Top Things to do in Gunnison, Colorado
Introduction
Gunnison, Colorado is a stunning mountain town located in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. It is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, skiers, snowboarders, hikers, and more. With a variety of activities and attractions, Gunnison is the perfect place to relax and explore. From skiing to mountain biking to camping, there is something for everyone. Here are the top 10 things to do in Gunnison, Colorado.
1. Skiing & Snowboarding
Gunnison is home to several ski areas and resorts, making it a great destination for skiing and snowboarding. The most popular ski resort in the area is Crested Butte Mountain Resort, which offers a variety of runs for all levels of skiers and snowboarders. Other popular ski areas in the area include Irwin Lodge, Irwin Cross Country Trails, and Blue Mesa Ski Area.
2. Hiking & Camping
Gunnison is an ideal destination for hikers and campers. With numerous trails and campsites in the area, there is something for everyone. Popular trails include the West Elk Loop, the East River Trail, and the Copper Creek Trail. Campsites can be found in the Gunnison National Forest and the Curecanti National Recreation Area.
3. Mountain Biking
Gunnison is a great place for mountain biking, with numerous trails and trails for all levels. Popular trails include Hartman Rocks, the Doctor Park trail system, and the Hartman Rocks Recreation Area.
4. Fishing
Gunnison is a great destination for fishing. The area is home to several rivers, lakes, and reservoirs, including the Gunnison River, the Blue Mesa Reservoir, and the Taylor Reservoir. Anglers can find a variety of fish, including trout, bass, and pike.
5. Whitewater Rafting
Gunnison is a great destination for whitewater rafting. The Gunnison River is a popular spot for rafters of all levels, with rapids ranging from easy to difficult. Other popular spots for whitewater rafting include the Taylor River and the Crystal River.
6. ATV & UTV Tours
Gunnison is a great destination for ATV and UTV tours. There are several tour companies in the area that offer guided tours, allowing riders to explore the area with an experienced guide. Popular tours include the Red Mountain Pass ATV Tour and the Taylor River UTV Tour.
7. Horseback Riding
Gunnison is a great destination for horseback riding. The area is home to several stables and ranches that offer guided horseback rides. Popular spots include the Sawtooth Ranch and the Wild Horse Ranch.
8. Hunting & Shooting
Gunnison is a great destination for hunting and shooting. The area is home to several hunting grounds, including the Gunnison National Forest and the Curecanti National Recreation Area. The area is also home to several shooting ranges, including the High Country Sportsman Club and the Gunnison County Shooting Range.
9. Golfing
Gunnison is a great destination for golfers. The area is home to several golf courses, including the Gunnison Country Club and the Dos Rios Golf Course.
10. Shopping & Dining
Gunnison is a great destination for shopping and dining. The area is home to several shops and restaurants, including the Gunnison Farmer’s Market, the Gunnison Outlet Mall, and the Gunnison Brewing Company.
Conclusion
Gunnison, Colorado is a stunning mountain town with a variety of activities and attractions. From skiing and snowboarding to mountain biking to fishing and hunting, there is something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing vacation or an adventure-filled getaway, Gunnison is the perfect destination.
Gunnison, Colorado, offers vacationers a plethora of outdoor activities, entertainment, and culture. From skiing and hiking to rock-climbing and gelato-tasting, here are the top things to do in Gunnison:
1. Visit Hartman Rocks Recreation Area. Hartman Rocks Recreation Area offers 45 miles of trails for hikers, bikers, runners, and horseback riders. The terrain ranges from technical to fast and flowy single-track, making it a great spot for all skill levels. Mountain bikers can experience the thrill of downhill runs, jump lines, and even downhill flow paths.
2. Go Skiing. Gunnison offers world-class downhill and Nordic ski opportunities. Crested Butte Mountain Resort sits just outside of town, boasting over 1,000 acres of terrain for the avid skier. Mt. Crested Butte is also home to a state-of-the-art terrain park and offers some of the best snow conditions in the Rocky Mountains. Shoe-box sized Irwin Lodge provides plenty of backcountry skiing and nature tours.
3. Sample the Local Cuisine. Gunnison has something for all tastes, ranging from classic American comfort food to exotic fusion cuisine. Gunnison’s restaurants feature locally produced ingredients, often direct from local farms, resulting in dishes that nourish and delight. Popular dining spots include the High Line Brewing Company, home of craft beers, pizza, and live music. Also worth a visit is the Marquis Beer & Wine Bar, specializing in Colorado beers and craft cocktails.
4. Enjoy the Great Outdoors. Gunnison is surrounded by five million acres of pristine outdoor terrain, providing opportunities for outdoor adventurers of all kinds. Colorful wildflower meadows, towering mountains, and pristine lakes make Gunnison the perfect spot for rock climbing, camping, fishing, and snowshoeing. The Gunnison Valley also offers excellent hot air ballooning, whitewater rafting, and stand-up paddle boarding.
5. Try a Sweet Treat. With artisan gelato and homemade fudge, Gunnison proves that it’s not all about outdoor adventure. Escape the heat with a scoop of gelato at Mountain Sun Gelato or on a hot day, take a dip in the Gunnison River and treat yourself to a piece of homemade fudge from Geminis Fudge Factory.
Gunnison, Colorado has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline-filled adventure, delving into local culture, or just wishing to relax and enjoy the outdoors, Gunnison is the perfect place to spend your vacation.
