Perched high in the Elk Mountains at 8,909′ elevation, Crested Butte—named for the 12,162′ peak that towers over the town—is considered Colorado’s wildflower capital. Mass development and chain stores haven’t ruined this small burg, which some people call “a surf town in the mountains” for its laid-back vibe.
The historic downtown is walkable and approachable, with local shops and curiosities like the license plate-covered house at Fourth Street and Elk Avenue and knight and dragon sculptures at Seventh Street and Red Lady Avenue. , a herbalist’s dream, trades in wildcrafted lotions, potions, and). In the Elk Avenue storefront, you can source natural tinctures, organic serums, herbal salves, loose-leaf teas, soy wax candles, and nontoxic skin care creams infused with potent medicinal herbs and plants to aid in natural healing.