Downtown Steamboat Springs/ Steamboat Ski Resort

On June 1, the lodging ban that was implemented as a safety measure in response to the outbreak of COVID-19, will be lifted. For our team at Condos in Steamboat, it brings a huge sigh of relief. After months of uncertainty, Routt County is now open to visitors.

This summer will be a summer like no other. Like everyone, we’ve had to adapt to a new ‘norm.’ For most of us in Steamboat Springs, we’ve been separated from our neighbors, friends and families. Our activities amounted to walks around the block, or occasionally, a hike in the backcountry as the weather warmed. The pace of life slowed and allowed us to take stock of what is important.

Mindsets vary on how we move forward, but there is one common thread that binds us all. We don’t want to go back to the hustle and bustle of life’s crazy pace.  This summer we won’t have the regular festivals and laundry list of events that keep our wonderful visitors coming in droves. Instead we will have our trails, rivers, lakes, mountains and meadows to play in. Restaurants, shops and galleries will be open in accordance to state laws. 

This is the summer that will be devoid of distractions that keep us from enjoying the simple things. The bare bones of this little ski town are the reason most of us chose to call Steamboat home. It’s the people and the place that keep the curse of this former cow town alive, “Those who leave the Yampa Valley, will always return.”

We hope you will return to us soon.

If you are planning to visit this summer, please pack a mask. Routt County has made it a legal requirement to wear a facemask in public, even though it is not mandated by the state.

Backcountry skinning with Steamboat Powdercats

Have you ever sat in the gondola and looked out the window to see someone ascending Mount Werner on skis and wondered ‘what is that person doing – why hike when you can ride?’ Either they want to earn their turns and get heck of a work out, or they don’t want to pay a full price lift ticket. Whatever the motivation ‘skinning’ is on the rise and Condos in Steamboat decided delve into the details of this growing pastime.

We sat down with Kent Vertrees, the self-proclaimed master of chaos for Steamboat Powdercats, a local operation that added guided backcountry skinning trips to their repertoire this season.

Condos in Steamboat: What is skinning?

Kent Vertrees: It is hiking uphill wearing all terrain gear with skins attached to the base of the ski which enables it to grip the snow. At the top, peel off the skins and ski (or board) back down.

CIS: Why is it becoming so popular?

KV: It’s a natural progression as a skier or snowboarder to move out of bounds and try new things. Skinning in the backcountry gives expert skiers a challenge. Plus advances in technology are making it easier; lighter skis, better skins, more accessibility, avalanche beacons and general safety  information.

CIS: What equipment do you need?

KV: Basically you need to dress for hiking in the backcountry, which means layers, (Gortex is great to keep moisture out), hat, and sunglasses; a backpack with safety equipment such as a beacon, avalanche probe and shovel; a water bladder to keep hydrated. Extra clothing is good so you can change when you get sweaty. You’ll need skis, skins and poles, or a split board. All terrain gear includes a specific all terrain boot and skis that enable the walk mode.

CIS: Any tips on technique?

KV: Keep your head up – don’t look down at the skis. Poles out front, and glide skis don’t lift the whole ski. Maximize energy and minimize your effort, one step at a time. Look for the lowest pitch aspect. You don’t want to crisscross the snow where you plan to ski down.

CIS: Can anyone do it?

KV: You have to be a good level of fitness. If you want to try it in the backcountry then you should go with a guide who can teach you how to put skins on, work the bindings and how to do kick turns. Guides are also familiar with the terrain and know where it is safe to go and where it isn’t.

CIS: What do you do once you get to the top?

KV: Catch your breath, take off skis, lock bindings down, change clothes, hydrate, eat and descend.

CIS: How do snow conditions affect technique and overall experience?

KV: On a sunny warm spring day skis and skins can get clumped up with snow. In deeper conditions it is more difficult to set the track, which is another benefit of having a guide. On days when it’s stormy, consider your gear as you can get really wet and thermal regulation is key. On deeper and lighter days, the smiles get bigger.

For detailed information on equipment needed and guide services with Steamboat Powdercats, check out www.steamboatpowdercats.com 

* If you want to skin up at the Steamboat Ski Area, you need to purchase an uphill use pass and sign a waiver before taking it to the Visitor Center at the base area. For more information download the form here: Download

Skiing up at the Steamboat Ski Area

The Olympic flame flies at Howelsen Hill.

