A Local's Guide to Steamboat Springs, Colorado

Welcome to Steamboat Springs, CO!

Steamboat Springs has a cowboy streak that decades of ski tourism haven't managed to erase. We're talking about ranches that still dot the Yampa Valley, Olympic athletes training on the town's historic ski jumps, and downtown's old brick storefronts housing everything from Western outfitters to ambitious restaurants.

Needless to say, this beloved Colorado destination is also famous for its Champagne Powder, excellent skiing opportunities, alpine lakes, natural hot springs, great local eateries, and some of Colorado's most entertaining winter traditions.

In this guide, we'll cover Steamboat's best attractions, as recommended by locals, along with practical tips for exploring the mountains and finding a good table after a day outdoors.

A Quick Word From Us

Steamboat Lodging Company has 50+ vacation rentals across town, from ski-in/ski-out homes and downtown condos to pet-friendly townhomes and spacious mountain lodges. Our local team is also here to help with trip planning, activity bookings, and insider tips for getting the most out of Steamboat.

Fish Creek Falls framed by the forested canyon.

Outdoor Recreation, Trails & Scenic Landmarks

Waterfalls & Alpine Hikes

Fish Creek Falls

Just 10 minutes from downtown, this 283-foot waterfall puts on quite a show as it plunges through a forested canyon. A short gravel path leads to a scenic overlook, or you can follow another trail down to the bridge for a closer look. Visit during spring snowmelt to see the falls at their most powerful.

Upper Fish Creek Falls & Long Lake Trail

Continue past the lower falls as the trail climbs through pine forests and rocky terrain to Upper Fish Creek Falls. Long Lake lies farther into the backcountry for those keen to keep going. Pack snacks, plenty of water, and sturdy hiking shoes.

Gold Creek Lake & Rainbow Lake

These Mount Zirkel Wilderness hikes serve up classic Colorado scenery, with alpine lakes, mountain views, and trails that don't require technical climbing skills. Gold Creek Lake is a 6.5-mile roundtrip trek, with Rainbow Lake offering a shorter outing. Come in summer for colorful wildflowers or autumn for a spectacular display of golden foliage.

Town-Adjacent Trails & Scenic Overlooks

Emerald Mountain & Blackmere Drive

Across the river from downtown, Emerald Mountain offers miles of hiking and mountain biking trails, including Blackmere Drive, which climbs through aspen and pine forests toward stunning views of the Yampa Valley. Check seasonal wildlife closures before heading out.

Mad Creek Trail

Follow this canyon trail north of town to the historic Ratliff Barn, built in 1906. The route passes meadows, forest, and rushing water. Keep an eye out for wildlife, especially moose near the creek.

Spring Creek Trail & Ponds

A favorite among walkers, runners, and mountain bikers, this trail follows a wooded creek from town toward Dry Lake.The lower ponds are great for a short family outing, and those with extra energy can continue uphill for a longer hike.

Yampa River Core Trail

This paved, approximately 7.5-mile route follows the Yampa River through town, connecting parks, downtown attractions, and residential neighborhoods. Rent a bicycle, go for a morning run, or enjoy a relaxed riverside walk.

Mountain Passes, High Peaks & Backcountry Slopes

Rabbit Ears Peak Trail

Named after its distinctive twin rock formations, this roughly 5.5-mile roundtrip hike offers breathtaking views of Routt National Forest. The summer wildflowers here are spectacular.

Buffalo Pass, Summit Lake & Flash of Gold Trail

Buffalo Pass takes you high into the mountains northeast of town, where summer is all about alpine hikes, camping under the stars, and mountain biking along the scenic Flash of Gold Trail. Planning to drive to the top? Bring a high-clearance 4WD vehicle, as the upper road gets pretty rough.

At Steamboat Ski Resort, the whole family gets a chance to enjoy the mountain, from first turns to thrilling downhill runs.

Mountain Resort Sports & Outdoor Activities

Steamboat Ski Resort On-Mountain Features & Terrain

Famous for its trademarked Champagne Powder snow, Steamboat has nearly 3,000 acres of skiable terrain, from gentle beginner slopes to challenging expert runs. Here's a breakdown:

Wild Blue Gondola & Greenhorn Ranch

The Wild Blue Gondola links the resort base to Sunshine Peak, stopping at Greenhorn Ranch's dedicated beginner learning area. First-time skiers love its gentle terrain and purpose-built facilities.

