I moved to Steamboat Springs eight years ago from Philadelphia. I will always love Philadelphia but I never thought Steamboat would capture my heart as it has. I met my husband here and we recently had a baby girl. Steamboat is now home.
Though our little girl is just one, many of our friends and family here in Steamboat have kiddos so we have been adapting our adventures to accommodate. The thing is, here in Steamboat, kids are welcome everywhere. From day one, parents take kids to restaurants, on hikes, and the skis get strapped on not too long after. Having a kid in Steamboat does not slow people down.
Year-round there are so many activities you can do with your kids. Fall, however, is my favorite time of year in town. Warm Colorado days, crisp, cool nights, golden aspen leaves everywhere you look. It doesn’t get much better. Here are a number of things to do with your kids in the fall in Steamboat.
Hot Springs – Both the Old Town Hot Springs and Strawberry Park Hot Springs are incredibly fun for kids of all ages. Right in downtown, Old Town Hot Springs has hot pools, but also has water slides, rock wall in the pool, and a kiddie play area (open in the summer). Strawberry Park is just a few miles out of town but feels a world away. With many hot pools and temperatures fit for kids, this out of town adventure will be one you won’t forget.- Hiking – There are so many great Colorado hikes in and around Steamboat. Fish Creek Falls is a must. It is a quarter mile to the first falls, so great for young kids. And if your older kids are feeling up for it, you can continue up the trail to the second falls for a 7.6 mile roundtrip hike. From town, Spring Creek Trail is great for families as well. You can choose how far you want to go and turn around whenever you are ready.
- Bud Werner Memorial Library – Steamboat’s library is a great place to spend a cool morning. Before the day warms up, take the kids here for some reading time. The kids section is expansive and they have weekly kids’ events to add more to your visit. Afterwards head outside to Little Toots Park to the playground for some fun on the swings and a picnic.
Yampa River Core Trail – The perfect biking trail for the family. The Yampa River Core Trail extends from one end of the town to the other with many access points. Minimal grade changes on this paved trail make for an easy ride with kids on bikes, on tagalongs or in Chariots. On the west end of the trail is Bear River Skate and Bike Park, another place that kids can spend a lot of time at having a blast.- Ciao Gelato – “It’s for the kids, of course,” says every parent headed to get ice cream. Ciao Gelato is perfect for both kids and adults. Their flavors will challenge kids of all ages to not try them all. The welcoming hospitality, delicious gelato and downtown location can’t be beat.
Get up to Steamboat to enjoy these great activities with your kiddos!
