Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
West Elk Loop
ยป
Mileage: 205 miles
Why Go?
This gorgeous six- to eight-hour lasso loop is pinned down by the twin summits of Mt So-
pris on one end and the spectacular Black Canyon of the Gunnison on the other. In between
are historic gold-mining towns, two mountain passes, the mountain-bike mecca of Crested
Butte and glamorous Aspen.
The Route
Redstone, on Hwy 133, is famous for its coke ovens used to process coal; the historic
downtown is a pleasant stroll, too. From here you'll navigate McClure Pass through 35
miles of stunning mountain scenery before descending along the North Fork River into
Paonia, a quirky town with the Grand Mesa on one side, Mt Lamborn on the other, a coal
mine and a green streak. The Victorian buildings in downtown's 10-block historic district
are as cool as the locals.
Head south on 92 West Hwy through Delta and you'll see the stark, spectacular Black
Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, a 2000ft-deep gorge with outstanding hiking trails
and rock climbing. From here the route follows Hwy 50 east to Gunnison from where
you'll loop around on Hwy 135 into Crested Butte, the wildflower capital of Colorado with
a restored Victorian core and looming Crested Butte Mountain, an awesome bike and ski
destination. Next, take Hwy 12 over Kebler Pass and then head north on Hwy 133 to funky,
progressive Carbondale.
When to Go
In summer, exuberant wildflower patches around Crested Butte are second to none. Kebler
Pass closes in winter.
