Steamboat Springs Activities: 8 Things to Do Other Than Ski

With a location in Yampa Valley in Colorado, Steamboat Springs offers year-round fun in the mountains. The city is most known as a top ski destination, however it also ranks among the best destinations for festivals, hot springs and spas. For some ideas, read about the top Steamboat Springs activities and plan a trip.

8 Steamboat Springs Activities Other Than Skiing

steamboat springs activities outdoor

Biking, Hiking and Fishing

Its mountain location and proximity to Yampa River means there’s plenty to see and different ways to do so. Mountain biking remains the most popular among Steamboat Springs activities, with over 500 miles of trails. Riders choose guided tours with experts or rent bikes, and explore on their own. Steamboat has mountain trails, paved roads, extreme downhill adventures and trails suited for families.

While biking is No. 1, hiking and fishing also draw outdoor lovers. The area has dozens of trails that cater to all skill levels. The trail to Fish Creek Falls ranks among the most popular. Meanwhile Zirkel Wilderness offers a more remote retreat, or enjoy a stroll among creeks and rivers.

Visitors are welcome to bike and hike anytime of year, but in summertime don’t miss fly fishing Yampa River. Anglers fish for various types of trout and pike while admiring forest views. In addition, enjoy fly fishing Elk River, Steamboat Lake, Pearl Lake and nearby Flat Tops Wilderness Area.

steamboat springs activities not ski

Embrace the Cold

While Steamboat ranks among the top ski destinations in Colorado, non-skiers have plenty of cold-weather fun. Families love snowshoeing on Rabbit Ears Pass, renting snow bikes, snow tubing, sledding and riding snowmobiles.

Visit Hot Springs

Steamboat Springs houses two natural hot springs, which can sooth sore muscles and relax the body. Due to popularity, Strawberry Park Hot Springs requires a reservation with Sweet Pea Tours. The company offers transportation to the springs, and guests spend 1.25 hours in the water. Tours are available year-round but may close occasionally for maintenance.

The other option is Old Town Hot Springs, a multi-use complex with hot pools, slides and athletic activities. When not soaking and splashing, book a massage, kick back in a cabana, or take a fitness class.

steamboat springs tour vacation

Take a Tour

Sometimes visitors can’t do it all in one trip. No problem. Steamboat offers several tours that deliver different experiences. For example, outdoorsy types have zipline tours, guided fishing trips, hot-air balloon rides and kayaking. Those who need more laid-back options ride horses, take food tours, ride bikes and see the area via helicopter.

Attend an Event

While the city is known for outdoor adventure, locals also enjoy uniting the community. Hot-air balloon festivals, carnivals, rodeos, live music, and arts and culture – people in Steamboat Springs celebrate it all.

In winter, check out Steamboat Springs Winter Carnival, a five-day extravaganza with skiing, parties and family activities. In July, over 10,000 people gather for Hot Air Balloon Rodeo, a summertime must-see. Find more Steamboat Springs signature events.

steamboat springs activities spa

Practice Self Care

When planning a vacation in Steamboat Springs, remember it’s an ideal destination for wellness. Aside from relaxing hot springs, the area features spas, massage therapists, salons and yoga studios. Area day spas offers body treatments, manicures, pedicures and other ways to pamper the body. Additionally, studios offer yoga and Pilates classes where guests connect with others and their own body.

For something new, attend Steamboat Movement Fest. The event occurs in August and features presenters, teachers, meditation and healthy living practices.

Play Inside

Sometimes it’s too cold or wet to play outside. In those cases, head to these two Steamboat Springs indoor attractions. Howelsen Ice Complex is one of the only in Colorado that has bumper cars on ice. All ages ride bumper cars for 20 minutes, then ice skate and play hockey. Howelsen Ice Complex also offers public and private skating and hockey lessons.

The Tennis Center at Steamboat Springs has a state-of-the-art facility for tennis and pickleball. The center features eight outdoor tennis courts, six cushioned indoor courts, and eight outdoor pickleball courts. Additionally, players receive professional instruction and rent practice equipment. For more fun, the center hosts camps, adult dodgeball and tournaments.

Shop for Something Special

Another top among Steamboat Springs activities is shopping. The city has a vibrant downtown. Start by shopping Main Street, a center for dining, shopping and culture. Downtown Steamboat Springs has art galleries and locally owned boutiques for souvenir shopping or gifts.

Visitors will also find apparel, children’s goodies, handcrafted items, jewelry and sporting goods. A few musts include Off the Beaten Path, FM Light and Sons, Deja Ve Boutique, One Stop Ski Shop, and Steamboat Ski and Bike Kare.

Plan your own Steamboat Springs activities! View Steamboat Springs vacation rentals today.