What to Do in Steamboat Springs in the Winter
Steamboat Springs is a winter wonderland from November through April, May or June depending on the year. Our landscape transforms from the vibrant colors of summer to a landscape of grey, brown and white. With blue skies above, the world sparkles and shimmers. Because of our remote location it took a while for Steamboat to be ‘discovered’ by winter vacationers. Now each year tens of thousands of people flock to Steamboat to explore the winter world we have.
If you are new to Steamboat, below are a few ideas for what you can do in the snow and out of the snow:
IN THE SNOW
Skiing & Snowboarding: With two mountains to choose from, Mt. Werner and Howelsen Hill there is a ski adventure for every budget and ski level.
Fat Tire Biking: This sport has taken off over the last couple of years. Before Mt. Werner opens in the morning, bikers can be found making the long climb up. Emerald Mountain is another great venue for Fat Tire Biking.
Snowshoeing: The great thing about snowshoeing is anyone can do it. Strap on your snowshoes and head out for a wilderness adventure. Some of our favorite places to go are Rabbit Ears Pass and Emerald Mountain.
Cross Country Skiing: For groomed trails visit the Ski Touring Center, Haymaker or start at the base of Howelsen Hill. All trails are pay per use so be sure to get a ticket before you take off.
Snowmobiling: Tours run from Rabbit Ears Pass and head into the wilderness. Snowmobiles are a great way to see a lot of the backcountry of Steamboat that most people never see.
Dog Sledding: Ever wondered what it would be like to drive your own team of dogs? Find out with this once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
Sleigh Ride: Harken back to earlier days with draft horses pulling a sleigh to take you to your dinner destination.Tubing: Ever flown down a snowy hill in an inflated inner tube? It is more fun than you can imagine. This is a great family friendly activity.
OUT OF THE SNOW
Soak in the Hot Springs: Warm up in the two natural hot springs with chemically pure waters. The Old Town Hot springs is right in town, easy to access, and family friendly. The Strawberry Park Hot Springs is a 20 minute drive out of town. Four wheel drive or chains are required as the roads are not maintained and often icy. But once you get there you are treated to a soak in expansive pools of differing temperatures in a rustic environment.
Visit a Steamboat Spa: Life Essentials Day Spa, voted the number one spa in Steamboat by Best in the Boat four years running is your destination for facials, massage, body scrubs, relaxation and pampering.
Eat Out: Steamboat literally has every type of food you can imagine from world class restaurants like Café Diva to family friendly eateries like Rex’s. Indulge!
Chief Theater: The old Chief Theatre is a staple in town. They offer a variety of entertainment from movies to comedy performances to theatre and more. Don’t miss a chance to enjoy this venue where cowboys once rode horses into the movie theatre.
First Friday: If art is your thing, on the first Friday of every month, galleries open their doors from 5-8 with wine and appetizers to celebrate the local artists of Steamboat as well as national artists. Stroll downtown and stop in as many galleries as you can.
Strings on the Mountain: Steamboat’s premiere music destination. If you like bluegrass, jazz, symphony orchestras and more, Strings’ venue is one of a kind with some of the most famous performers from around the world.