Ahhh, Spring in Steamboat. The lush valley and mountains come alive with the budding trees and green fields. The birds awake, the river is flowing, the trees are budding and people are out frolicking around town.
Don’t let the idea that this ‘in-between’ season is not the time to visit because it is neither summer or winter; it’s actually my favorite time to be in Steamboat Springs. The town is quiet, the days are longer and warmer, the restaurants have amazing deals, and there are a ton of activities to keep all ages busy.
Read below for 5 must-do’s during springtime in the ‘Boat.
- Rent a bike and cruise the Yampa River Core Trail
With 7 miles of flat, paved pathway that winds next to the Yampa River, you will feel light on your bike and enjoy the scenes of the river life. Catch the site of flyfishers reeling in brown and rainbow trout. Hear the birds chirping in the cottonwood trees, and 360 views of mountain bliss can be found. - Relax in the Strawberry Park Hot Springs
About 7 miles north of Steamboat Springs lies the little gem of Strawberry Park Hot Springs. Open year round, spring is a great time to visit with minimal crowds. Fully enjoy the natural springs with two larger soaking areas made from rock formation that feels like a pool, or soak in a smaller more private areas (3 to chose from). Feeling sore? Book a personal or couples massage right at the hot springs for the utmost relaxing day. - Hike to Fish Creek Falls
Open year round is Fish Creek Falls hike. With just a 10 minute drive north on 3rd street to Fish Creek Falls Road from the downtown area, this is a very accessible trail. Take a brisk quarter of a mile walk to see the 280 foot water falls from the base, or chose the paved path with a distant wide-angle view. Spring is a perfect time to view the falls as the snowmelt has it at peak flow. - Dine Downtown Along the River Banks
Head downtown to Yampa Street to enjoy dinner along the river. From sushi to BBQ and steakhouses, there are plenty of restaurants to chose from. Take advantage of the smokin’ deals during the shoulder season. Most dining establishments have a great happy hour between the 4 – 6 p.m. and are offering buy one get one or similar type deals on entres. Now is the time to dine to the nines with a romantic river ambience. - Climb an 8 foot rock wall above Old Town Hot Springs
The Old Town Hot Springs are conveniently located downtown Steamboat Springs and on the free bus loop making it easy to visit. There are a couple smaller pools to soak and enjoy the healing hot springs water, or swim in the hot springs pool with fountains and bridges. Take your try at the 8 foot rock wall above the springs where you can fall back assured you are landing in the water. Fun for all ages and open 7 days a week until 9 or 10 p.m.
Photo: Kids enjoy a break on the river after biking on the Yampa River Core Trail.
Check out www.steamboatnet to book your next Steamboat vacation.
