Spring has sprung in Steamboat and with that comes Mother Nature’s seasonal whims. One minute we are basking in sunshine, the next we’re diving for cover as darkened skies dump rain, hail, or snow. For those who are happy to snag off season prices and accept a little unpredictability with the weather conditions, Steamboat Springs has plenty to offer. Hike and bike when the sun shines and savor a taste of town when the heavens open. Here are some of our favorite things to do during springtime in the “Boat.

1. Bud Werner Memorial Library. Find a comfy chair or snuggle up on a window seat with a book or a magazine. Public-access computers are available for use and kids have access to a play area, which is perfect for stretching out.
2. Take a class at the Old Town Hot Springs in downtown Steamboat. Guests have the option of everything from Pilates to the hot pools.
3. Drop into the Yoga Center of Steamboat on Yampa Street and stretch tired muscles to the sound of runoff in the river.
4. Step back in time with a tour inside a Queen Anne-style Victorian home built in 1901 at the Tread of Pioneers Museum, 800 Oak Street. Discover how the Ute Indians and early pioneers came to settle in the Yampa Valley and how Steamboat became Ski Town USA.
5. Steamboat is home to thirteen art galleries including the Steamboat Art Museum. Entry is free to all and visitors. Find a list of venues and special events at steamboatcreates.org
6. Tickle the taste buds on a beer tasting tour of town. Start with the longest running brewery in the ‘Boat at Mahogany Ridge Brewery, then stop by The Barley, Mountain Tap and Storm Peak. Sample local made brews and find your favorite stout or hoppy pale ales.
7. Shop until you drop in downtown Steamboat, where local offerings range from Stetsons and boots at F.M. Light to home furnishings at the recently opened Rumor Design + ReDesign. Shoppers will find high street favorites including Lululemon, Marmot and the North Face, along with a whole host of locally owned boutiques and outfitters.
8. If you want to mingle with locals, drink coffee. Pick a customized brew, pair with a freshly made pastry and pull up at chair at Beard and Braid on 9^th Street, Big Iron Coffee on Lincoln Avenue, Dusky Grouse Coffee Shop on the west of town and Off the Beaten Path on 9^th Street (Be Warned- an incredible selection of books awaits within this family-owned bookstore, so you are forgiven for feeling antisocial).
9. Read the local paper The Steamboat Pilot and Today for daily deals on mud season specials at restaurants, shops and spas around town. 

Next month Cupid will be swooping in and Steamboat with its sun, snow and springs, makes the perfect backdrop for a little romancing. For ideas on happy hour with your hunk, to a mountain top proposal, we got you covered. There’s something for everyone to make smoochy memory makers.

For the athletic pair – skin up Mount Werner late in the day with a backpack of your favorite sun downers and a head lamp. Sip and savor the view as the sun starts to set, before adorning the headlamps and skiing down.

For the spa lovers – soak beneath the stars at the Strawberry Park hot springs. Take the plunge in the cold creek before hopping back into one of the warm pools to cozy up.

For the foodies – start the evening off with a legendary cocktail at The Laundry, their homemade infusions are legendary. Saunter down to Yampa Street and wander along the river to Sauvage. Opt for the six-course tasting menu where flavors are foraged from the fields and forests to the sea. 

For the photographers –pre-order a charcuterie platter from Laura the Butcher and pick up a mini-bottle of bubbles. Stock up on handmade chocolates by Daniela at The Homesteader and pack a basket complete with warm blanket. Head up to Fish Creek Falls and snag a picnic table (you might need to clear off the snow), then set up your picnic by the frozen backdrop of an iconic setting.

For the adrenaline seekers – zip through snowy meadows and wind through aspen groves on a sunset snowmobile ride on Rabbit Ears Pass. Head back into town for a bite to eat at Salt n’ Lime before dancing the night away at Schmiggitys on the main street.

If you are in the Yampa Valley right now, you’ll notice the smattering of reds and yellows dotting the trees and shrubs.  Fall is around the corner and we’ve put together our favorite hiking spots to experience the golden season in Routt County.

Fish Creek Falls

Immerse yourself in nature among quaking aspens and the sound of a cascading 283-foot waterfall that pours out of Mount Zirkel Wilderness from three trail options. The overlook is a half-mile, fully paved trail with rest stops and informational boards highlighting native plants and wildlife. A ¼-mile, steep dirt trail leads to the base of the falls with a pathway to the overlook trail if hikers want to make a loop. A 6-mile hike continues up from the falls following steep switchbacks through dense evergreen forest and golden aspen groves into a lush valley. The trail comes to a second falls, Long Lake and the Continental Divide Trail.

