Things To Do In Steamboat Springs (In Every Season)

There are so many things to do in Steamboat Springs, apart from skiing. Northern Colorado is home to this charming town, and whatever the season, there’s always something to do there.

The town’s natural “springs” are the source of the name, despite the fact that the ski resort is the reason it is so often recognized. You may smell something out of the ordinary because a lot of the springs have a sulfurous smell (though, fortunately that hasn’t been my experience!). 

People who live there will be the first to tell you that the town is more fun when it’s not ski season. At that point, the town comes alive with a wide range of events and entertainment. 

So, if you’re thinking of visiting Steamboat Springs at any time of the year this guide is perfect for you! Here are all the things to do in Steamboat Springs:

What Is It Like In Steamboat Springs?

In case you’re headed there or simply enjoy me rambling on about wonderful adventurers, here’s the scoop.

The city of Steamboat Springs was actually larger than some of the other mountain towns we’ve visited, which made David feel more comfortable. Per our camping disaster, I think he just liked knowing anything he needed was available.

A cute downtown is home to local restaurants from organic juices to BBQ and great western themed stores. Just beyond that you’ll find your Wal-Mart, grocery stores and chain restaurants on the way to the ski slopes.

Downtown you’ll also find a number of great parks and a paved path that runs for miles and miles along the water. Making it the perfect running spot when trails are muddy or icy.

Per usual we spent a lot of time exploring the town and these paths, but there was no testing the very cold waters though you could certainly go tubing or kayaking.

When it came to picking a hotel, we were in luck as April is off season so anywhere was a great bargain. The main feature needed was a great hot tub and Steamboat Grand provided that plus mountain views.

David could spend days hunkered down in any body of water, which means we absolutely made use of their 2 outdoor hot tubs and heated pool daily. However this was not enough water for him, so one of our first fun stops was the reason this town has its name.

Things To Do In Steamboat Springs (All Year Round)

Steamboat Springs is an excellent spot to visit any time of the year. Although Steamboat Springs is most recognized for its world-class ski resort, visitors may have a good time there year-round. 

In general, there won’t be as many events taking place in town during shoulder seasons (late April–May & November–early December). 

But, the town is alive with activity during the busiest times of the year. These are the best year-round activities in Steamboat Springs.

1. Strawberry Park Hot Springs

While there are small bubbling stinky sulfur hot springs around town, the real action is Strawberry Hot Springs. $15-$20 per adult, you then have access to the area for the entire day.

These are organic springs encircled by vibrant flowers, aspen trees, and exquisite masonry. Plus, the hot springs are cleaned twice a week, so visit them on Wednesday or Thursday if you want them to be extra fresh.

Not only is it wonderfully relaxing, but according to ancient medicine, soaking in hot springs increases your blood flow, circulation, metabolism, and absorption of essential minerals.

It’s simple to lose several hours hopping between their several, varying-temperature “pools.”

Summertime brings new light on native plants, but winter has its own beauty as well, with snow-capped trees and dangling icicles.

Rentable rustic cottages and tent campsites are available for those in need of lodging.

A few fun notes:

1. It doesn’t smell, which was odd to me and much appreciated.
2. It wasn’t insanely hot, which at first I disliked because it was chilly outside. However, the temperature was actually perfect for lounging around a few hours without feeling overheated.
3. Located up a mountain road, don’t attempt this in winter without a 4×4.
4. The parking lot is tiny, which is great because the pools aren’t that big…but if you get there and it’s full there is no where to go. Consider one of the shuttle options from town during the busy season.
5. There is a changing cabin and restrooms, so you can get out of wet clothes after your dip.
6. I wish there was an adult only area, just like the hotel hot tub!

It’s not the only game in town, though! Let’s look at the other popular one:

2. Old Town Hot Springs

In the center of Steamboat Springs is Old Town Hot Springs, another lovely hot springs area. 220 gallons of 102–103 degree water are pumped out of the earth every minute by a natural spring. 

They have two more spas besides the main soaking pool. There are also water slides, a kiddie pool, a lap pool, and the main hot pool. And so, the whole family can enjoy this place.

Also, Old Town Hot Springs doesn’t require bookings in advance.

Experience the stunning views of the Yampa Valley by taking a steamboat scenic gondola ride to the summit of a ski resort.

A lift ticket costs $20 for adults, $10 for each additional child, and is free for children under four. 

The simplest way to experience incredible panoramic views atop a mountain is by taking a gondola ride. You can also have a wonderful meal while taking in the view because there are restaurants at the summit.

