Lower Westside

About

Lower Westside is a moderate hiking trail located in Crested Butte, Colorado, within the Elk Mountains of Gunnison National Forest. The route begins near the Silver Queen ski lift, where hikers can access the trail via a sign and singletrack to the right of the lift. The path winds up a grassy hillside, serving as the lower half of the Westside trail system. It functions as a cross-country route, allowing for both uphill and downhill traffic, and provides access to the upper sections of the Westside area. The trail is approximately 1.3 miles long with an elevation gain of roughly 1,100 feet, reaching a summit elevation of 8,832 feet. The surface is natural ground, which may be muddy after rain, and the hike typically takes about one hour to complete. Parking is available at the trailhead. The trail is accessible year-round and is considered suitable for most fitness levels, though the incline requires reasonable physical effort.