Crested Butte Journal

We’ve officially wrapped up the golden colors of fall and are turning the page toward winter in the Upper Valley. The air has cooled, the peaks are frosted, and buyer energy remains strong as we move into ski season. From Mt. Crested Butte to CB South, there’s been steady movement — a clear sign that momentum from summer and fall is carrying right into winter. New Market Highs Confidence in our real estate market continues to grow — and this year, we’re seeing it reflected in some remarkable milestones: A Smith Hill Ranches estate is under contract at $13.9 million , positioning Crested Butte to finally break through the $10 million residential sale ceiling — a level we’ve never surpassed. (Until now, there’s been just one $10M transaction, which included an adjacent vacant lot.) Another in-town home is listed above $2,100 per square foot — a new record for Crested Butte — and is also under contract. And leading the way, a $25 million listing within town limits — over 100 acres paired with a stunning residence — now stands as the highest-priced property ever offered in Crested Butte. These moments represent more than record-setting numbers — they signal deep buyer confidence and the continued strength of our local luxury market. Market Snapshot: Crested Butte & Mt. Crested Butte (January 1 – October 18, 2025) Single-Family Homes 62 sales this year Median SOLD Price: $1,965,000 Average SOLD Price: $2,642,718 Median $/SF: $843 Range: $413,056 – $8,100,000 Total Volume: $163,848,539 Condos & Townhomes 98 sales to date Median SOLD Price: $748,500 Average SOLD Price: $828,834 Median $/SF: $656 Range: $129,789 – $3,650,000 Total Volume: $81,225,715 Land Sales 55 sales year-to-date Median SOLD Price: $470,000 Average SOLD Price: $611,682 Range: $128,500 – $2,000,000 Total Volume: $33,642,510 What I’m Seeing... Buyer interest remains strong across all segments. Many are searching for turnkey homes, clean design, and proximity to the slopes or downtown. Land activity is picking up again as builders look toward 2026 projects and long-term investment opportunities. For sellers, it’s still a fantastic time to list. Well-prepared, well-priced homes continue to move quickly — especially those that photograph beautifully and highlight their mountain lifestyle appeal. Looking Ahead... As we head into ski season, momentum is holding steady. Confidence remains high, new benchmarks are being set, and opportunities are abundant for both buyers and sellers. If you’ve been curious about your property’s current market value — or simply want to discuss what these shifts mean for your goals — I’d love to connect. Warmly, Nikki

Discover destinations throughout Colorado to find stillness, pursue adventure, digitally detox, and simply get back to nature. Whether you are seeking a luxe wellness retreat, remote trails without cell service, or simply a zen-inducing spot to spend a few days, we’ve curated some scenic (and quiet) places to relax on the road less traveled.

Early autumn is an ideal time to drive some of Colorado’ scenic routes to take in colorful views of changing foliage. For iconic journeys along Independence Pass, Trail Ridge Road, and Kebler Pass, pack a picnic, make a playlist, and hit the road to enjoy these classic drives.

Like a sugar-dusted memory, a visit to a local candy shop feels like walking into a time machine. Whether seeking fresh fudge or saltwater taffy, childhood wonder lurks around every corner. Old-fashioned caramels and hard candy sticks melt all modern-day worries.  A road trip through the scenic byways of Colorado must include a visit to one of these sweet spots as you pass through the state, or head from the city to one of our mountain towns.

As summer heats up, Colorado boasts a variety of places to head for the hills – or mountains – and chill out in lakes, rivers, and swimming spots. From scenic swimming holes to charming high-altitude towns, we’ve got you covered when the mercury starts to rise.  Grand Lake lives up to its name as the largest natural lake in Colorado. Spread across over 500 acres near Rocky Mountain National Park, its sandy beach and cool waters beckon boaters, paddle boarders, and anyone looking for a refreshing spot to enjoy the water, with a photo-worth backdrop of snow-capped peaks.

If summer days have you dreaming of meadows filled with wildflowers, starry skies, and cozy nights under canvas tents, Colorado has plenty of beautiful places to explore.  From the Front Range to the San Juans, Colorado showcases vibrant color each summer with dazzling displays of wildflowers — and you don’t have to rough it to enjoy the show. Even if you prefer luxurious linens to hiking in and pitching a tent, here’s a guide to enjoy wildflowers and glamping throughout the state.

Colorado is home to nine remarkable national monuments that showcase our history by celebrating the Native Americans heritage as well as dinosaurs who roamed our state millions of years ago. Discover stories that are etched in stone, fossils frozen in time, and others waiting to be discovered. Bring a picnic lunch and enjoy a day of exploring and soaking up nature’s beauty.

Colorado is a paradise for anglers, offering an abundance of crystal-clear rivers that wind through the state’s picturesque landscapes. Whether you’re a seasoned fisherman or a beginner, Colorado’s waters provide world-class opportunities to catch everything from several varieties of trout to bass, catfish, and kokanee salmon. Here are some of the best fishing rivers to explore.

Whether you are searching for a gorgeous snowshoe destination in the high country, a challenging trail to hike with the sun on your shoulders, or a leisurely walk, Colorado has beautiful trails throughout the state. Spring is a fantastic time to enjoy nature, as mountain communities still have snow-covered scenery and the Front Range begins to feel more like spring with warmer temperatures. Here are some of the top spots to explore across the state.  Boulder Chautauqua Park Ask any local in Boulder for hiking recommendations and you’re likely to hear a suggestion of Chautauqua Park Trailhead. Located along Baseline Road, this park has been preserved since 1898. Without leaving town, you can enjoy access to a trail system with gorgeous views of the iconic Flatirons. Stop by the Ranger Cottage when you arrive for maps and tips on which trails to enjoy that day.