Do I need to make a reservation to use my pass at Steamboat?

Reservations are notrequired for Ikon, Ikon Base, Ikon Session 4-Day, Steamboat season, Steamboat Merchant, 7 Heavenly Daze, Weekday Hall Pass, Early & Late season 3-Day Passes and Snowy Range pass holders at Steamboat, at this time. Guests who pre-book packages approved travel partners, prior to November 2, 2020 will have access for the dates of their pre-booked package.Condos in Steamboat is an approved travel partner.

Can I buy a day lift ticket when I am in Steamboat?

No, at this time single and multi-day lift tickets, not associated with a package are not available. Tickets will not be sold in person at the ticket office this year.

Do I have to wear a face covering?

It is the law in Routt County to wear a face covering to enter a building. Guests and employees at the Steamboat Ski Area will have to wear a face covering while riding in the gondola.

Will there be physical distancing at the Steamboat Ski Area?

The gondola and chairlifts will be running at reduced capacity. Mazes will be expanded to accommodate physical distancing while in line.

Is my ticket refundable?

Guests are urged to take insurance in case of cancelation.

Steamboat is gearing up for another ski season, and the recent press release from Alterra Mountain Company shared what is in store for visitors this year. We, at Condos in Steamboat wanted to pass along the latest updates with all our valued guests and friends. 

Steamboat Ski Resort prepares for the 2019/20 winter season with a load of new programs and improvements creating a better guest experience across the resort. At the top of the list for this year’s biggest news is the hiring of a Sustainability & Community Engagement Director, the $15 million new gondola and an earlier Opening Day.

“Steamboat continues to invest in its guests and the destination experience that can only be found at Ski Town, U.S.A.^®,” said Rob Perlman, president and COO of Steamboat Ski & Resort Corporation. “We continue to work with Alterra to ensure the future of Steamboat Ski Resort is strong, and the improvements at the resort for the upcoming winter are major steps towards big master plans. A new focus on sustainability programming lead by our Director and the new gondola may be behind the scenes efforts, but the impacts of these improvements will certainly change the experience for skiers and riders at Steamboat.”

Sustainability Programming

stainability Director: Steamboat Ski Resort has hired Sarah Jones to oversee the resorts sustainability programming and community engagement efforts. Jones brings nearly two decades of professional experience in sustainability and environmental programming to Steamboat Ski Resort.  Most recently, Jones served as the Executive Director of the Yampa Valley Sustainability Council (YVSC) since 2012 planning, executing and budgeting all programs for the organization. She worked closely with local government on climate mitigation, energy and waste diversion issues; supported the advancement of community sustainability and resilience efforts; and advocated for rural waste diversion and energy issues at the state level. Prior to her role at YVSC, Jones worked as an environmental consultant and helped schools develop sustainable practices in the Denver area.

In her new role, Jones will be responsible for developing, implementing and overseeing all the resort’s sustainability programming and practices as well as improving Steamboat’s operational environmental performance and further resort policy goals on climate and energy. Jones will champion the development and execution of guiding principles and an environmental management plan specific to operational performance, energy efficiency and clean energy, waste management, water conservation, education & outreach, and more. Jones will also be responsible for community outreach making sure locals, guests and the industry understand and support Steamboat’s sustainability initiatives.

Yampa River Fund: Steamboat Ski Resort is a proud to announce a $500,000 founding donor contribution to the newly launched Yampa River Fund, the largest single cash donation in the resort’s history. The Yampa River Fund is a water fund in conjunction with The Nature Conservancy and local partners that improves river flow in Northwest Colorado to sustain both people and nature. The Yampa River Fund is a collaborative community-based organization dedicated to identifying and funding activities that protect water supply, wildlife habitat and recreational opportunities provided by the Yampa River. SSRC’s cornerstone contribution of $500,000 unlocked a 1:1 match ultimately allowing the resort to provide access to $1 million for the health and prosperity of the community’s main water resource.  For more information on the Yampa River Fund visit: www.yampariverfund.org

Opening Day

Earlier Opening Day: Steamboat will open four days earlier this winter season with Opening Day scheduled for Saturday, November 23. Historically the resort has opened on the Wednesday prior to Thanksgiving, and will now shift to opening the Saturday before the holiday- allowing friends and family to gather on the slopes for more days. As in the past, Opening Day will include special festivities, a champagne toast, Olympians and more.

