West Elk Loop Scenic Byway

We left our campground at Crawford State Park to ride the scenic byway of West Elk Loop. The West Elk Loop covers 205 miles and takes 6-8 hours to travel.

The scenery along the way was spectacular! The rivers, snow capped mountains and aspen forest were amazing!

The late 1800s brought prospectors and miners from all over the country. When the hills had given up their gold, many of the miners stayed to help build and maintain towns by ranching. The area of Gunnison-Crested Butte was one of these places.

The West Elk Loop boasts the largest contiguous aspen stand in the world. Aspens are just breathtaking!