Sunshine Peak & Tree Skiing

Sunshine Peak is popular for long cruising runs such as Tomahawk and High Noon. Experienced skiers head into the resort's celebrated glades, including Shadows and Closets. Always tackle tree terrain with a partner.

Night Skiing

On select winter evenings, Christie Peak's illuminated trails extend the skiing after sunset. It's a chance to squeeze in a few extra runs under the stars and enjoy the mountain after dark.

Burgess Creek Beach & Adventure Zone

Summer turns the mountain base into a popular family playground, with Burgess Creek flowing through shallow wading pools and sandy play areas where kids splash around. Over at the Adventure Zone, families will also find bungee trampolines, a climbing wall, ropes courses, and summer tubing.

Howelsen Hill Historic Recreation Area

Howelsen Hill Ski Area

Established in 1915, this historic ski hill has helped train generations of Olympic athletes. Its winter activities include alpine skiing, Nordic trails, ski jumping, and tubing. Look out for Free Ski Sundays on eligible dates.

The Howler Alpine Slide

One of Steamboat's most entertaining summer attractions, this 2,400-foot alpine slide lets you zip downhill on an individually controlled sled. Ride the chairlift to the top, enjoy the views, and use the hand brake to control your descent. It typically operates from June through September, depending on weather and resort schedules.

Howelsen Ice Arena

For a fun break from the outdoors, head to Howelsen Ice Arena for public skating sessions, hockey games, and bumper cars on ice throughout the year. Lace up a pair of rental skates for a few laps around the rink, or hop into an ice bumper car for some spinning and friendly collisions. Check the activity schedule ahead of your visit, and book the popular bumper car sessions in advance.

Water Sports, River Floating, Zipline and Ranch Adventures

Yampa River Tubing

Floating down the Yampa River through downtown Steamboat is a summer tradition, with sunshine, mountain views along the way. Grab an inflatable tube from outfitters such as Backdoor Sports, which also provide transportation when conditions permit.

Steamboat Lake State Park

Approximately 26 miles north of town, this mountain reservoir sits beneath Hahn's Peak. Summer is prime time for boating, kayaking, fishing, swimming, and camping. The surrounding trails are also worth exploring on foot, with scenic walks and beautiful mountain views.

Steamboat Zipline Adventures

During the warmer months, this guided zipline adventure is a thrilling way to see the Yampa Valley from above, where you'll soar across multiple aerial sections, with mountain views and a great dose of adrenaline.

Saddleback Ranch

For a taste of the area's ranching traditions, head to Saddleback Ranch, where you can enjoy horseback rides in both summer and winter. During the snowy season, there's also snow tubing and snowmobiling.

Strawberry Park Natural Hot Springs features a rustic setting with stone-lined mineral pools surrounded by trees.

Hot Springs & Relaxation

Old Town Hot Springs

Located downtown, this historic mineral springs complex is home to multiple soaking pools, fitness facilities, and family-friendly amenities.

Strawberry Park Natural Hot Springs

Set in a forested canyon outside town, Strawberry Park features a more rustic hot springs experience, with stone-lined mineral pools surrounded by trees. Reservations are required, and the access road demands extra care in winter.

Western Heritage, Arts & Community Culture

Museums & Cultural Centers

Tread of Pioneers Museum

Housed in a historic downtown residence, this museum explores Steamboat's Indigenous heritage, ranching history, and remarkable skiing legacy. Look out for its historical walking tours.

Steamboat Art Museum

Housed in a historic downtown building, the Steamboat Art Museum celebrates the art and culture of the American West. Browse exhibitions featuring paintings, photography, and works by regional artists, with rotating shows that explore the landscapes, people, and traditions of the Rocky Mountains.

Heritage Events & Cultural Traditions

Steamboat Springs Pro Rodeo Series

Friday and Saturday evenings in summer are rodeo nights in Steamboat! Head to Romick Arena for an action-packed lineup of bull riding, barrel racing, team roping, and other classic rodeo competitions. Arrive early for some barbecue, grab a seat in the stands, and soak up the lively Western atmosphere as cowboys and cowgirls prepare for the night's events.

