I felt the buzz the moment I arrived. Steamboat’s base area has been completely transformed into a stunning new ski resort plaza!
Steamboat’s Full Steam Ahead $200 million-dollar project and vision is well underway with design elements that continue to honor Steamboat’s rich Western heritage of ranching, agriculture, and warm friendliness. You’ll love the new family-friendly amenities, dining, and fun, energetic vibe of the Resort!
Steamboat’s base area has made a giant leap into a modern, innovative ski resort with elements of design and technology. You’ll find welcoming conveniences such as an escalator that brings you easily from the base area to the kids’ Happy Camp and the Steamboat Grand (making it a breeze in ski boots!) There’s also a fun, family-friendly Skeeter’s Ice Rink that provides outdoor joy and togetherness.
Steamboat, Colorado is the first ski town I moved to in the spring of ’00 and it’s such a joy to see the new growth and improvements they’ve made and are continuing to develop. Steamboat has a warm place in my heart as my first mountain town home in Colorado and I visit a few times every year!
This new vibrant space in Steamboat Square also includes unique dining and apres ski restaurants, shopping, entertainment, and so much more.
In This Article
Wild Blue Gondola
The summer of 2023 was very productive for the transformation of the Wild Blue Gondola upper leg construction all the way up to Sunshine Peak. This means the new Wild Blue Gondola will be ready for opening for the ski season of 2023 /2024 and take skiers and snowboarders all the way to the top!
The new Wild Blue Gondola will increase the capacity to 10,000 people per hour and be the longest and fastest 10-person gondola in North America.
There is also a mid-point stop along the way on the Steamboat Gondola at Greenhorn Ranch, Steamboat’s brand-new learning area.
Ikon Pass
Steamboat Ski Resort is included on the Ikon Pass for the 2023/2024 ski season! If you own an Ikon Pass you have unlimited access to Steamboat Ski Resort without any blackout dates. To find out more about purchasing an Ikon Pass, go to the Ikon Pass website here.
Steamboat Lift Tickets: To review and purchase Steamboat Lift Tickets for 2023/24 (not Ikon Pass) go to Steamboat’s Lift Ticket page here.
Greenhorn Ranch
Greenhorn Ranch is Steamboat’s new SnowSports School which has been newly re-graded and designed for the perfect experience for kids and adults who are new to the sports of skiing and snowboarding.
This area has been solely created with the new skier and rider in mind and provides an easy system that features Terrain-Based Learning. This allows for a natural progression of ski terrain as a guest’s abilities improve, helping with confidence and progression.
There will be a new high-speed quad lift in this learning area called the Greenhorn Ranch Express which will transport beginner skiers through the terrain. This lift will run a lower speeds for a safer experience for newbies. Also, carpet lifts have been relocated from the original learning area to Greenhorn Ranch.
Steamboat’s goal is to boost the confidence of their new skiers and snowboarders in order to help them advance in their skills quickly and easily.
Guests will access Greenhorn Ranch at the mid-way point while riding up the new Wild Blue Gondola.
Snowmaking at Greenhorn Ranch
Steamboat is committed to consistently snow-covered terrain in Greenhorn Ranch and on Sunshine Peak. They’ve implemented new snowmaking technology to get the job done and provide guests with an over-the-top experience.
This article is all about the new Steamboat Gondola.
The Range Food & Drink Hall
The Range Food & Drink Hall is a beautiful new addition to the Steamboat’s base area. The Range debuted this summer of 2023 with four alluring dining options for guests. Skiers and snowboarders will have the choice of enjoying Why Not Sandwich Shop, Pioneer Pies (pizza), Sunshine Bowls (Ramen), and Twister Tacos.
During my visit in July, I opted for one Chili Crunch Mushroom taco and one Blackened Baha Shrimp taco and they were delicious!
The Range has an expansive area for seating and socializing, including a large deck with views of Steamboat’s ski slopes, the base area, and the Steamboat gondola.
Mahogany Ridge Expansion
The Mahogany Ridge Expansion at Steamboat is an exciting addition to the Expert/advanced terrain of Steamboat Ski Resort! This expansion will add another 650 acres of skiing making Steamboat the 2nd largest ski resort in Colorado. This new terrain will be gladed and fun for all of those skiers who already love Steamboat for their tree skiing.
