If you’re asking yourself whether there’s any reason to visit Steamboat Springs in the off-season — the answer is a resounding “YES!” There’s so much to do, see, and explore in the area, even if there’s no snowfall on the ground. Whether you enjoy hiking, fishing, or simply kicking back and relaxing in a quintessential mountain town, Steamboat has a bit of everything for everyone!
Take a Scenic Lift on the Steamboat Gondola at Mt. Werner
Where? On Mountain
Take a ride up to Mount Werner on a scenic summer lift ride in Steamboat Springs. There’s no better way to take in the views of the Yampa Valley than from the sky. Once you reach the summit, take a deep breath of that fresh mountain air and explore the miles of hiking trails at the top. Kids ride free on the gondola between the ages of 5-12 with the purchase of an adult ticket, making this a budget-friendly family activity to enjoy during both the off and shoulder seasons in Steamboat. The Steamboat Gondola and the Christie Peak Express run from June 14th through September 2nd and from September 6th through the end of the month, the Steamboat Gondola continues to be in operation on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM. If you happen to be an Ikon Pass holder, you can receive unlimited scenic lift rides which can be redeemed at the ticket office.
Soak in the Beautiful Autumn Views at the Hahns Peak Lookout Tower
📷 Photo courtesy of Historic Routt Country by Devon Barker
Where? Elkhead Mountains
All of Steamboat’s off-season offerings are made more picturesque once autumn rolls around! With beautiful orange, yellow, and red-hued views in all directions — you won’t be able to stop snapping photos and telling everyone that the pictures don’t do the scenery justice! Take in the striking harvest colors on an area hike, such as to Hahns Peak Lookout Tower. The trail is out and back and covers a distance of 3.6 miles. The elevation gain is approximately 1,600 feet and the difficulty rating is set at “moderate.” The lookout tower is perched at 10,800 feet atop an extinct volcano. The tower was constructed in the early 1900s and now offers the public stunning views of Steamboat Lake, the Routt National Forest, and the Zirkel Wilderness. If you’re hiking in the summer months, you’ll appreciate the cool shaded forest area and in the fall you’ll be greeted with aspen trees with golden leaves.
Take a Relaxing Soak in the Old Town Hot Springs
📷 Photo courtesy of Old Town Hot Springs
Where? 136 Lincoln Avenue
The Old Town Hot Springs are open all year round but it’s especially fun to make a trip during the off and shoulder seasons when the springs aren’t very crowded. Hailing as one of Colorado’s premier hot springs destinations, the historic springs are family-friendly and provide an escape from the bustle of town while still being conveniently located in downtown Steamboat Springs. When you’re looking to embrace rejuvenation and relaxation, the hot springs have been providing just that for over 100 years! The healing mineral water found in all eight pools typically ranges between 96 to 103 degrees. In addition to the springs, there are various classes held at Old Town Hot Springs, including spin classes, yoga, Ripped 30, Body Pump, and more!
Throw Out a Line at Casey’s Pond with the Family
Where? 2780 South Lincoln Avenue
Casey’s Pond is an incredibly peaceful spot, perfect for the whole family to enjoy! The area is free and open to the public, no reservation is required. Pack a picnic and cast a line while you sit back for a few hours, breathing in the beautiful mountain air. If you want a larger spot to cast out in, check out Stagecoach, Pearl, and Steamboat Lakes. These are great off-season spots for anglers to try their luck at reeling in a big one! In addition to the fishing pond, Casey’s Pond also features picnic tables and shaded spots to set up a chair, enjoy a picnic, and enjoy the outdoor ambiance. Dogs are permitted on site but owners should keep in mind that leash laws are enforced.
Take a Hike to Steamboat’s Favorite Waterfall at Fish Creek Falls
Where? 34165 Fish Creek Falls Road
Before the snow falls, make sure to take a walk up to Fish Creek Falls — which is an impressive 280-foot waterfall and one of the most popular destinations in the area. Located just minutes from downtown Steamboat Springs, you’ll experience a wilderness excursion that ends at this picturesque, legendary waterfall that is easily accessible for the whole family. The “hike” is a short 1/4 mile path down a gravel road that features pristine views of the lower falls. If you’re up to it, a more moderate route to the Upper Fish Creek Falls and Long Lake will boast impressive views as well. In the springtime, the falls come alive with roaring water from snowmelt and in the summer, the water clears and smoothly cascades over the rocks. In the wintertime, daredevils will ice climb the falls and hikers use snowshoes to access the trails.
Hit Up One of the Mountain Breweries Around Town
📷 Photo courtesy of Storm Peak Brewing Company
Where? Various Locations
Did you know that cold craft beer tastes just as good in the off-season as it does after you’ve been skiing all day on the hill? Well, Steamboat Springs has various local breweries that offer unique brews to both residents and tourists alike. Whether you swing by Mountain Tap Brewery for a Sunshine Sour, Storm Peak Brewing Company for a Maestro IPA, or Yampa Valley Brewing Company for a Sandhill Crane Red — you’ll find a variety of flavor profiles that are sure to delight and surprise. Take a brewery tour or string together several locations to taste-test your favorites this off-season. Remember, don’t drink and drive! Designate a driver or call a ride share.
