Steamboat Springs is known for its western heritage and world-class winter sports, but it’s also a wonderful destination year-round. With so much to see and do, here are our top picks for fun things to do in Steamboat Spring in winter.
Skiing is one of the best Steamboat Springs winter activities for both kids and adults alike! You can hit the wide groomed trails or go for a backcountry adventure.
Cowboy Downhill
Steamboat Springs is known for its world-class skiing and snowboarding, but there’s also plenty of other winter activities to enjoy. Snow sports like cross country skiing, snowmobiling and even dog sledding are all available in the winter.
During your visit to Steamboat, you can also check out the Cowboy Downhill, an annual event that features professional rodeo cowboys racing down the slopes wearing chaps and cowboy hats. It’s an entertaining show that celebrates both Steamboat’s Western heritage and present-day mountain culture.
The Cowboy Downhill is one of the most unique ski races in the country. Originally started by former Olympic and Director of Skiing, Billy Kidd and 6-time All-Around World Champion cowboy, Larry Mahan, it’s now an annual tradition with over 100 Pro Rodeo Cowboys participating each year.
The event includes dual slalom races down Headwall, a green trail at the base of the ski area. The cowboys race each other two at a time and the best overall time wins. Following the individual races, all participants are invited to the Stampede event where cowboys race down Headwall at the same time and rush for the finish line simultaneously.
Winter Carnival
During Steamboat Springs’ 110th Winter Carnival, celebrate your love for snow and winter sports with a dazzling mix of fun-filled events and activities. From kids skiing with road flares to adults jumping through fiery hoops, you’ll find something for everyone.
This celebration of athleticism and winter highlights the acclaim that earned Steamboat Springs the moniker “Ski Town, USA.” With a focus on building community and highlighting our western heritage, the Winter Carnival continues to be a staple in the community.
You won’t be able to miss the giant bonhomme de neige (snowman), an oversized character that’s been featured at every Carnival since 1955. Dressed only in a red tuque and black buttons, this colossal figure is a sight to behold!
After you’ve seen Bonhomme, head over to Howelsen Hill for a night of fireworks, ski jumping, and a spectacular parade. Or check out the Ice Palace, a massive structure made entirely of ice blocks pulled directly from Lake Flower.
Old Town Hot Springs
One of the best things to do in Steamboat Springs during winter is soaking in the hot mineral water at Old Town Hot Springs. It is located on the eastern end of downtown and offers a great range of amenities for both adults and children, including eight outdoor pools fed by hot mineral water.
There is also a fitness center and massage services. It is open year round and a wonderful place to visit for a break in the cold weather, allowing you to relax and unwind.
Snow tubing is another fun activity that you can do in Steamboat Springs during winter. Saddleback Ranch has three runs and a tube-tow to get you back up to the top, as well as a warming lodge for a warm drink afterward!
There are several cross-country skiing trails around Steamboat Spring. Some of the most popular are Rabbit Ears Pass, Stagecoach State Park, Pearl Lake State Park, and Howelsen Ski Area.
Museum of the Rockies
Steamboat Springs is known for its storied tradition of skiing, but it’s also an arts and cultural destination. The town is home to an impressive art museum, and is a Certified Colorado Creative District.
Take a look at the work of local artists at Pine Moon Fine Art, or check out the rotating exhibitions at the Steamboat Art Museum. Exhibits include paintings, photographs and quilts, with a children’s “Student Gallery” and education programs.
The town is also home to a variety of local breweries, and the Steamboat Scenic Gondola provides year-round views. Mountain Tap Brewery is a must-visit for their heated gondola seating, and Storm Peak Brewery has a rotating selection of beers on tap.
If you want to explore the town a little further, take a scenic hot air balloon ride. You’ll get a bird’s-eye view of the city and the surrounding mountains.