A new Mahogany Ridge chairlift will also be added to access the new terrain. This lift and the new Mahogany Ridge area for skiing and snowboarding will be open during the 2023/2024 ski season.
How to Get to Steamboat Springs, Colorado
Flying Into Yampa Valley Regional Airport (Hayden, HDN)
Yampa Valley Regional Airport (HDN) is about 27 miles west of Steamboat Ski Resort. The drive takes about 40 minutes which is super convenient when traveling to Steamboat!
The winter air schedule into Steamboat’s Hayden Airport is one of the best in ski country with 16 non-stop flights serviced by 6 airlines. This includes Atlanta, Chicago, Boston, Dallas (both airports), Ft Lauderdale, Houston, Minneapolis, Newark, Nashville, Los Angeles, Seattle, San Diego, San Francisco, Washington (Dulles) and Denver! (during the winter ski season)
In the spring, summer, and fall, the airline schedule schedule includes daily flights to and from Denver on United and Southwest. In addition to the four daily flights from Denver, there are nonstop weekend flights to and from Houston, TX.
For a list of all current times and cities, check out this Fly to Steamboat page.
Steamboat’s Happy Camp for Kids
Steamboat’s Happy Camp is a dedicated children’s area located inside the Sheraton to welcome kids to Steamboat. Happy Camp has specialized indoor play mats that help children visualize shapes that their skis will make and go through sliding slope experiences before even going outside.
There’s an easy area for kids’ ski boot fitting and they’ll prepare to learn skills and fundamentals of the sport. They’ll be put into groups of the same ages and skill levels and be ready to learn. All sorts of fun are planned each day like sing-alongs and stories. Kids will have lunch provided that includes pizza, chicken tenders, vegetables, and snacks throughout the day!
Winter Activities To Do In Steamboat
Skiing and Snowboarding in Steamboat
The Champagne Powder that falls in Steamboat Springs draws skiers and snowboarders from far and wide every winter! Light, fluffy snow (and so much of it) every ski season is the number one reason for visitors to come to this special, world-class ski destination. Whether you’re a beginner, intermediate, or expert/advanced skier or snowboarder you’ll find ski runs to fall in love with at Steamboat Ski Resort.
At Steamboat, the terrain is divided into 14% Beginner trails, 44% Intermediate, and 44% Advanced level. There (currently) are 2,965 acres of skiing and snowboarding on 171 trails. Here’s a link to the STEAMBOAT TRAIL MAP so you can take a close look and start planning your ski days.
Ice Skating in Steamboat
Skeeter’s Ice Rink is the center of attention in the base area of Steamboat Square. Fun for the kids and the whole family, Skeeter’s is a social hub of laughter and togetherness. Stop by with your own ice skates or rental skates and make a few circles around the rink!
This article is all about the new Steamboat Gondola.
Snowshoeing in Steamboat
Haymaker Nordic Center is the perfect place to plan a snowshoe adventure in Steamboat, Colorado. Haymaker has dedicated trails that wind through the gorgeous natural landscape of the Yampa Valley. This is truly a peaceful way to get some exercise, and get outdoors, but do something that isn’t over-the-top extreme (like downhill skiing).
Go at your own pace, pop in your headphones to listen to a book, or simply enjoy the quiet time that the snowy trails provide.
Snowshoe tours are a really nice excursion to do together as a family. Get together and explore the beauty while enjoying each other’s company and making memories.
Haymaker Nordic Center also provides cross-country ski rentals, skate ski rentals, and snow bike rentals, along with instruction.
To get in touch with Haymaker Nordic Center or Steamboat Touring Center, check out their main Haymaker Nordic Center contact page.
Snowmobiling in Steamboat
Snowmobiling in Steamboat is an epic adventure that should not be missed! There is an extensive trail system on Rabbit Ears Pass along the Continental Divide that makes for a snowmobiling experience like no other, in Steamboat, Colorado. You’ll be guided through big open meadows and have expansive views along the way. Your knowledgeable snowmobiling guides will stop along the way to take photos and truly enjoy the scenery.
