Steamboat Springs Comes to Life in Winter

Steamboat Springs is an amazing place year-round, but it truly comes to life in winter. Whether you’re looking to tear up the champagne powder or soak in hot springs, this ski town has something for everyone!

Dressing appropriately is a must in Steamboat Springs. The temperature tends to hover around freezing during the day and drop well below at night, so you’ll need plenty of layers.

Skiing & Snowboarding

The number one reason to visit Steamboat Springs during winter is, of course, skiing and snowboarding. The local ski resort is huge and features amazing runs, great mountain amenities and delicious restaurants. There are also plenty of activities for non-skiers, and a lot of family-friendly skiing options.

Whether you’re an expert skier or just starting out, the town has something for everyone. The base area offers a fun place to hang out after the slopes close, and there are often concerts or events going on.

Another popular activity is dog sledding, which is perfect for kids as young as two years old. You’ll get pulled along by a team of excited Alaskan Huskies. It’s a fun way to experience the backcountry, and a great photo opportunity too! The area also has a number of natural hot springs that are great for soaking. For a more upscale experience, you can take the gondola up to the top of Mount Werner for incredible views and a gourmet meal.

Tubing

While skiing and snowboarding are popular winter activities in Steamboat Springs, there is also plenty to do for those who aren’t comfortable on the slopes or would like to take a break from the snow. For example, you could enjoy a hot springs soak or a professional massage.

If you want to go tubing on the water, you can rent tubes at Steamboat’s various locations. You’ll need to create an emergency plan before you go tubing, as drowning accidents can happen quickly and leave your family devastated.

Another fun activity to try is the Downtown Steamboat Springs Food Tour. This 3.5-hour experience includes visits to hand-picked restaurants where your guide will arrange tastings and discuss menu highlights. The tour can be customized to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Fat Biking

During your visit to Steamboat Springs, take advantage of this new winter sport. Fat biking is similar to normal mountain bike riding, but you use wider tires to roll over snowy terrain. There are multiple shops throughout town that rent bikes, and you can explore the 7.5-mile Core Trail in downtown or the snaking Yampa River.

In addition to world-class skiing, Steamboat Springs also offers a full range of winter activities. During your stay, you should also make time to experience the local culture. From extreme ice climbing athletes to the friendly staff at local coffee shops, the outdoors is a big part of the area.

Direct flights to Steamboat Springs are available from Chicago, Denver, Dallas, and Houston. If you plan to rent a car, be sure to get one with four-wheel drive and snow tires for the mountainous roads. Many of the local hotels and resorts offer shuttle service to and from the ski resort.

Snowshoeing

Taking on snowy trails in a pair of snowshoes is cheaper than a snowboard or a ski, quieter than a snowmobile and promises to give you an excellent workout. It is also a great way to explore new terrain and see old hiking trails in a whole new light. With many high altitude hiking trails doubling as snowshoe tracks, you can find the perfect trail to suit your level of skill and fitness.

Steamboat Springs is an incredibly family-friendly town that offers tons of activities for kids and teens, including the gondola at Howelsen Hill and a sledding hill in downtown. There are also several ice skating rinks, public and private hot springs and even a winter driving school that is surprisingly fun and affordable.

Getting a massage or enjoying the luxurious amenities of a local spa is also an amazing addition to any winter vacation in Steamboat Springs. The area got its name from the abundance of natural hot springs, so you simply have to take advantage of these wonderful facilities and relax after a day on the mountain.