10 Summer Activities in Steamboat Springs, Colorado  

With roots in ranching communities, Steamboat Springs is now one of Colorado’s quintessential mountain towns and premier vacation destinations.  Steamboat Springs is located west of the Continental Divide in the Yampa Valley, Park Range, and on the Yampa River, offering access to some of Colorado’s best outdoor areas.  

Just over Rabbit Ears Pass, Steamboat Springs is about a 150-mile drive northwest of Denver, 45 miles south of Wyoming’s border, and just over an hour from the Upper Colorado River, accessed from our Kremmling location. 

Although Steamboat Springs may be most well-known as Ski Town, USA for its winter sports legacy, culture, and resort atmosphere, summer in Steamboat Springs offers plenty of exciting outdoor and cultural opportunities.  

Visit Steamboat Springs in the summer months for a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and small-town charm. We have gathered a list of our 10 top summer activities in and around the town of Steamboat Springs.  

1. Mountain Biking 

Biking in Steamboat Springs is both a sport and a way of life, and the town has earned a Bike Town, USA reputation in addition to its Ski Town, USA recognition.   

In the summer, Steamboat Ski Resort turns its trails into a downhill and cross-country bike park. This mecca for adrenaline seekers offers riders the chance to ride to the trails with a gondola and send it down over 2,000 feet of vertical terrain.  

In addition to downhill riding, the area hosts a plethora of trails and paths for bikers of all styles and levels. Explore all mountain bike trails around Steamboat Springs. 

2. Boating & Tubing 

Steamboat Lake State Park is about a 40-minute drive from Steamboat Springs and offers opportunities for boating, waterskiing, and other water sports, with stunning views of mountains in the background. Visit the Steamboat Marina for boat rentals, fishing equipment, and specialty snacks.  

3. Tubing on the Yampa River 

Tubing is a popular summer activity right in the city of Steamboat Springs. You can rent from a tubing outfitter or bring your own tube, but be sure to check the water levels ahead of time; if they are over 700 CFS, it is not safe for tubing, according to the City of Steamboat.  

4. Colorado River Activities 

Just one hour away from Steamboat Springs, the Upper Colorado River hosts several activities for everyone in your group to have fun on the water.  Colorado River Rentals offers guided rafting trips and rental rafts and other equipment for your own adventure on the Colorado River.

For guided adventures, choose from a full day or half- day scenic float trip and enjoy a splashy and relaxing adventure on this iconic river. You will paddle through milder rapids with the chance to stop, sunbathe, and relax on the water. Groups can also choose from inflatable kayaks and stand-up paddleboards.  

While you’re in the area, check out our top places to eat in Kremmling, Colorado!  

5. Hot Springs  

After an outdoor adventure, there is nothing better than a soak in the hot springs. Old Town Hot Springs in Steamboat Springs’s downtown offers a main hot pool, along with 2 smaller spa pools. The Old Town Hot Springs is a nonprofit center that also includes a fitness gym, climbing wall, swimming pool, massage center, and fitness classes.  

For a more natural environment, head to Strawberry Park Hot Springs, just 20 minutes from Steamboat Springs. These thermal pools are constructed from stone and built into the natural environment. The park also offers massages and lodging opportunities. Colorado also has several other hot springs along the Colorado River to check out during your trip. 

6. Hot Air Balloon Rides 

Take a hot air balloon ride with Wild West Balloon Adventures. Fly high above Steamboat Springs and the Yampa Valley, enjoying views of the Flat Top Mountains and Champagne and snacks to complement your ride!  

7. Hiking an Inactive Volcano  

Hahn’s Peak lies just 45 minutes north of Steamboat Springs and offers an opportunity to hike and explore an extinct volcano in Routt National Forest. This mountain, also known as “Old Baldy,” was named after Joseph Hahn, one of the first to discover gold at the base of Hahn’s Peak.  

The 3.7 mile out and back Hahns Peak Lookout Trail takes you up to the 10, 839 ft. lookout peak on this inactive volcano, and you will even be able to see Wyoming. Alternatively, explore the 3.2 mile Hanhs Peak Lake Loop with stunning lake and mountain views.  

8. The Yampa River Botanic Park 

Explore the Yampa River Botanic Park, home to 63 unique gardens, diverse tree and plant life, and sculptures. This is a great activity to spend a nice day out in the town of Steamboat Springs.  

9. Fish Creek Falls 

Fish Creek Falls is an almost 300-foot waterfall, with viewing options from a 6-mile hiking trail from Steamboat Springs to a .25 one-way overlook trail. This magnificent waterfall makes for a great day hike or shorter trip and rewards with stunning views of alpine fed waters cascading through green trees atop the rocky cliff.

 

10. Steamboat Springs Rodeo 

Let your western side loose at the Steamboat Springs Rodeo. This pro rodeo takes place every Friday and Saturday and the July 4th holiday from late June through August. The event includes bareback riding, saddle bronc, bull riding, steer wrestling, and more, and you can always count on barbecue and ice cream!  

With all these summer activities, Steamboat Springs is a perfect Colorado destination throughout the seasons, just an hour away from the Colorado River and Kremmling. Plan your summer trip to Steamboat Springs or stop by the town on your way to or from your Colorado River activity. 

Written by Rosa Canales, Copywriting and Marketing Specialist