Things to do in Steamboat, Besides Ski
Known as “Ski Town” USA, Steamboat Springs has got it all when it comes to skiing. With eighteen lifts servicing 169 trails, you’ll be able to find something to ski no matter your ability. Even with all the skiing this resort has to offer, there comes a time when the lifts stop for the day and you’re stuck with the question, “What do I do now?” Fear not as our team has put together some of our favorite activities to do when we visit Steamboat, besides skiing of course.
Strawberry Park Hot Springs
There’s nothing like taking a dip in a hot tub after a long day of hitting the slopes, but you know what’s even better? A natural hot spring only 30 minutes from the resort. This isn’t your normal hot spring either, this is a whole facility with lodging and massages.
There’s three hot pools to choose from, along with one cold pool that may not be too busy once the winter hits. While these hot springs are open to the public, the road to them definitely requires a 4×4 vehicle so plan accordingly or take one of the shuttles at the resort that make trips to the hot springs daily.
Scenic Gondola Ride
If you’re still looking to take in some of the scenic mountain vistas that surround Steamboat then don’t miss out on taking a gondola ride up Mt. Werner. Tickets for adults over the age of 13 are $39 and guests will also receive a $10 voucher for any of the dining outlets within the Thunderhead building.
Fish Creek Falls
Still trying to get a bit of exercise in on your off day? Then you have to check out Fish Creek Falls. This easily accessible ¼‑mile walk will bring you to the bottom of this 280 ft frozen waterfall that’s just a short drive from downtown Steamboat Springs.
Snow Tubing
No town that calls itself “Ski Town USA” lacks a sledding hill and luckily Steamboat has got you covered at Saddleback Ranch. This facility offers 2 hour sessions where you can slide down their groomed hill as much as you desire while being towed back up on their state of the art tube-tow system. Once you’re done sledding you’ll be able to warm yourself up at the Longhorn Warming Lodge.
Outlaw Mountain Coaster
For you speed demons, there’s more ways to feel the wind in your hair than just skiing at Steamboat. They also offer the Outlaw Mountain Coaster, the longest coaster in North America at 6,280 linear feet long. This coaster brings passengers past the Christie Peak Express before it descends over 400 vertical while also rising 40 feet off the ground.
Steamboat Winter Carnival
If you happen to plan your ski vacation in mid-February then you have to check out the Steamboat Winter Carnival. This event prides itself on it’s unique twist on winter carnivals with it’s Lighting the Flame event being one of the coolest things that we’ve seen in any ski town. Athletes ski down the mountain lit up only by flares and lights as others jump through a ring of fire. The best part about it is the main event, the Lighted Man who skis down Howelsen Hill while fireworks shoot out from their pyrotechnic suit.
Thinking about making a ski trip to Steamboat this year? Make sure to reserve your equipment with Ski Butlers. Want to see what other people are saying about Ski Butlers? Check out some reviews. We can’t wait to see you on the slopes this year.