Lifts
New Gondola: With the installation of a brand-new Doppelmayr gondola, replacing the resorts previous 30+ year old lift, guests will be moved out of the base area and up the mountain nearly 38 percent faster than in the past, significantly reducing base area wait times. Multiple factors play into the increased capacity including the addition of 12 cabins to the line, a more advanced machine running at 6m per second versus the previous 5m per second and better tower setup, and level, walk-in cabins. The elimination of the nearly 9-inch step into gondola cabins will allow customers to load the gondola in a seamless action preventing stumbling which previously led to gondola slowdowns. The entryway and que for the gondola will also improve with an expanded enclosed area, RFID gates moved to the entrance of the building (versus closer to the gondola loading), a new guest resolution center at the entrance and new loading/unloading mats to create a smooth transition to the walk-in cabins. The top terminal at Thunderhead Lodge will feature a new exit with easier to navigate and more guest friendly stairs. Previously the stairs to the snow were steep and narrow, now they will be wider platforms with shorter rise. Additionally, the exit terminal will receive a facelift by adding a timber gabled roof to match the main entrance to the building.   The new gondola follows the same line as the previous gondola departing from Gondola Square and arriving at Thunderhead Lodge at mid-mountain. The new gondola is expected to start whisking skiers and riders up the mountain on November 23, 209, Steamboat’s winter opening day.

Ikon Pass

Night Skiing:  Ikon passholders can now access the trails after the sun goes down with access to night skiing Thursday- Monday from December through March. New this year, Full Ikon passholders receive unlimited access to night skiing and snowboarding during the winter season. Ikon Base passholders can either ski the same night as they used one of their days, or use one of their days to ski or ride at night. This additional perk is best for guests arriving late in the day- there is no longer a need to wait until the next morning to get your on-mountain vacation started!

 Ski Your Pass Off: Bragging rights are part of the skiing and snowboarding experience and Steamboat continues to reward its most loyal powderhounds with the Ski Your Pass Off loyalty program. Adult Ikon passholders (ages 13 and up) are rewarded for the number of days they hit the mountain. When passholders log 10 days before the end of December 2019 they’ll earn a complimentary First Tracks ticket. From there, guests receive rewards at 10 20, 40, 60, 80, 100, 120 and 140 days with an initial $10 dining voucher for the first 10 days and $20 dining vouchers at each remaining benchmark. Dining vouchers can be used at any Steamboat Ski & Resort Corporation restaurant. Guest who ski all 144 days of the season receive additional recognition and rewards at an end of season celebration.
Retail

Steamboat Mercantile  Located in the heart of Gondola Square across from Gondola Joe’s, the resort’s newest retail outlet features Steamboat logo wear including apparel from resort partners such as Marmot and The North Face and gift items. Open daily during the winter season starting at 8 am.

Steamboat Sports^TM– Sheraton: The resort’s flagship rental and retail outlet received a complete overhaul during summer 2019 resulting in an additional 2000 square feet of commercial space, an improved rental process and more retail offerings. Located Slopeside from Christie Peak Express Lift, Steamboat Sports will be the place to go for equipment rentals of all ranges, and the latest apparel, logo wear, souvenirs and equipment for purchase.

Steamboat Sports^TM– Sheraton is one of seven Steamboat Sports^TM locations, renamed for the 2019/20 winter season including Thunderhead Peak, Gondola Square, Ski Time Square, Steamboat Grand, Delivery and Gondola Square Demo Center.

