Memorial Day weekend is the unofficial start of Summer. But here in the mountains even though we are ready to get our bikes and hiking boots out the slopes are still covered in snow and the weather can be unpredictable. With so many fun things to do in and around Steamboat Springs in the spring you are guaranteed to have a great holiday weekend even if the sunny morning turns into a snowy afternoon. Below is a list of some of our favorite outdoors activities that you can enjoy this Memorial Day Weekend.
Scenic drive
Steamboat Springs is located in one of the most beautiful mountain settings. If the trails are too muddy for hiking you can take a car drive along one of the beautiful mountain roads and enjoy the breathtaking sights from the comfort of your car. Two of the most popular roads open year round are Lynx Pass and Elk River Road. Lynx Pass is a paved and grated dirt road conveniently located just outside of town. Follow the winding country roads around Stagecoach Reservoir and up Lynx Pass and witness the lush forests give way to high desert surroundings. Old mining towns and spectacular views of the Flat Tops mountains dot the way up. Elk River Road is an easily accessible paved road that will show you the beauty of North Routt County and the heart of the Old West. Nearby are Steamboat Lake and Pearl Lake State Parks, along with Hahn’s Peak Lake, all accessible for fishing and watersports. A few must-see stops on your drive up are the Clark Store, an old-style general store, the Steamboat Lake State Park Visitor Center and the Hahn’s Peak Museum.
Spring Biking
Some of the mountain trails might not be open yet but the early summer weather is perfect for hitting the road. Even though Steamboat Springs is famous for some of the more challenging biking roads in the mountains the town also has a lot of easier paved biking paths perfect for cruising with the whole family. One of the most favorite family friendly roads near Steamboat is the Yampa River Core Trail. The trail stretches for about 7-mile following the Yampa River from Walton Pond north to Shield Road near where it crosses the river. Running parallel to US 40 through a corridor of cottonwoods. Along the way you'll find picnic spots, benches and scenic overlooks. If you are looking to do a more strenuous bike ride over the weekend try you can test your spring bike shape there are plenty of challenging routs. Some of the more popular roads include Steamboat-Stagecoach-Oak Creek Loop, Catamount Oat and Back and Rabbit Ears Pass.
Zipline Tour
If you are looking for a family friendly outdoors activity to enjoy in the early summer take a zipline guided tour on Rabbit Ears Pass. Steamboat Zipline Adventure operates a state-of-the-art six segment zipline course offering stunning views of the Flat Top Mountain Range and the Yampa Valley. Included in the adventure is an ATV ride along the old U.S. Hwy 40 and two quick-jump belay systems, the tour lasting approximately 2-3 hours. Small groups of 6-8 people, large groups can also be accommodated.
Alpine Slide
Alpine Slide
The Howler - Steambot Springs's famous alpine slide is also set to open Memorial Day weekend.The Alpine Slide, is fun for the entire family and a perfect activity for the cooler spring weather. Enjoy scenic views of downtown Steamboat Springs as you ride a chairlift to the top of historic Howelsen Hill. Using a sled provided to you at the top of the lift, you are in control of your exhilarating ride as you wind down a 2,400 foot track through the bends and curves of the natural landscape of beautiful Howelsen Hill.