If you’re looking for ways to explore more of the natural beauty surrounding Steamboat Springs, hop in your car and take in the views! From scenic byways and day trip adventures, there’s so much to do and see. Make sure to bring binoculars, a camera, and plenty of snacks for the road so you can take full advantage of the stunning mountain scenery.
Scenic Drives to Take from Steamboat Springs
Steamboat Springs is the perfect jumping-off point for an array of scenic drives that give you striking views of Colorado’s iconic scenery. Whether you’re in search of lush forested terrain or beautiful lake views, these drives have a bit of everything. Next time you want to hit the road and take some photos — check out these routes!
Drivers should keep in mind that these routes span across paved and unpaved roads. Before heading out, make sure your vehicle is up to the task of traveling off-road and follow all local rules and regulations.
Rabbit Ears Pass
Known for being an iconic drive during the autumn months, you won’t want to forget your camera so you can document the changing colors of the trees. The route is beautiful all throughout the year, with winding roads taking you to quaint towns such as Oak Creek, Phippsburg, and Yampa as you inevitably make your way towards the Flat Tops Wilderness Area. You’ll find views of the iconic Rabbit Ears rock formation and during the summertime, wildflowers along the route are in full bloom.
To reach Rabbit Ears Pass, you’ll hop onto CO-131 South to Forest Road 275. This 46-mile segment of the route takes approximately 50 minutes to an hour. From there, you’ll follow Forest Road 275 to Forest Road 270 to Forest ATV 1174. This 5-mile segment should be expected to take between 15-20 minutes.
Sand Wash Basin
Looking to spot wild horses? Sand Wash Basin is a great spot to photograph these beautiful creatures as they run in wild herds across the public BLM land. All roads within the area are gravel, dirt, or sand. Some of the roads have a fair gravel base, though many don’t. Drivers should be prepared for several “washes” and a high clearance 4×4 vehicle is highly recommended to avoid getting stuck.
The route to reach Sand Wash Basin is beautiful, taking drivers through Hayden and Sunbeam. The basin is approximately 50 miles west of Craig, Colorado. From Steamboat Springs, follow US-40 West for over 70 miles before turning right on CO-318 West. After 17.5 miles, hang a right onto Co Road 67 and your destination will be on the left after half a mile!
Buffalo Pass
During the fall, this is the perfect drive for prime fall color viewing. You’ll go through Aspen groves brimming with golden hues. This is a mostly gravel route, which is better suited for vehicles that have a higher clearance. You’ll come across stunning views of the Routt National Forest and the surrounding mountainous terrain.
To reach Buffalo Pass from Steamboat Springs, you’ll get onto Co Rd 38 and travel approximately 12 miles to reach the destination of Summit Lake Campground in Coalmont. One way, the trip takes around 45 minutes to an hour.
Dinosaur National Monument
📷 Photo courtesy of Dinosaur National Monument
Plan for about a 2-hour drive west if you want to make the trip to Dinosaur National Monument. This protected area is situated on the Colorado-Utah border and provides the unique opportunity to view dinosaur fossils, scenic canyon terrain, and various outdoor recreation activity options. Enter the monument from the town of Dinosaur, Colorado — where you can stop by the Canyon Visitor Center to plot out your adventure. Hike the short Fossil Discovery Trail to check out fossils that are still embedded in the rock, which gives you an up close and personal look at this striking paleontological marvel. The Quarry Exhibit Hall is located in the Utah portion of the monument and features exposed fossils, combining to boast over 1,500 bones from a diverse array of species.
The trip to the monument is scenic in and of itself. Drivers will enjoy canyons, rivers, and spectacular views. From Steamboat Springs, the route is a relatively direct shot. Get onto US-40 for 127 miles until you reach Harpers Corner Road and hang a right.
Flat Tops Scenic Byway
This scenic route will take you up and over the White River Plateau, with endpoints in the small towns of Meeker and Yampa. The route is a maintained dirt or gravel road. From your vehicle, you’ll be able to appreciate the White River National Forest and pristine scenery all around. There are excellent wildlife viewing opportunities as well, so make sure to bring along a pair of binoculars. To make the most of your adventures, consider packing a picnic or even camping gear if you want to extend your day trip into an overnight one.
Once you reach CO-131 South, you’ll travel for approximately 26 miles before turning right on Routt Co Road 17. This will bring you to the Yampa Entrance of the Flat Tops Trail Scenic Byway. There are few service options between Yampa and Meeker, so keep this in mind and make sure to fill up your tank before heading out and bring plenty of water and rations just in case.
