Photo: Courtesy of the property
Crested Butte, Colorado, is one of the nation’s most beautiful destinations for skiing, hiking, and biking — and, in summer, the spectacular meadows studded with wildflowers. But, thanks to its relatively remote location, Crested Butte is less crowded than rival spots in the Rockies. Whatever outdoor attraction or adventure draws you here, the Elevation Hotel & Spa offers an ideal slopeside location, comfortable accommodations, and a slew of amenities to keep guests active and entertained. Here’s our review.
The Look of Elevation Hotel & Spa
Cozy and warm, the lobby and other public spaces borrow from their beautiful surroundings, with Western-inspired art, richly patterned rugs, and plenty of wood accents. Curl up with a book by the crackling fireplace, or retreat to the lobby lounge, billy barr (named for a reclusive local character who prefers to spell his name in lowercase) for a drink. The cocktails are named for weather forecasts, like The Snowdrift (gin, Bénédictine, spirulina, lime, and cedar simple syrup) or The Frost (a Moscow mule made with bourbon and mint).
Guest rooms — 262 in total, plus 49 suites — combine comfort and convenience with contemporary furnishings and an earth-toned that cedes the spotlight to the views of the mountains visible through floor-to-ceiling windows. All of the rooms are spacious and feature private balconies and kitchenettes.
The Vibe at Elevation Hotel & Spa
As a ski-in-ski-out resort, Elevation Hotel & Spa feels sporty and active, with two bars popular with the après-ski set, a huge spa and fitness center, an indoor pool, and three hot tubs with slopeside views. There’s a free shuttle into Crested Butte village for those who wish to explore the town, but most guests are here to explore the mountain and enjoy the scenic beauty of the area.
Who Will Love Elevation Hotel & Spa
Families, especially those traveling with furry friends, will love this pet-friendly resort, which offers spacious accommodations with kitchenettes. Outdoor enthusiasts, of course, will appreciate the hotel’s prime location at the base of Mt. Crested Butte, offering easy ski-in/ski-out access. The free gear rentals (skis, snowboards, and bikes) seal the deal.
Who Might Not Love Elevation Hotel & Spa
Those seeking a kid-free escape may be turned off by how family-friendly property is.
Best Amenity at Elevation Hotel & Spa
We’re calling it a tie between the filmed-themed Matchstick Productions Lounge, outfitted with movie posters, vintage cameras, and behind-the-scenes production photos — plus a pool table and darts — and the buzzy all-day eatery, José Crested Butte, which serves tacos and tequila with a postcard-worthy backdrop.
What’s Included at Elevation Hotel & Spa
Your stay includes gear rentals and use of the fitness center, pool, and hot tubs.
Extra Fees & Costs You Should Know About at Elevation Hotel & Spa
The resort fee of $32 per night includes all of the aforementioned amenities. Spa and salon treatments cost extra, as does parking.
How to Get a Deal at Elevation Hotel & Spa
Check the specials tab on the hotel website to view the latest deals and discounts, frequently offered for longer stays and advance-purchase bookings.
The Sweet Season at Elevation Hotel & Spa
Budget-conscious travelers should consider visiting the hotel during spring (when you can usually still ski, plus enjoy biking, fishing, and other water-based activities) or fall (when bikers, hikers, and drivers are rewarded with spectacular foliage). These shoulder seasons tend to be less crowded as well.
In the Neighborhood of Elevation Hotel & Spa
Elevation Hotel & Spa is situated at the base of Mt. Crested Butte, around a 10-15 minute drive outside the town of the same name. A 19th-century mining center, Crested Butte has a charming downtown with quaint shops and restaurants — no chain stores, high-rises, or traffic lights in sight.
Closest Airport to Elevation Hotel & Spa
Gunnison-Crested Butte Regional Airport (GUC), just five minutes away, has seasonal service from Denver, Houston, Dallas, and Austin. You can also fly into Montrose Airport (MTJ), a scenic 1.75-hour drive away, or to Denver International Airport (DEN), 4.5 hours by car.
Nearest Public Transportation to Elevation Hotel & Spa
For the summer (through Sept. 24), shuttle service is available through the towns of Crested Butte and Mt. Crested Butte. It operates every 20 minutes.
For a fun-filled outdoor adventure with all the comforts of home, Elevation Hotel & Spa is the place to be.