Did you know Steamboat Springs has produced more Olympians than any other town in America? Luckily for us all, many of them continue to call Steamboat home and are often on hand to share a tip or two on the slopes. Next time you are in the ‘Boat seek them out – here’s where to find them.

1. Howelsen Hill – home of the Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club and ongoing training ground for current and future Olympians. On most Sundays expect to find head Nordic coach, Todd Wilson at the base of the jump hill tempting you give ski jumping a try. It’s not as daunting as it sounds – everyone starts on the bump jump. It’s fun, free and strangely addictive.
2. Steamboat Ski Area – ski down Heavenly Daze with Billy Kidd on any given day. Look for the notice at top of the gondola to see if he is skiing that day and meet him at 1 p.m. by the start of Why Not. On Sundays at 1 p.m. improve your mogul skiing on Nelson’s Run with expert tips from Nelson Carmichael. Both activities as free to lift ticket holders. Ladies can sign up for the three-day women’s clinic, which has been offered at Steamboat for 25 years. Ann Battelle and Deb Armstrong lead the line up of instructors. Spaces are still available for March 6-8.
3. Tread of Pioneers Museum – check out the ongoing Ski Town USA exhibit at the museum on the corner of 8^th and Oak Streets. Find out how skiing and boarding has evolved over the last century and check out Olympic memorabilia.

Floating down the Yampa River in a raft beneath a blue Colorado sky sounds idyllic. It is, if you realize that the river is wild and you need to be prepared. Condos in Steamboat sat down with local expert Kent Vertrees, who teaches river and canyon orientation classes at Colorado Mountain College. The advocate for water rights and activist with Friends of the Yampa gave us some tips on preparing for a day on the river.

What clothing do you recommend for a river rafting day trip?

Your on-river clothing is based on the severity of the river rapids, the time of year you’ll be floating and what the daily weather is doing. Avoid wearing cotton-clothing when/if at all possible.  Cotton clothing will hold in water and keep you cold where synthetic material or a wool blend will whisk water away from your skin, keeping you warm even when wet from head to toe.  Layer up clothing like you would when skiing or snowboarding with a waterproof or resistant splash jacket shell to keep the wind and water off you. Appropriate footwear is very important.  Sandals that fix to your feet like the brands Chaco or Keen’s are a good choice.  No flip-flops as they will fall off immediately if you swim out of the raft.  Also prepare for the sunshine with long sleeve shirts, a large, wide brimmed hat and sunglasses with straps. A personal flotation device or life jacket, and helmet should be worn. Take a dry bag to keep valuables from getting wet. Pack plenty water and snacks.

Can you give any advice to novice river users on safety? 

For those of you who are looking to get into river rafting but don’t have much experience, Colorado Mountain College offers a River Orientation class multiple times a year that provides the basics in how to successfully pull together a river trip. Beyond local courses and classes, finding the right crew of trusted river friends is essential.  Having a river mentor, someone who will take you in their boat on their trips to teach you safe and proper techniques, someone who will ease you into things and not throw you into rapids that are beyond your skill is critical to the success of every future boatman and boatwoman.  

Do you have any tips on local river etiquette? 

There are some general rules of river etiquette that all of us must consider in order to have a safe, enjoyable, unobtrusive and sustainable experience.  First off plan and prepare accordingly, double check your packing list and make sure everyone on your trip is up-to-date with where you are going and what to bring.  Don’t take over the put in or take-outs.  If you can, unload your raft and all your gear and then move it out of the river access area so others can come in and do the same thing.  Pick up other peoples messes and leave no trace of your own.  Give fly fisherman plenty of room.  Don’t intermix your group into another groups raft trip, especially above rapids.  Most importantly, here in Colorado all of us on rivers need to respect private property rights.  There may be many miles along your river trip where you are floating through, and over private property and you just cannot pull over anywhere you want. This goes back to planning and preparing correctly so do your homework before getting on the river, bring a guide book or map of the river and making sure you are not impacting private property rights.  

Afternoon storms can roll in during the summer, what should someone do if they are out of the river? 

