Top 10 Steamboat Winter Adult Getaway Activities
Planning a trip to Steamboat Springs sans kids? Here’s where to go and what to do on your adults-only winter trip.
1. Ski and Snowboard Champagne Powder® Snow
Hit the slopes together! If your crew is a little rusty, book an adult group ski lesson and get your groove back. Expert instructors help you gain confidence and improve technique so you can make the most of your time on the mountain. Feeling steady and ready? Hit the gradual slopes on legendary trails like Buddy’s Run, High Noon and Rainbow. Already have your ski legs in shape. Closets and Shadows are just two of our famous tree runs.
Visiting with non-skiers? The base area at Steamboat is a fun place to gather with outdoor seating and fire pits and some great restaurants and shops.
Unwind and soothe minds and muscles at Strawberry Hot Springs. The iconic natural soaking pools are tucked into the forest and feature therapeutic waters ranging from 101° to 105°. Add on watsu aquatic therapy massages for an extra treat and stay for some clothing optional (18 and up) after-dark relaxation under the stars.
Steamboat knows how to throw a party! Embrace the area’s rich western heritage and cowboy vibe during the Cowboy Downhill. Catch live music, daring athletic feats and outrageous firework displays at famous fests that include 60th Anniversary Celebration, WinterWonderGrass, Winter Carnival and a springtime favorite, the Bud Light Rocks the Boat music series during March and April. The season culminates with Springalicious festivities including the Cardboard Classic and Pond Skim.
4. Shop and Stroll
Explore historic downtown Steamboat Springs, where many locally owned shops dot Lincoln and Yampa streets. Update your western wear at F.M. Light and Sons (founded in Steamboat in 1905), pick up gifts for the folks back home and nab some locally crafted art and culinary goods for yourself. Don’t miss the official Steamboat Resort merchandise store located in the center of downtown on Lincoln Street.
Take to the sky with Wild West Balloon Adventures and get a bird’s-eye view of the Yampa Valley. For peaceful winter wonderland scenes, book an early morning ride and soar over town and the mountain, including Mount Werner and its snowy ski trails.
6. Hangout in Steamboat Square
New for winter 2022/23, the completely revamped Steamboat Square base area features an après ski plaza, new restaurants and bars, and an ice rink. Rent some skates and spin around Skeeter’s Rink and then hit the food hall for tacos, ramen or pizza.
Steamboat is one of the few Colorado resorts to offer skiing after dark. Embark on your night adventure across five groomed trails, including Sitz, See Me, Vogue, Stampede and Lil’ Rodeo. All levels of skiing and riding are available with two beginner, two intermediate and one advanced trail open. Stay up late as you cruise down 1,100 vertical feet of terrain under state-of-the-art Ultra-Tech™ Lighting that significantly improves the night skiing experience.
8. Happy Hour Hop
The best way to experience locally owned restaurants and watering holes is to head downtown early evening and bop around. Find smiling chefs and bartenders serving up deals on cocktails, microbrews, small plates, sliders and shared apps.
If you’re looking for an adult activity that’s completely unique and scenic, check out snowshoe photography tours. Visit Fish Creek’s stunning bridges and aspen groves while learning from a professional photography guide. The tour will cover proper exposures for snow photos, developing an eye for quality of light and much more. Tours include a guide, snowshoes and trail fee. Camera rental is available.
Cruise over groomed trails and open meadows on a guided snowmobile tour with Saddleback Ranch. Take in views of the Flattops, Mt. Werner, Sleeping Giant and the Zirkels from a double passenger Skidoo 4 stroke snowmobile. After your ride, warm up with hot cocoa and fresh baked cookies.
