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There's something fun for everyone to do in Steamboat Springs, a small Rocky Mountain city that sits at an elevation of 6,700 feet in northwest Colorado's Yampa Valley, some 150 miles from Denver. It's an authentic American West destination, with rodeos, cattle drives, and other activities for would-be cowboys and cowgirls, and it is considered one of the top ski areas in the state.
Skiers flock to Colorado every year, and Steamboat Springs has first-class slopes for beginners and advanced skiers, but it also offers year-round activities such as fishing, hiking, biking, and arts and culture events. And true to its name, it has natural hot springs that attract tourists looking to relax in mineral-rich waters.
In fact, according to the city of Steamboat Springs, its name originated in the early 1800s when French trappers heard the chugging sound of what they thought was a steamboat engine. That sound turned out to be a mineral spring, and ultimately that's what led to the town's naming.
Outdoor Adventures Await Travelers To Steamboat Springs
On weekends during summer, a professional rodeo entertains visitors to Steamboat Springs with bull riding, bronco riding, steer roping, and other exciting events, and the town's annual Cowboy Round-Up celebrates Independence Day each July. Visitors also can get on horseback and try their hand at cattle drives and other cowboy activities at nearby ranches.
Horseback riding, even without herding cattle, is a very popular activity in Steamboat Springs. Trail rides can be booked for as little as an hour or for an entire day, and ranches welcome all riding levels. In winter, the ranches offer snowmobiling, sleigh rides, wagon rides, all-terrain vehicle excursions, and other outdoor adventures.
Hot air ballooning is a big draw in and around Steamboat Springs because the rides provide fantastic news of the Yampa Valley, the nearby Flat Top Mountains, and an inactive volcano called Hahn's Peak. One vendor, Wild West Balloon Adventures, offers early morning flights followed by a champagne reception afterward. It charges $275 per person for the excursion.
For tourists who'd rather keep their feet on the ground and relax, the mineral springs might be just the ticket. Old Town Hot Springs, in downtown Steamboat Springs, has been operating since the late 19th century and offers four spring-fed pools with mineral waters reaching the surface at around 100 degrees Fahrenheit. For children, the springs have a 230-foot waterslide and an aquatic climbing wall. Old Town Hot Springs is a non-profit entity and also features a kiddie pool, a fitness center, yoga classes, and massage treatments.
At Strawberry Park Hot Springs, travelers can relax in a series of pools surrounded by stone masonry and take advantage of picnic areas plus changing rooms. Overnight lodging rentals also are offered.
Biking enthusiasts will love the Yampa River Core Trail that meanders along the Yampa River and is perfect for all levels of rider. It's a 7.5-mile paved multi-use trail that runs through Steamboat Springs and travels from one end of town to the other. Along the way, visitors can stop and explore the Yampa River Botanic Garden, which is a six-acre park containing 40 gardens. The trail also offers access to the river for anglers, and rainbow trout is said to be abundant in the river.
Try Local Brews On The Steamboat Brew Trail
It isn't all about outdoor activities in Steamboat Springs. Beer lovers can indulge in the beer crafted by three local breweries on the Steamboat Brew Trail, which takes visitors from downtown and into the west end of the city along a 2.7-mile trail that hugs the Yampa River.
The brew trail begins at the Mahogany Ridge Brewery, offering eight handcrafted beers and American cuisine. After that, it's on to the Mountain Tap Brewery, which features an outdoor patio with great mountain views. Storm Peak Brewery offers some 20 beers on tap in a warehouse-style brewery with indoor and outdoor seating.
Cabins, Contemporary Hotels Among Lodging Choices
Steamboat Springs and the surrounding area have a wide variety of lodging options. Visitors who want to immerse themselves in Western flair can consider a property that rents mountain cabins, while those looking for contemporary hotels in downtown Steamboat Springs can opt for traditional accommodations. Minimum stays often apply, and rates vary based on the season. Here are several choices:
- Property: Elk River Guest Ranch
- Amenities: One- and two-bedroom cabins along Elk River. Fully equipped kitchens, community area, dubbed The Saloon.
- Cost: $$$
- Property: Steamboat Grand
- Amenities: Elegant resort with 328 rooms, suites, penthouses, three dining venues, spa and fitness center, pool, whirlpool.
- Cost: $$$
- Property: Glen Eden Resort
- Amenities: Two-bedroom cabins, gas fireplace, fully equipped kitchens
- Cost: $$
- Property: Nordic Lodge
- Amenities: Downtown location, remodeled rooms with refrigerator and microwave, outdoor heated pool.
- Cost: $$
- Property: Residence Inn Steamboat Springs
- Amenities: All-suite hotel with rooms featuring fully equipped kitchens and living areas. Fitness center and daily breakfast included in rates.
- Cost: $$$