We were once told by a wise 'Funcle' that you visit Steamboat to ski but you stay for the summer. Here is the a list of the top 10 things that we enjoy doing during the summer in Steamboat and hope you will as well...
Rodeo - Dust off your cowboy boots, American flag shirt, and 10-gallon hat because it's time to head to the Rodeo. Nothing is more fun than watching a cow get the best of a cowboy and sometime the other way around. Rodeo performances are held on Fridays and Saturdays at the Brent Romick Rodeo Arena. They begin at 7:30 pm and run about 2 hours. A special performance is held on the 4th of July.
Historic Downtown Steamboat - Whether you are in the mood for a little shopping at Chris' favorite store, FM Light & Sons, or a margarita at Steph's favorite watering hole, The Rio, you will find it all. This historic shopping district combines the nostalgia of old-time storefronts with the allure of boutique shops, galleries and a plethora of restaurants and bars. Don't forget to take your picture in front of the Rabbit Ears Motel!
Steamboat Lake has everything from water skiing, to fishing, to relaxing on sandy beaches. The lake is just a half-hour's drive north of town on Routt County Road 129. It is definitely a must see. Check out everything it has to offer.
There are two places to go if you want to soak up the sun in the natural hot springs. You can head to the more traditional, family friendly Old Town Hot Springs at 3rd Street and Lincoln Avenue. These pools have recently been remodeled and feature two 230-foot water slides. Or you can head seven miles north of town on Routt County Road 36 to the more rustic Strawberry Park. You may find Chris and his groomsmen here after dark, when clothing is optional.
Howelson Hill serves as the training grounds to a record number of Winter Olympians but it's also home to some very fun summer activities. Go check out the ski jumps and you may get lucky enough to catch summer ski jumping. The Alpine Slide is a favorite; try to break the decent record of 43 seconds. Nearby is the Howelsen Ice Arena if you need a break from the heat or head to the park for a picnic, a game of tennis or basketball, or send the kids to the skate park.
Even if you are a sinker, like Chris, you will enjoy jumping in the Yampa River and floating through town on an inner tube or an inflatable alligator. You can go on your own or with one of the several commercial companies offering everything from tubes to transportation. Don't forget a pair of old shoes to wear in the river, the rocks on the bottom can get slippery and sharp.
The picture explains it all ... Check out these links, pun intended.
Catamount Ranch and Club - this is a private club so you will need an invitation from a club member to play
Haymaker
Rolling Stone Ranch Golf Club
Steamboat Golf Club
The hiking trails around Steamboat are some of the most beautiful in Colorado. Remember that afternoon thunderstorms are common and that they can move in quickly. We recommend planning your hike for the morning and to think like a Boy Scout...always be prepared. Our two favorite hiking spots are:
Fish Creek Falls - This 283-foot waterfall was originally pictured on the cans of Coors beer. There are two easy walks for families to view the falls and for the more adventurous you can continue up the trail three miles to the scenic upper falls or even farther to Long Lake which is six miles one-way. There is a day-use service fee to park at the falls.
Spring Creek Trail - This 5 mile trail is great for hiking and mountain biking. It is one of the most popular in Steamboat.
During the summer months Steamboat turns from Ski Town USA to Bike Town USA. The town has evolved into a world-class mountain and road bike destination for people of all abilities. Can't fit your bike in your suitcase? Visit the Ski Haus or the base of the Gondola to rent a bike for the day.
Family Friendly - the Yampa River Core Trail is a seven mile multiuse path that runs next to the Yampa River from the east side of town to the west. This path is one of the best ways to get downtown in the summer. Just remember any hills you go down getting to the trail you will have to climb up on the way home. Watch out for Walton Creek Road aka the "Killer Hill".
Mountain Biking - for those of you looking for a thrill ride that is better than a roller coaster we recommend taking the Gondola up to the top of the ski area, pointing your bike downhill on one of the many trails and then holding on until the bottom.
Road Biking - On the pavement is where you will find Steph. Steamboat has numerous options when it comes to road biking. One of our favorites and one of the most challenging is to head east out of town on Hwy 40 to the top of Rabbit Ears Pass. This ride is quite hard but if you have the legs take your time and enjoy the amazing views of the valley.
Need we say more?