Conquering Steamboat Resort: Home of Champagne Powder®

Steamboat Resort is huge, with nearly 3,000 acres of skiable land! You’ll find wide-open trails perfect for beginners, challenging runs through the trees for experts (they call it “tree skiing”!), and everything in between. The “Champagne Powder®” is real, and it makes every turn feel like you’re floating.

Even if you’ve never skied or snowboarded before, Steamboat is a great place to learn. The resort has fantastic instructors who make learning fun and easy. You can sign up for group lessons, where you’ll meet other learners, or private lessons for one-on-one help.

Pro Tip: Look for special deals on beginner packages that include lessons, lift tickets, and equipment rentals. It’s a great way to get started without breaking the bank!

Under the Stars: Night Skiing & On-Mountain Fun

Did you know you can ski or snowboard after the sun goes down at Steamboat? Night skiing offers a whole different experience with lighted trails. It’s a magical way to see the mountain and enjoy the quiet winter air.

Keep an eye on the resort’s event calendar! They often host fun activities like free concerts at the base area, fireworks displays that light up the night sky, and special races or challenges that anyone can join. These are awesome opportunities to soak in the lively atmosphere and connect with other snow enthusiasts.

Explore the Wilderness: Snowshoeing & Cross-Country Skiing

Want to explore the peaceful side of winter? Snowshoeing and cross-country (Nordic) skiing are perfect! You can glide across flat trails or trek through deeper snow, surrounded by silent, snow-covered trees.

• Popular Spots: Head to the Steamboat Ski Touring Center or Howelsen Hill Nordic Center for groomed trails and rentals. The Stagecoach State Park also has beautiful trails.
• Community Connection: Look for guided snowshoe tours offered by local groups or the resort. These are great ways to learn about the local environment and meet fellow nature lovers. Sometimes local conservation groups offer free guided walks!

Feel the Rush: Snowmobiling, Tubing & Sledding

If you crave a bit more speed, Steamboat has you covered:

Snowmobiling Adventures

Imagine zooming through open meadows and winding trails on a powerful snowmobile! Several companies in the Steamboat area offer guided snowmobile tours, from beginner-friendly rides to advanced backcountry excursions. It’s an exhilarating way to see parts of the winter landscape you wouldn’t otherwise.

Tubing and Sledding Fun

For simple, giggly fun, grab a tube or a sled! Howelsen Hill, North America’s oldest continuously operated ski area, has a fantastic tubing hill that’s lighted at night. It’s perfect for families and anyone who loves to slide down a hill with a huge smile!

Skating & Soaking: Ice Sports and Hot Springs

Winter in Steamboat isn’t just about snow; it’s also about ice and warming waters!

Graceful Glides: Ice Skating

Lace up your skates and glide on the ice! The Howelsen Ice Arena offers public skating sessions, ice hockey, and even curling. It’s a fun way to spend an afternoon or evening, whether you’re a beginner clinging to the rail or a graceful skater showing off your moves.

Relax and Recharge: Steamboat’s Famous Hot Springs

After a day of adventure, there’s nothing better than soaking in warm, natural mineral waters. Steamboat Springs is named for its bubbling hot springs!

• Old Town Hot Springs: Located right in town, this family-friendly spot has several pools, waterslides (even in winter!), and a fitness center.
• Strawberry Park Natural Hot Springs: For a more rustic, magical experience, head to Strawberry Park. Tucked away in the forest, these stone pools are incredibly beautiful, especially at night when you can soak under the stars. Remember to bring a towel and water, and know that after dark, it becomes clothing-optional (so maybe plan your visit accordingly if you’re with younger kids!).

Soaking in the hot springs is a truly unique Steamboat experience and a wonderful way to relax your muscles and connect with nature.

Something Different: Dog Sledding & Fat Biking

Looking for an activity that’s truly unique?

