Dec 16, 2023 – Jan 1, 2024
Written By: J.Couch
Steamboat Springs is a charming ski town in northwest Colorado, known for its world-class skiing, natural hot springs, and western heritage. But there is more to Steamboat than just the slopes. Whether you are looking for adventure, relaxation, or culture, you will find something to suit your taste. We had the chance to spend a few weeks here during the holidays and celebrated Christmas and New Years in this winter wonderland. Here are some of the best ways to enjoy Steamboat Springs in winter.
Skiing & Snowboarding
If you love skiing or snowboarding, you will love Steamboat Ski Resort. The resort boasts over 2,900 acres of skiable terrain, with trails for all levels of ability. You can ride the newest gondola that just opened this 2023-2024 ski season. The Wild Blue Gondola is the longest and fastest 10-person gondola in North America, and gives skiers access to the Sunshine Peak and Storm Peak areas, where you will find powder-filled bowls, glades, and groomed slopes. You can also explore the new Mahogany Ridge, which offers 600 acres of expert terrain and stunning views. For freestyle riders, there are four terrain parks, including the Mavericks Superpipe, which is 450 feet long and 18 feet high.
If you are new to skiing or snowboarding, or want to improve your skills, you can take a lesson at the Greenhorn Ranch, a world-class learning facility that features a dedicated beginner area, a magic carpet, and a mini-gondola. You can also rent snowboards and gear from one of the many shops in town or at the base area. See our blog about snowboarding at Steamboat Ski Resort.
While Steamboat Ski Resort attracts more visitors and attention, Howelsen Hill has its own charm and history. It offers a quieter, slower-paced ski experience that is more accessible and affordable than Steamboat Ski Resort. Howelsen Hill also preserves the rich western heritage and Olympic spirit of Steamboat. It is the oldest continuously operating ski area in Colorado, dating back to 1915. It is located just south of downtown Steamboat Springs and offers affordable skiing and snowboarding for all levels, as well as cross-country skiing, fat bike and snowshoe trails. Howelsen Hill is also known for its natural ski jumping complex and its legacy of producing winter Olympians. It has also been the site of several ski jumping world records. The Howelsen Hill Ski Area website states that the ski area has produced 89 Olympians in both alpine and Nordic events. Check out our blog about the couple days that I spent snowboarding on the free ski Sunday at Howelsen Hill. Also my 360 video that I posted to YouTube.
Snowshoeing
Snowshoeing is a great way to experience the beauty and tranquility of the winter landscape. You can snowshoe on any of the trails in the Steamboat area, or join a guided tour with a local outfitter. Some of the popular places to snowshoe are the Fish Creek Falls, the Blackmer trail up to Emerald Mountain, and Rabbit Ears Pass. You can also snowshoe at night under the stars, or under the full moon for a magical experience.
Snowshoeing is easy to learn and suitable for all ages and fitness levels. All you need are snowshoes, warm boots, and poles. You can rent snowshoes and poles from the Steamboat Ski & Sport, or from other shops in town. You should also dress in layers, wear sunscreen, and bring water and snacks. See our blog about snowshoeing Blackmer trail and hiking Fish Creek Falls and Uranium mine.
Restaurants
After a day of skiing, snowboarding or snowshoeing, you will be hungry for some delicious food. Luckily, Steamboat Springs has a variety of restaurants to satisfy your appetite. You can find everything from casual and family-friendly eateries to fine dining and romantic spots. Here are some of the best restaurants in Steamboat Springs:
- Backdoor Grill: This is the place to go for the best burgers in town, as well as sandwiches, salads, and fries. You can choose from a variety of toppings and sauces, or create your own burger. The atmosphere is cozy and fun, and the staff is friendly and helpful.
- Cafe Diva: This is the place to go for a gourmet meal in a sophisticated setting. The menu features seasonal and healthful dishes, made with local and organic ingredients. You can enjoy dishes like elk tenderloin, scallops, duck, and lamb, paired with fine wines from around the world. They do have a few vegan options.
