So, you’re wondering what there is to do besides skiing and snowboarding in Ski Town U.S.A.? Steamboat is one of the most family-friendly resorts in the U.S. and one reason for this is the incredible array of activities offered in this little ski town. From relaxing in our famous hot springs to bombing down the tubing course, Steamboat has something for everyone. For a complete list of activities, visit The Steamboat Chamber website. In the meantime, here are some of our personal favorites…
Old Town Hot Springs
A “must do” while in Steamboat. Colorado’s original natural hot springs spa resort, Old Town Hot Springs has served visitors and locals since the 1880s. Located in downtown Steamboat Springs, visitors relax in one of four 104-degree spring-fed pools. Kids of all ages enjoy the thrill of our new 230-foot waterslides and aquatic climbing wall. Also available: zero-depth kiddie pool, lap lanes, childcare, massage, fitness center, fitness classes, snack bar and yoga. Phone: 970.879.1828 Visit Site
Sleigh Ride Dinners at Elk River Guest Ranch
Elk River Guest Ranch offers a progressive horse drawn sleigh ride dinner. Drinks and hors d’oeuvres are served upon arrival in the Elk River Guest Ranch’s Silhouette Saloon followed by a magical sleigh ride to the tepees for dinner. Tepees have a central warming fire surrounded by overstuffed couches and chairs. Lighting is a warm blend of candlelight and oil lamps. After dinner, guests are treated to another sleigh ride back to the saloon for dessert and after dinner drinks. Phone: 800-750-6220 Visit Site
Saddleback Ranch Snowmobile Tours
Guided tours goes over groomed trails and open meadows on private land. Enjoy the opportunity to see the most gorgeous views of the Flattops, Mt. Werner, Sleeping Giant and the Zirkles. The tour is 2 hours long with pickup times at 8:30 a.m. & 1:00 p.m. daily. After the ride, warm up at headquarters with a cup of hot chocolate and freshly baked cookies. Saddleback Ranch also offers a large selection of other winter activities. Phone: 970.879.3711 Visit Site
Tubing Steamboat
Come to historic Howelsen Hill in downtown Steamboat Springs for the ride of a lifetime! Ride the Magic Carpet to the top and come screaming down on a snow tube provided at the hill. There is a special lane for those who wish for a slower ride. This is a must-do experience for all ages. Children must be at least 36″ tall. Helmets are recommended. After tubing, stop in the Lodge and enjoy hot chocolate, cider, and snacks in front of a roaring fire. Howelsen is a training ground for ski and snowboard Olympians. Keep and eye on the hill – you’re sure to see future Olympians! Phone: 800.922.2722 Visit Site
Snowshoeing Steamboat
There are two options to enjoy the Yampa valley via snowshoes.
One is to snowshoe on the ski mountain. Snowshoe Rentals are available in the Information Center at the base of the gondola. You do not have to have a lift ticket, and you can showshoe up to the top of the gondola and enjoy lunch and breathtaking views of the valley. The Steamboat Ambassadors conduct a free guided snowshoe tour IF you purchase a lift ticket. Tours depart from the Information Center at the base of the Gondola daily at 1:00pm. You ride the gondola up and snowshoe mid-mountain areas. Phone: 877.237.2628 Visit Site
The second option is to rent snowshoes from Ski Haus and enjoy snowshoeing whever you like for $10 per day. The friendly folks at Ski Haus will suggest scenic hikes, from beginner to aerobic levels. (Ski Haus also offers some of the finest and newest ski and snowboard rental equipment at very competitive prices. Locals love Ski Haus. phone: 970.879.0385 / 800.932.3019 Visit Site
Ice Climbing with Rocky Mountain Ventures
If you enjoy the mountains, don’t miss this exhilarating opportunity. Come experience ice climbing on a frozen waterfall in a spectacular winter setting. RMV is the only permitted guided Ice Climbing outfitter in Steamboat. Fun for all ages (and great pictures to take home!) Phone: 970.870.8440 Visit Site
- No experience necessary /Beginner-Intermediate Toprope Ice Climbing
- Ages 13 & up /Morning or Afternoon
- Includes snack and hot drink /Transportation provided
Waterside Day Spa
Last but certainly not least, we recommend a relaxing Spa Treatment after a full day of fun in Steamboat. There are several spas in town, but we love this one. Located in the beautiful Waterside Village overlooking the Yampa River and Howelsen Hill, Waterside Day Spa and Salon is Steamboat Springs premier mountain spa retreat in the majestic Colorado Rocky mountains. Choose from luxurious and relaxing massage and body treatments, creative and trendy hair and nail services or put together a complete package that rejuvenates your mind, body and soul. Knowledgeable and “pamper-oriented” staff make this the best spa in town, hands down. Phone: 970.872.0271 Visit Site
Thanks for this post – heading to Steamboat in March – can’t wait!!
Good post. It would be nice to see a weekly post of your deals???? Lodging, lift tickets, food, etc. Just an idea!
I know you probably have a lot of kids in Steamboat hitting the park and pipe. Just want to remind them to wear BODY ARMOR. Always safety first – Olympics will come! Cheers and thanks for allowing the “plug”.
Nice site! It really looks good. I have a really close friend who I think would enjoy your blog. I’ll definitly pass it on to him.