We spent a long weekend in Crested Butte, Colorado—known as the “Wildflower Capital of Colorado”—to attend their annual Wildflower Festival. Armed with bikes, hiking shoes, and bug spray, we explored the trails, soaked in the mountain views, spotted hummingbirds from our RV, and even found one of the best vegan pizzas we’ve ever had.
Home Base: Tall Texan RV Park
Our home base was the Tall Texan RV Park (also known as Mountain Time RV and Cabins, tucked among large, shady, cottonwood trees in Gunnison. The sites were quiet, the bird activity was constant (including hummingbirds right outside our RV), and the location was perfect for accessing both Gunnison and Crested Butte. The peaceful setting made it easy to relax between hikes.
What We Hiked and Biked
🚲 Van Tuyl Trail (Gunnison)
We warmed up with this mellow, local bike/hike trail near Gunnison. It was an easy ride with open views and a great way to ease into the weekend. We hiked and biked this trail, and met some not-so-friendly cows.
🦟 Baxter Gulch
Pretty? Yes. Worth it? Not so much. The mosquitoes were relentless—think clouds of them that found us even through bug spray. The scenery couldn’t compete with the constant swatting, so we cut this one short. Wouldn’t recommend in peak bug season.
🌸 Lower Loop & Upper Loop Trails
The Upper Loop was the highlight of the trip: only a few mosquitoes, endless wildflowers, and views that made it impossible to put the camera away. The Lower Loop was pleasant but more ordinary—worth doing if you have time, but the Upper Loop is the real showstopper.
🏞 Lake Irwin Trail
An easy, pretty trail with lake views, perfect for a relaxed morning or recovery hike. The surrounding peaks and water reflections make for beautiful photos.
Amazing Pizza & Wildflowers Everywhere
In town, we hit Secret Stash—a funky, colorful pizza spot with multiple, delectable vegan options. Their creative toppings, chewy crust, and weird/cool atmosphere made it a post-hike highlight. Definitely a must-visit for anyone craving great vegan food in Crested Butte.
The Crested Butte Wildflower Festival was in full swing, and the trails were lined with lupine, columbine, Indian paintbrush, and more. Even short walks were photogenic. If you can, time your visit for mid-July when the blooms are at their peak.
TL:DR – Crested Butte by RV
- Tall Texan RV Park = peaceful + shaded. Hummingbirds included.
- Secret Stash = incredible vegan pizza. Multiple creative options, all delicious.
- Van Tuyl Trail = great warm-up. Easy and scenic.
- Baxter Gulch = skip. Beautiful but unbearable mosquitoes.
- Upper Loop = MUST DO. Wildflowers galore, no bugs.
- Lower Loop = nice add-on if you have time.
- Lake Irwin = easy + pretty. Great recovery hike.
- Best time for blooms? Mid-July during the Wildflower Festival.