- Creekside Cafe & Grill: This is the place to go for a hearty breakfast or lunch, served in a charming and historic building. The menu offers classic American fare, with a twist. You can try the eggs benedict, the huevos rancheros, the pancakes, or the burgers. The portions are generous and the prices are reasonable. They also have some vegan options, such as vegan eggs and vegan sausage.
- Mazzola’s Italian Restaurant: This is the place to go for authentic Italian cuisine, served in a cozy and rustic atmosphere. The menu offers pizza, pasta, salads, and soups, made with fresh and quality ingredients. You can also enjoy the happy hour specials, the live music, and the friendly service. Don’t think that they have much in the line of vegan options here.
- Mahogany Ridge Brewery And Grill: (As far as I can tell this place has been closed) This is the place to go for a casual and lively night out, with great food and drinks. The menu offers American and international dishes, such as ribs, steaks, fish, and tacos. You can also sample the craft beers, brewed on-site, or the cocktails, made with local spirits. They do have some vegetarian options.
- Winona’s Restaurant: This is the place to go for a delicious breakfast, lunch, or treat, with homemade food and baked goods. You can also indulge in the world-famous cinnamon rolls and other pastries. You can find vegan and vegetarian options, such as the oatmeal, the granola, the veggie wrap, or the black bean burger.
- Laundry: This is the place to go for smoked and cured natural foods, with a shared plate concept and a creative menu. There may be some vegan and vegetarian options, such as the hummus, the falafel, the roasted cauliflower, or the mushroom ragout, but you would need to ask. You can also pair your food with the wines, the whiskeys, or the house-infused spirits.
- Yampa Valley Kitchen: This is the place to go for organic, local, and sustainable cuisine. You can try the affogato, the crepes, the rosti, the avocado toast, or the house-made veggie burger. They do offer a variety of vegetarian, vegan and vegan option dishes. You can also enjoy the coffee, the lattes, and the craft cocktails.
- Freshies Restaurant: This is the place to go for a healthy and tasty meal, with a focus on organic and local ingredients. The menu offers salads, sandwiches, wraps, and bowls, with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. You can also enjoy the smoothies, the juices, and the baked goods.
If you are looking for more (vegan) plant-based options, you can also check out these restaurants:
- Saffron Indian Restaurant: is a place where you can enjoy authentic and delicious Indian food, made with fresh and quality ingredients. They offer a variety of dishes from different regions of India, such as chicken tikka masala, lamb curry, saag paneer, and more. They also have some vegan options, such as vegan masala, tofu curry, channa masala, and more. You can also add roti bread, rice, or salad to your order. See our blog here about Saffron.
- Mai Thai Cuisine: is a Thai restaurant with a vegan section in their menu. They have dishes such as red curry, drunken noodles, pad thai, fried rice, and more, that can be made with tofu or vegetables. They also have a variety of salads, soups, appetizers, and desserts. You can enjoy their food in a cozy and friendly atmosphere, or order online for delivery or takeout.
- Sumatera Restaurant: is a place where you can experience the ring of fire Pacific Rim cuisine, ranging from the Indonesian islands and Thailand. The chef, who is from Sumatera, Indonesia, prepares all the food to order, using fresh and flavorful ingredients. Some of their dishes include Laksa: a spicy and creamy coconut seafood soup, Rendang: a slow-cooked roast beef and potatoes, ramen, and more. They also have some vegetarian options, such as stir-fried eggplant, spring rolls, and more. They have a small and cozy space, with a casual and relaxed vibe. See our blog here about Sumatera.
