Aside from being a popular ski town during the winter months, Steamboat Springs has a diverse array of outdoor activities for all seasons. Whether you want to immerse yourself in the Western culture or you want to enjoy a picnic by the Yampa — check out these outdoor adventures that are sure to impress everybody in the family.
Take a Ride on the Howler Alpine Slide
Where? 645 Howelsen Parkway
Kids and adults of all ages will love the alpine slide and scenic chair lifts at Howelsen Hill. Enjoy a scenic view of downtown Steamboat Springs while you control the exhilarating sled ride down the 2,400-foot track that bends and curves with the natural landscape. Tickets are sold at the slide only but it’s encouraged that parties sign the online waiver before arrival to expedite the process. Come any time, no reservation is required! The slide opens annually in June and is great for parties, family gatherings, and reunions. The 2024 rates for the slide start at $12 for a child ride-along with an adult rider, $17 for single youth riders or military members, and $20 for single adult riders (14 and up). The scenic chairlift rides go for $12 roundtrip.
Enjoy a Guided Hike with a Mountain Ambassador
Where? On Mountain
This family-friendly adventure includes a guided hike, as well as lunch at Steamboat Resort. Participants will stroll through forested terrain, admire striking vistas, and learn about the local flora and fauna. After your hike, enjoy a tasty meal with a view of the Yampa Valley. Lunch includes one entree and a drink (soda, draft beer, or a glass of house wine) and will be served at noon on the 3rd-floor deck. Gluten-free and vegetarian options are available. Same-day reservations must be booked onsite by 9:00 AM and are subject to availability. Hikers will meet at the base of the Steamboat Gondola at 10:30 AM and the hike difficulty is rated at light to moderate. Sturdy shoes are highly recommended, as well as water, sunscreen, and a light jacket depending on the forecast.
Experience the Wilderness on Horseback with Del’s Triangle 3 Ranch
Where? 55675 County Road 62
Del’s Triangle 3 Ranch has a range of summer trail ride options, from 1-hour rides to half-day and full-day excursions. The 2-hour adventure is priced at $125 and includes a match with a gentle horse and a relaxing yet exciting ride on the ranch’s trail system. Long pants and closed-toe shoes are recommended and riders must be at least 8 years old. Helmets are encouraged for all riders but are required for those 13 and under. The informative trail guide will share the history of the area with riders, as well as interesting facts throughout the trip. The full-day trip includes a sack lunch and riders will experience everything that the Mount Zirkel Wilderness area has to offer.
Go on a Seasonal Cattle Drive at Saddleback Ranch
Where? 37350 RCR 179
Experiencing a cattle drive on horseback is an unmatched outdoor summertime adventure. Saddleback Ranch offers these rides to ages 10 and up and they last for approximately 3.5 to 4 hours. The riding pace on drives is generally slow, which makes this a perfect way to soak in the great outdoors and take in the natural beauty of the surrounding land. Tickets per rider are $245 and tend to sell out fast — so grab yours while they’re available. The morning will be spent moving cattle, checking for illness, rounding up strays, and making sure everything at the ranch is in tip-top shape. Cattle drives are offered seasonally, from May through September. Riders will meet at the ranch at 8:00 AM and reservations are required in order to guarantee that there are horses available.
Spend a Recreational Day at Steamboat Lake
Where? 61105 County Road 129
Take the whole family out to Steamboat Lake State Park for a day filled with recreational activities and breathtaking scenery. Snap a photo of Hahn’s Peak and enjoy the full-service marina with a swim beach so the little ones can enjoy playing in the water. If you want to extend your adventure, consider making a reservation to camp onsite. Reservations can be made up to six months in advance or on the day you plan to arrive at the park, depending on availability. Bring your mountain bike to explore the 7+ miles of established trail or your fishing pole to cast a line into the lake. Pets on a leash are welcome. Don’t forget to swing by the nature store at the Visitor Center to grab some gifts or memorabilia from your time in the park.
Grab Your Binoculars for Birdwatching
Where? Various Locations
Explore sections of the Colorado Birding Trail on the Yampa Trail. The Yampa is one of the few rivers in the Centennial State that remains almost entirely undammed and undiverted, allowing it to support a rich ecosystem along its great length. Wood Ducks can be found on the water, as well as Gray Catbirds singing in the undergrowth. The unique hydrology of the valley attracts a diverse array of wildlife. The Sandhill Crane migration occurs from late summer through early fall, which can be fascinating to spot. Along the birding trail, birders can enjoy watchable wildlife sites, as well as walking and hiking paths and platforms that allow for observation.
Raft Down the Yampa River with Bucking Rainbow Outfitters
Where? 1103 Lincoln Avenue
Bucking Rainbow Outfitters has been crafting adventurous rafting excursions since 1993, so rest assured that they’re well-versed in providing a family-friendly experience. Outings include two-hour trips and half or full-day excursions — with overnight trips possible with prior arrangements. The Yampa River float is perfect for May through late June and is rated as a class II to III, making it ideal for beginners. Rafters are required to be 4 and up or 8 and up during high water. If you’re ready for more of a challenge, the Elk River rafting trip is rated as a class III or intermediate level. If you’re on the fence about which trip is right for you and your group, give Bucking Rainbow Outfitters a call and a friendly staff member will help you choose between the 5 rivers that range from “mild to wild.”
