The Yampa River cuts right through the middle of Steamboat Springs. On a summer afternoon, you'll see tubes and kayaks drifting past the downtown restaurants. So if you're wondering what to do in Steamboat Springs, start with the river and branch out from there. This mountain town keeps its Western roots strong. Rodeo fans fill the stands on Friday nights. Hikers head up Emerald Mountain for views of the whole valley.
- Best time
- Summer (June-September) for hiking, biking, and water sports; winter (December-March) for skiing.
- Where to stay
- Downtown Steamboat Springs, near the Yampa River and base of the ski area.
- Perfect for
- Families, outdoor enthusiasts, skiers, and hot-spring lovers.
- Don't miss
- Tubing the Yampa River on a warm summer day.
Things I'd Tell a Friend
A few practical tips from someone who's been there.
Beat the Crowds at Fish Creek Falls
The main overlook gets packed by mid-morning in summer. Go early, right when the parking lot opens, to have the bridge to yourself.
Source · Locals know
Bring Cash for Strawberry Park
Strawberry Park Hot Springs only takes cash. There's no ATM on site, so stop at the bank before you drive up.
Source · From personal experience
Check the Free Movie Schedule
Steamboat Ski Resort shows free family movies on the big outdoor screen Saturdays at sunset in summer. Bring a blanket.
Source · Tested with kids
Fish Creek Falls
A 283-foot cascade that's one of Colorado's tallest waterfalls. The hike to the main overlook is an easy paved trail.
- Easy paved 1/4 mile trail to the overlook
- 283-foot waterfall featured on a Coors can
- Option to hike 2.5 miles to Upper Falls
- Wooden bridge at the base among giant boulders
Fish Creek Falls is a must-do when you're in Steamboat Springs. The walk to the main overlook takes you through an aspen forest on a paved quarter-mile trail. From there you see the full 283 feet of water cascading over the cliff. This is the second tallest waterfall in the state. You can also hike down to the base of the falls, where a picturesque wooden bridge spans the creek. If you're up for a challenge, cross the bridge and continue 2.5 miles up the rocks and through the trees to the Upper Fish Creek Falls. The upper falls are smaller, but the hike through Fish Creek Canyon offers amazing views of the Rocky Mountains. Peak summer months get crowded, so be prepared to share the trail with others.
Peak summer gets crowded
The main overlook and bridge area can be busy in summer. Go early or on a weekday to avoid the crowds.
Short drive from downtown
Fish Creek Falls is a few minutes drive from central Steamboat. There is a parking fee at the trailhead.
Hike to Upper Falls for solitude
Most visitors stop at the main overlook. The 2.5-mile hike to Upper Fish Creek Falls is much quieter and offers great canyon views.
Come before 9 AM to have the bridge almost to yourself.
After your hike, head back to town for a meal. Many downtown hotels are within walking distance of restaurants along the Yampa River.
The Steamboat Grand
- Outdoor swimming pool
- Free Wifi
- Private Parking
- Non-smoking rooms
- Skiing
- Facilities for disabled guests
- Fitness center
- Tea/Coffee Maker in All Rooms
- Bar
- Breakfast
Sheraton Steamboat Resort Villas
- Outdoor swimming pool
- Free Wifi
- Private Parking
- Non-smoking rooms
- Family rooms
- Skiing
- Facilities for disabled guests
- Fitness center
- Spa and wellness center
- Bar
We earn a commission on bookings through these links. The picks are mine, and that doesn't change them.
Strawberry Park Hot Springs
Natural mineral springs with year-round 104°F water. The stone pools blend into the mountainside.
- Year-round average temperature of 104°F
- Multiple stone pools with varying temperatures
- Cold plunge into the icy river next to the pools
- Reservations required year-round; cash only
Strawberry Park Hot Springs is a short 15-minute drive from town through the scenic Strawberry Park valley. The large stone pools are built to look natural, blending into the hillside. The water stays around 104°F year-round. You can try different pools to find your preferred temperature. For the brave, there's a cold plunge into the fresh, icy river flowing alongside. Reservations are required year-round, and they only accept cash. In winter, snow tires or chains are necessary to reach the springs.
Reservations required, cash only
You must book ahead year-round. Payment is cash only - no credit cards, no ATM on site.
15-minute drive up the mountain
Head up County Road 36 from town. In winter, four-wheel drive or chains are required.
Plan ahead for cash and time
Soaking is relaxing, but the drive and reservation system mean you need to plan. Book online and stop at an ATM in town.
Reserve your spot and bring cash - they don't take cards.
Steamboat Gondola
The gondola runs year-round, offering mountain views and access to mid-mountain dining.
- Scenic ride to mid-mountain on Mount Werner
- Oasis bar and grill at the top for lunch
- Sunset happy hour with live music (check schedule)
- Hike up and ride down for free
You don't have to ski to enjoy the Steamboat Ski Resort. In summer the gondola takes you to the midpoint of Mount Werner, where you can grab lunch at the Oasis bar and grill while taking in the scenery. If you're up for a hike, you can climb the mountain and ride the gondola down for free. There are also shorter trails that start from the gondola drop-off point. Check the schedule for sunset happy hour events - it's a popular time to ride up, watch the sunset, and enjoy live music with a drink.
Check schedule and buy tickets online
Gondola hours vary by season. Purchase lift tickets ahead on the Steamboat Resort website.
Go for sunset happy hour
The sunset happy hour includes live music at the Oasis. Arrive early to secure a good spot.
Base is in the ski village
The gondola starts at the Steamboat Ski Resort base area, just off Mount Werner Road. Parking is available.
If you're up for a hike, go up on foot and ride down free.
Staying at the base area puts you steps from the gondola. Several ski-in/ski-out hotels are located right at the village.