One component of pulling off a successful river trip is making sure you know what’s happening with the weather.  In your pre-trip planning you should check on the forecast and bring adequate gear to match what the forecast is saying.  Always pack extra splash tops, bottoms and layers incase someone on your trip forgets a critical gear item.  During your float, pay attention to what’s going on in the sky and realize that storms in Colorado can quickly turn your beautiful scenic float into a maelstrom of weather.  Hail, strong wind, lightening, rain and dramatic temperature swings need to be accounted for. This is where your planning and preparation help you through under any weather related situations.  Hypothermia can happen even during mid summer days so extra gear for all your crew is key. 

Brunch, it’s that meal that was once for people who got up too late. They missed breakfast and couldn’t wait until lunch. Now, it can be anything from a cheap family meal of the day out, to a mimosa-fueled affair that keeps diners seated all morning.

In Steamboat Springs, we have embraced brunch. It suits our style. We don’t sleep in, especially in winter, as that would be seen as a crime against powder. In summer there’s an early morning bike ride to get in, or a hike with the dog before the temp heats up. Most of our visitors feel the same way, so let’s skip breakfast and go to brunch. Here are our top five choices.

Creekside Café on 11^th Street. First of all, expect a line – you won’t mind once you start eating, it’s worth it. Sit outside among the pots of flowers and listen to Soda Creek rush past. Everything is home cooked on the spot and most of the ingredients are sourced in Colorado.

Must try: homemade chorizo washed down with a Mimosa.

Freshies is located midway between the mountain area and downtown. Conveniently situated just off the Yampa Core Trail, Freshies is a popular stop for bikers, walkers and river rats. Sit on the patio or stay indoors and admire the artwork adorning the walls by local painter Lance Whitner.

Must try: Southwestern benny.

Winona’s in the heart of downtown on Lincoln Avenue is a long-time locals favorite. Sit by the window and watch the world go by. Known for its homemade granola and incredible baked goods selection, it won’t pay off to feel guilty about calories when ordering.

Must try: the most enormous cinnamon roll you’ll ever see.

Paramount Café is a relatively new on mountain hot spot. Small in size with an outdoor dining option, the Paramount is a great spot to refuel before a hike or ski on Mount Werner.

Must try: bacon, egg and cheese sandwich – it’s fancier than it sounds.

Champagne Powder Room wins the prize as the most scenic option with its’ mountain top setting. Every Sunday through Labor Day, they offer brunch on the mountain. Views abound with a gondola ride, before you take your seat in the restaurant that boasts panoramic views of the valley below.

Must try: Hazie’s Caesar salad with cornbread croutons and a Bloody Mary.

After all that eating its time to work it off with a hike, bike or paddleboard. On second thoughts, maybe its naptime – it’s not as if we slept through breakfast.

In May Steamboat Springs was named the “Most Veterans Friendly Little City in Colorado. Steamboat Pilot and Today reporter Scott Franz gave an insight into what that means to the community, and in honor of Veterans Day we wanted to share his story.

Steamboat Springs — The honor was bestowed on the city by the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve, or ESGR.

“This is something I think is a great honor that the city of Steamboat Springs deserves that recognizes all of the veterans in the Steamboat area and even throughout Routt County,” said Jim Stanko, ESGR area chairman. “We really have a tremendous tradition here in Steamboat Springs, and a lot of people don’t realize it.”

Stanko said the award will make more people aware of the contributions many local veterans have made to “make this valley the place we all love and want to live in.”

The diverse group of veterans in the audience included former Winter Sports Club skier Crosby Perry-Smith.

Perry-Smith, 91, served in the 10th Mountain Division during WWII and fought in Italy.

After the city made the proclamation, Stanko talked about how generations of Routt County veterans became community and business leaders after they returned from duty.

Steamboat is the second city to earn the ESGR’s Most Veterans Friendly Little City award.

Montrose received the honor last year.

Dick Young, state chairman of the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve, told the Steamboat Today last month that the city won the award for a number of reasons.

“It’s not any one big thing; it’s really the attitude of a lot people up there year round,” Young said. “They do a lot of good things, and to veterans, it’s pretty important. We thought Steamboat deserved this award.”

ESGR officials were on hand Tuesday evening to present the award to the city.

They also recognized Stanko for his work as area chairman for the ESGR.

Stanko also recognized Craig Kennedy, the program director for Steamboat Adaptive Recreational Sports, for the work he and his organization have done for Wounded Warriors and other veterans with disabilities.

