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For the outdoor enthusiast, avid skier, or traveler who simply wants to retreat in nature, a winter trip to Crested Butte delivers snow-dusted days straight out of your dreams.
When it comes to finding a destination that goes beyond the expected, the American West has been keeping a secret from you—and her name is Crested Butte. Our team recently headed to Colorado with our partners at Eleven Experience to scout two of their most sought-after lodges:Sopris House and Scarp Ridge Lodge. With availability exclusively on a buyout basis, Sopris House remains a top contender for your next trip with eight to ten friends, but for the purpose of this itinerary, we’ll take you through a stay at Scarp Ridge Lodge for a distinct mountain experience.
You'll want at least a few days of action-packed cat skiing at Scarp River Lodge, but depending on timing, this itinerary could be approximately one week. It's completely customizable!
Trip Style
When you’ve ‘done it all’ in the more traditional Western mountain towns, this destination brings a hidden gem element that many other American ski destinations may not.
We Love It For
In the winter, stays at Scarp River Lodge or Sopris House (buyout only) are ideal for active multi-gen groups, particularly those who enjoy skiing! However, the destination can accommodate non-skiers as well. Corporate groups could thrive with bonding opportunities that arise by getting outside of your comfort zone.
Scouting Notes
This trip offers the best of both worlds of the Gunnison Valley. Locals refer to Crested Butte as being “at the end of the road” which is a big reason it has retained its distinct personality. Gunnison is four and a half hours west of the Denver airport but there are three to four commercial flights daily that connect from Denver, Dallas, and Houston. Additionally, there is an FBO at Gunnison Airport if you’re flying private.
Available exclusively for buyouts, Sopris House is the perfect getaway for your next friends and family retreat. This mountain chalet is comprised of three king rooms with ensuite bathrooms, plus a twin suite and a fully outfitted playroom for kids. Here, you can expect the unexpected – from antique mugshots to offbeat art and heated floors for ultimate comfort. With a prime location in downtown Crested Butte, guests can enjoy unfettered access to world-class skiing and mountain biking.
The brand's flagship property, Scarp Ridge Lodge, delivers a rare combination of an authentic mountain town setting alongside some of the world’s most exclusive skiing. Its location in the heart of Crested Butte makes it feel like a European ski chalet with Rocky Mountain style. The former Croatian saloon still has its Wild West facade, but the interiors have been transformed with reclaimed iron from the old mills in town and generous amenities, like an indoor saltwater pool and oxygen-enriched air system.
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Highlights
Enjoy a relaxed evening with a casual dinner and a private concert Day 2
Bliss out on three days of cat skiing adventure Day 3-5
Choose your own adventure, from snowshoeing to a private art class Day 6
ItineraryItinerary
1
Almont, Colorado
Arrival at Crested Butte
Nestled in the wilds of Colorado four hours west of Denver, your Crested Butte adventure begins at Scarp Ridge Lodge – and Sopris House, should you have booked a buyout for up to ten bedrooms combined. Upon arrival, you’ll find a delightful après spread waiting for you—if you can pull yourself away from exploring the lodge’s many inviting spaces. With sweeping views of the Rockies, a rooftop hot tub, a spa, gym, and more, there’s much to enjoy. Spend the afternoon exploring downtown Crested Butte or unwinding with a private post-travel yoga session, knowing a homemade meal awaits your return to the lodge.
2
Crested Butte, Colorado
Warm up day at Crested Butte Mountain Resort
Wake up to a stunning breakfast spread with a chef’s special to start the day off right. Once you’re fueled, load up and head over to our slopeside condo, where you’ll meet your Eleven ski guide and gear up for a full day on the slopes. Today is all about getting those legs warmed up and setting the tone for the days ahead. Enjoy exploring the varied terrain of Crested Butte Mountain Resort with your guide, then take a midday break for a gourmet lunch at our cozy, slopeside condo. After more laps on the mountain, return to the lodge for a relaxed evening with a casual dinner and a private concert. With the lodge’s oxygen-enriched rooms ensuring a restful sleep, you’ll be ready for the adventures yet to come.
3-5
Crested Butte, Colorado
Snowcat Skiing
You might be wondering, “What is cat skiing?” and that’s whereEleven comes in. From the lodge, you’ll be taken by cat to the edge of the ski terrain, where you’ll meet your guide and transfer to a second cat, ready to bring you up the mountain. Completely customizable, they’ll take you up to a point on the mountain based on the ability level of your group. What’s super special about cat skiing is that it’s similar to heli-skiing, allowing you to cut fresh tracks in the snow; or, for more novice skiers, you can go back down through the tracks cut by the cat. When it’s time for lunch, take a break by a roaring fireplace or enjoy a warm, locally inspired meal at your private on-mountain outpost.
After lunch, head back out for some final laps with the team before kicking back to enjoy an après drink and snack by the outdoor fire while you take in the mountain views. Not feeling up for the final laps? Enjoy foot reflexology or a post-ski guided yoga session in the warmth of the on-mountain outpost. At day’s end, return to Scarp Ridge Lodge and Sopris House, where you’ll find designated lockers for your gear before enjoying dinner at Breadery or an in-house meal prepared by Eleven’s Culinary Team. And for a memorable night out, consider catching a live show at Public House to experience Crested Butte’s vibrant local music scene.
6
Crested Butte, Colorado
Last Day of Mountain Fun
Today is truly about choosing your own adventure. If you’ve gotten your fill of skiing (unlikely!), there are plenty of other activities you can get into, including snowshoeing, shopping in town, or even a private art class at the lodge where you can focus on watercolor landscapes inspired by the surrounding scenery. If wellness is your gig, meditation, breathwork, and a massage are all available. For dinner this evening, keep it chill with an in-lodge feast prepared by Eleven’s team filled with plant-forward options designed to nourish.
7
Crested Butte, Colorado
Head Home
You’re sure to depart feeling refreshed, energized, and inspired by the unforgettable winter experiences you’ve had during your week in Crested Butte.
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