When it comes to winter travel, no ski town in Colorado has more to offer than Steamboat Springs. This laid-back luxury mountain getaway boasts a wide range of snow sports and activities that will keep you busy and entertained during your stay.
For a unique experience, take a horse-drawn sleigh ride. This will take you across the Champagne Powder(r) snow for an unforgettable adventure!
Skiing
Skiing in Steamboat Springs is one of the best ways to enjoy this stunning mountain town. It receives some of the earliest snowfalls of the season, which is known as “champagne powder.”
However, if you’re not a skier or snowboarder, there are plenty of other fun winter activities for families and kids in Steamboat. There are cross-country skiing trails, snowshoeing adventures and even hot air balloon rides!
The 108-year-old Steamboat Springs Winter Carnival is another event that families will love. The festivities take place along Lincoln Avenue and include street slalom, skijoring (skiers pulled by horses), ring and spear, and donkey jump!
There’s also a tubing hill at Saddleback Ranch where you can speed down the slope in your inner tube and be taken back up with a tow lift. The best part is that it’s a super fun family activity that can be enjoyed by all ages!
Hot Springs
After an exhilarating day on the mountain, a good soak in a natural hot springs mineral pool is often the perfect way to relax and unwind. Luckily for you, there are several outdoor hot springs close to Steamboat Springs that are worth checking out during your winter vacation.
For instance, head to Strawberry Park Hot Springs in the heart of a mountainous valley about seven miles north of downtown Steamboat Springs. This gorgeous resort boasts five flowing rock-foundation hot spring pools that have sandy bottoms and run beside Hot Springs Creek.
With temperatures ranging from 147 degrees to 102 degF, you’ll love spending time in these naturally occurring pools. And after a relaxing soak, you can indulge in Watsu therapy or choose a massage at the spa.
Old Town Hot Springs in the heart of downtown Steamboat is another fun place to take a dip. Their eight outdoor hot pools vary in temperature from 98 to 103 degrees and they have a world class gym and family-friendly recreation area.
Nightlife
If you’re a fan of nightlife in Steamboat Springs, you’ll find plenty of places to enjoy local brews and craft cocktails. You’ll also find live music venues that welcome all ages to dance the night away.
You’ll also want to visit the Steamboat Art Museum, which features Western culture and heritage in its rotating exhibits. It’s located in a former bank and features works by more than 25 artists.
Another great place to go for dinner is Aurum Food & Wine, which is on the river and offers amazing views of Steamboat Springs. It’s also a family friendly restaurant that serves comforting European-inspired eats in a sophisticated and chic atmosphere.
Another popular Steamboat Springs bar is Carl’s Tavern, which serves American comfort food and has an unbeatable daily happy hour. It is a popular weekend spot for both tourists and locals and has a vast selection of whiskey flights, craft cocktails, and beer. The atmosphere is comfortable and relaxed and the service is excellent.
Events
Winter brings plenty of activities for families, including skiing and snowboarding, ice bumper cars, dog sledding and more. However, the weather can be chilly so it’s important to dress appropriately.
Steamboat Springs celebrates its western heritage through a variety of events during the Winter Vacation. One event that ranks as a must-do is the Winter Carnival, which dates back to 1895.
During the five-day event, there are races and parties that celebrate Steamboat’s winter sports traditions. It also includes jam sessions, Pro Alpine ski jumping and a nighttime extravaganza.
The town’s streets are covered in snow to create a festive atmosphere for the parades. Races include street slalom, skijoring (a skier pulled by a horse!) and the donkey jump.
Another popular event is the Diamond Hitch Parade, which features a rope tied in the shape of diamonds that is held by at least four skiers as they race down the streets. This is a favorite for adults and kids alike.