Explore the Yampa River Core Trail
Where? Various Locations
Hiking is to summer what skiing is to winter in Steamboat Springs. Explore the 7.5-mile Yampa River Core Trail during the off-season. The pathway is suitable for walking, running, or even biking and there are a multitude of scenic stops along the way — including the Yampa River Botanic Park! Other access points along the trail include fishing spots and inner tube drop-in locations. Additional stops of interest along the route include the rodeo grounds, Howelsen Ice Arena, the Bud Werner Memorial Library, and various restaurants, art galleries, playgrounds, and shops. Dogs are welcome on the trail but must be kept on a six-foot handheld leash unless in a designated off-leash zone.
Hit the Skies in a Hot Air Balloon with Wild West Balloon Adventures
📷 Photo courtesy of Wild West Balloon Adventures
Where? 753 Dougherty Road
Views of Steamboat don’t get any better than from the sky! Wild West Balloon Adventures offers the truly unique experience of being lifted high into the sky in a colorful hot air balloon while you take in bird-eye views of the Flat Top Mountains and Hahn’s Peak. These early morning flights include a champagne ceremony after the flight and a personalized certificate to commemorate your experience. Riders must be at least 6 years old and flights average 45 minutes. The typical basket can accommodate up to 8 adults, though this can depend on variables such as the temperature and the combined weight of the group. Flights operate in the morning, with the exact timing depending on the weather conditions and the season. All flights are weather permitting and balloons don’t take off in windy, rainy, or snowy conditions.
Explore the Trails on Hoof with Del’s Triangle 3 Ranch
Where? 55675 County Road 62
There are few things better in the off-season than enjoying a horseback riding adventure with the family. Take in views of the Northwest region of Colorado atop an equine with Del’s Triangle 3 Ranch. The ranch offers 2-hour summer trail rides through deer and elk habitats or buggy tours that can accommodate up to four people per vehicle. Despite being a small, unassuming ranch — Del’s provides big adventures and great customer service. Each rider is fit to the “right” horse and everybody gets their own ride! Children must be at least 8 years old and long pants and closed toe shoes are recommended. An informative guide will take you along designated routes while discussing the history of the area and interesting facts that are pertinent to your ride. Even during the winter season, horseback riding can be a great way to get outdoors! Winter rides last an hour and a half to two hours, depending on conditions, and ski clothing is recommended.
Go Ziplining Above the Treetops with Steamboat Zipline Adventures
Where? 32075 US-40
Steamboat Zipline Adventures offers a range of off-season adventures for those seeking out an adrenaline fix in place of skiing. Enjoy breathtaking mountain views when you go flying through the air. Ziplining can be just as thrilling as hitting a black diamond on the mountain and is safe for the whole family to enjoy. Participants can book tickets in advance and should arrive at the location a half hour before their scheduled tour time. There are approximately 8-10 people per group and participants will be provided with all of the required equipment, such as helmets, harnesses, and trolleys. If this is your first time ziplining or your 100th, there will be a brief on-ground training and orientation session conducted at a practice line before you’re zipped away on your tour! There are six ziplines, two quick-jump belay systems, and short trail hikes from line to line.
Take the Car for a Scenic Drive Along Buffalo Pass
Where? Steamboat towards Coalmont
Only a short drive from Steamboat, you can take Oak Street to Amethyst Drive before following County Road 38 for 12 miles (40ish minutes) to reach your destination of Coalmont. This beautiful drive has twists and turns and inevitably leads to the Summit Lake Campground. You can either turn around and enjoy the view in reverse or spend the night camping and taking in the grandiose scenery. This is a great outing for those with little ones or for people who don’t want to spend hours hiking to soak in autumn views! There is prime fall color viewing along the route and you’ll drive through Aspen groves that come alive with beautiful orange and yellow hues. The approximately 15-mile stretch of scenic dirt road features forests, alpine lakes, and access to numerous hiking, biking, horseback riding, and motorized vehicle trails.
Practice Your 18 Hole Game at Haymaker Course
Where? 34855 US-40
Steamboat Springs is actually home to two public and one private 18-hole golf course. Practice your strokes at either Haymaker Course or Rollingstone Ranch Course during the off-season. Both courses have beautiful views and you can easily spend the whole afternoon working on your game before grabbing a bite to eat onsite. Haymaker is located in the lush Yampa Valley Region of Steamboat and is deemed a championship golf course with a picturesque backdrop of the Flat Top mountain range and Mount Werner. This Keith Foster-designed course is home to elk, eagles, and blue herons — so keep an eye out and you may end up with some new golfing buddies! Swing by the Haymaker Patio Grill for grab-n-go breakfast options or for brunch, lunch, or an early dinner! Happy hour deals run daily from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM.
Take Advantage of the Off Season in Steamboat Springs!
If you want to explore Steamboat Springs without the crowds, the shoulder and off seasons are the perfect time to visit. You can take advantage of all the outdoor recreation adventures in the area that draw in summertime folks while avoiding the influx of people that descend on the area come winter. Steamboat Springs is fun for the whole family year-round, so just plan your activities accordingly and see when your travel schedule lines up with the amenities you want to enjoy in this iconic Colorado mountain town.