If you’re planning a vacation in Steamboat Springs this winter, check out some of the things to do in the area. You can enjoy snow tubing, take a helicopter tour, go strawberry hot springs and stay in one of the beautiful hotels.
Saddleback Ranch snow tubing
If you want to take part in a fun activity during your Steamboat Springs winter vacation, snow tubing is a great choice. This activity is suitable for children and adults of all ages. You can find a number of places to go in the area, but one of the best is Saddleback Ranch. It is a working cattle ranch that spans over 8,000 acres and has several attractions for the entire family.
The fourth-generation working ranch offers several activities that are a good way to spend the day. Some of the activities include snow tubing, horseback riding, snowmobiling, and winter tours. There are even wagon dinner rides that can be booked.
To get to the ranch, you can drive in or catch the free shuttle. The shuttle will pick you up at the Gondola Transit Center on Mt. Werner Circle, which is a twenty-minute drive from downtown Steamboat Springs.
Strawberry Hot Springs
Strawberry Park Hot Springs in Steamboat Springs, Colorado is a natural hot springs wonder. Surrounded by trees and ponds, the hot springs offers visitors a relaxing experience in the pristine mountains.
There are five mineral-rich pools at Strawberry Park. Each one is unique and features different water temperatures. Visitors can book a massage or aquatic therapy session. The facility is open daily from 10 AM to 10 PM.
You will need a four-wheel drive vehicle for visits to the hot springs during the winter. Two companies offer transportation to the springs. They charge a fee of $20 for children and $45 for adults.
In addition to the hot springs, visitors can stay overnight in a heated cabin or tent. Towels are available for $5 each. For more information, visit the website for Strawberry Hot Springs.
Zephyr Helicopter tour
If you’re planning a trip to Steamboat Springs in Colorado, you should definitely take advantage of a Zephyr helicopter tour. This aerial tour will give you spectacular views of the valley and the surrounding mountains.
Helicopter tours are available throughout the state of Colorado, but most of the companies offer routes that are within the mountains. You should check with a company to find out which tours are available. Most offer scenic rides that offer panoramic views of the Yampa Valley.
The Zephyr Helicopter Tour is a one-hour flight that will take you over the Rockies and over the town of Steamboat. It is best to book early, as these tours are weather-dependent.
Another option is a hot air balloon ride, which will give you the chance to see the mountains and other sights from above. These flights are also available by the hour.
Backcountry areas of world-class calibre
The Steamboat Springs area has its share of perks. Among the attractions is the Bluebird Backcountry, an innovative ski area that offers access to all terrain. In addition, there are multiple backcountry ski guides to boot. For those with more of a taste for the backcountry, there are numerous cabins and cottages for rent.
One of the best places to try your hand at the backcountry is Rabbits Ears Pass. The pass is a long and winding road, but a short drive up it will reward you with spectacular views of the surrounding peaks. This route is also home to the state’s largest rooster tail, and is well worth the trip in itself. It is also the fanciest of the stomping grounds for the aforementioned Colorado backcountry skiing operations.
Hotels in Steamboat Springs
Steamboat Springs is a world class mountain resort town that offers a range of accommodations. You can choose from several ski-in, ski-out properties to quieter retreats located farther south. In addition, you can enjoy a variety of activities. From skiing to hiking, biking to relaxing at a hot spring, there’s plenty to do.
One of the best places to stay in Steamboat is the Holiday Inn Steamboat Creek, which offers a free shuttle to downtown. Additionally, the hotel has a fitness center and an indoor swimming pool. There is also a complimentary breakfast and WiFi.
If you’re looking for an even more luxurious place to stay, check out the Steamboat Grand Hotel. This luxury hotel features several shops and restaurants, including a poolside bistro and a full spa. The hotel is located within walking distance of the Steamboat Ski Resort.