Steamboat Springs Colorado Offers a Variety of Winter Activities

In northwest Colorado lies a quaint mountain town with a wealth of options for outdoor adventure. Steamboat Springs began as a ranching community, and it still embodies its western heritage. The locals are welcoming and the snow is famous for being both abundant and light. Last year, nearly 500 inches of snow fell on the mountains of Steamboat. The ski resort is known for wonderful tree-skiing in its wide open Aspen glades. About 3, 000 acres of diverse terrain is open for skiers and snowboarders to explore.

Steamboat has been appropriately nicknamed "Ski town U.S.A", but if you find yourself here for a week in the winter, don't stick to the slopes. Steamboat has many other outdoor adventure opportunities. Travelers are able to try new sports and take advantage of this winter playground. Activities include snowmobiling, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, ice climbing, horseback riding, sleigh rides, tubing and snowcat skiing in the backcountry. After participating in one of these adventures, visitors can utilize another of Steamboat's delightful attributes...its secluded mountain hot springs.

Snowmobiling has become a favorite pastime in Steamboat Springs. Riders come from far and wide to play in this area. A handful of local outfitters offer guided snowmobile tours, some of them operate in Routt National Forest and the Mt. Zirkel Wilderness Area. Thousands of acres are open to motorized sports, with incredibly diverse topography. The terrain varies from mellow groomed trails to steep, jagged pitches. This provides fun for everyone, no matter how much they have or have not ridden in the past.

Horseback Riding over the hills and through sunlit aspen glades is a peaceful endeavor. For those who seek to enjoy the mountain wilderness in a non-motorized fashion, a horseback ride is ideal. Other options for a quiet excursion in the backcountry include snowshoeing or nordic (cross-country) skiing. These activities combine post-card perfect scenery and a little bit of exercise. Also, because hikers and skiers make a limited amount of noise, there is a great chance of spotting wildlife! Break up the excursion by stopping at a secluded igloo for a snack and a hot drink.

Snowcat skiing offers an adrenaline-filled day for skiers and riders who are ready for powder. A snowcat is an enclosed-cab, truck sized, fully tracked vehicle designed to move on snow. They are also know as "trail groomers" because of their use for grooming on the slopes. Few other towns have a backcountry ski service that employs heated snowcats to transport guests, avoiding long hikes that take time away from skiing. These machines can drive guests up to high elevations to find abundant untracked powder. Each group is separated by ability level and accompanied by a professional guide. Even intermediate or "blue run" skiers can experience powder skiing in the backcountry. Experts are taken to different areas with steeps, deeps, lots of trees and rocks to launch off. Only one outfitter is permitted to run tours in the Buffalo Pass area which boasts 10, 000 acres of accessable terrain. Skiers and boarders are practically guaranteed fresh powder.

The tubing hills are gaining popularity each year, especially with the younger crowds. This isn't your run-of-the-mill sledding hill. The rolling hills are fast enough to get adrenaline pumping, even for adults. The tubing hill is groomed and equipped with a state of the art tube-tow lift system that attaches itself to the tube to transport users back to the top with minimal effort. This saves the time spent on hiking up the hill and leaves more for flying down.

For evening entertainment, try a dinner sleigh ride. This outdoor experience is great for families or couples and includes a hearty, home-cooked meal. The sleigh is comfortable with a large wool blanket to cuddle beneath as powerful draft horses with jingling harnesses pull you through the snow. Breathtaking views are to be enjoyed from your cozy perch as the alpen-glow dims into a starry night. Upon arriving to the warm lodge, the smell of delicious food is pleasing, as is the taste of hot chocolate or warm apple cider.

One of the best secrets about Steamboat is the natural hot springs for which the town was named. Early settlers stumbled upon a steaming and bubbling source that lies in the middle of the present-day town. To the settlers, the spring made a sound similar to that of a Steamboat. Much of the area sits atop geo-thermal activity. There are two different commercial locations for locals and travelers to take advantage of this gift from mother nature. The minerals in the water have been said to have a healing effect and there is no denying how immensely relaxing the pools are. Each of the springs that are open to the public have been strategically diverted in order to create a variety of pools, from ice cold to steaming hot. The Strawberry Park Hot Springs allows guests to soak away their aching muscle while taking in views of the surrounding wilderness. Its the perfect end to an active day spent outdoors in the mountains.

The mountains of Steamboat Springs, Colorado can certainly keep you busy. Next time you plan a ski vacation, be sure to incorporate more than just skiing or snowboarding. There is so much to gain from interacting with the outdoors and so many ways to do it. Steamboat is a unique town with unparalled opportunities for outdoor recreation. Come and be active in the mountains with your friends or loved ones, its sure to produce wonderful memories that will last a lifetime.

Claire Chappell is the owner of Steamboat Vacations, a Colorado based vacation planning service. Claire spent years as a professional guide in winter & summer adventure sports and has a wealth of knowledge to share. She offers expert advice on lodging, transportation, skiing and ski rentals as well as tons of great outdoor adventures for the whole family to enjoy!

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