Steamboat Sports^TM– Thunderhead Peak: In its new location on the snow, trading in skis at the top of the gondola will be a much-improved experience as the resort opens a brand new building offering top of the line skis for demo and sale at the intersection of Spur Run and Tower trails.  Previously housed in the Yurt at the bottom of the exit stairs from Thunderhead Lodge, the new location for demo rentals and sales provides 360 square feet dedicated to Rossignol, Nordica, Volkl and Head ski as well as better mountain ambiance.

New Montana tuning machine: For the first time in more than a decade, Steamboat Ski Resort bringing ski tuning in-house with the latest technology and machinery from industry leader Montana. Steamboat’s rental fleet will be top of the line with more frequent tunes and the waxing/tuning specifically designed for current conditions. Guests may also drop off their own equipment for tuning and waxing at Steamboat Sports^TM– Gondola Square.

Seasonal Equipment Storage: Below Timber & Torch in Gondola Square, Steamboat has redefined overnight ski storage with a permanent Ski Corral facility. Complete with state-of-the-art racking systems, guests will be able to leave their skis and poles, and snowboards at the convenient, heated base area location at the end of the day and collect them with ease before loading the Gondola in the morning. In addition to guest overnight storage, a limited number of seasonal storage slots, including heated boot storage, are now available for long-term storage at www.steamboat.com/storage

Flights

14 nonstop flight markets: Steamboat’s air program continues to be one of the most robust in the Rocky Mountains with 14 total nonstop markets flying to Ski Town, U.S.A.^® via the major air carriers of American, Alaska, Delta, JetBlue and United. Winter seasonal flights begin in December and run through March, making Steamboat accessible from anywhere in the world. www.steamboat.com/flights

There’s nothing like being on the water on a warm summers day in and around Steamboat. One of our favorite things to do is jump on a paddleboard and cruise down the Yampa River or paddle across the lakes in North Routt. We sat down with local experts at the Paddleboard Adventure Company to get their top tips for beginners.

If you’ve never tried paddle boarding, what do you advise to get started? 

Start on a small body of flat water.  Start on your knees and always be looking out, never down.  There are so many kinds of boards out there so you want make sure you get the right board for your size and for what kind of paddleboarding you want to do.  

What should you wear? 

It all depends on the air and water temps.  It is Colorado, so you want to be prepared.  Even if it starts out sunny and clear when you launch onto the lake, things can change. Have warmer layers and proper safety gear such as a personal flotation device and a whistle. On the river, always wear a helmet and PFD.

We’ve heard about paddleboard yoga, how does it differ from regular forms of yoga? 

You always hear those who have practiced yoga on dry land say, paddleboard yoga requires more concentration, core strength, and balance since you have the dynamic of floating on water.  The boards we use for paddleboard yoga are super stable.  You really only go in when you are pushing yourself to try something new.  Otherwise, most things you do on dry land can at least be attempted on the board.  What’s the worst that can happen?  You’ll get wet.

Where are your favorite paddleboard spots in and around Steamboat? 

Depending on the time of year, the Yampa River town stretch is always good.  Early season it is a fun challenge cause it’s big water and late season it’s more technical.  I love Pearl Lake and that’s why we do our tours there.  The water can be really glassy and the views are outrageous.

Is there anything you should be cautious of paddleboarding here?

Do not wear an ankle leash on the river but one that has a quick release system attached to your PFD.  Also, there is no shame in kneeling when you feel uncomfortable in whitewater.  It is better to fall from a kneeling position then a standing one. Make sure you know and have practiced getting back onto your board once you fall off.

Be respectful of other users.  Always steer clear of fisherman and their lines.  With kids and animals, please make sure they can swim and always have them wear a PFD. The river isn’t a good place to start for anyone unless you are taking a lesson with certified and capable instructors. Also, don’t leave any trash behind.

How fit do you need to be to paddleboard?

If you’re not fit when you start, you will be after a few weeks of regular paddling.  Paddleboarding in a river requires you to be a good swimmer and fit enough to be able to get back on your board in moving water, rather quickly at times.  On bigger lakes, some people get wind blown to the other side and do not have the strength to paddle upwind to get back to the dock.  You definitely want to be in decent shape, being prepared is always better than being surprised.

