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Steamboat Springs emerged from the remoteness of Colorado’s high country as a ranching and mining town, but has since burst onto the global tourism scene as a top ski destination. Named after its geothermal springs, which were said the resemble the sound of a steamboat, the township backs onto the Howelson Hill ski zone and the alpine Steamboat ski resort. If you’re after a winter vacay that pairs Coloradan culture with great powder, Steamboat is the destination for you.
Like so many ski towns, Steamboat’s attractions are determined by the time of year you visit. The winter season normally runs from late November to April, so if you’re looking for some frozen fun, Christmas or New Year’s could be good opportunities to visit. The rugged folds of the Steamboat Ski Resort are perfect for all sorts of snow-oriented activities, while the Howelson Hill Ski Area is renowned as a training ground for Olympians. Nearby Mount Werner is also perfect for some cross-country action.
During summer, you’ll get to experience the natural beauty of the Coloradan landscape. The Yampa River Botanical Garden is definitely one of the prettiest areas, with a lovely range of floral displays, as well as regular summertime concerts. Emerald Mountain has a great selection of hiking and mountain biking trails, while places like Fish Creek Falls and Little Toots Park are perfect for family-friendly outdoor exploration. For the truly adventurous, check out the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests – over 2 million acres of pristine wilderness, with everything from thundering rapids to impassable mountain ranges.
Steamboat’s distinctive cultural offerings are also popular among tourists. Visit sites like The Tread of Pioneers Museum, which showcases Native American art and history, the Steamboat Art Museum, and the Crawford House, which was the primary residence of the town’s founders. For the family, the Amaze’n Steamboat Family Fun Park and the Howelson Ice Area are both great ways to keep the kids entertained. Finally, we’d be remiss in not mentioning the town’s eponymous attraction – the geothermal springs, which are available for visitation at the Old Town Hot Springs.
