Have you heard of Howelsen Hill? It is the oldest operating ski area in Colorado and located in the heart of downtown Steamboat Springs. Accessed off of 5th street, over the river and behind the rodeo grounds is the charming Howelsen Hill. It is a fully operating ski area with a chairlift accessing a variety of terrain for skiing greens, blues and blacks for all abilities. Howelsen Hill even has a little park area where skiers and riders can test their jumps and 360 degree turns. Toddlers, young kids and new skiers can ease their way into skiing by riding the magic carpet to ski on the ‘bunny slopes.’
Howelsen Hill also offers world class Nordic trails for cross country and skate skiing, as well as fat biking. The lodge at the base of the mountain has a warm fire place room where hot chocolate and other food items are for sale (at a reasonably good rate, too!).
Howelsen Hill reminds me of the good old days with the quintessential ski lodge looking right onto the mountain. The convenience of parking out front where it is easy to drop the kids and gear creates relax and ease for the ski day ahead. It is the perfect place for families and people of all ages to enjoy good snow, a variety of terrain, and be reminded of the history of skiing with historic charm.
What more convincing do you need to experience the oldest operating ski area in Colorado? Perhaps knowing that it is FREE to ski on Sundays?! That is correct, Howelsen Hill is free on Sundays from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. every Sunday this winter (from December 2nd until mid-March).
Stop in the lodge to pick up your free ticket, which is required to access the lifts and Nordic trails. Bring the kids. Bring the grandparents. And bring your sweetheart or friends to enjoy a fun day on the slopes!
Photo: Skiers and Riders enjoying the lodge and Howelsen Hill Ski Area.