To find out more about renting a board, or taking a lesson check out www.paddleboardadventurecompany.com

During warm summer days the cool water of the Yampa River is a magnet for tourists and locals. Paddle boarders, tubers, kayakers, anglers and rafters all diverge beyond its beautiful banks, which led the City of Steamboat Springs to form a strict guideline for users.

• Avoid standing or walking on the river bed (except fisherman)
• Dogs allowed per leash laws
• Life jackets, flotation devices and proper footwear recommended
• No alcohol
• No bathing or diapers in the river
• No glass
• No littering
• No Styrofoam coolers
• Respect other river users
• Respect private property

Tubers can use their own tubes or rent them. Backdoor Sports at 841 Yampa Street has been running watersports on the Yampa River for years. Their published ‘frequently asked questions’ answers all you need to know about renting a tube for a float on the Yampa.

Guest: Where do we start tubing and where do we finish?

Backdoor Sports: Tubing starts from our shop location at 841 Yampa Street. Tubers will float approximately 2 miles down river to just past the James Brown Soul Center Of The Universe bridge, where there is a large sign directing tubers to exit the river and a takeout. Tubers are then shuttled back to the shop.

Guest: How long does this take?

Backdoor Sports: The time of the tube ride depends on the flow pace of the river. Generally in peak tubing season, the trip is just over an hour.

Guest: How do we get back?

Backdoor Sports: We continuously run shuttles between the takeout and the shop.

Guest: How far do we tube?

Backdoor Sports: The tube ride is approximately two miles down the Yampa River.

Guest: Can I wear flip-flops?

Backdoor Sports: Sorry, no flip-flops allowed, shoes/sandals with a heel strap or closed heel are required. We rent river shoes for $3, should you need them.

Guest: What didn’t I think of?

Backdoor Sports: If you wear sunglasses or prescription eyewear, a safety strap is highly recommended to prevent them from falling and getting lost in the river. We sell Croakies safety straps, which are available at the tubing desk. Sunscreen is highly recommended.

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. 

Snow making at Steamboat Ski Area. Photo: Larry Pierce.

As darkness lifted in the early hours this morning, little plumes of moisture could be seen clouding in clusters over the Steamboat Ski Area. The snow guns were out and Mount Werner was getting primed for her winter coat.

On November 21, Alterra Mountain Company will pop the cork on bottles of Korbel and open their gondola doors for the first riders and boarders of the 2018/ 19 season.

“The countdown to Opening Day is on with the start of snowmaking,” shared Dave Hunter, vice president of mountain operations for the Steamboat Ski & Resort Corporation. “We are just about 20 days away, the excitement is building, and our crews are hard at work assisting Mother Nature to create a great early season base for our guests to enjoy.”

New resort owners Alterra, have already started to make a mark on their master development plan for the ski area. The Bear River Bar and Grill at the base of the mountain underwent a mammoth transformation this summer and will reopen as the Timber and Torch. Expanded indoor seating, an oversized deck with outdoor fireplace and barbecue grill area are just some of the changes guests will be able to enjoy.

On the snow, diners can look out for the Taco Beast, a snowcat-come-food truck for some Mexican themed fast food and new signage marking trails and lifts. Although the resort’s 2,965 acres remains untouched, plans are afoot for future developments.

As the new season starts, one thing is certain, the annual line up of winter festivities stays unchanged. The Yampa Valley’s long list of winter traditions will be celebrated on and off the mountain, in true Steamboat style. Cheers to the next winter season.

Camera

Routt County’s scenery explodes into a backdrop of spectacular reds and golds during fall. Take to the roads and leave plenty time to pull over and take photos. Favorite drives include: The Flat Tops Wilderness Area Scenic Byway from Yampa over Dunkley Pass and Ripple Creek Pass; Elk River Road to Hahns Peak and Steamboat Lake; or Rabbit Ears Pass to Muddy Pass.

Binoculars

Spot an array of wildlife on the hillsides or roaming in the valley floor. It’s a busy time for our resident moose, elk, deer and bears. Keep a safe distance and use binoculars or telephoto lenses to watch them. Never approach a wild animal and make sure dogs remain on a leash.