3. Downtown Steamboat Springs

The people of Steamboat Springs, a charming little town, are incredibly welcoming. There are many of restaurants, apparel retailers, and souvenir shops on Main Street, which runs alongside Lincoln Avenue.

I recommend strolling through downtown streets in the morning or afternoon. 

To add a little excitement to your main street stroll, Cat’s Meow provides an interactive scavenger hunt that teaches you about the town’s history and culture.

Alternatively, history aficionados may want to visit the Tread of Pioneers Museum, which is located at the intersection of Oak Street and 8th Street. 

Here, visitors can discover more about the Ute People and the development of ski culture over time.

4. Mountain Tap Brewery

If you love beer, you’re going to love this place! This place is known to have some of the finest beer in Colorado.

Plus, their wood-fired pizzas sound delicious if you’re in the mood for something to eat. They are delicious and unique. The shrimp starter was also really amazing.

The main strip of Steamboat Springs is one street over from the brewery.

5. Horseback Riding

Saddleback Ranch, located minutes outside of town, offer two distinct equestrian riding excursions. One is a three-hour trip with a picnic lunch, or a one- to two-hour scenic ride. They even provide tours throughout the winter.

6. Stagecoach State Park

It can be fun to visit the Stagecoach Reservoir in Stagecoach State Park on a pleasant day. It’s in the Yampa Valley, directly outside Steamboat Springs.

It costs $8 per car to enter the park. Recreational activities include biking, boating, fishing, volleyball, canoeing, and kayaking. You can also enjoy a little picnic and savor the stunning surroundings.

Around the lake, there is also public camping available but make sure to reserve a place in advance.

This is a great place to visit if you’re looking for something to do in Steamboat Springs is the park, which is open all year round.

7. Yampa River Core Trail

The Yampa River Core Trail passes through Steamboat Springs and is a lovely trail with many natural hot springs along its course. Steamboat Springs offers a self-guided walking tour of its several hot springs.

Beginning at Bear River Park, the trail travels 7.5 miles (one way) to the south of Rotary Park. You are free to complete the route to your liking, of course.

Things To Do In Steamboat Springs During the Summer

1. Hike at Fish Creek Falls

While there, on Sunday morning, we woke up to roaring winds and a fat flakes falling from the sky, which was in stark contrast to the 70 degrees we’d left behind in Denver.

But it turns out that little bit of snow made our trek to Fish Creek Falls all the more gorgeous! Literally it looked like a black and white photo, but with that whoosh of water breaking up the silence.

Unfortunately, that snow also meant we couldn’t see any of the trail markers, so we didn’t get too deep into the forest.

Instead, we ogled this gorgeous 280 foot waterfall and then headed off to find more well marked trails.

But if you happen to go there during the summers, hiking to Fish Creek Falls is

among the top Steamboat Springs activities. It’s just a short 8 mile walk to the magnificent waterfall at Fish Creek Falls. It is also accessible to those with disabilities.

Plus, a 4.7-mile hike with a 1450-foot elevation change is available to those who want to explore the second waterfall. Although the hike can be difficult, it will be worthwhile if you take your time and stop frequently.

If you want an even tougher workout, continue on toward Long Lake. But keep in mind that it adds 7.5 miles to your round trip so, which makes the entire hike more than 12 miles long!

2. Farmers Market

Don’t miss the Steamboat Springs farmers market if you go there in the summer. Usually, it begins in mid-June and ends in late September. More than 130 local merchants often sell a wide range of products, including fruits, vegetables, apparel, crafts, and artwork.

Yampa Street, between Fifth and Eighth Streets, is where you can find the Steamboat Springs Farmers Market.

3. Rafting on White Water

If you enjoy getting an adrenaline rush from racing through swift-moving water, whitewater rafting is usually a lot of fun. Near Steamboat Springs, there are several rivers that provide exciting white water rafting opportunities.

Depending on the rapids and river flow, different rafting levels are available on the rivers. Plus, there are a couple of fantastic white water rafting businesses in Steamboat Springs that you can check out for more information.

4. Howler Alpine Slide

Riding the Howler Alpine Slide in Steamboat Springs is a great family activity. With stunning views of Steamboat Springs town, the 2,400-foot slide offered breathtaking panoramas.

Riding the slide costs $15, but the more times you go, the less each ride costs. At the top of the gondola are the sleds for the slide.

5. Rabbit Ears Pass

You can enjoy a beautiful drive on Rabbit Ears Pass, which is just outside of town. Despite being one of the state’s snowiest passes, it is open all year round. Two rocks that resemble rabbit ears are the source of the pass’s name. 