Dog Sledding Tours

Imagine being pulled through a snowy landscape by a team of enthusiastic dogs! Dog sledding tours offer an unforgettable adventure and a chance to learn about these amazing animals and the sport of mushing. It’s a peaceful yet exciting way to explore the quiet beauty of winter.

Fat Biking on Snow

Yes, you can ride a bike in the snow! Fat bikes have super wide tires that allow you to roll over snowy trails. Steamboat has several groomed trails perfect for fat biking, including those at the Steamboat Ski Touring Center and Howelsen Hill. It’s a fun, growing sport that lets you enjoy biking year-round.

Don’t Miss Out! Local Events and Festivals

Steamboat’s winter calendar is packed with exciting events! These are fantastic opportunities to experience the local culture and meet people.

• Steamboat Winter Carnival: Held every February, this is one of Colorado’s oldest and most unique winter festivals. Think ski jumpers flying through a ring of fire, horses pulling skiers down main street, and parades. It’s absolutely wild and a must-see!
• Torchlight Parade & Fireworks: Many Saturday nights during peak season, the resort lights up with a magical torchlight parade down the mountain followed by spectacular fireworks. It’s free and fun for everyone.
• Music and Arts: Check out local venues like the Strings Music Festival (for winter concerts), local breweries, and restaurants for live music, open mic nights, and art shows. These smaller gatherings are perfect for a relaxed evening and meeting locals.
• Farmers Market (Winter Edition): Sometimes, local producers host smaller winter markets. Keep an eye out for fresh local goods and unique crafts.

To stay up-to-date on all events, check the Steamboat Springs Chamber Resort Association website, the Steamboat Pilot & Today newspaper, or local bulletin boards.

Meetups, Groups, and Ways to Connect

Want to find people who share your interests?

• Ski & Ride Groups: Many resorts, including Steamboat, have “Ambassador” programs or free mountain tours led by locals. These are great for finding your way around and getting tips, plus you’ll be skiing with others!
• Local Meetup Groups: Search online for Steamboat Springs meetup groups. You might find groups for hiking (yes, even in winter, with snowshoes!), photography, book clubs, or even social gatherings.
• Volunteer Opportunities: If you’re staying for a while, consider volunteering! Local non-profits, the ski resort, or event organizers often need help. It’s an amazing way to give back, meet dedicated locals, and get an insider’s view of the community.
• Support Local Businesses: Visiting local coffee shops, diners, and unique boutiques is a simple way to immerse yourself in the community. Owners and staff are often happy to chat and share local tips.

Gear Up! What to Wear and Bring

Steamboat can get cold, but you’ll be warm if you dress in layers! Think like an onion:

• Base Layers: Moisture-wicking tops and bottoms (no cotton!).
• Mid-Layers: Fleece jackets or sweaters for warmth.
• Outer Layers: Waterproof and windproof jacket and pants.
• Accessories: Warm hat, waterproof gloves or mittens, wool socks, sunglasses or goggles, and sunscreen (the sun is strong at altitude!).
• Footwear: Waterproof boots with good grip for walking around town.

Getting Around Steamboat Springs

Steamboat has an excellent FREE bus system that can take you almost anywhere you need to go, especially between the town and the ski resort. This is super handy, so you often don’t need a car once you arrive. If you’re coming from the Bond Colorado area or further, check road conditions, as winter driving can be tricky.

Safety First: Be Smart in the Mountains

• Altitude Sickness: Steamboat is at over 6,700 feet above sea level. Drink plenty of water (more than you think!), avoid too much alcohol on your first day, and take it easy.
• Sun Protection: The sun’s rays are stronger at higher altitudes. Wear sunscreen, even on cloudy days, and use lip balm with SPF.
• Weather Changes: Mountain weather can change fast. Always check the forecast before heading out, and be prepared for colder temperatures or snowstorms.
• Ski Patrol: If you’re skiing or boarding, always follow the “Skier’s Responsibility Code” and respect resort rules. Ski patrol is there to help!