Keep track of local bird sightings and document your own by using the popular app, ebird.org. For instant identification from a database of 650 North American birds, try merlin.allaboutbirds.org

 Warm Layers

Plan for cooler air temps in the mornings and evenings. Dress like a local and opt for layers. Several of the nations biggest players in outdoor recreation clothing and gear started out right here in Steamboat. Check out sidewalk sales throughout fall where last season’s gear can be a steal. You’ll have to race to the rack to grab anything from Smartwool or Big Agnes.

Taste Buds

It’s not just beer and brats on the menu this season, although you can find both in abundance at Steamboat’s OktoberWest festival on September 14 and 15. Sip local brews and pedal from pub to pub, while raising money for a great cause in the annual Mustache Ride on October 6.

Dine for less during ‘mud season’ when some of the town’s best eateries will be offering specials. Hunting season brings elk to the table in tasty stews and steaks. Homegrown apples, plums and the last harvest of peaches bubble inside cobblers and pies. Get a taste of local flavors at the first ever Yampavore dinner on October 11 at Harwigs Restaurant. All proceeds from ticket sales will go to support the Community Agriculture Alliance.

A Costume

We’re serious here – if you come on Halloween, you will need one. The downtown stroll is one of the community’s most cherished events. For two hours, Lincoln Avenue is closed to traffic and open to ghosts, ghouls and goblins. Join the throng of locals wandering from store to store on a trick or treat quest. Dress up and take part, or kick back with a cocktail and watch from the sidelines. October 31, 5-7 p.m.

Photo by Steamboat Ski Resort.

Warm summer nights and eye-popping sunsets make the perfect pairing for outdoor dining in Steamboat Springs. An extensive range of restaurants mean there is always something on the menu for everyone. If views are the order of the day, there is plenty to satisfy the eyes, and we’ve handpicked our favorites.

Haymaker Patio Grill

Located a couple miles on the outskirts of town, the family-friendly grill offers wrap around views of the rolling south valley. Eagles and herons frequently soar the skies above the 18-hole links-style course, adding to the ambience of this golf lovers’ paradise. Patio games occupy younger diners while grown ups can sip cocktails and feast on local fare. The restaurant is open all day and welcomes visitors, whether they come for the golf, or not.

E3

Set on the banks of the Yampa River in the heart of downtown Steamboat, the garden setting at E3 Chophouse is a magnate for outdoor diners. Although one of the pricier options around, their Happy Hour offers tremendous value for money. As the name suggests, steak weighs heavily on the menu, along with rich sides and a lobster mac n’ cheese that keeps locals coming back for more.

Aurum

Further downstream on Yampa Street is Aurum, a laid back bar and eatery with uninterrupted views of the iconic Howelsen Hill. A massive deck with a fire pit keeps folks enjoying the outdoors, even after the sun goes down. Families love the adjacent grassy space, which offers an enclosed space to run around and dance in, when a live band plays. An additional second level deck is popular with groups and gives diners a birds’ eye view of all the action on the river.

 Slopeside Grill

Bike, hike or stroll by the locals’ favorite hang out spot at the base of the Steamboat Ski Area. Kick back by Burgess Creek and let the kids run free while you sip locally brewed suds and feast on traditional American fare. Slopeside is an ideal spot to refuel during a day spent exploring Mount Werner, or grab a bite, before one of the free Movie on Mountain shows. Nothing beats the backdrop.

 Hazie’s at the Steamboat Ski Area

Your chariot awaits, to take you to brunch, literally – in the form of a gondola. Every Sunday until September 2, diners can ride in style to the top of Mount Werner for the ultimate room with a view. Brunch is served from 10 a.m. until 1p.m. at Hazie’s Restaurant, which offers guests the option of inside dining behind panoramic windows, or on the outside deck. Diners over 21 years are served Mimosas or Bloody Marys, and everyone can feast on a smorgasbord of delectable offerings. Reservations are recommended.

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

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.