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Vail, CO, USA to Crested Butte, CO, USA from $29: 3 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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from
Vail, United States of America
to
Crested Butte, United States of America

How to Get from Vail to Crested Butte: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$29 by busBest price
101 kmDistance
3h 34m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Vail to Crested Butte with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
Various
Bus
Drive
Average Duration
5h  50m
Estimated price
$30-70
Recommended
Company
Various
Bus
Average Duration
6h  41m
Estimated price
$29-60
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 101 km
Duration: 3h 34m

See more options

Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
3h  34m
Estimated price
$26-40
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Traveling From Vail to Crested Butte

The journey from Vail to Crested Butte reveals a stunning contrast between the glitzy, upscale charm of Vail and the laid-back, artistic vibe of Crested Butte, offering travelers a rich tapestry of Colorado's mountain culture.

Best Neighbourhoods in Crested Butte

Crested Butte boasts charming neighborhoods, each with distinct character and allure.

Town Center
• Vibrant shops and restaurants line the streets.
• Hosts seasonal festivals and events year-round.
Mount Crested Butte
• Close proximity to world-class skiing and snowboarding.
• Offers stunning mountain views and luxury accommodations.
Slopeside
• Immediate access to hiking and biking trails.
• Peaceful ambiance with a local feel.

Best Times To Visit Crested Butte's Attractions

Timing your visit to Crested Butte’s attractions can elevate your experience significantly.

Crested Butte Mountain Resort
Mid-January to early February features fewer crowds and fresh powder.
Gothic Road
Visit in late summer for breathtaking wildflower blooms and scenic drives.
The Crested Butte Arts Festival
Early August showcases local talent with fewer tourists before peak season.

Crested Butte Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Crested Butte experiences a mountain climate with snowy winters perfect for skiing and warm summers ideal for hiking. Understanding the seasonal weather patterns helps you choose the best times to explore outdoor activities or enjoy the vibrant local culture.

Dining Recommendation for Crested Butte

At The Last Steep, savor their famous green chili cheeseburger, a hearty dish that captures the town's rustic and authentic vibe, standing in contrast to Vail’s upscale dining spots. The casual atmosphere, combined with locally sourced ingredients, creates a genuine experience that highlights the community’s love for comfort food and mountain culture.

Vail - Crested Butte operators

Explore transport companies operating between Vail and Crested Butte, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Bus
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
https://www.greyhound.com/

Bus from Vail to Glenwood Springs

Average Duration
1h 10m
Estimated price
$6-40
Contact phone
+1 970-925-8484
Website
https://www.rfta.com/

Bus from 27th St Station to Brush Creek Park & Ride

Average Duration
46m
Estimated price
$4-300

Bus from West Glenwood Park & Ride to Rubey Park

Average Duration
1h 40m
Estimated price
$4-6
Contact phone
+1 800-900-3011
Website
https://ridebustang.com/

Bus from Vail Transportation Center to West Glenwood Park & Ride

Average Duration
1h 35m
Estimated price
$6-26

Vail to Crested Butte: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Vail and Crested Butte offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on a scenic journey from Vail to Crested Butte, a drive spanning 146 miles through the heart of Colorado's majestic landscapes. Enjoy roughly 3 hours and 34 minutes of cruising along picturesque highways, immersing yourself in the beauty of the Rocky Mountains. 💰 Explore the flexibility of budget-friendly travel as the cost of driving from Vail to Crested Butte ranges between $26 to $40. With the freedom of a car, you can tailor your trip to fit your preferences, making stops at charming towns and breathtaking viewpoints along the way.
Average price
$26 - $40
🚆 Embark on an exciting train journey from Vail to Crested Butte! The scenic route spans 295 miles and includes 2 transfers, offering a unique way to explore the beauty of Colorado. 🌄 The first leg of the trip involves a bus ride towards Denver Union Station, taking approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes. From there, you'll transfer to a bus heading towards Crested Butte, with a total travel time of about 4 hours and 50 minutes. 🌲 Finally, a short 47-minute bus ride will take you from Gunnison to Crested Butte, culminating your picturesque train adventure in this charming mountain town.
🚌 Traveling from Vail to Crested Butte by bus takes approximately 6 hours and 41 minutes, offering a scenic journey through Colorado's beautiful landscapes. 🎟️ Prices for the bus service between Crested Butte and Vail range from $29 to $60, providing an affordable transportation option for those looking to explore both destinations without the hassle of driving.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Vail to Crested Butte.

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The distance between Vail and Crested Butte is 63 miles. The road distance is 146.3 miles. Traveling by bus and then driving, it takes approximately 5 hours and 23 minutes to reach Crested Butte from Vail. Conversely, it takes around 3 hours and 34 minutes to travel by car from Crested Butte to Vail. Taking the bus, the travel time from Vail to Crested Butte is approximately 6 hours and 43 minutes.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient option for traveling from Vail to Crested Butte is to drive. The road distance between the two destinations is 146.3 miles, and it takes approximately 3 hours and 34 minutes to complete the journey by car. This option is both the cheapest, costing around $26-$40 for fuel, and the quickest, allowing you to reach your destination in a relatively short amount of time. Therefore, driving is the recommended mode of transportation for this route.
The prices for a bus ticket between Crested Butte and Vail range from $29 to $60. However, it is important to note that these prices may vary depending on factors such as the time of year, availability, and the type of bus service chosen. It is recommended to check with different bus companies or online travel platforms for the most up-to-date and accurate prices for this route.
To get from Vail to Crested Butte without using public transportation, you can opt to drive. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 146 miles, and it takes about 3 hours and 34 minutes to reach Crested Butte from Vail by car. The prices for this route typically range from $26 to $40, depending on factors such as fuel costs and vehicle type.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Crested Butte. With over 162 hotels available, travelers can easily find a place that suits their preferences and budget. Prices start at $115, offering a range of affordable and luxurious options to choose from. Some popular hotels in Crested Butte include the Crested Butte Mountain Resort, Elevation Hotel and Spa, and the Lodge at Mountaineer Square.