Steamboat Winter Carnival

Every February, Steamboat celebrates its winter heritage with ski races, nighttime performances, and the extraordinary sight of horses pulling skiers along Lincoln Avenue. This is one of the most unusual events you'll ever experience, so if your visit coincides with the Carnival, don't miss a moment of it.

Cowboy Downhill

Every January, professional rodeo cowboys swap their boots for skis and tackle the slopes of Mount Werner in one of Steamboat's most entertaining winter traditions. It's a hilarious collision of ski culture and the Wild West, and a great excuse to spend an afternoon cheering from the sidelines.

Yampa Valley Kitchen set inside a historic house.

Dining & Culinary Scene

Breakfast & Brunch

• Creekside Café & Grill: A downtown breakfast institution famous for creative Eggs Benedict, green chile burritos, and Bloody Marys.
  
  
• Yampa Valley Kitchen: Set inside a historic house with a beautiful garden patio, this brunch favorite focuses on fresh ingredients, crepes, and inventive egg dishes.
  
  
• Winona's Restaurant & Bakery: The enormous cinnamon rolls are practically a Steamboat attraction. This popular diner also serves hearty American breakfasts and freshly baked treats.
  
  
• The Paramount: Near the resort base, this casual café serves breakfast burritos, sandwiches, and espresso.
  
  
• Johnny B Good's Diner: Get a taste of old-school charm at Johnny B Good's, with retro booths, classic burgers, milkshakes, and generous breakfasts.

Casual Eats, Pizza, & Pub Fare

• Back Door Grill: This unpretentious burger joint has walls covered in signed dollar bills and a menu full of inventive burgers.
  
  
• Mountain Tap Brewery: Come for wood-fired pizzas and house-brewed beers. The outdoor seating area is a popular local hangout in summer.
  
  
• Mazzola's Italian Diner: A downtown favorite for hearty Italian comfort food, Mazzola's serves pasta, pizzas, and classic Italian-American dishes in a cozy, casual setting.
  
  
• Taco Cabo: Mexican food with a riverside setting is the draw at Taco Cabo. Stop by for tacos, burritos, and other Mexican favorites, ideally enjoyed outdoors on a sunny afternoon near the Yampa River.
  
  

Table 79 Foodbar is a downtown favorite with an open kitchen where you can watch the chefs at work.

Fine Dining & Special Occasion Tables

• Aurum Steamboat: Right on the Yampa River, Aurum is a great spot for contemporary American cuisine, creative cocktails, and a little riverside people-watching. Grab a table on the outdoor patio during warmer months, or stop by for happy hour and enjoy the river views over drinks and appetizers.
  
  
• Café Diva: Just steps from the resort base, Café Diva is a favorite for a special dinner, thanks to its intimate dining room, beautifully prepared seafood, and hearty meat specialties.
  
  
• Table 79 Foodbar: This downtown favorite is a great pick for a fun dinner, with an open kitchen where you can watch the chefs at work. Expect creative small plates, bold flavor combinations, and a vibrant atmosphere.
  

Craft Breweries & Distilleries

• Storm Peak Brewing Company: This local brewery pours a rotating selection of IPAs, lagers, and seasonal beers at its Elk River Road taproom. Its second location, the Bus Stop, sits near the ski resort base.
  
  
• Mythology Distillery: A destination for Colorado-made whiskey, gin, and creative cocktails. The Elk River Road distillery also offers a relaxed setting for an afternoon tasting.
  
  
• Steamboat Whiskey Company: This independent distillery specializes in small-batch spirits and inventive cocktails. A good alternative to the town's beer-focused drinking scene.
  
  
• The Barley Tap & Bar: A downtown favorite for craft beer, with a broad selection of rotating taps. Ideal for sampling different Colorado breweries without traveling far.
  
  

See You in the Colorado Mountains!

With all these local tips in hand, you're more than ready to enjoy the best of Steamboat Springs!

At Steamboat Lodging Company, we know that a great vacation goes beyond finding the right place to stay. With an incredible collection of vacation rentals across town and a friendly local team ready to share recommendations, help book activities, and answer your questions, we're here to help you enjoy every bit of your mountain getaway.