Gunnison ColoradoATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Gunnison, Colorado.
1. Crystal Mill
HISTORIC LANDMARK POINT
Crystal Mill is a popular historic landmark in the Gunnison area that attracts visitors seeking to experience a piece of Colorado's mining history. Travelers often rent off-road vehicles from local businesses to access this picturesque point of interest. The mill stands as one of the most photographed sites in Colorado, offering stunning views against the backdrop of rugged mountains.
2. Curecanti National Recreation Area
LAKESIDE OUTDOOR PARADISE
Curecanti National Recreation Area offers scenic lakeside and canyon trails ideal for hiking, cycling, and picnicking in the Gunnison area. Visitors can enjoy tranquil boating and fishing in the pristine waters surrounded by stunning mountain scenery. The recreation area also features a unique waterfall trail and pontoon experiences that provide distinctive ways to explore this natural wonder.
3. Gunnison National Forest
MOUNTAIN WILDERNESS PRESERVE
Gunnison National Forest encompasses a vast section of Colorado's central mountains around Gunnison and Crested Butte. This national preserve offers extensive outdoor recreation opportunities including hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing throughout all seasons. The forest's diverse ecosystems range from alpine tundra to dense woodlands, providing habitats for numerous wildlife species and spectacular scenery for visitors.
4. Gothic
HISTORIC RESEARCH STATION
Gothic was once one of the wildest towns in the West before transforming into its current role as a research station and learning center. This historic site provides visitors with insights into Colorado's mining past while simultaneously showcasing modern environmental research efforts. Visitors can experience both the historical significance of this former ghost town and learn about ongoing scientific studies conducted in the area.
5. Gunnison Pioneer Museum
LOCAL HISTORY COLLECTION
Gunnison Pioneer Museum preserves and displays the rich cultural and historical heritage of the Gunnison Valley region. The museum features extensive collections of artifacts, photographs, and exhibits that tell the story of early settlers, mining operations, and local development. Visitors can explore authentic historical buildings and gain a deeper understanding of the forces that shaped this mountain community.
6. Blue Mesa Reservoir
COLORADO'S LARGEST LAKE
Blue Mesa Reservoir stands as the largest lake in Colorado and boasts some of the best fishing opportunities in the state. The reservoir offers numerous water-side hiking trails with spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can enjoy a variety of water activities including boating, fishing for trout and salmon, and shoreline picnicking in this stunning mountain setting.
7. Black Canyon of the Gunnison
DRAMATIC CLIFF FORMATIONS
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park showcases some of the steepest cliffs, oldest rock formations, and craggiest spires in North America. The powerful Gunnison River carved this dramatic canyon over two million years, creating a landscape of breathtaking vertical walls and narrow passages. Visitors can explore scenic drives, hiking trails, and viewpoints that offer spectacular vistas of this geological wonder.
8. Great Wall Historic Site
RAILROAD ENGINEERING MARVEL
The Great Wall Historic Site, located 23 miles north of Gunnison near Ohio Creek Pass, represents an impressive unfinished palisade built for the Denver South Park and Pacific Railroad. This remarkable structure was constructed by Italian stone masons brought specifically from Italy for this specialized work that local craftsmen could not accomplish. Despite never being completed, the wall stands as a testament to railroad ambitions and craftsmanship of the era.
9. Taylor Canyon
SCENIC RIVER VALLEY
Taylor Canyon offers breathtaking scenery and outdoor recreation opportunities in the east-central portion of Colorado's Gunnison Valley. The canyon is particularly popular among anglers and mountain bikers seeking adventure in a pristine natural setting. Visitors can enjoy the rushing waters of Taylor River, spectacular rock formations, and diverse wildlife viewing opportunities throughout the canyon.
10. Downtown Gunnison
VIBRANT HISTORIC CENTER
Downtown Gunnison features a lively scene with distinctive local shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions that showcase the town's unique character. The historic main street reflects the area's mining and ranching heritage while offering modern amenities and services. Visitors can explore this walkable district to experience authentic mountain town charm and connect with the friendly local community.
11. Crested Butte Mountain Resort
PREMIER MOUNTAIN DESTINATION
Crested Butte Mountain Resort offers world-class skiing in winter and outstanding mountain biking and hiking during summer months. The resort is known for its challenging terrain, uncrowded slopes, and authentic mountain town atmosphere. Visitors appreciate the stunning alpine scenery and diverse recreational options available throughout all seasons at this renowned mountain destination.
12. Fairview Peak Fire Lookout
HISTORIC MOUNTAIN OUTPOST
Fairview Peak Fire Lookout stands as a historic forest service site that once served as an essential fire observation point in the region. Located near Pitkin, the lookout offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys from its elevated position. Today, visitors can explore this preserved structure and enjoy the spectacular vistas that made it an ideal location for monitoring forest fires.
13. Dorchester Guard Station
HISTORIC FOREST SERVICE SITE
Dorchester Guard Station represents an important piece of forest service history in the Gunnison County area. Located in Taylor Park, this historic site provides visitors with a glimpse into the early days of national forest management and conservation. The preserved station stands as a testament to the forest rangers who once monitored and protected these valuable natural resources.
14. Elk Avenue
CHARMING SHOPPING DISTRICT
Elk Avenue serves as the vibrant main street of historic Crested Butte, lined with colorful Victorian buildings housing unique shops and restaurants. This charming district offers visitors a delightful mix of art galleries, outdoor gear shops, local crafts, and distinctive dining options. The pedestrian-friendly street captures the essence of this former mining town while providing modern amenities in a picturesque mountain setting.
15. Western State Colorado University
MOUNTAIN CAMPUS EXPERIENCE
Western State Colorado University serves as an educational hub in Gunnison, attracting students interested in studying amid spectacular mountain scenery. The campus features notable architecture, cultural events, and athletic facilities that are often open to public visitors. Community members and tourists can enjoy performances, lectures, sporting events, and art exhibitions hosted by this prominent mountain region university.