Colorado is known for its ski resorts. The swath that the mighty Rockies cut across the state make for plentiful mountains and a vast number of ski resorts. Among all these famous ski towns and resorts, though, there is only one that has earned the title of "Ski Town USA". Steamboat Springs is that town, as it has garnered an international reputation as a world-class destination for skiing. While the mountains are breathtaking and the skiing first rate, you will see that the town is no one trick pony and that a vacation in a Steamboat Springs hotel can be enjoyable for everyone.
The name of the town is somewhat humorous, as there are no actual steamboats nearby. There are, however, a number of hot springs in the area, including one known as Steamboat Spring, for the sound it emits, which reminded early settlers to the area of the engine of a steamboat. This is the origin of the town's name, which has come to be something of a local joke in the area. West Lincoln Park in town has a playground in the shape of a steamboat and a local restaurant has been dubbed the Steamboat Yacht Club.
The main ski area in Steamboat Springs is the Steamboat Ski Resort, which boasts over 160 runs on nearly three thousand snowy acres. The summit of the mountain is over ten thousand feet above sea level, with a vertical rise of over three thousand feet. Since its opening about fifty years ago, Steamboat has grown to include features such as two terrain parks, including the Mavericks Superpipe, one of the top pipes for skiing and snowboarding in the continent and seventeen chairlifts. While most of the runs traversing Mount Werner are geared toward intermediate and advanced skill levels, there is also a selection of beginner trails. Any Steamboat Springs hotel will be able to provide you with more information on the mountain itself, including lift maps and directions.
The relatively tiny Howelsen Ski Area is also in Steamboat Springs. Despite having just one chair lift and a vertical drop of less than 450 feet, Howelsen has the distinction of being the home area of more internationally competing skiers historically than any other hill in North America. Howelsen also has several jumps and a bobsled track.
Its situation in the Rocky Mountains makes Steamboat a famousl town for skiing, but the town is also located on the Yampa River, which also makes it a great destination for river sports. The mild summer and picturesque mountain scenery provide a backdrop for a vacation during the warmer months, as well. Many visitors and residents take advantage of the Yampa for kayaking, rafting and fishing. Whitewater rafters will enjoy the grade II - III rapids in the Yampa near Steamboat Springs. The stretch of the Yampa running along Steamboat is the annual home of the Yampa River Festival each June. During this festival, the town of Steamboat Springs organizes events in the river, including several races and a kayak rodeo. Both the Yampa River and the Steamboat Ski Resort attract a lot of visitors to the area, so booking a Steamboat Springs hotel early is recommended.
As with most mountain destinations, Steamboat Springs can be a bit of a challenge to get to. The drive from Denver International Airport is a manageable three and a half hours through the mountains, so renting a car from the airport or finding a shuttle are both options. Yampa Valley Regional Airport (HDN) is much closer, being only about twenty-five miles from Steamboat. Flights from Denver are available year-round and seasonally from other U.S. hubs. Calling your Steamboat Springs hotel ahead of time to ask for travel recommendations can be a good way to figure out the best way to get there.
Whether you're a skier, kayaker, rafter, or fishing enthusiast, Steamboat Springs has opportunities for you to enjoy the outdoor sports you love. The mountainous terrain, along with some good local dining, shopping and entertainment, make for an enjoyable vacation for the whole family, or just for you and a special someone. Get started on booking your Steamboat Springs hotel so you can enjoy your ski vacation that much sooner.
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Steamboat Springs Weather
Sat, Jan 28 - Light Snow
Max : 1°C (34°F)
Min : -6°C (21°F)
Sun, Jan 29 - Sunny Intervals
Max : 5°C (41°F)
Min : -1°C (30°F)
Mon, Jan 30 - White Cloud
Max : 11°C (52°F)
Min : 0°C (32°F)
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