Steamboat Springs Attractions
By Amanda May
Staff Writer
Rockies.com
Ski Steamboat this year and then come back in the summer! All the Steamboat attractions will keep you busy during your vacation, whether it’s in the cool winter or temperate summer here in the Colorado Rockies.
A family outing during the Rainbow Weekend balloon festival in Steamboat Springs. (Matt Inden/Weaver Multimedia Group/Colorado Tourism Office)
Off the slopes, there is plenty of Steamboat lodging and an array of activities to partake in during all four seasons. To help you start planning your vacation today, we have compiled a list of a few of the things to do in Steamboat Springs, Colorado:
SKI STEAMBOAT
Steamboat Ski Resort is actually a complete mountain range: Mount Werner, Sunshine Peak, Storm Peak, Thunderhead Peak, Pioneer Ridge and Christie Peak. Its 2,965 acres of permitted terrain offer a plethora of trails for all levels of ability. The resort also hosts many annual events, the most popular of which is the Cowboy Downhill. This unique ski rodeo has the pro rodeo stars of Steamboat racing down the hill in full cowboy gear. Definitely a sight to be seen!
The smaller ski center in town is Howelsen Ski Area. Recently recognized as one of the nation’s “Pioneer Ski Resorts,” it is the oldest ski area in continuous use in Colorado and has sent more skiers to international competitions than any other area in North America!
HOT SPRINGS IN STEAMBOAT
Considering the town was named after the sound that one of its geothermal springs made, their mineral waters are a must see on any Steamboat Springs vacation. There are two hot springs that are open to the public: Old Town Hot Springs, with eight large pools and two waterslides and downtown location, and Strawberry Park Hot Springs, located seven miles outside of town, it’s an excellent spot to soak those tired muscles and to stargaze and skinny dip after dark within the vast, rugged landscape of the Rocky Mountains.
SUMMER WATER SPORTS
The Yampa River runs through the middle of town and provides the perfect playground for water sports lovers. An ideal setting for fishing, whitewater rafting and canoeing, its also host to one of the summer’s most popular events, the Yampa River Festival. Always taking place the first weekend in June, athletes come from around the country to compete in the kayak rodeo, downriver race, and Colorado’s only upstream slalom race. Even the family pet can take part in the fun with the Crazy River Dog Contest, which has dogs fetching sticks from the river, sometimes passing through rapids.
FISH CREEK FALLS
Hike around the scenic Fish Creek Falls’ well-marked trails, appropriate for all ability levels. There are two main paths, one of which is perfect for families with strollers or even wheelchairs, and one that is more rugged and lead to a bridge over a creek. It’s just a short distance from town and a great family friendly activity. Hike to the breathtaking views of the falls in summer and do it again in the winter to watch the skillful ice climbers make their way up the frozen cascades. From there, you can also mountain bike, horseback ride or continue hiking through the nearby parks and forests.
STEAMBOAT LAKE STATE PARK
A year-round destination, this beautiful state park offers a multitude of activities for outdoorsmen (and women). From cross-country skiing and ice fishing in the cold season to hiking and biking in the summer, it’s a great natural playground. Camp in the park at one of their well-spaced, walk-in sites and rent a pontoon boat for a spin around the lake!
A FEW OF THE ANNUAL FESTIVALS
Steamboat Winter Carnival
This annual festival includes ski racing and jumping, dog sledding and even chariot events that run down Lincoln Avenue, the town’s main drag. Began by the Norwegian Carl Howelson, of which the Howelson Ski Area and Hill was named after.
Steamboat Springs Rainbow Weekend
In the summer, Rainbow Weekend brings a whole spectrum of floating hot air balloons rising over the valley. The Balloon Rodeo and Art in the Park Events are fun for the whole family. If you think the view is awesome skiing, try it from above the mountains!
Strings in the Mountains Music Festival
This annual music festival is a great way to spend a cool summer evening in the Rocky Mountains. “Strings”has presented over 70 concerts of chamber music, jazz, rock, country, bluegrass, world rhythms amongst other genres since its beginning in 1988. Artists include Grammy winners and major competition winners and principal players from the most renowned orchestras. They also organize a winter holiday concert series.
Steamboat Rentals: These properties are rented directly from the owners. Take your pick of these vacation homes and condos for your next trip to Steamboat Springs, Colorado. With more than 125 to choose from, there’s definitely one for you. Cozy condos to multiple-bedroom homes are available, many on the free shuttle route, in Old Town and in the Ski Time Square area.
Ptarmigan Inn: This inn is a great Steamboat ski-in/ski-out property. Its super convenient and actually affordable! Rent your skis or board at SportStalker Ski Rental, walk out of the hotel, step into your skis and glide to the lifts! Ski to your hearts content and then head back to the Ptarmigan for après ski happy hour at the Snowbird Restaurant and Lounge. Free wireless is available in all guestrooms. Other amenities include valet ski storage, outdoor heated pool and a hot tub.
Christy Sports : The future of ski and board rentals has arrived! Reserve your gear online and pick it up at their Steamboat Springs location! Or use their Door 2 Door service and get the gear delivered right to your condo at Steamboat! The website also has a clothing store with all the major brands, like Burton, K2, Helly Hansen, Spyder and more! Also selling kayaks and all the paddle gear you could want! Save up to 20% by renting online!
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