Hahns Peak Summit

Named after John and Joseph Hahn, gold prospectors from Germany, Hahns Peak’s bare, pointed pinnacle is one of the area’s most iconic sights. Gold and silver were mined out of the former volcano from the 1860s to the early 1900s. The trail is 1.7 miles each way and meanders up a forested hillside to the remains of an old mining cabin. The last stretch of the hike from there is steep and difficult, but the views of the autumn hued countryside from the fire tower at the top, are worth the climb.

Mount Zirkel Wilderness

Mount Zirkel Wilderness offers an overload for the senses at any time of year with high alpine lakes, meadows and dense aspen groves. Hike the Zirkel Circle, an 11-mile loop that starts from the Slavonia Trailhead. The trail passes Gilpin Creek to the clear waters of Gilpin Lake, over to Gold Creek Lake, down Gold Creek Trail and back to Slavonia.

Where can you explore Steamboat Springs in depth with a guarantee you will barely see another living soul? The sky, of course!

For those who still feel trepidation about being around others, an above ground experience is probably the perfect way to sightsee. You can also be assured your adrenaline will be pumping for all the right reasons.

Helicopter Ride

Cover the greatest amount of territory in one-hour, with a helicopter ride over much of Routt County. Zephyr Helicopter Company takes up to five passengers (weight dependent on total group), over the historic downtown of Steamboat and up Fish Creek Canyon. The flight spans the Never Summers, the Gore Range and up to North Routt. Private charters are also available. www.zephyrhelicopter.com

Hot Air Balloon Ride

Wrap up warmly in the early hours of the morning and watch the sleepy valley below awaken for a new day. Wild West Balloon Adventures offers daily 45-minute tours over Steamboat and the surrounding area. Celebrate your 3,000 feet escapade with a continental breakfast and champagne. www.wildwestballooning.com

See the sky filled with a kaleidoscope of color at the annual Hot Air Balloon Rodeo on July 10 & 11, 2021. This summer staple event is a feast for the eyes each morning, with an additional Balloon Glow on Saturday evening.

Ziplining

Get your heart racing as you cruise above the treetops at speeds of up to 40 miles per hour, on a six-segment zip line course. Each two to three-hour tour includes an ATV ride along the original U.S. 40, complete with snippets of local history from the guide. Steamboat Zipline Adventures is located on Rabbit Ears Pass, ensuring spectacular views of downtown and the Flat Tops Mountain Range. www.steamboatziplineadventures.com

Yurts at Aurum

What does a gondola, a yurt and a mini Chalet have in common? They are Steamboat’s answer to quirky dining options since the onset of COVID-19. Three local restaurants are offering intimate alternatives to combat limited capacity restrictions. 

Aurum

Reserve one of three heated yurts situated in the grounds of Aurum on the banks of the Yampa River. Each yurt can hold up to eight people at a cost of $115 per adult and $45 for children, 12 and under. Bookings require a minimum of four adults. Guests can enjoy a six-course Chef’s Tasting Menu. 

Sauvage

A relative newcomer to Steamboat’s array of eateries, Sauvage brings a taste of France to the Yampa Valley. Guests have the option to dine, in mini heated chalets set on the patio by the restaurant’s street facade. Three, five and eight-course menus blend French favorites such as vichyssoise, cabineros, caviar and mussels. 

Gondola at Mountain Tap

Mountain Tap 

This is the perfect gondola ride for anyone who is afraid of heights.  Each of the three retired cars has been decked out with a table, electric heaters and blue tooth speakers. They can accommodate up six adults with squeezing space for two children. Food is a family-friendly line up of small plates, snacks and wood-fired pizzas. Adults only get to sample the local brews including favorites like Cliffed Out, Chasing Sunset and Passionate Pedaler. A minimum spend of $100 is expected for weekdays, and $150 on weekends. 

 Labor Day Sidewalk Sales

Stock up for fall at the end-of-season Sidewalk Sale, when Steamboat’s downtown boutique-owners display an abundance of bargain items outside their stores. Sales start on Labor Day and last until stocks run out.

First Friday Artwalk

Saunter through downtown Steamboat among locals who come out in force for First Friday Artwalk. Galleries and an eclectic range of pop-up locations open their doors from 5-8 p.m. See works of every medium from an evolving collection of old and new talent. In September the Art Depot on 13^th Street is staging a show dedicated to western art. At Gallery 89 on Lincoln Avenue, internationally renowned metal sculptor David Marshall and local glass artist Jennifer Baker will open their highly anticipated show, ‘Tracks and Traces.’