- Seedz: is a restaurant that offers artizen global cuisine, inspired by American, Asian, and Latin flavors. They use carefully sourced, natural, and organic ingredients, and are committed to sustainability. Their menu features dishes such as grass-fed beef burgers, rice bowls, salads, sandwiches, and more. They also have a wide variety of gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian options, such as tofu curry, vegan burger, quinoa salad, and more. They have a family-friendly atmosphere, and a summer outside patio where you can enjoy the downtown scene. See our blog here about Seedz.
- Brick: is a pizzeria and ristorante that serves traditional brick oven deliciousness. They have a variety of pizzas, pastas, salads, and more, made with fresh and quality ingredients. They also have some vegetarian and vegan options, such as the Pomodoro pizza. I was told that their crust was just yeast and flour. You can also enjoy their craft cocktails, biodynamic wines, organic smoothies, and non-alcoholic beverages. They have a modern and elegant space, with a warm and inviting ambiance. See our blog here about Brick.
Art Galleries
If you are looking for some culture and inspiration, you can visit some of the art galleries in Steamboat Springs. You will find a variety of artworks, from paintings and sculptures to photography and jewelry, created by local, regional, and national artists. Here are some of the best art galleries in Steamboat Springs:
- Steamboat Art Museum: This is the place to go for a showcase of contemporary realism, featuring works by renowned artists. The museum is housed in a historic building, and offers rotating exhibits, workshops, and events. Admission is free, and donations are welcome.
- Pine Moon Fine Art: This is the place to go for a collection of original artworks, created by 15 local artists. The gallery displays paintings, ceramics, glass, metal, wood, and fiber art, in a variety of styles and mediums. You can also meet the artists, and purchase their works.
- Depot Art Center: This is the place to go for a hub of creativity and community, run by the Steamboat Springs Arts Council. The center hosts exhibits, classes, performances, and festivals, featuring local and regional artists. You can also explore the historic train depot, and enjoy the views of the Yampa River.
- Jace Romick Gallery: This is the place to go for a stunning display of photography and custom frames, created by the owner and artist, Jace Romick. The gallery features images of the western landscape, wildlife, and culture, as well as handcrafted furniture and accessories. You can also commission a custom piece, or a portrait session.
- Wild Horse Gallery: This is the place to go for a fine art gallery, specializing in contemporary realism. The gallery showcases oil paintings, watercolors, pastels, and sculptures, depicting the landscapes, wildlife, and people of Colorado and the Rocky Mountains. You can also find a selection of prints, cards, and books.
Hot Springs
One of the most relaxing and rejuvenating activities in Steamboat Springs is soaking in the natural hot springs. The mineral-rich water is said to have healing and therapeutic benefits, as well as being soothing and refreshing. There are two main hot springs in Steamboat Springs: Old Town Hot Springs and Strawberry Park Hot Springs.
- Old Town Hot Springs: Is located in the heart of downtown Steamboat Springs, and offers a family-friendly and modern facility. The hot springs feature eight pools, with temperatures ranging from 80°F to 103°F. You can also enjoy the water slides, the fitness center, the climbing wall, and the massage services. The admission fee is $20 for adults, $12 for children, and $8 for seniors.
- Strawberry Park Hot Springs: Is located about 15 minutes north from downtown Steamboat Springs, and offers a rustic and natural setting. The hot springs feature several pools, with temperatures ranging from 101°F to 106°F. You can also enjoy the river access, the massage services, and the lodging options. The admission fee is $20 for all ages, and cash or check only. Note that clothing is optional after dark, and minors are not allowed during that time. You can also book a shuttle service from downtown Steamboat Springs to the hot springs, for $15 per person round trip. See our blog about adventuring out to the hot springs.
Steamboat Springs is a wonderful destination for a winter vacation, with something for everyone. You can enjoy the thrill of snowboarding, the peace of snowshoeing, the flavor of dining, the beauty of art, and the warmth of hot springs. You can also shop downtown, or join a festival or event. No matter what you choose to do, you will have a memorable and enjoyable time in Steamboat Springs.
Thanks for wandering with us,
The Wandering Couchs