Crested Butte to Gunnison

You can typically find parking in downtown Crested Butte to begin your ride. Since this is a point-to-point route, consider arranging a shuttle or a return ride from Gunnison, or plan for the round trip.

This route primarily follows Highway 135, which is a paved road cycling route. While dogs are generally allowed in the Gunnison National Forest, cycling on a highway with a dog, especially on a leash, is not recommended for safety reasons due to traffic and speed limits. It's best to leave your furry friends at home for this particular ride.

The best time to cycle this route is generally during the warmer months, from late spring to early fall. The scenery is particularly beautiful during the fall when the aspen trees change color. An early start is recommended to avoid strong afternoon headwinds, which can make the return journey significantly more challenging.

No, you do not need any special permits or to pay entrance fees to cycle this specific road route along Highway 135 through the Gunnison National Forest. This is a public highway.

The route is rated as moderate. While the ride to Gunnison can be a 'pleasure cruise' with a tailwind, the return journey against prevailing winds can be very demanding. It features undulating terrain with some short hills, including a minor ascent out of Almont. Beginners should be prepared for a moderate challenge, especially if attempting the round trip.

The one-way ride from Crested Butte to Gunnison is approximately 87 kilometers (54 miles) and typically takes around 3.5 hours (12,550 seconds) for a racebike, depending on wind conditions and your pace. The return trip can take longer due to potential headwinds.

You'll experience picturesque mountain views throughout the journey. The terrain is generally undulating with a gentle descent towards Gunnison, broken up by a few short hills. The road has a generous shoulder for cyclists. Keep an eye out for wildlife, especially near Almont.

The ride starts near Crested Butte Downtown and takes you past the scenic Taylor River and East River Confluence. Your destination is Downtown Gunnison, offering places to explore.

While the route itself is primarily highway, once you reach Gunnison, you'll find options for refreshments. Places like The Bean and Mochas are popular choices for an espresso boost in downtown Gunnison.

The biggest challenge on this route is often the wind, particularly strong afternoon headwinds on the return journey from Gunnison to Crested Butte. To mitigate this, an early start is highly recommended. This allows you to complete more of the ride before the winds pick up, making the experience more enjoyable.

While this specific route primarily follows Highway 135, the broader Gunnison Valley is renowned for its extensive network of mountain biking and gravel roads. This road cycling route does briefly intersect with sections of trails like Deli, Old Highway Road, and Triangle (Almont) Road, though these are not the primary focus of this paved road ride.