throughout the Pass. There are several different spots where you can start your journey, and no matter where you select, you’ll get easy climbs and panoramic scenery all around you. Just be sure to wear your helmet and bring your camera!
If you happen to be in the area during November or December, snowmobiling is a great activity to try! There are six drainages around Crested Butte where you can enjoy snowmobiling, but the Kebler Pass drainage is considered the easiest.
Plan Your Trip To Crested Butte
Experience Kebler Pass for yourself when you stay with us here at Crested Butte. Book your rental today!
Best Times to Visit
So, if you’re considering Kebler Pass as one of your things to do in Crested Butte, when should you visit? You can get an incredible experience any time of the year, whether you’re seeing the trees come to life in the spring or enjoying a winter wonderland around the holidays.
But most visitors will agree that Kebler Pass is best experienced in the fall months. During this time of year, you’ll get to see the most breathtaking fall colors and will benefit from lower temperatures and smaller crowds than in the summer months.
Crested Butte Lodging
When it’s time to plan your trip, consider our Crested Butte rentals! You’ll be near all the best Crested Butte hiking trails, including Kebler Pass and many others. If you’re traveling in winter, consider our ski-in/ski-out rentals that put you just moments away from the slopes. We even have pet-friendly rentals if you want to bring your pup! Contact us today to learn more.
