The scheduled Festivals & Events in the Gunnison-Crested Butte area and around Gunnison County are just pure Colorado fun in the mountains. Each venue reflects the nature of the area and the imagination of the people who live here. We invite you to join us in what we believe are fun, entertaining, and mind-expanding experiences! For more information about any of the events listed here, contact the WestWall Lodge front desk at 970-349-1280
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The Grand Traverse
March 29, 2019 @ 11:45 pm - March 30, 2019 @ 4:00 pm
$420
The Elk Mountains Grand Traverse was conceived by Crested Butte native, Jan Runge and a band of other back country devotees in 1998. The race’s genesis was partially based on the historical mail routes that connected the Colorado mining towns of Crested Butte and Aspen in the 1880’s; but also drew inspiration from the Patrouille des Glaciers, a point-to-point ski race in Switzerland which Runge had become familiar with in the 80’s. Colorado’s own competitive ski mountaineering legacy was born.
The race starts at midnight so participants reach the high point of Star Pass (12,303 feet) before the warmth of the day increases avalanche risk on the exposed eastern slopes of the pass. Because of the remote route through the Elk Mountains, each team of two is required to carry enough food and supplies to sustain themselves for 24 hours. The Grand Traverse is a true test of physical and mental endurance that keeps athletes returning year after year to experience perseverance.
Please visit the event page for race details and information on registration. Come cheer on the racers as they finish on the mountain.