Each Winter break my family escapes for a few days to take a holiday ski trip. This year was no exception as we headed to Steamboat Springs for the first time. We opted to go the week prior to Christmas as we noticed lodging fees spiked for the days between Christmas and New Years' Day. The weather was awesome and several inches of new powder fell during our stay.
My kids (8 and 11) have spent many hours moving up the ladder in ski school and were excited to learn that this year they didn't need to attend and could hit the slopes with their dad. I personally do not ski despite having taking a lesson a few years ago. However, I enjoy the time away and hearing their stories at the end of the day.
Steamboat Springs offers a relaxed, hometown vibe and my husband said the slopes were not as crowded as other popular resorts such as Vail and Breckenridge. However, that could be a reflection of the time we were there, just prior to the holiday rush.
GETTING THERE
Steamboat Springs is an easy three-hour drive or so from Denver. Although we were on I-70 for part of the trip, holiday traffic was avoided and it was smooth sailing into town.
WHERE TO STAY
The typical lodging options are available at a variety of rates and locations. We rented a home via VRBO in a residential neighborhood as we brought our dog along. The house offered a fenced-in yard and was a mere 7-10 minute drive from the gondola. I recommend, however, staying on the bus line and taking advantage of the free bus service to the slopes as well as downtown area.
There are also plenty of condo and hotel options in the area, including ones within walking distance of many restaurants, shops, and lifts.
WHAT TO DO
In addition to downhill skiing, Steamboat Springs offers your typical array of Winter activities such as sleigh ride dinners, horseback riding, snowmobiling, tubing, snowshoeing, cross country skiing, and so much more. A highlight of the area are their Hot Springs, including Old Town Hot Springs in the downtown area and Strawberry Park Hot Springs about 7 miles from town. There are also many locally-owned shops to enjoy after a day on the slopes or during some downtime.
WHERE TO EAT
On our last night we enjoyed a gondola ride up the mountain for an old fashioned Western BBQ. The food was served buffet style and was quite tasty, with a great variety of options for everyone in the family. The evening included entertainment by a live Western Rock Dance Band which weaved interactive contests and activities into their performance.
Throughout Steamboat Springs you will find locally-owned restaurants, coffee shops, and cafes.
The opinions expressed in this review are my own. No compensation was received.
