10 Fun and Free Family Activities in Steamboat Springs 

Fun doesn’t need to cost a cent with a playground like Steamboat Springs. Spend a morning, an afternoon or a whole day entertaining the family without breaking the bank.

1. Take advantage of free casting classes at West Lincoln Park, sponsored by Steamboat Flyfisher, on Saturdays at 5 p.m.
2. Hike Emerald Mountain leaving from Blackmere Road all the way to the quarry for incredible views of Steamboat and the Yampa Valley. Climb Mount Werner later in the day to watch the sun setting over town.
3. Play volleyball, tennis and skateboard at Howelsen Park.
4. Paddle in the Yampa River and soak in the run off from the Hot Springs in natural pools just before Rabbit Ears Motel as you head into town.
5. Experience Steamboat’s heritage from ranching to skiing by watching the Fourth of July Parade. Head over to Howelsen Hill to witness ski jumpers including past and present Olympians compete in the Jumpin’ Jammin’ contest. Come back when night falls for an incredible firework extravaganza.
6. Check out: free talks, movie nights, seminars, and kids workshops at Bud Werner Memorial Library.
7. Learn from a local naturalist at Yampatika about flora, fauna, birds, wildlife and archaeology on a free weekly-guided hike. www.yampatika.org
8. Spend an evening strolling through downtown Steamboat visiting an eclectic mix of venues during first Friday Artwalk. Meet local artists; sip wine and snack on appetizers that are served at a variety of locations.
9. Enjoy live music every Thursday afternoon in the Yampa River Botanic Gardens. Music on the Green is run by Strings Music Festival. Programing changes weekly. Music starts at noon and typically runs for one hour. Spend time strolling through the gardens before and after.
10. Hike and bike to your hearts content on acres of trails from mellow pathways to adrenaline fueled climbs. www.biketownusa.com

Steamboat Paddleboard Adventures

1. Yoga at 9,000 feet

It’s not everywhere you can downward dog and tree pose with your head almost touching the clouds. Every Sunday until September 6, stretch out at the base of Mount Werner from 9 – 10 a.m. with instruction from the experienced teachers at Yoga Center of Steamboat. Cost is free but suggested donation is $10 – best to reserve a mat in advance.

On August 30 make your way to the top of the gondola (opens at 9.30 a.m.) for a 10 – 11 a.m. class at 9,000 feet. Views, fresh air and an entire body stretch – Namaste.
www.yogacenterofsteamboat.com

2. Paddleboard Pearl Lake beneath the stars

Surrounded by a forest of pines, Pearl Lake is a secluded little haven just short of Steamboat Lake. Steamboat Paddleboard Adventures has introduced a very different way to experience the tranquility of this place. Starting at 8 p.m. a group of up to six people can enjoy a guided nighttime float. Boards are equipped with NOCQUA lights, which emit a soft glow to show the way. Tours end at 10 p.m. and must be reserved. Suitable for age ten and up. www.steamboatpaddleboardadventures.com

3. Unwind in soothing waters

Feel your stresses float away with a Watsu massage at Strawberry Park Hot Springs. Nestled in the trees, seven miles north of town is one of Steamboat’s hidden gems. Natural waters gather in a series of pools ranging in temperature, with a cool stream to dip in and out of. ½ hour massage $65. www.strawberryhotsprings.com

4. Seek scenery from the saddle

Meander your way through aspen groves and catch a glimpse of rolling ranchland riding in North Routt. Family owned and run Del’s Triangle 3 Ranch offers one and two hour rides through some of the Yampa Valley’s most dramatic scenery. $55 for one hour, $85 for two hours. www.steamboathorses.com

5. Source or sample some of Steamboat’s edibles.

With only 59 growing days, we relish any fruits or veggies that can grow up here. Local non-profit, Yampatika runs a series of guided summer hikes and workshops throughout the summer, sharing knowledge of native flora and fauna. Join them later this month on their annual wild mushroom hike and learn the art of foraging. Or kick back on September 16 for their garden to table dinner served in the historic setting of the Legacy Ranch. Reservations for both are required. www.yampatika.org.