Not a skier? No problem! Check out some of the best non-skiing activities in Steamboat Springs.
While Steamboat Springs may be best known in the winter as a skier’s paradise, there are plenty of non-skier winter activities to enjoy. Follow our guide below to find the best activity for you and your group this winter.
Do you want to enjoy the snow?
Tubing
Whether you’re a non-skier or want to make the most of a day off, tubing is a fun winter activity for kids and adults of all ages. Tubing is available locally at Howelsen Hill in Steamboat Springs or at Saddleback Ranch's Yee-Haw Tubing Hill. Be sure to plan ahead and make reservations; tubing is a popular alternative to a day of skiing.
Dog Sledding
Did you know a sled dog can run 150 miles in a day? You can have the chance to drive a sled yourself or take a guided ride across the frozen expanse of the Yampa Valley. Not only is it a thrilling way to see the valley, but it’s also a glimpse into a faraway culture and a way to connect with human’s best friend. Check out Grizzle T Sledworks or Snow Buddies for the adventure of a lifetime.
Snowshoeing
See winter in a whole new way as you shuffle through a wonderland of glittering snow and fresh pine scent on snowshoes. It’s winter’s version of hiking, and you can practically hear the snowflakes falling lightly on the trees. A favorite spot is Rabbit Ears Pass, where the west side of the Continental Divide is free from snowmobiles and filled with a variety of routes and loops. Check out the trails up in North Routt County: a stroll around Pearl Lake and a winter night in the yurt is a favorite way to play in the snow off the slopes.
Local’s tip: Be mindful of winter trail closures. Popular routes like upper Spring Creek and Mad Creek are off limits in the winter due to wildlife closures, but there’s still plenty of close-to-home options like Emerald Mountain and the Uranium Mine Trail.
Do you prefer the water?
Ice skating
Head downtown to Howelsen Hill for indoor ice skating at the Howelsen Hill Ice Complex or try your hand at bumper cars in ice. Check out times for open skate or bumper cars here. Or, you can head over to Steamboat Resort and enjoy their outdoor ice rink at the base of the mountain.
Ice Fishing
One of the locals’ favorite pastimes in Steamboat is fly fishing the Yampa River. Anglers enjoy several miles of public access in town casting for rainbow and brown trout. The river offers a peaceful setting with stunning views and world-class trout. And the fun doesn't stop when the snow starts falling, around here we cast our lines year-round.
Explore our state park fishing grounds in summer or winter by heading out to Stagecoach, Pearl Lake or Steamboat Lake State Park.
If you like it “hot”
Soaking in the hot springs
Whether you’re looking for a fun afternoon for the family or a leisurely soak for those sore legs after a day of skiing or mountain biking, Steamboat’s hot springs are the perfect way to put an exclamation point on the ultimate Colorado getaway.
Check out Old Town Hot Springs in the heart of downtown for a relaxing soak in the historic springs.
Take to the Skies in a Hot Air Balloon
That’s right, even in the midst of winter you can soar over Steamboat Springs in a colorful hot air balloon. Be prepared for an early start for these tours that let you soar across the Yampa Valley, taking in breathtaking views of town and the mountain. There’s no better view of Mount Werner.
Do you prefer to stay indoors?
Grab a Racket
Steamboat Springs boasts a top-notch indoor tennis and pickleball center. Open year round 8 a.m. - 9 p.m. Monday - Thursday, 8 a.m. - 7 p.m. Friday-Sunday, offering professional instruction, racquet stringing and tennis/pickleball apparel sales.
Go Climbing
Harness up and test your skill at the Steamboat Climbing Collective. Or head to Old Town Hot Springs and check out their indoor climbing routes before you soak your weary muscles.
Grab a book and a coffee
Sometimes the best way to experience the snow is to gaze at it through a frosty window from the comfort of a cozy chair. And when books and a warm drink are included, you’ve got the beginnings of a great afternoon. Off the Beaten Path is a gem of an independent bookstore and coffeehouse. If you prefer to browse, Bud Werner library offers stunning views of the Yampa River and a quiet place to reflect on your perfect day in the mountains.
Whether you’re a non-skier travelling with your skiing group or are looking for a day off from skiing, there are plenty of ways to enjoy Steamboat Springs. Looking for even more ideas? See out list of best winter activities and start planning your adventure!
