Winter Activities in Steamboat Springs

Steamboat Springs is a beautiful town all year-round, but it really comes to life in the winter. Whether you want to ski, snowboard or spend the day soaking in hot springs, there are plenty of winter activities in Steamboat.

During mid-February, the city hosts its winter carnival celebrating western heritage and acclaimed winter sports. This wild extravaganza features crazy ski and horse races and stunts as well as live music and fireworks.

Mountain Biking

Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, mountain biking is a great way to explore Steamboat Springs’ beautiful backcountry trails. The sport is growing in popularity and it’s an excellent way to get your heart rate up while taking in the majestic views of the Colorado Rocky Mountains.

Mountain biking is a popular outdoor recreational activity that requires endurance and good bike handling skills. It’s also a low-impact form of exercise that decreases the production of cortisol, which can help you sleep better at night.

Once the snow melts, mountain biking at Steamboat Ski Resort becomes an even more exciting experience. The Christie Peak Express Chairlift provides access to biking trails that offer thrills and fun for all ages and skill levels.

Snowmobiling

As the winter season rolls around, skiers and snowboarders flock to Steamboat Springs for world-class slopes and the famous Champagne Powder (r). With a deep base of light, fluffy snow, Steamboat offers a wide range of winter activities, including snowmobiling.

A snowmobile tour is a great way to get out and enjoy the backcountry, taking in views of Steamboat’s peaks while zipping through the snow. The best part is that you’ll be guided by an experienced tour guide, who will take care of everything for you!

The tours run for two hours, four hours and even full days. They explore the beautiful alpine forest and out to incredible viewpoints on a route that will take you through Routt National Forest.

Fat Biking

Winter biking is a popular way to get out and enjoy the snow in Colorado, especially here in Steamboat Springs. In fact, the American League of Bicyclists named Steamboat Springs one of 18 Bicycle Friendly Communities.

It’s a great way to take your love of the outdoors into winter and explore areas you can’t during the summer. Ski resorts like Howelsen Hill and Emerald Mountain have trails that are open for fat biking as well as snowshoeing.

You can also rent a fat bike at local bike shops in Steamboat Springs. These bikes are perfect for hitting the trails at Howelsen Hill, Emerald Mountain and Rabbit Ears Pass or to ride around town!

Date Night at Aurum Food & Wine

Steamboat Springs is one of the most vibrant dining scenes west of Denver with a wide variety of restaurants from fine dining to burgers and brunch.

Whether you are looking to dine in a comfortable and relaxing setting or enjoy a romantic dinner for two, Aurum Food & Wine is the perfect spot for an evening out! This modern chic restaurant along the Yampa River offers a unique culinary experience with stunning views.

You can also book a one-of-a-kind private dining experience at their premium dining yurt. It’s a great way to impress your loved ones with an elegant and sophisticated meal.

Cowboy Downhill

When you combine Steamboat’s Western heritage with our modern-day mountain culture, it’s no surprise we’ve got tons of exciting annual events to enjoy. One of those is the Cowboy Downhill, which invites professional rodeo cowboys and bull riders to ski the slopes of Steamboat Resort.

It started 40 years ago when Billy Kidd, former director of skiing for the mountain, and Larry Mahan, six-time All-Around World Champion cowboy, invited ProRodeo stars to compete in a ski rodeo downhill. Today, 100 of the best rodeo cowboys and cowgirls in the country compete each year.

It’s a fun family event to watch and is sponsored by Bud Light. This Western celebration at the base of the mountain includes a 4H animal petting zoo, learn to rope clinics, appearances by Denver Broncos cheerleaders and limited edition Bud Light Cowboy Downhill logo wear.