Every autumn Steamboat lights up in a blaze of radiant gold, orange and rustic red. It’s a sight to behold and sets a magical postcard setting for exploring the Yampa Valley. Plan your fall getaway and tick these Steamboat must-do adventures off your list.

Ride the Steamboat Gondola

Go straight to the top and take in wide-reaching views of Mt. Werner and the Yampa Valley. After you’ve gotten your fill of golden vistas, ride back down to Steamboat Square for a drink and a bite at the Range Food & Drink Hall.

Hike Sunshine and Vista Nature Trails

Venture out on these scenic Steamboat Ski Resort trails for mellow hikes with big rewards. The Sunshine Trail is a two-mile intermediate journey through Sunshine Bowl across the front side of Mt. Werner. The easy-rated Vista Nature Trail is a short loop accessed from the top of the gondola and delivering gorgeous fall views of town. Be sure to refuel at the Oasis Sundeck after.

Soak in the Hot Springs

Splash around in Old Town’s hot springs-fed pools and play on two waterslides and a rock-climbing wall. Or take a shuttle ride to Strawberry Park Hot Springs for a therapeutic soak in an enchanting wooded autumn setting.

Take in a Mountaintop Happy Hour

Whisk up the mountain on the Steamboat Gondola and toast the gorgeous fall day. Sunset happy hour is a tradition for the whole family complete with live music and incredible Yampa Valley views from the Thunderhead Lodge.

Take a Downhill Mountain Bike Lesson

Learn all about technical skills and downhill tactics while taking in sweeping autumn valley views on a two-hour Bike Park 101 group lesson designed for first-time park riders.

Rip Down the Steamboat Bike Park

Pedal up or load your bike on the gondola and discover some of the most beautiful and secluded single-track in Colorado. The Steamboat Bike Park features nearly 2,200 vertical feet of gravity-fed, downhill flow trails flanked by stunning gilded fall views.

Cast a Line in the Yampa River

Hop on a guided trip or head out on your own and fly fish some of the state’s most coveted waters. Cast for rainbow and brown trout on the Yampa River and visit one of our locally loved lakes at Stagecoach Reservoir, Pearl Lake or Steamboat Lake State Park.

Take a North Routt Paddleboard Tour

There’s nothing like gliding along glassy waters surrounded by brilliant autumn aspen stands. Paddle around pristine, secluded Pearl Lake and Steamboat Lake and make the trip up to Hahns Peak Lake for peaceful SUP adventure. Afterwards, stop by the Clark Store on County Road 129 for ice cream or lunch on the aspen-edged deck.

Horseback Through the Aspens

Call on Del’s Triangle 3 Ranch for a two-hour guided trail ride through remote mountains blanketed in glowing aspen trees and rich fall colors.

Bike Aspen-Loaded Trails

Mountain bike some of the state’s best single-track at Steamboat Ski Resort — we like the views from Sunshine and Pioneer trails — and pedal the Emerald Mountain Loops or Flash of Gold on Buffalo Pass for dense aspen groves and bottomless fall vibes.

Play our Golf Courses

The fall links are greener and the golf balls go farther in the crisp mountain air. Treat yourself to an autumn tour of colors and courses. Visit Haymaker Golf Course for spectacular Mt. Werner and Flat Top views, Rollingstone Ranch for championship-caliber design and Steamboat Golf Club for 9 holes bordering the Yampa River.

Visit the Botanic Park

Relish in beautiful, serene alpine and desert plants and ecosystems at this Yampa Valley treasure. The Botanic Park is free and open to the public May through October.

Take a Brewery and Distillery Tour

Talented craft brewers and distillers abound in Steamboat and fall is an excellent time to sample the latest creations. Follow the Steamboat Brew Trail to Storm Peak Brewery, Yampa Valley Brewing, Mountain Tap and Mahogany Ridge before dipping into Mythology Distillery to sip craft cocktails around the community fire pit.

Stroll Lincoln Avenue

Sunny fall days are prime for shopping in Steamboat. Find real-deal western wear, art, culinary treats, craft stores and outdoor shops. Break for coffee and ice cream as needed.

Visit Historic Howelsen Hill

Ride the alpine slide, hike among aspen and wildflowers, check out the skate park and play on the outdoor tennis, basketball and volleyball courts at Howelsen while you take in the vast valley and town views.


Escape to the tranquil beauty of the mountains this fall with our exclusive lodging packages.

As the leaves begin to change color and the air grows crisp, there’s no better time to unwind and recharge in the midst of nature’s grandeur in Steamboat. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway or a family adventure, our package offers a unique and unforgettable experience in the heart of the mountains. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery, indulge in the delicious local cuisine, and enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities like hiking, biking, soaking in the natural mineral hot springs, or a scenic gondola ride.