22 fun Steamboat Springs summer activities for 2023
Once a tiny hot springs town, Read our guide to learn all about the top 22 Steamboat Springs summer activities that are perfect for the whole family to enjoy in 2023, including: 1. Marvel at Fish Creek Falls If you’re looking for a tranquil adventure in Steamboat Springs, head over to Fish Creek Falls. This scenic waterfall is one of the most popular attractions in the area, and it offers something for everyone. You can hike along the trails that surround the falls, enjoy a picnic at the shaded tables or cool off in the pristine water. The best time to go is early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the sun isn’t too harsh and the crowds are smaller. You can park in the main lot near the entrance for a small fee, or find free spots along the road if you don't mind walking a bit to reach the waterfall wonderland. 2. Stroll through Yampa River Botanic Park If you’re feeling adventurous, you can rent a kayak to explore the Yampa River and a bike to pedal through the park. Or simply enjoy the native birds and wildlife while sitting on a park bench and watching the kayakers pass by. Whether you want to relax or be active, this park is a great place to enjoy summertime Steamboat activities. 3. Relax at Steamboat Ski Resort This resort is full of amenities that will help you relax and recharge for more adventuring the next day. Book excursions like horseback riding and ziplining, or become a regular at the resort’s nightly sunset happy hours. 4. Take a dip at Old Town Hot Springs This historic recreational facility offers eight pools with healing mineral water, a world-class gym and a variety of fitness classes to sign up for while you're in town. This magical place is so much more than a hot spring — not only can you enjoy soaking in the warm water, but your whole family can slide down waterslides and practice new yoga poses together.
You can also explore the nearby downtown area of Steamboat Springs, which has many shops, local restaurants and attractions to enjoy. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, a visit to 5. Try a new sport at Howelsen Hill Ski Area Howelsen Hill Ski Area is a historic and scenic destination for outdoor enthusiasts in Steamboat Springs, Colorado. Whether you are looking for a relaxing or adventurous way to spend a summer day, you’ll find plenty of options at this versatile park. Picnics are a popular activity for families to enjoy in the summer, but skiing is also available. Yes, you read that right — skiing in the summer. You can even ski jump in the summer at Howelsen Hill Ski Area, thanks to the plastic surface that covers the jumps. Watch the athletes practice their skills or sign up for a lesson and try it yourself. 6. Become a history buff at the Tread of Pioneers Museum If you’re looking for a fun and educational way to spend a summer day in Steamboat Springs, you need to visit the Tread of Pioneers Museum. This museum showcases the rich history and culture of the Yampa Valley and its people, from the Ute Native Americans to the early settlers and ranchers. Explore exhibits on local skiing, mining and agriculture practices. You can also see historic buildings such as a pioneer home, a schoolhouse, a cabin and a barn. The museum offers guided tours, special events and interactive programs for all ages. Whether you are interested in learning about the past or enjoying the present, the Tread of Pioneers Museum is one of the top Steamboat Springs things to do. 7. Bike the Yampa River Core Trail Steamboat Springs is known as “Bike Town USA,” thanks to its many paved trails and some 500 miles of single-track mountain biking trails. For casual cyclists, the 7-mile On a warm summer day, it’s a popular spot for both cyclists and walkers, many of whom stop along the way to grab a bite to eat or a cold drink. Since the path is mostly flat and you can hop on and off wherever you want, it’s a popular activity for families with kids of all ages. 8. Have a ball at Howelsen Ice Arena If you want to learn how to skate or improve your skills, you can sign up for a group or private lesson with one of the certified instructors. Lessons are available for all ages and levels, from beginner to advanced. You can also join a hockey clinic or camp if you’re interested in playing the sport while you’re in town. 9. Soak away stress at Strawberry Park Hot Springs Practice self-care at 10. Sample the seasonal bounty at the Steamboat Springs Farmers Market Come hungry to the 11. Hike the Zirkel Circle With almost 160,000 acres of pristine wilderness, the The trail spans 10.3 miles and has almost 2,500 feet of elevation gain, leading intrepid hikers through expansive wilderness areas and meadows filled with summer wildflowers, and rewarding them with gorgeous alpine lakes. At the midpoint of the hike, you’ll find yourself at Gilpin Lake — a perfect place for a picnic lunch. Pro tip: The loop hike can be done either clockwise or counterclockwise, but counterclockwise gives you a more gradual ascent. 