Reading on Ranches with BookTrails

Planning your summer vacation and wondering how to make your trip appeal to everyone in the family? We have a solution – summer camp. Steamboat has a whole host of exciting options for kids this summer and you don’t need to be local to take part.

We thought we’d share a couple weeklong favorites that never fail to please year after year. The best part of all, kids have fun, they do things they’d only be able to do here, and you are free to explore Steamboat without any resistance from the junior crew. You have your evenings together and everyone’s happy.

BookTrails
Steamboat’s first ever literacy learning camp was founded in 2012 by environmental educator and self professed bookworm, Emily Krall. Reading on Ranches is a collection of weeklong adventures that allow kids up to 6th grade to literally bring stories and characters alive. Students have the opportunity for multisensory learning by mixing reading with hands on activities all taking place outdoors. Each camp is themed and activities correlate to the chosen title or series. Campers could be reliving the days of homesteading, exploring the waterways of the Yampa Valley, learning wilderness survival types, writing in hieroglyphics or playing quidditch in a field. Student to teacher ratio is 3:1 and readers of every level are encouraged to join the fun. This summer camps include: Little House on the Prairie, Hatchet Camp, Wolves Mini Camp, Harry Potter Camp, American Girl Doll, Camp Half Blood, Spirit Animals, Spy Camp, Magic Tree House, Native American Legends, Tomb Raiders, Camp Splash I and II.
For more information or to register go to www.steamboatbooktrails.org

Yampatika
There is no better way to explore the natural world around us than through the guiding eyes of Yampatika. Four themed camps are offered to kids ages 5 -14, with an overnight camp out option for older participants. The Blue Planet is all about water and weather. Explore forests and plants on the Evergreen Scene camp. Delve into history on Wild, Wild, West camp learning about mammals, birds, livestock, mining and pioneers. Or cover geology, mountains and soil ecology on Landform to Landfill camps. Great adult day guided hiking options too. For more information or to register go to www.yampatika.org

Packing List

BookTrails is all about empowering kids to be themselves.

Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, good shoes for hiking, backpack and lunch bag, water bottle, rain jacket and a big smile. Pre-made lunches can be ordered and picked up around town from Backcountry Provisions and Cruisers. Our own local favorite snack for happy campers is Honey Stingers mini waffles and chews available in most food stores and from BAP at the little red house on Oak Street.

See the ski season out in style with the Steamboat Ski Area’s not to be missed grand finale of wild and wacky events. April 1 marks the official countdown to the mountain closing for another year. Come and join locals for Springalicious, when the attire of the day are tutus and capes, the music at the base area is pumping, the sun is shinning and the snow is forgiving.

Live Music

April 4 – The Motet: Denver based the Motet blends American funk, afrobeat and jazz. Known for their high energy performances, the band has released seven studio albums.

April 12 (Closing Day) –Steel Pulse: Spreading a message of love and justice to all people, this British reggae band plays their grammy award-winning music all over the world. Prepare the end ski season with style.

Events

Cardboard Classic A legendary happening year after year, watch teams race down the hill in their individually designed cardboard contraptions. Using only cardboard, glue, string, duct or masking tape; past creations have included everything from Viking ships to race cars. Saturday, April 11

Splashdown Pond Skimming Competition Dress to impress as you attempt to cross a freezing pond at ski area base. Judging for this annual contest is based on outfit choice, distance skimmed and audible crowd appreciation. Sunday, April 12

Closing Day Anything goes on the last day of the season. Tutus and t-shirts surpass ski suits as the chosen attire of the day. Make the most of your favorite runs before hanging up the ski boots, and rocking out at the final free concert. Sunday, April 12.

It’s all about the base, and the Condos in Steamboat crew are talking layers here. Mother Nature has begun laying the white carpet for this year’s ski season, which means it’s out with Birkenstocks and shorts, and in with long underwear and sorrels.

Every year we speak to guests asking advice about what to wear for a Steamboat ski trip. We tell them one thing; think layers. Weather changes in the Valley as frequently as a person dressing on a cruise ship. You need to be prepared for anything, and the same applies to little skiers.

We follow the rule of three.

1. The base layer – avoid cotton. You want moisture to be drawn away from the skin to avoid dampness which inevitably will make you feel miserable.
2. The mid layer – think of this as your insulating layer. Wool or polar Tec fleece make great options.
3. The outer layer – number one stipulation, it needs to be waterproof and windproof. It’s all down to personal preference but pit zips, powder skirts and hoods are also things to consider.