Steamboat Snowmobile Tours will pick you up at your property in Steamboat or one of their other locations in downtown Steamboat. This makes it super convenient for you and your family to enjoy this winter wonderland excursion!
In order to drive one of the snowmobiles, you must be at least 16 years old. If you want to drive and bring another passenger, the driver must be 18. The minimum age to ride is 3 years old. To learn about rates, times, and more details check out Steamboat Snowmobile Tours here.
courtesy of Strawberry Park Hot Springs
Hot Springs in Steamboat
Steamboat Springs is known for its hot springs. There are two amazing places to visit to experience the relaxation of the hot springs in Steamboat. Old Town Hot Springs is located in downtown Steamboat and is popular among visitors and locals. The Old Town Hot Springs offers soaking pools that are fed by local hot springs and have varying degrees of heat.
Old Town Hot Springs also offers other activities for the entire family such as a climbing wall, water slides, and a full fitness center. Massages are available to arrange which includes a full menu including Swedish massage, Sports Massage, Deep Tissue, and more. A note about the history is that these hot springs served as a bathing place for the Ute Indians who first settled into the area.
Strawberry Hot Park Hot Springs is located just a short 25-minute drive from Steamboat Ski Resort. You’ll find a natural unique stone setting at Strawberry Park Hot Springs when you visit. It’s a beautiful location with plenty of trees, space, and different pool options for soaking.
There are varying degrees of temperatures in the soaking areas in case you prefer to soak in very hot water or a bit cooler. I lean towards the lower degrees so I can stay in longer without getting overheated.
Restrooms, changing rooms, and picnic areas are all available. The natural landscape is fairly rustic, so bring proper footwear to walk down uneven paths leading to the hot springs.
Horseback Riding (In the Winter!)
There’s nothing quite like a snowy horseback ride through the snow in Colorado! It’s magically and serene like you’re living a life straight out of a Holiday movie. Saddleback Ranch offers winter horseback rides through the beautiful trees where you can admire the views of the Flattop mountains. You’re horseback ride will be an hour and a half to two hours followed by hot chocolate and cookies! Check Saddleback Ranch’s website to learn more and make arrangements for your ride.
Downtown Steamboat Springs
One of my favorite things about a Steamboat Springs vacation is spending time in downtown Steamboat Springs. The charm of downtown Steamboat will embrace you as you stroll through the shops and restaurants. The friendliness you’ll encounter everywhere will make you fall in love with Steamboat just like I have!
You’ll find jewelry stores, candy shops, cozy coffee places, and charming spots for lunch. Yampa Sandwich Company is one of my favorite lunch cafes for a quick bite. Or, try Seedz for a healthy menu of salads, bowls, and wraps. Downtown Steamboat is the perfect place to pick up a logo sweatshirt or hat to remember your trip
For dinner, Steamboat offers a wide selection of restaurants to choose from. From Mexican food served with delicious housemade guacamole to local fine dining, you’ll find it all! A couple of my top recommendations are The Laundry Kitchen & Cocktails and Salt & Lime which I make sure to visit every time I’m in Steamboat. For a full list of Steamboat restaurants check out Your Perfect Guide to Steamboat Restaurants.
Where to Stay in Steamboat
Steamboat has a spectacular range of options when it comes to lodging and accommodations. I highly recommend the Steamboat Grand Resort or One Steamboat Place if you prefer residential-type accommodations. Here is our Complete Guide to Where to Stay in Steamboat.
Conclusion
The ski season is right around the corner and Steamboat Ski Resort’s newly designed base area and on-mountain improvements make it a perfect choice for you and your family this year! The robust flight schedule to Yampa Valley Regional Airport (HDN) makes it very convenient to get there. With so many lodging options near Steamboat Ski Resort and fun things to do, you’ll love your time in Steamboat, Colorado.
You’ll make Western Colorado memories with your family that will stay in your hearts forever.
If you would like assistance with your travel planning, please reach out to me! I’m a ski destination specialist and travel advisor and am happy to work with you to create your perfect ski vacation.
Please send an email to: [email protected]
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