Scenic Drives and Rides

Routt County’s scenery will explode in spectacular reds and golds this month. Take to the roads around Steamboat Springs by car or bike to witness the fall panoramas in all of their majesty. Follow the flow of the Yampa River with a ride on River Road, or pedal the gradual climbs and downhill coasting of Twentymile Road. Enjoy unparalleled scenery along Elk River Road and Seedhouse Road, stopping for homemade treats at the Clark Store. Ride further north, where Hahn’s Peak and Steamboat Lake offer essential viewing of the autumn landscape. Immerse yourself in the scenery – literally, by taking a hike though a gold tinted Aspen grove. It’s the closest thing to finding treasure.

Run Rabbit Run

With steep terrain, high-altitude stretches and frequently cruel weather, the 50- and 100-mile Run Rabbit Run ultra marathons are not for the faint of heart. Those who choose to partake in these well-marked and extremely challenging races on September 14, will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Yampa Valley’s autumn colors and – for the winners – the highest purse of any trail ultra marathon in the world.

Miles of snow-covered terrain waits to be explored in and around the Yampa Valley. At Condos in Steamboat, we often get asked for tips on cross-country skiing, so we decided to call in a local expert.

Steamboat Springs native, teacher Jess Aldighieri, was raised on skis. She lives with her husband, Bobby, a former Olympian and freestyle program director for Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club and their toddler son.

Skate or classic, what should someone who has never tried any kind of Nordic skiing consider? 

JA: Depends on interest and physical ability. Classic skiing is a good foundation for Nordic skiing and will help your skate skiing. Classic skiing is easier to learn, but difficult to become more efficient. Skate skiing is the opposite.

What should you wear Nordic skiing? 

JA: A lightweight long sleeve Smartwool top, tights or light long underwear bottoms, covered by lightweight Nordic ski pants and jacket. Well fitting gloves and boots will make the learning experience more enjoyable. A lightweight hat or neck buff will help trap body heat. 

Any tips to improve performance and speed for skate skiing? 

JA: Skiing in general is about balance, position and timing. If you can improve these basic skills, your efficiency will increase. As a result, you will gain ground on your performance and speed.  Skate skiing is all about the application of power to the snow. Strengthening your technical ability will help accelerate your ability to apply power. 

Best techniques to keep you upright on a downhill turn? 

JA: Keep your feet underneath your hips and constantly move your feet. The old classic – bend your knees!

If you want to try Nordic skiing as a family for a day what do you advise?

JA: Make an adventure out of it and carry a picnic or small snack in a backpack, because it’s quite physically demanding and you’ll need to refuel when you’re out there. A day of classic skiing can be great fun for everyone in the family.

Most memorable day you’ve ever had Nordic skiing in Steamboat? 

JA: Wow, there have been so many, but skate skiing the Hogan Park trail on spring crust after Mount Werner was closed. The snow was fast and the sunrise was beautiful. After an adventurous decent on our skinny skis, we finished with a run in the mud on B.C. Ski Way with our backpacks and skate gear. 

Savor a taste of Steamboat Springs every Saturday morning this summer at the downtown Farmers Market. Now in its 14^th year, the homegrown bazaar has become a platform for local farmers and artisan producers to showcase the flavors of the ‘Boat.

From June 9 to September 15, shoppers can pick up weekly groceries in the vibrant open-air setting on Yampa Street. Fresh Palisade peaches; grass-fed beef and bison, homemade cheeses and artisan breads are only some of the vast array of goodies on offer.

Saunter from stall to stall to find handmade goats milk soaps, custom jewelry and artwork, accessories, clothing and furnishings. Refuel at several food trucks, which serve up everything from crepes to curry.

Keep small shoppers happy at activity stations with hula-hoops, corn hole and crafts. Teens love the temporary henna tattoo stall. The wait is typically long, but you can give your name and reduce the time for standing in line.

Live music kicks off at 11 a.m. followed by entertainment from a collection of local performers. Expect anything from an impromptu display of belly dancing to off Broadway musical renditions.

The market runs from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. every Saturday on Yampa Street. Parking is limited downtown, so expect to walk or consider riding the free City bus and get off near 5^th Street. Vendors do not tend to offer shopping bags, so plan to come prepared.

Look out for weekly happenings at www.mainstreetsteamboat.com

When we sit around the table next week to celebrate Thanksgiving, we have a lot to savor. It’s not just the gravy smeared turkey with it’s colorful timings, but the everyday blessings we toast as we raise our glasses. We wanted to share some of the reasons we are thankful for living in Steamboat and hope you can enjoy them too on your next visit. 

Terrain – lots of it to explore in hiking shoes, ski boots, cross country gear. On boards, sleds, snowmobiles and horseback. Nature’s playground at its best. 