The Steamboat Hotel
Homewood Suites By Hilton Steamboat Springs
- Indoor swimming pool
- Free Wifi
- Private Parking
- Non-smoking rooms
- Facilities for disabled guests
- Fitness center
- Tea/Coffee Maker in All Rooms
- Bar
- Good Breakfast
We earn a commission on bookings through these links. The picks are mine, and that doesn't change them.
Yampa River Botanic Park
A free garden park with ponds, paths, and family-friendly events.
- Free admission (donations appreciated)
- Beautiful garden paths around a lily-pad pond
- Wednesday Music on the Green in summer
- Friday storytime for kids in summer
The Yampa River Botanic Park is a quiet escape right next to the Yampa River Core Trail. It's free to enter, though there's a tip jar if you'd like to contribute. The park has multiple paths winding around a pond with lily pads and large grassy areas perfect for a picnic. In summer, the park hosts Music on the Green every Wednesday evening, with live music. On Fridays, the library leads a storytime for children, followed by a fun activity. The park is at its best in summer when flowers are in full bloom. It's an easy walk or bike ride from downtown.
Free with optional donation
The park is completely free. There's a jar for tips if you wish to support the gardens.
Best in summer, not as much in fall
Visit between June and August when the flowers are in bloom. In fall most plants are finished.
Park at Emerald Park and walk
Park at Emerald Park off Lincoln Avenue. Then walk down the sidewalk along the field to the garden entrance. It's also accessible from the Yampa River Core Trail.
It's free, but drop a tip in the jar if you enjoyed it.
The park is close to downtown hotels. You can easily walk from many lodgings along the river.
The Nordic Lodge
- Outdoor swimming pool
- Free Wifi
- Free parking
- Non-smoking rooms
- Family rooms
- Skiing
- Facilities for disabled guests
- Tea/Coffee Maker in All Rooms
Hampton Inn & Suites Steamboat Springs
We earn a commission on bookings through these links. The picks are mine, and that doesn't change them.
Emerald Mountain
A convenient mountain right in town with trails for all levels and a top-notch view.
- Located right off Howelsen Hill near downtown
- Bluffs Loop and Blackmere Trail provide ~2-mile hikes
- Overlook facing town and Steamboat Ski Area
- Also popular for mountain biking with network of trails
Emerald Mountain gets its name from the lush green color of its slopes. It's the easiest mountain to access from town - you can start hiking from Howelsen Hill. The Bluffs Loop and Blackmere Trail are family-friendly options around two miles. From the overlook you get a panoramic view of town, the Yampa Valley, and the ski area. Mountain bikers also love Emerald for its cross-country courses, which range from short loops to a 26-mile epic ride over the hill. Note that some parts of the mountain close periodically to protect elk, so check current conditions before heading out.
Walk from downtown or drive to Howelsen Hill
Emerald Mountain starts at Howelsen Hill, just south of Lincoln Avenue. It's an easy walk from downtown or a short drive.
Trails may close to protect elk
The Bureau of Land Management sometimes closes parts of Emerald Mountain for elk protection. Check online before you go.
Climb to the bluffs for the easiest route
If you're new to the area, head straight for the bluffs. The trail is gentle and rewards you with the best view of town.
Try the Bluffs Loop for a quick hike with the best payoff.
Downtown hotels put you minutes from the trailhead. You can start your hike before breakfast.
The Inn At Steamboat
Worldmark Steamboat Springs
- 2 swimming pools
- Wifi
- Free parking
- Non-smoking rooms
- Family rooms
- Skiing
- Fitness center
We earn a commission on bookings through these links. The picks are mine, and that doesn't change them.
Steamboat Springs Pro Rodeo
A top-ranked rodeo held Friday and Saturday nights all summer long.
- Barrel racing and bull riding
- Small venue gets you close to the action
- Rodeo roots date back to 1898
- Part of a pro rodeo series
The Steamboat Springs Pro Rodeo is one of the best in the country. It runs every Friday and Saturday night through the summer. The rodeo has been part of the town's culture since before Steamboat was incorporated, with newspaper mentions as far back as 1898. Today it's a professional rodeo series with events like barrel racing and bull riding. The small size of the arena means you get an up-close view of all the action. It's a fun way to experience Steamboat's ranching heritage.
Friday and Saturday nights, buy online
The rodeo runs weekly from June through August. Gates open in the evening. Purchase tickets on the official rodeo website.
Rodeo grounds near downtown
The rodeo arena is located at the Steamboat Springs Pro Rodeo grounds, a short drive or walk from downtown.
Small venue means limited seats
Because the arena is smaller than big-city rodeos, tickets can sell out. Book in advance to guarantee a spot.
Buy tickets ahead - the smaller venue sells out.
Many downtown hotels are within walking distance of the rodeo grounds. You can grab dinner before the show.
Residence Inn By Marriott Steamboat Springs
- Outdoor swimming pool
- Free Wifi
- Parking on site
- Non-smoking rooms
- Family rooms
- Skiing
- Facilities for disabled guests
- Tea/Coffee Maker in All Rooms
- Bar
- Excellent Breakfast
We earn a commission on bookings through these links. The picks are mine, and that doesn't change them.
How long is the hike to Fish Creek Falls?
The main overlook is an easy 1/4-mile paved walk. The full hike to the upper falls is 2.5 miles one way.
Do I need reservations for Strawberry Park Hot Springs?
Yes, reservations are required year-round. They also only accept cash.
Is the Yampa River Botanic Park free?
Yes, admission is free. There's a tip jar if you'd like to donate.
When is the Steamboat Pro Rodeo?
Friday and Saturday nights throughout the summer, from June through August.
Can I ride the gondola in summer?
Yes, the Steamboat Gondola runs in summer for scenic rides. You can also hike up and ride down for free.
