History of Crested Butte
Crested Butte, once home to the Ute Indians, became a thriving coal mining town in the 1870s. The coal mining survived many setbacks and lasted until 1952. Thereafter, less industries relied on coal and the railroad removed its tracks. Consequently, Crested Butte dwindled in size until 1958.
In such year, Texan Hubert Winston Smith established the Law Science Academy, an organization which provided educational programs for doctors, lawyers, and their families during the summer. It resulted in the first large attraction of tourists.
Seven years later, in 1960, Dick Eflin and Fred Rice opened a ski area and added Colorado’s first gondola a few years later. Today, Crested Butte continues to be a popular ski destination.
Located at 8,885 feet near the Gunnison National Forest and Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness Area, Crested Butte also offers plenty of summer time activities. Below are some things to in Crested Butte.
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