Exciting Steamboat Springs Day Trips
Want to hit the road for a couple of hours and switch up the scenery? Check out these day trip options beginning from Steamboat Springs. Whether you want to partake in some outdoor recreation or simply stroll around a new town, there’s something for every adventurer!
Craig, Colorado
Craig is situated about 40 miles from Steamboat Springs, making it a perfect option for a day trip adventure. Throw some essentials in the car and make the hour’s drive to visit this remote town, home to approximately 9,000 residents. Take the time to explore the Museum of Northwest Colorado or spend a few hours fishing in Craig City Park. You can easily spend the afternoon exploring the quaint town — with restaurant options including The Sizzling Pickle Eatery & Lounge and the Warehouse Food Hall.
Steamboat Lake State Park
A quick 26 miles from Steamboat Springs, you can spend the entire day exploring Steamboat Lake State Park. Situated at the base of the historic Hahn’s Peak, this park provides locals and tourists alike with year-round recreation options. Rent a kayak or paddle boat so you can enjoy time out on the water or hang out at the swim beach while you work on your tan. There are grills, a marina, and picnic areas on site. Popular area activities include birding, fishing, horseback riding, hiking, swimming, and wildlife spotting.
Hahns Peak Village
Hahns Peak Village is situated just north of Steamboat Springs, only about a 35-minute drive. The historic village should be on your bucket list if you haven’t had the chance to visit it yet. You’ll get a glimpse into the region’s mining past, as there was a mining camp located in the village back in the 1860s and 1870s. The Hahns Peak Historical Society works to preserve 15 of the town’s earliest buildings, including a schoolhouse and the Wither Cabin. You can easily combine this with a trip to Steamboat Lake State Park to extend your day trip.
Grand Lake
📷 Photo courtesy of Go Grand Lake
A day trip to Grand Lake will take around 2 hours one way, so head out in the early afternoon so you provide yourself with adequate time to enjoy the charming town and spend the day on the water. Whether you want to fish or simply enjoy the historic boardwalk, there are multiple options for enjoying the sights. Combine your visit to Grand Lake with a short 20-minute drive to Granby, Colorado where you can visit local shops and restaurants. Check out the mountain biking paths at Granby Ranch or explore the Bill Miller Trail. If you want to enjoy time indoors, Granby is home to the Moffat Road Railroad Museum and Never Summer Brewing where you can kick back with a refreshing beverage.
Hot Sulphur Springs Resort & Spa
Located only 70 miles southeast of Steamboat, this is one of the most relaxing day trip destinations you could embark on. Basically, a straight shot once you hit US-40 East, you can throw on your favorite podcast or playlist and get ready to unwind. The resort and spa is nestled in the Colorado Rockies and is open 365 days a year. Walk-ins are welcome, so if you wake up one morning and you want to hit the road — just go for it! Enjoy one of the many pools while you wait for your massage time! Adult day passes are priced at $30, with towel and robe rentals available. If you book a massage, you’ll receive a complimentary all-day pass to the pools.
Walden, Colorado
Walden is only about one and a half hours from Steamboat, making it a great contender for a day trip. The small town is surrounded by beautiful landscapes and native wildlife. You may get lucky and spot a moose! Nearby North Park is the Moose Viewing Capital of the World! Enjoy the Arapaho National Wildlife Refuge or the State Forest State Park, which is the largest in Colorado. Make a pit stop at the Stockman Bar & Grill for lunch (cash only), which is situated on Walden’s Main Street.
Glenwood Springs
📷 Photo courtesy of VisitGlenwood.com
Glenwood Springs is located 115 miles from Steamboat Springs, which equates to a roughly 2 hour 10 minute drive. If you can manage the drive, you’ll be treated to beautiful views along the route. Once you’ve arrived in Glenwood Springs, you have various options for how you want to spend your day. Grab tickets to Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park, where you can ride the gondola or brave the Defiance Roller Coaster with a record-breaking 102.3-degree free fall. If you’re not a thrill seeker, go for a soak in the Glenwood Hot Springs Pool and soak in the healing minerals. The city has ample dining options and plenty of recreation activities if you’d prefer to spend your day hiking, biking, or kayaking!
📷 Photo courtesy of Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park
Enjoy Beautiful Views & Day Trip Adventures!
While there’s plenty to do within the borders of Steamboat Springs, nothing says adventure like hitting the road and exploring new areas. Challenge yourself with off-road routes or go wildflower spotting as you travel along the highway during the summer months. Day trip options are numerous from Steamboat, including a relaxing day at a hot springs resort or a family-friendly trip to an adventure park in Glenwood Springs.