Steamboat Springs is famous for its Champagne Powder™ winters, and lush colorful summers. But, in between summer months and Steamboat Ski Resort opening day, our mountain town enters a period that some of the locals call “Mud Season.” During the off season, expect jaw-dropping lodging deals, restaurant specials, sales at local shops, fewer crowds, and serene autumn weather making mud season both an affordable and relaxing time of year! See our list below for a glimpse at just a few of the awesome benefits and activities you can experience during Steamboat’s off season.
1. THE BEST DEALS ON FOOD AND LODGING
Brace yourselves because the greatest deals on food and lodging in Steamboat Springs are found during its off season. Aside from the extensive list of food deals, one can find even more affordable lodging by booking direct with Steamboat Lodging Company. Browse our growing list of properties at some of the lowest rates of the year. See our Steamboat Springs lodging specials here!
Local’s Tip: For the inside scoop on Steamboat’s best restaurants check out these great resources: 11 Best Breakfast & Brunch Spots In Steamboat Springs & Top 15 Restaurants In Steamboat Springs!
2. YOU WILL HAVE THE PLACE TO YOURSELF
Being that Steamboat Springs is a ski town, a majority of its traffic comes during the winter season. Before the snow starts flying, you’ll notice there’s a lot more space for yourself, no matter the activity. Whether it’s a cool autumn hike or fly fishing on the Yampa river through downtown Steamboat Springs, it’s rare to encounter others on your path. This makes it an ideal season for those who prefer to have a little more solitude during their favorite activities!
3. DUAL ACTIVITY DAYS
A key part to mud season is that you can fill your day with a mix of outdoor activities. In the morning time, take a brisk hike and enjoy the fall colors as the aspens change and the mountains turn a mix of hues of gold.
When the afternoon warms up, road and mountain biking options will be available in portions of the Yampa Valley. Inquire at Ski Haus for dry trails or road ride options, they have the latest and greatest bikes and equipment for rent. Some of our favorite fall trails that are easily rideable are Mad Creek, Lower Bear, and The Ridge Trail. Please respect closed trails.
Local’s Tip: Be prepared because you’ll most likely find yourself with winter clothing on in the morning and by the afternoon quickly undressing into shorts and a t-shirt!
4. FLY FISHING – BIG FISH COME OUT TO PLAY
The fly fishing is superb during mud season in Steamboat Springs with moderate water flows, overcast weather, and warming temperatures. Trust us, the fishing really turns on this time of year and we suggest fishing the famous tail-waters of stagecoach reservoir for gigantic rainbow and brown trout, or sneak away for some casts in downtown Steamboat Spring on the Yampa River while the family goes shopping. Let the experts at Yampa Valley Anglers take you straight to the hot spots with a guided fly fishing trip. All you need to do is show up with your fishing license and they will provide the rest. It’s big fish season!
Local Tip: Stagecoach Reservoir is a fishing mecca. Stocked with 1,000’s of rainbow trout annually, this is the perfect place to take the kids fishing in Colorado beauty. This lake has held the Colorado State Record Northern Pike in the past and is thought that the next record will again be broken here. Will you be the one to do so?
5. STRAWBERRY PARK HOT SPRINGS TO YOURSELF
Strawberry Park Hot Springs is one of the most famous hot springs in Colorado and possibly the most sought out destination in Steamboat Springs. During mud season, expect many days with the pools unoccupied having the freedom to float amongst yourself or your family, especially in the morning.
Local’s Tip: Typically, Strawberry Park is completely booked solid, but expect some more availability compared to summer or winter. You can book your slot for your hot springs soak HERE!
6. LEAF PEEPING HIKING AND BIKING TRAILS
During the mud season, Steamboat Spring’s numerous bike and hike trails start to explode with fall colors. Remedy your need for leaf peeping by getting out, stretching your legs, and breathing in the fresh fall air. Early in the fall, you will notice the first signs of leaves changing, and this time of year is some of local’s favorite in the Yampa Valley. Birds will be chirping, mushrooms will be popping up, and the aspen leaves will be beginning to turn. As the fall lurches towards winter, the golden aspen leaves will change on the mountains and the wildflowers will be in their final stages of bloom.
Local’s Tip: A few of our favorite trails for hiking and biking include the Yampa Core Trail, Spring Creek, Mad Creek, and Buff Pass. Please respect all closed trails.
7. YOU CAN FIND WINTER ON RABBIT EARS PASS
Even though Steamboat Resort is closed, and will not open until ski season begins, Rabbit Ears pass offers some early season winter views for those who are eager to find some of famous Champagne Powder. If some snow has fallen above a certain altitude you can enjoy some breathtaking wintery views and hikes throughout Rabbit Ears pass and the best part is you don’t have to buy lift tickets, so get out and enjoy!
8. GO BOWLING
Look no further for a late night activity that the whole family can enjoy. Snow Bowl is Steamboat Spring’s historic bowling alley offers a range of specials during the off season. Experience Snow Bowl’s newly upgraded lane scoring system on their 12 lanes amongst an arcade, full-service bar, and updated menu!
9. ENJOY THE LAKES AND RIVERS
The rivers in Colorado normally peak in early June, but there is still fun to be had on the lakes and rivers in Steamboat. Steamboat and the surrounding area can provide opportunity for easy access to some stunning autumn water adventures. Bucking Rainbow Outfitters’ expert guides will take you down the rivers of your choice ranging from the Yampa, North Platte, Eagle, Elk, and Colorado rivers. Transportation and lunches are included.
BOOK WITH STEAMBOAT LODGING COMPANY
Looking for an easy fall mountain getaway? You don’t have to wait until the winter ski season is in full swing and the crowds are at their highest to enjoy our little slice of paradise. You’ll feel like you’re getting away with highway robbery at how little you will be spending on a world-class vacation in Steamboat Springs. Let yourself in on one of the best kept local secrets, mud season is awesome in Steamboat!
Call us at Steamboat Lodging Company, we are your local boots on the ground lodging company providing top notch accommodations and assistance with all things Steamboat. Remember, you will always get the best rates when you book directly with us!
Call Steamboat Lodging Company and speak with a reservation specialist or book directly online!