Horses and our ranching heritage. Miles of rolling farmlands to cycle past, livestock to watch at fair and cowboy traditions to uphold. 

Artwalk on the first Friday of the month. Strolling through downtown to glimpse or study works crafted by local talent. 

No hour-long waits in the car at rush hour. More time for happy hours with friends, dog walks, bike rides,  an early morning skin up the mountain or simple family time. 

Kicking back in the thermal waters of the hot springs to soak tired limbs after a day of skiing, hiking or biking. Watching the stars at night and the reflection of the moon in the water. 

Fireworks and festivals on every holiday. Carnivals and parades to watch from afar or join in if you choose. 

Understanding the challenges of mountain living and a community that is on-hand to help whoever is in need. 

Leaves – watching the seasons change on the branches of aspen trees. The light green of springtime, darker hue of summer and burst of gold in fall before the winter shed. 

Cheers to you and yours, may we all be thankful for blessings big and small. 

Flashes of gold have started to appear on the foliage around the ‘Boat. It’s hard to leave another glorious summer, but if you’ve ever been to Steamboat in the fall, you’ll know there is plenty to celebrate.

Here are our favorite things to do in the valley before winter shrouds us with snow.

Wild West Air Fest

Nationally renowned aviators take to the skies of Steamboat Springs, performing thrilling aerobatic stunts and formation flying during Labor Day weekend. Take a ride in a plane or helicopter, listen to presentations by retired military pilots and check out the war birds and vintage aircraft on display. Saturday, Sept. 2.

Labor Day Sidewalk Sale

Stock up on outdoor gear and clothing at the end-of-season Sidewalk Sale, when Steamboat’s downtown boutique-owners display an abundance of bargain items outside their stores.

Yampa Valley Crane Festival

Celebrate the incredible migration of the greater sandhill cranes through the Yampa Valley by attending guided crane viewings, live raptor presentations, in-depth workshops, nature walks and a community picnic at the Carpenter Ranch. Speakers include George Archibald, co-founder of the International Crane Foundation, and Ted Floyd, editor of Birding magazine. Thursday – Sunday, Aug. 31 – Sept 3. www.coloradocranes.net

Run Rabbit Run

With steep terrain, elevation changes and frequently cruel weather, the 50- and 100-mile Run Rabbit Run ultra marathons are not for the faint of heart. Those who choose to partake in these well-marked and extremely challenging races will be rewarded with up-close-and personal views of the Yampa Valley’s autumn colors and – for the winners – the highest purse of any trail ultra marathon in the world. Limited to 350 entrants for the 100-mile race and 200 entrants for the 50-mile race. Friday-Saturday, Sept. 8-9. www.runrabbitrunsteamboat.com

Annual Mustache Ride

Hundreds of mustachioed (and faux-mustachioed) bikers donning wild costumes pedal from pub to pub in the Mustache Ride. All proceeds from this exceptional pub-crawl go toward the Routt County Humane Society. Saturday, Oct. 7. www.ssmustacheride.com

Scenic Drives and Rides – Scenery and Photo Stops

Routt County’s scenery explodes in spectacular reds and golds during autumn – take to the roads around Steamboat Springs by car or bike to witness the panoramas in all of their majesty. Follow the flow of the Yampa River with a ride on River Road and travel onto The Flat Tops Wilderness Area Scenic Byway from Yampa over Dunkley Pass and Ripple Creek Pass. Drive up Rabbit Ears Pass to Muddy Pass, which despite the name offers breathtaking photo opportunities. Head north of Steamboat to pass historic ranchlands and their fields of gold along Elk River Road and Seedhouse Road, stopping for homemade treats at the Clark Store. Ride further north, where Hahn’s Peak and Steamboat Lake offer essential viewing of the autumn landscape.

Play a Round

There are deals to be had on the links as the air temp. begins to drop. Play nine or 18 holes at the city owned Haymaker Golf Course. The Keith Foster links-style course is celebrating its’ 20^th anniversary this year. Kids under 12 years, play for free with a paying adult. Kids 12 years and over, pay their age. Rental clubs are free for juniors. www.haymakergolf.com  

Downtown Halloween Stroll

Just before the snow falls, join a throng of ghosts, ghouls and goblins at Steamboat’s beloved downtown Halloween celebration. Downtown Lincoln Avenue is closed to traffic and businesses open their doors to an army of trick-or-treaters. Dress up for the event, or opt for a bite at one of the Lincoln Avenue eateries and vote on the best getups as they pass by. Tuesday, Oct. 31, 5-7 p.m.