Our plan had been to head up to Rabbit Ears Pass for snowshoeing on Sunday, but the snow caused us to rethink that plan and that was to our great fortune as there was a large crash and the pass closed.

In the summer, hiking and off-roading to Rabbit Ears Peak are popular activities. The elevation gain of Rabbit Ears is 947 feet, or 5.5 miles, to the summit.

Apparently, this is the snowiest place in all of Colorado! Hence it being the perfect pristine place to snowshoe in April when the weather has been swooping from high to low weekly.

Since this is outside of town, it’s a bit like wandering off to the middle of no where. With that much snow, you’ll rarely see anything resembling a trail marker…so you go and you enjoy.

Unlike Alaska or Iceland, where we were warned about hidden crevasses here that’s not really an issue. While we did come across a large creek that was thawing it was visible and we didn’t worry about suddenly finding ourselves immersed in an ice bath.

We did find tracks left by a lone cross country skiier and used them to help us explore a bit more. At 9,000 feet, I admit to being winded after about an hour and as David said his bum was on fire because it’s a serious workout!

We went another hour or so and later realized it was much harder for me because I’d been wearing his snowshoes which were too large for me! Presumably, that means extra calories burned and therefore warranted a large chocolate chip cookie on the rest of the drive home.

6. Buffalo Pass

Another scenic excursion near the city is Buffalo Pass with the summit being 11 miles away. Simply ride to the summit, enjoy the breathtaking vista, and then head back into town. Alternatively, travel 32 miles more to the town of Walden.

Most cars should be able to reach the summit, although it’s recommended to have high clearance while getting close to the peak. 

7. Mountain Biking

Mountain biking is one of the more daring summertime activities in Steamboat Springs. You might probably assume that this place has some amazing bike routes because the town is really known as Bike Town USA. 

For exciting cross-country and downhill riding, bikers can use the Christie Peak Express chairlift or the Steamboat Gondola. However, a season pass is needed for this, or there are extra costs to ride the gondola.

The Flash of Gold to Grouse Ridge path is a well-liked scenic route in the area. This track is for experienced cyclists only and is around 21 miles long.

8. Steamboat Zipline Adventures

For people who love thrilling adventures, there are 6 ziplines that let you fly through the mountains. The platforms are between 600 and 1300 feet long. In fact, there are some lines that go as fast as 40 mph.

9. Hot Air Balloon Ride 

Experience Steamboat Springs from above with this aerial tour. Wild West balloon adventures provides an exhilarating hot air balloon flight where you may take in the town’s raw beauty. Flying above the Flat Top Mountains and the dormant volcano Hahn’s Peak are hot air balloon trips.

Things To Do In Steamboat Springs During The Winter

1. Steamboat Ski Resort 

Of course, skiing at the renowned Steamboat Springs Ski Resort is the most well-liked activity in Steamboat Springs. In fact, it’s regarded as one of the nation’s roughest ski resorts. Perched atop Mount Werner is the Steamboat Springs Ski Resort.

That being said, if you’re a beginner, there are still many of simple trails to keep you occupied. 

Night skiing is also available at Steamboat Springs Ski Resort. With Christie Peak Lift, five trails are still accessible.

2. Howelsen Hill 

The oldest ski area in Colorado that has been continuously operated is Howelsen Hill. It is renowned for its intricate ski jumping system as well. 

Since 1915, this region has been in use. Thus, coming here is like stepping upon a well-known historical site. And here’s where almost 100 Olympians trained!

They provide snow tubing, a terrain park, and reasonably priced downhill skiing. Near the foot of the slope is a 20-foot sledding hill as well.  

3. Snowmobile Tour

Have you ever imagined traveling to the Continental Divide’s summits during the winter? That’s exactly what a snowmobiling trip can offer. 

Steamboat Snowmobile Tours provides breathtaking tours along the Continental Divide through the Routt National Forest. You can take a tour at sunset or be the first person on the track when it has just snowed. 

Plus, Saddleback Ranch provides two to three-hour snowmobiling experiences. Admire the gorgeous views of the Zirkels, Sleeping Giant, Mt. Werner, and the Flat Tops. 

4. Sleigh Ride

Sleigh rides are among the most entertaining winter activities in Steamboat Springs for the whole family. A sleigh ride offers incredible scenery as it travels through the wintry woodland. They even pause for a break for hot chocolate.

Haymaker and Saddleback Ranch both provide rides throughout town.

Have you ever been snowshoeing?

Do you love to ski?

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