Click on photos for a larger version.

Summer in Gunnison and Crested Butte is a great opportunity to meet new people.

Mountain Biking. The Gunnison Valley is famous for its awe-inspiring mountain biking, and the county offers miles and miles of public trail. Check at the Crested Butte or Gunnison Chamber of Commerce for more details on trail locations and regulations. Bike rentals are available in Crested Butte from the Big Al's Bicycle Heaven or the Troutfitter, and in Gunnison from the Tune Up.

Hiking. Hiking is another great way to get out and enjoy the beautiful scenery that Crested Butte and Gunnison have to offer. Trails are a variety of lengths, suited to different ability levels, and in lots of different locations. Again, check at the Chamber of Commerce to ask about specific details and pick up trail maps.

Blue Mesa Reservoir. Colorado's largest standing body of water is just minutes away from downtown Gunnison. The lake has many attractions including fishing, swimming, boating, tubing, camping, hiking, biking, picnics and more. A great summer day can be passed soaking up the sun at Blue Mesa. Boats, tubes and fishing poles can be rented at the Blue Mesa Marina.

Camping. Because of the Valley's large amount of open space, camping is a popular pasttime. Much of the area surrounding the towns is National Forest land, thus open to public camping. Fires are permitted, as long as no current ban is in place. Designated camp areas can also be found in various locations in the Valley. Always check to be sure that the land you are camping on is, in fact public. Pack out your trash and put your fires out!

Frisbee Golf. Crested Butte offers a free, public Frisbee golf course. The course is located southeast of town behind the Nordic Center. Frisbees are not provided, but the course is open all the time. It's a great way to pass a lazy afternoon.

Recreational Softball. Both Crested Butte and Gunnison have large town league softball teams that play games on weekday nights throughout the entire summer. Softball is a huge local hit and many teens participate in the league. Games are great to watch and playing is even better!

Alpenglow Summer Concert Series. These free, public concerts really take advantage of the beautiful evenings of Crested Butte. The concerts are outdoor and take place in the Crested Butte town soccer field, adjacent to the community park. The music is great, people are fun, and the event is very popular with local teens.

In addition to the above events and activities, teens are always seen around Gunnison or Crested Butte hanging out and enjoying the sun. Parks are a great place to spend the summer afternoons and teens get together to throw a Frisbee or kick a soccer ball around.

Both towns have public parks with basketball courts, soccer fields and open space. Additionally, both towns have public skate parks and cool shops and restaurants. Third and Elk in Crested Butte is the center of the downtown area and a popular gathering area for youth.

Whether visiting the Gunnison Valley for a short or long stay, take advantage of the sunny days and numerous activities and events to get out of the house and away from the video games and television. Get out and explore the Valley. Don't be shy: Introduce yourself to the locals. New people are always welcome.

Before long you'll realize why the Gunnison Valley is a great place to be in summer!