Steamboat Springs, Colorado

DSC_3383
Colorful Wildflower

Most people associate Steamboat Springs with being a destination for skiing, which would be correct, but it is also a popular destination during the summer. Situated in the Colorado Rocky Mountains, there is ample hiking, biking, zip lining, golf, and other activities. The town of Steamboat Springs is a typical Colorado mountain town with historic buildings and ample choices of restaurants and local shops. Whether mountain biking, walking or riding bikes along the Yampa River, playing miniature golf, or riding down the Alpine Slide, there are plenty of things for children as well as adults.

DSC_3397
View of Downtown Steamboat Springs
DSC_3380
The Yampa River
IMG_5861
Stunning Views as You Drive to Steamboat
DSC_3411
Fun for the Children
DSC_3390
Shopping and Dining in the Old Town Square

Getting into the mountains is a wonderful way to beat the heat and enjoy fresh air, good food, and get away from the daily grind. If you are looking for solitude, though, you will need to get out of town and go hiking or biking on a nearby trail as the resort town is extremely busy as tourists descend upon it in droves. The weekends are especially congested as people escape from Denver and other surrounding cities to join tourists from around the world. Friday and Saturday nights feature a pro rodeo as well as an opera series during the summer. There is also a farmer’s market on Saturdays with a large variety of local artists, fresh vegetables, and other oddities for sale.

DSC_3396
Farmer’s Market
DSC_3402
Court House
DSC_3400
Busy Streets Downtown
DSC_3382
Walking the Trail along the Yampa River
DSC_3403
Whimsical Statue Downtown

If you make your way out of town and up to the actual ski resort, you take the gondola to the top to enjoy the views or, if you are more daring, rent a mountain bike and take a thrilling ride down the side of the mountain. There is also horseback riding or white water rafting for those who want a true mountain experience. With so much to do, you may find yourself jumping in the hot tub of your local condominium or hotel to sooth those aching muscles at the end of the day. Also, be aware that Steamboat Springs is at 6,700 feet (2,050 meters), so be sure to drink plenty of water as well as sports drinks. When not refueling, perhaps enjoy one of the many local craft beers that are available in the restaurants and pubs.

DSC_3410
Gondola to the Top of the Mountain
DSC_3395
Bike Rentals and Rafting Adventures
IMG_5857
Enjoying a Drink at the Ski Resort
DSC_3405
Biking across the River
DSC_3399
Downtown Steamboat Springs

Steamboat Springs is definitely a wonderful place to enjoy the best of what Colorado has to offer. Stunning views, outdoor activities, friendly people, and gourmet dining. Regardless of your fitness level, you will be able to find activities that suit your lifestyle. Also, being a large ski resort area, you can find accommodations ranging from upscale hotels and resort condominiums to motels and cabins catering to almost any budget.

IMG_5863
Rugged Scenery
DSC_3421
Miniature Golf
DSC_3407
Statue at the Resort
DSC_3387
Downtown Stores and Restaurants

12 thoughts on “Steamboat Springs, Colorado

    1. We were there this past weekend because our daughter and 5 friends ran a 198 mile relay marathon – yes, they are crazy. Since she lives in Chicago, we took all of our free time to spend with her. We didn’t get to do hiking this time. But they did see a bear when they were running 🙂

  1. I also love Steamboat, but even though it is fun to stroll through downtown, I prefer to get away from the crowds to explore the surrounding area. Your photos bring back nice memories, though. Thank you.

  2. Pingback: Ski Resorts are Not Just for Ski Season | Living The Q Life

Leave a Reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.