800-810-7669,
Why think about it now: It’s true, the snow is keeping the trails at Evolution Bike Park a bit off-limits right now, but it’s never too early to start planning a mountain biking getaway for, say, early July. The thing about this setup is, as much as Crested Butte is known for its sweet singletrack trails, a lot of them are for more skilled riders, while the 25 miles of cross-country and downhill rides at the bike park are perfect for practicing, starting with beginner — Warming House, Painter Boy, Luge — and working your way through the many intermediates and up to the handful of expert routes. Visit the website to download a summer trail map.
Dine: Summer is a good time to try The Secret Stash (21 Elk Ave., Crested Butte, 970-349-6245, ), the super-popular pizza spot that’s always packed. Check it out during the week, and know that if you order to go, you’ll be handed a raw pie. The crust is slightly thicker than thin, and the toppings are what make hanging out in this whack-a-doo location (overloaded with knickknacks from the owners’ travels) seemingly forever worthwhile. The Notorious F.I.G. pie, with blue cheese and figs, and the MacDaddy, a yummy Big Mac on a pizza, are tops.
Stay: Elevation Hotel & Spa (500 Gothic Road, 800-810-7669, ) is a fancy hotel at unfancy-hotel prices. The kitchenettes take up some space in the rooms, but they’re nice to have, and the location puts you close to the biking on the hill. Summer rates start at $154 a night for a king; book now for 20 percent off.
Kyle Wagner
