Steamboat Springs is an international ski destination in Northwest Colorado. The city sits on the Yampa River and is accessible by driving over Rabbit Ears Pass. Steamboat Springs is home to geothermal hot springs, including Strawberry Hot Springs and Old Town Hot Springs (more on this later). The town is painted with western culture.
Steamboat Ski Resort offers world-class skiing. While the resort has a relatively low elevation (compared to other Colorado ski areas), it has the fourth highest vertical drop of any ski area in the state. Simply stated, this means you can ski or board uninterrupted for nearly 3,700 vertical feet. Steamboat has plenty of lodging options right on the mountain. Additionally, the terrain is diverse with something for everyone. Steamboat is a leading destination ski resort for families. For a cheaper and smaller option, make a short drive (5-10 minutes) to Howelsen Hill Ski Area. Little known fact – Howelsen is Colorado’s oldest continuously operated ski area, dating back to 1915.
Steamboat Springs is quite popular during the summer months. The area is known for outdoor experiences including fishing, rafting, kayaking, biking, and hiking. For a more laid-back activity, try tubing down the Yampa River which cuts right through the main town area. Summers are stacked with events such as the Hot Air Balloon Rodeo, the Yampa River Festival, Steamboat Bike Week, and Steamboat Wine Festival.
Steamboat Springs was an old cattle ranching town and it still clings to its western roots. Horseback riding is a popular activity. Shop for some western gear at F.M. Light & Sons, which first opened in 1905. You’ll see yellow signs advertising this historic western store on your drive into town. The Steamboat Springs Pro Rodeo series is “where cowboys and cowgirls come to play”. It is a ten-week pro rodeo series throughout the summer.
The Yampa Valley is home to multiple geothermal hot springs. The best is Strawberry Hot Springs. This is basically just a creek, but its simplicity is what makes it such a unique experience. Fair warning, the drive is a little dicey to get there (dark, windy road). 4WD is recommended during the winter but not necessary in the summer. Also, for better or worse, if it is after dark, there will be naked people.
It should come as no surprise that a city based around the ski area is great to visit in the winter. Steamboat is at a lower elevation than many other Colorado ski towns, making it slightly warmer. The town still gets plenty of fresh powder.
After the ski area closes for the season in April, the city slows down. The weather can be unpredictable and there is far less to do. If possible, plan your trip in the summer or winter.
Summers in Steamboat are phenomenal. July is the warmest month with an average daily high temperature of 82 degrees. Every summer weekend has plenty of options for unique events.
Early fall isn't bad for the turning of the leaves. Avoid the off-season of mid-October to late November. Hotel rates are cheap, but that is because demand is low.