Back in the 1860s and 1870s, Crested Butte, Colorado began as a small outpost of just 100 trappers and hunters. But it didn’t stay small for long—coal and silver mining soon turned it into a booming town with a strong economy. Ranching followed, and for a while, things were thriving.

That growth didn’t last forever. As the mining industry declined in the early 20th century, families struggled to stay afloat. By 1960, the population had dropped to just 259 residents, and older students had to travel to Gunnison for school.

Things began to turn around in the 1960s when a ski resort was built on Crested Butte Mountain. By the 1990s, the town had found new life—not only through skiing but also with a growing tourism industry. Today, visitors come year-round to enjoy skiing in the winter and hiking, biking, and outdoor fun in the summer. In fact, the number of part-time residents and visitors now far exceeds the town’s year-round population of about 1,500.

Crested Butte’s revival hasn’t just been economic—it’s been cultural, too. Long known as a haven for artists, musicians, and creatives, the town’s artistic spirit has helped attract new residents and visitors alike. That creative energy was nationally recognized in 2013, when Crested Butte was named one of the Top Twelve Small-Town Creative Hubs in the U.S. by ArtPlace, a respected coalition of foundations, banks, and government agencies. What made this recognition even more special? It was awarded based on the outstanding quality of performances and exhibits, despite the town’s limited facilities.

Crested Butte’s story is one of resilience, reinvention, and creativity—and it continues to inspire.