Gunnison is an adventure-fuelled city surrounded by rugged mountains and dramatic desert landscapes. Stroll around the walkable downtown and enjoy the Old West charm. Gunnison transforms into a snow sports hub in the winter and is a launchpad to legendary ski resorts like Crested Butte.
Things to do in Gunnison
Browse mom-and-pop shops and dine at eclectic restaurants in Downtown Gunnison. The town has an Old West feel and features a lively Main Street lined with historic buildings. Stop by the Gunnison Pioneer Museum to see a unique collection of vintage cars, cowboy hats and railroad memorabilia.
Join a rafting tour and tackle Class I and II rapids along the Gunnison River. It’s a major tributary of the mighty Colorado River and flows through the heart of the Centennial State. Part of the Gunnison cuts through Dominguez-Escalante Canyon, a beautiful section of the river framed by soaring rock walls.
Rent a bike and explore the action-packed Hartman Rocks Recreation Area. More than 80 kilometres of mountain bike tracks wind through the park, with options for every skill level. Take it slow on a beginner-friendly track or get your pulse racing on an ultra-technical run. The park moonlights as a fantastic cross-country skiing destination in the winter.
Gunnison is a gateway to some of the top ski areas in Colorado. Ski more than 100 groomed trails at Crested Butte Mountain Resort, including several double-black diamond runs. Elk Avenue cuts through Downtown Crested Butte and has all the charm of a traditional Colorado ski town. Stroll along the famous thoroughfare and admire Victorian storefronts painted in a rainbow of colours.
Getting around Gunnison
Downtown Gunnison is compact and easy to get around on foot. The city is a four-hour drive from Denver and three hours from Colorado Springs. Rental cars offer the freedom to visit Gunnison and explore surrounding sights and attractions at your own pace. Gunnison-Crested Butte Regional Airport is a five-minute drive from the town centre.