Steamboat Summer Recreation: 7 Warm-weather Family Activities

When the snow melts, it’s time to play even more in Steamboat Springs. This popular resort town in Colorado offers skiing and snow fun; however outdoorsy types come here to explore the mountains that make this town special. Ready to reconnect with nature or need a new destination? Check out these Steamboat summer recreation activities and plan a trip.

Popular Steamboat Summer Recreation Spots for Families

Hike Fish Creek Falls

One of the most popular natural attractions in Steamboat Springs, Fish Creek Falls features a 280-foot waterfall and scenic spot to relax.

Families access the waterfall via a short quarter-mile gravel path leading to the lower falls. For a moderate hike, head to Upper Fish Creek Falls located 2.5 miles one way, or make a full day of it with a 6.5-mile hike to Long Lake. Those who prefer a guided adventure should schedule a watershed walk with Yampatika, a local tour operator.

See Nature at Yampa River Botanic Park

For a leisurely stroll through colorful scenery in Steamboat, head to Yampa River Botanic Park. This 6-acre park has delighted visitors for 20-plus years with blooming gardens, dance and drum ensemble, classes, and community events.

From May through October, enjoy Music on the Green. This natural oasis encourages guests to break away from busy lifestyles and listen to music, try yoga, and admire the setting. In addition, the park features over 50 gardens, many of which are tended by local residents. Yampa River Botanic Park is free to everyone, but please leave pets at home.

Ride the Rides

Amp up the adventure with a ride on the Outlaw Mountain Coaster. Among the longest coasters in North America, Outlaw measures over 6,200 linear feet with descents, dips, waves and turns. Each ride takes about 10 minutes and travels at a speed of 27 miles per hour. Riders are expected to control the speed and must be at least 54 inches tall to ride.

If the coaster seems too challenging, take the family on a calm gondola ride. Each gondola holds up to eight passengers and offers scenic views of Mount Werner. Once at the top, the area has hiking trails and a restaurant.

Families also enjoy the opportunity to tour the area in new ways. Steamboat welcomes guests to schedule hot-air balloon rides, go horseback rising, explore via helicopter and plan wagon dinner rides. Each offer their own way to see the area while bringing smiles and laughter. Don’t forget the camera.

Get in the Water

Fun fact: Steamboat Springs is home to two hot springs. These springs provide a place to play in the summer and let stress melt away. Due to popularity, Strawberry Park Hot Springs requires reservations. Each tour lasts 3 hours, with 1.25 hours spent at the springs.

Old Town Springs – located in downtown Steamboat – is a multiuse complex with pools, slides and a fitness center. Families will find a waterland playground including lap pool, kids shallow pool and hot pools.

Want more water activities? The city’s location near rivers, lakes and streams makes this a prime spot for all water lovers. Gear up for a white-water rafting trip, kayak on calm or rushing waters, paddle-board, or rent a boat and enjoy water skiing and diving.

Additionally, Steamboat Springs welcomes everyone to fly fish. Talk to an expert guide to discover the best fishing spots and hidden escapes. Yampa River Outfitters hosts guided fishing trips and can take three guests per guide.

Bike the Trails

Want to try mountain biking? Head to the Steamboat Bike Park. This attraction offers a 50-mile trail network with routes for beginners, intermediate and expert riders. All trails are downhill only and marked to ensure everyone finds the right trail based on their skill level.

Aside from the bike park, mountain bikers have access to hundreds of trails throughout the area. Families find short, easy loops to difficult rides that measure 30 miles round-trip. The city also hosts several biking events and competitions throughout the year.

Play a Round

Rolling greens, clouds reflecting in the water and scenic mountains. That’s what golfers find at Haymaker Golf Course. This 18-hole course welcomes players to test their skills. Haymaker is located in the Yampa Valley and measures over 7,300 yards.

Families who prefer to play a smaller course enjoy Maverick Mini Golf. This 18-hole mini-golf course in Steamboat Springs sits in the base area near Fish Creek Falls. Families should note the course opens daily from mid-June to early September.

Attend an Event

For more Steamboat summer recreation, attend local events. Steamboat hosts dozens of events year-round, providing families a way to connect with others and have fun.

Ford Mustangs go on display and race during Rocky Mountain Mustang Roundup in June. Runners, marathoners and bikers watch or participate in challenges. Watch some of the best riders during Cowboys’ Roundup Days.

That’s not all. Other summer signature events in Steamboat include the Hot Air Balloon Rodeo, Art in the Park, Movies on the Mountain, Wild West Air Fest and Oktoberwest.

Explore one of Colorado’s top mountain towns! Book a Steamboat Springs vacation rental.