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.