Gunnison Flights And Sights

61 miles S. of Grand Junction, 108 miles N. of Durango

Although at first glance this quiet city of about 16,000 residents is little more than a commercial center for area ranchers and farmers, Montrose is rapidly being discovered as an ideal base camp for hikers, mountain bikers, anglers, and others who want to explore western Colorado. Located at an elevation of 5,794 feet, Montrose is surrounded by national forests, within a short drive of Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park and Curecanti National Recreation Area.

Ute Chief Ouray and his wife, Chipeta, ranched in the Uncompahgre Valley here until the government forced the tribe to migrate to Utah in 1881. Once the Utes were gone, settlers founded the town of Pomona, named for the Roman goddess of fruit. Later the town's name was changed to Montrose, for a character in a Sir Walter Scott novel. The railroad arrived in 1882, providing relatively reliable transportation and a means to ship out potatoes, beets, and other crops; and Montrose began in earnest its role as a center for some of Colorado's major food producers, a role it still plays today.

Pure mountain air. Amazing scenic panoramas. Clear rivers. Discover all that and more with American Airlines flights to Gunnison. This Colorado destination is a favorite no matter what time of year, but it's especially popular during ski season. Located in the heart of the rugged Rocky Mountains, there is no shortage of fun things to do in Gunnison-Crested Butte.

Of course, one of the most beloved activities in Gunnison is skiing Crested Butte, billed as "Colorado's Last Great Ski Town." You'll find outstanding runs for skiers of all skill levels along with groomed trails for Nordic cross country skiing. Plus, you can indulge in ice skating, hockey, tubing, snowmobiling, snowshoeing and more winter experiences.

But when there's not snow on the ground, there is still a great variety of things to do in Gunnison-Crested Butte. Once all the white stuff has melted, you'll be able to see and appreciate the vast variety of wildflowers that grow here. In fact, Gunnison-Crested Butte is known as the wildflower capital. The snowmelt also makes for exciting whitewater rafting and paddling on Gunnison River or Taylor River. Anglers will be delighted with the trout that can be caught here as well, along with Kokanee salmon. And those who enjoy hiking or biking will not believe all their options. It's one of the best ways to see all the wildflowers up close. We enjoy the Neversink trail, which is an easy path that's one and a half miles long. It's easily accessible from Highway 50.

If a family outing where you can connect with the great outdoors and each other sounds good, fly to Gunnison-Crested Butte. American Airlines makes it easy to get there and explore all the adventuresome options.