We may be biased but locally based SmartWool offers the ultimate solution to preparing for a day of Steamboat winter fun. Taken straight from the horse’s mouth, here’s what they have to say about their two piece solution to layering.

“Like Fibers More wool is more comfortable. Two wool pieces work together as one to manage moisture, improve breathability, regulate temperature and, happily, control odor.

The System Instead of looking at layers individually, we took a “system” approach — designing pieces that not only work independently, but together as well. Fitting together. Made for each other. Smart layers that are more efficient, with less bulk. The result?

Layered together, they don’t bunch or restrict movement, so you can focus on the trail ahead and not your clothing.”

While we’ve got most of the body covered here, don’t forget to remain mindful of your extremities.  Longtime local Doctor Steven Ross suggests always putting gloves and hats on inside before walking outdoors. Good fitting quality socks and boots will give the best chance of avoiding chilly toes. Don’t rely on a helmet to keep the cold out. A face and neck guard will keep you smiling on that cold chair ride up Storm Peak.

Last of all, but by no means least; cover your eyes. Protecting yourself from the intense glare of the sun at this altitude is a must. When it comes to younger skiers rebelling against the goggles, this is one of those times the fight is worth the fight.

Off the hill or trails, we are a pretty casual bunch, so dress down, kick back and pack that suitcase with layers in mind; you won’t go wrong.  Best case, wait to you get here and we’ll set you on the right path in Steamboat’s thoughtfully stocked stores.

1. Getting here is easy; Direct Flights daily from Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, Denver, Minneapolis/St Paul, with select days coming in and out from Houston, Ft Worth, Los Angeles, Newark and Seattle.

2. Steamboat’s mountain is a huge playground for all. Ski, snowboard, telemark, freestyle, ski bike, adaptive ski with Steamboat Stars, snowshoe, whatever your preference Steamboat Ski Area awaits everyone from the novice to the expert.

• Permitted Acres: 2,965 acres/1,200 hectares
• Trails: 165 named trails
• Trail Classification: 14% Beginner 42% Intermediate 44% Advanced
• Freeriders have Mavericks Superpipe and Terrain Park plus smaller version Mini-mav to play in all day long.

3. Your epic ski day doesn’t need to end when the sun goes down, try out Steamboat’s Night Skiing. Little ones in tow? No worries, the mountain based Kids Vacation Center (KVC) opens late so you are free to carve your way all evening, knowing junior is in great hands.

4. Try something new with Wednesday jump nights at Howelsen Hill. Open to all from the novice to the Olympian, it’s a local tradition complete with free pizza and cookies served in the old time ski lodge for participants. www.sswsc.org

5.  Miles upon miles of varied terrain awaits the backcountry enthusiast. Enjoy gliding through the forest or make your own lines careering down tree lined slopes on Rabbit Ears or Buffalo Passes.

6. Spend a day in your own snowcat exploring untouched terrain with Steamboat Powdercats. Let knowledgeable guides navigate fresh powder stashes all day long, warming up with a home cooked lunch served in a private cabin in the woods.

7. Take to Steamboat’s national parks, and explore vast snow covered lands on a snowmobile. Rev up your engines and zip all over North Routt or the east side of Rabbit Ears, just two of the Condos in Steamboat team’s personal favorites.

Condo’s own Jake Filler taking his tube for a spin.

8. Whizz down hillsides at either of the Valley’s two tubing hills. Howelsen Hill or Saddleback Ranch both make for an afternoon or evening of hoop hollering happiness.

9. Feel your inner cowboy and take to the saddle at Vista Verde Ranch or Del’s Triangle.  Cross sparkling snow covered fields on horseback, listening to tales of days gone from your ranch guide. Prefer to stay out of the saddle? Step into a horse drawn sled for an afternoon or evening sleigh ride then warm up for hot chocolate or a full homesteader dinner at Saddleback Ranch or Hahns Peak Roadhouse.

10. Kick back after a day on the snow and submerge aching limbs into a pool of warm mineral water. Downtown’s Hot Springs complete with climbing wall or Strawberry Park’s secluded natural pools never fail to leave one rejuvenated ready to take on another day of snow fun, Steamboat style.