Vacation Ideas for Steamboat Springs

Nicknamed ‘Ski Town USA’, Steamboat Springs is nothing but that authentic, true Colorado cowboy town. The locals – which include over 50 summer and winter Olympians – treat visitors like family and are ecstatic to showcase the nostalgia of this charming ski town that boasts unique snow and countryside. In fact the snow is so light and pure that it has been coined ‘champagne powder’ because of its consistency.

Welcome to Ski Town USA

It’s not easy to get the nickname ‘Ski Town USA’ but Steamboat certainly earns it with almost 3000 acres of skiable terrain. Arguably home to some of the best tree skiing in the west, skiers and snowboarders enjoy the wide open mountain with terrain and runs for all skill levels. Visit Morningside Park on the back side of the mountain for some amazing tree skiing or try one of several terrain parks with beginner to expert half pipes. After a few days of skiing, try snowmobiling to heights of 10,000 feet where local wildlife roams, snowshoeing through the quiet forests or simply riding along while horses pull a sleigh through fresh Champagne Powder.

Non- skiers also flock to Steamboat in the winter for its legendary après-ski events, out of the ordinary restaurants and art galleries, but especially for Steamboat's hot springs. Escape to one of the 150 hot springs for a completely unique winter experience. Start at Strawberry Springs where the hot mineral water flows out of the mountainous valley into five cascading pools and end at Old Town Springs for a great massage while the kids play in the indoor water park.

Serene Summers

Even when the snow has melted Steamboat Springs remains an outdoor paradise. In fact, thanks to the melted snow visitors can hike and bike around Rabbit Ears Pass or Fish Creek Falls and enjoy the cooling mist of the rushing water. Or take in stunning views of Yampa Valley while playing a round of golf at Haymaker Golf course dubbed ‘an environmental wonder’ or Rollingstone Ranch encircled by aspen forests. View the valley from above via a serene hot air balloon ride, a thrilling 2400 drop on the Howler Alpine Slide or from a gondola ride to Hazie’s mountaintop restaurant while the sun sets.

For those who would rather stay at ground level, why not stroll through the town center where time seems to stand still amidst the old-timey saloons and craft shops. Then soak in the crisp mountain air while tubing down Yampa River, kayaking through her bends and twists or fly fishing in her cool waters.