Crested Butte
Colorado's Hidden Gem
The early history of Crested Butte is tied to the mining industry. In the late 1800s, miners flocked to the area in search of silver and coal. The town was officially founded in 1880, and by 1882 it had become one of the largest coal-producing towns in the state. At its peak, Crested Butte was home to over 1,000 residents, and the town had a bustling economy built around the mining industry.
However, the town’s fortunes began to decline in the early 1900s. The silver and coal mines began to play out, and many of the town’s residents left in search of better opportunities. By the 1920s, Crested Butte was a shadow of its former self, with a population of only a few hundred people.
Despite the decline of the mining industry, Crested Butte continued to survive thanks to its location in the mountains. In the 1930s and 1940s, the town became a popular destination for skiers, and the first ski lift was built in 1961. Skiing quickly became the town’s primary industry, and Crested Butte began to grow again.
The 1970s saw the beginning of a new era for Crested Butte. In 1974, the town was designated a National Historic District, recognizing its important role in the mining history of Colorado. The designation helped to attract new visitors to the town, and by the 1980s, Crested Butte had become a popular tourist destination.
The 1990s saw further growth for Crested Butte, with the development of new ski resorts and the expansion of the town’s infrastructure. In recent years, Crested Butte has continued to evolve. The town has become a hub for outdoor recreation, with activities ranging from skiing and snowboarding to hiking and mountain biking. The town’s historic downtown area is also home to a vibrant arts scene, with numerous galleries and studios showcasing the work of local artists.