Fly Over Treetops with Steamboat Zipline Adventures
Where? 32075 East US Highway 40
Steamboat Zipline Adventures operates a state-of-the-art six-segment zip line course, with two quick jump belay systems and an ATV ride along the old Rabbit Ears pass road. Located just minutes from Steamboat Springs, this is a fun way to spend the afternoon and will excite even the biggest adrenaline junkies. All tours are guided by certified and trained zip-line aficionados who are eager to share their passion for the outdoors while zip-lining over beautiful landscapes. Lines range from 600′ to 1,300′ and there’s potential to reach speeds of up to 40 miles per hour. Before your time slot, arrive at the front desk 30 minutes before your tour to check in and sign a liability and release waiver. Groups are capped at 8-10 people and participants will be provided with all safety equipment such as helmets and harnesses.
Cast a Line at Stagecoach Reservoir with Big Ed’s Fishing Ventures
Where? 25500 County Road 14
Eager to catch your first rainbow trout? Big Ed’s Fishing Ventures provides anglers of all skill levels with the unique opportunity to experience a chartered fishing expedition at Stagecoach Reservoir. Trips will be on a 24-foot pontoon boat and last approximately three hours. The whole family is sure to love Big Ed’s and the little ones will have the chance to learn to fish while enjoying the unmatched beauty of the Colorado mountains. Stagecoach Reservoir provides the opportunity to catch species such as trout, Walleye, and Northern Pike. One-day fishing licenses are required for all participants 16 and up and can be easily obtained at Walmarts, City Markets, and other locations in town. Bring a light jacket, snacks, and drinks — as well as your camera to snap a photo of your catches!
Practice Your Swing at Haymaker Golf Course
Where? 34855 US-40
Situated in the Yampa Valley region of Steamboat Springs, Haymaker Golf Course is an 18-hole championship gem. The course maintains the highest environmental standards to preserve the natural beauty of the course, the surroundings, and the native wildlife that can be frequently spotted around the property such as elk, eagles, and blue herons. Tee times can be requested 10 days in advance and are available to all golfers. There is a substantial practice area with a driving range, sand trap, and chipping and putting green. If you have little ones, check out Amaze’n Steamboat for a mini golf course, as well as gemstone panning, a human maze, and squirt gun fun!
Take a Ride in the Sky with Wild West Balloon Adventures
Where? 753 Dougherty Road
Want to take in Steamboat Springs from the air? Wild West Balloon Adventures provides the experience of a lifetime, including early morning flights with a champagne ceremony, light breakfast snacks, and a personalized flight certificate. Enjoy views of the Flat Top Mountains and Hahn’s Peak. Flight times are about 45 minutes and a typical basket can accommodate up to 8 adults. Wearing warm, comfortable shoes and layered clothing is recommended as it can get chilly up in the air. All flights operate weather permitting, so if a flight is canceled due to wind, rain, or snowy conditions, reservations will be fully refunded. Riders must be at least 6 years old to ride in the balloon.
Climb to the Top of Hahn’s Peak
Where? Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest
Looking for a true outdoor challenge? Tackling Hahns Peak Trail is a summertime adventure like no other. This 3.6-mile (7 miles out and back) trail features an elevation gain of 1,400+ feet and is considered challenging. The area is popular for camping, hiking, and mountain biking and the best time to explore the route is from June through October. Stay up to date with recent reviews of the trail, as snow may still be covering the trail into June and snowshoes may be necessary. The views from the peak make the effort all worth it, with spectacular views of the Routt National Forest and the Mount Zirkel Wilderness Area and on a clear day — all the way into Wyoming. There is a fire lookout tower at the peak, originally constructed in 1912.
Visit Silver Creek Outfitters for Your Upcoming Hunting Excursion
Where? 27523 Silver Spur Street
This one-of-a-kind adventure takes hunters on horseback across miles of scenic Rocky Mountain wilderness to Silver Creek’s high country hunting camp, equipped with wood-burning stoves, canvas wall tents, clean water, and restrooms. Hunting excursions include elk, deer, moose, and private land mountain lion trips. Most trips include travel to and from camp, packing out the game, multiple days of hunting, and airport transfers. Silver Creek Outfitters also offers horseback riding, camping, fishing, and sightseeing adventures for families of all interests.
Bring Your Camera on a Self-Guided Mural Tour
Where? Various Locations
Looking for a more low-key outdoor adventure that doesn’t require hiking boots? Take a self-guided tour of Steamboat Springs that showcases the thriving local art scene. There are 19 murals included in the Steamboat Mural Tour, displayed on buildings and walls around the city. The artists hail from around the world, allowing art aficionados to appreciate a diverse skill set and unique designs that range from natural scenes to wildlife and memorial pieces. You can explore the route on foot, bike, or car — making it accessible for everybody interested in taking part.
Stay Safe this Summer While You Enjoy All That Steamboat Springs Has to Offer
With the weather warming up and the sun shining bright — it’s no wonder so many people want to spend all day outside. These outdoor adventures are sure to keep your summer jam-packed with fun and leave you amazed at the natural beauty that surrounds Steamboat Springs.