9 Best Short Hikes in Crested Butte

Scarps Ridge Loop

The trail is easy to find and had moderate to steep grades. Although there is nothing technical on the trail itself, be aware that there is a “ridge” that drops off sharply at the end of the trail. Although this is really easy to avoid, keep little ones and dogs under close guard when nearing this ridge.

Hasley Pass Loop

The Hasley Pass Loop hike is not technical and is mostly moderate steepness with some sections that are fairly steep. The main thing with this route is that the trail can disappear in a couple of places. But, if you follow the directions we have in our hiking guide, the route is not difficult to find.

Three Lakes Trail

This loop has easy route finding and and moderate steepness. The loop can be shortened by only hiking to Dollar Lake and back, or by excluding the “off-shoot” to Dollar Lake from the loop trail. Three Lakes is a fantastic family hike.

Schofield Pass Loop

The Schofield Pass Loop has moderate steepness at most, and the trail is usually easy to follow – except for when it crosses the East Fork creek just before merging with the West Maroon Pass trail. The Schofield trail tends to fade here, but it is not hard to navigate the area. When crossing this creek, you may want to take your shoes off! Shofield Pass Loop is a wonderful hike for families.

Mount Crested Butte

Starting out fairly steep, the route gets even steeper as you ascend. The last few hundred feet are a sporty scramble using all-fours to get to the summit. But, the views are well worth it! You will find many people on this hike of varying ability levels. Many people bring their families and children to the top. But, keep in mind, some people may find the last bit of the climb too much for their comfort.

Brush Creek Trail (also called East River Trail or the “Ditch Trail”)

The Brush Creek trail is a great hike for those who want an easy stroll. Being an out-and-back trail, it’s also easy to shorten the length of the hike. The Brush Creek Trail makes an excellent hike for families, especially those with young children.

Meander

This trail actually begins with a slight descent, followed by a traverse, then a climb upwards towards the ski area. Meander is another out-and-back trail, so the distance can easily be shortened if desired. The most scenic views and wildflowers are within the first 1.5 to 2 miles of the hike. Meander is a great trail for a family hike.

Beckwith Pass via Cliff Creek Trail

The Cliff Creek trail is wide and of moderate steepness. There is no exposure of any kind, making it a wonderful family trail. The Cliff Creek trail is done as an out-and-back, so the distance can be shortened if you don’t wish to actually reach Beckwith Pass itself. This is a fairly popular trail for horseback riding. If you wish to make this hike a bit longer, continue on the Beckwith Bench trail from Beckwith Pass. To return, turn around and follow your tracks back to the Cliff Creek Trail.

Dyke to Dark Canyon Loop

This loop ascends and descends multiple times through the hike. There are some steep sections, but if you do the loop counter-clockwise, most of these steep sections are on the downhills. They are also very short. The Dyke to Dark Canyon Loop is a favorite among families. It’s only limitation is that this is the longest of the trails listed here. To shorten this hike, start by hiking directly on the Dark Canyon trail as an out-and-back.

Extra Credit: Twin Lakes

If you get tired of the bumpy drive, you could always find a place to park the car and walk along the road until you reach the trailhead. However, this will make the hike longer.

Though well-defined usually, this trail is fairly steep most of the way and passes through some occasional tight over-grown willow patches. There is minimal exposure on this trail. But, it does pass through some streams. So, your feet might get wet.