12. Take a day trip to Steamboat Lake The 27-mile scenic drive from Steamboat Springs to 13. Take flight on a hot air balloon ride On crisp summer mornings, look up and you’re likely to see colorful hot air balloons dotting the sky over Steamboat Springs. A hot air balloon ride is a wonderful (and exhilarating!) way to take in the beauty of the whole Yampa Valley from above. Multiple purveyors in town offer hot air balloon rides. Arrive at sunrise and watch your balloon inflate. Then climb into the basket and allow yourself to be whisked away over 1,000 feet above town. 14. Take a day trip to Mount Werner Mount Werner is a popular ski resort in the winter, but it also offers many activities in the warmer months. Take a scenic gondola ride to the top of the mountain, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Yampa Valley and the surrounding peaks. You can also hike or bike on one of the many trails that crisscross the mountain, or try your hand at disc golf. If you’re feeling more adventurous, you can zipline through the trees or climb the ropes course or the rock wall. 15. Take a Steamboat Springs food tour If you’re looking for a delicious way to spend a summer day in Steamboat Springs, you might want to consider joining a You might even be able to meet some of the chefs and owners behind the 16. Gaze over the town atop Emerald Mountain Emerald Mountain is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts in Steamboat Springs. If you enjoy hiking, you can choose from several trails that range from easy to challenging. Some of the trails offer panoramic views of the Yampa Valley and the Steamboat Ski Resort, while others take you through lush forests and meadows. You can also hike to the historic Howelsen Hill ski jump, where many Olympic athletes have trained. There are also horseback riding and biking opportunities available. Whatever you choose to do on Emerald Mountain, you will have a memorable summer day in Steamboat Springs. 17. Tube down the Yampa River One of the best ways to enjoy a summer day in Steamboat Springs is to go tubing down the Yampa River. The Yampa River is a scenic and refreshing waterway that flows through the heart of the town. Tubing is a simple and inexpensive way to experience the river, as you just need a tube, a life jacket and some sunscreen. The most popular section of the river for tubing is from 5th Street Bridge to James Brown Soul Center of the Universe Bridge — a 2-mile stretch that takes about an hour and a half to complete. This section has gentle rapids and waves that add some excitement to the ride, but nothing too challenging or dangerous. You can also extend your trip by starting from Fetcher Park or ending at Rotary Park, which will add another mile or two to your journey. 18. Explore King Solomon Falls If you’re looking for a thrilling way to spend a summer day in Colorado, you might want to check out King Solomon Falls near Steamboat Springs. This hidden gem is a spectacular waterfall that plunges into a deep pool surrounded by cliffs and rocks. It is a great spot for swimming and fishing — even cliff jumping for the risktakers in your group. After about a mile of hiking, you’ll be greeted by a stunning sight of water cascading down from about 70 feet into a clear pool. King Solomon Falls is a unique and beautiful destination that offers a lot of fun and excitement for those who are willing to make the effort. It is also a well-kept secret that not many people know about, so you might have it all to yourself if you go on a weekday or early in the morning. 19. Camp under the stars at Routt National Forest You can also kayak, raft or tube on the Yampa River that flows through Steamboat Springs. After a long day of thrills, cool off in one of the many nearby creeks and prepare yourself for a gorgeous night under the stars. 20. Fly over Steamboat Springs in a helicopter tour For an unforgettable way to experience the beauty of Steamboat Springs in the summer, consider taking a helicopter tour. This tour will give you a bird's-eye view of the stunning scenery, from the lush green valleys and meadows to the majestic peaks and ridges of the Rocky Mountains. You’ll also get to see some of the landmarks and attractions of Steamboat Springs, such as the Steamboat Ski Resort, the Yampa River and Fish Creek Falls. You can choose from different tour packages and durations, depending on your budget and preferences. Some tours even offer landing options, where you can get out of the helicopter and explore some of the scenic spots on foot. A helicopter tour is your opportunity to see Steamboat Springs from a different perspective. 21. Dance the day away at a concert If you’re looking for some entertainment in Steamboat Springs, you might want to check out concerts that are held throughout the year. Whether you enjoy rock, jazz, bluegrass or classical music, there is a genre for everyone at these events. 22. Two-step at the local rodeo One of the most popular events in Steamboat Springs is the You can watch bull riding, barrel racing, team roping, bronc riding and more. The rodeo also features entertainment for the whole family, such as clown acts, mutton busting, a calf scramble and live music. The rodeo grounds are located just a few minutes from downtown Steamboat Springs, where you can enjoy shopping, dining and nightlife. Although Steamboat Springs' summer activities are full of adventure, it’s also enjoyable year-round, making it an ideal location for a If the breathtaking views, relaxing hot springs and adorable downtown keep you coming back for more, then consider co-owning a luxurious second home in
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