Emma Atwell was born into a life of adventure. The eldest daughter of an active family, Emma was strapped into hiking boots and towed behind bikes the second she could hold her head up. Emma’s action-packed childhood stuck with her, and now, as an adult, she soaks up all the time she can at the weekend destination of her dreams… Steamboat Springs. Nestled in the Rockies less than a 3 hour drive (or 40 minute flight) from Denver, Steamboat is a nature-lover’s paradise, best suited for those who, like Emma, crave a serene retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city.

So, why choose Steamboat Springs over one of the many other resort towns in Colorado? Emma says Steamboat has everything a great mountain town needs, without all the extra glitz and glam that so often accompanies. It’s homey, down to earth, and truly one of a kind. The peaks of Steamboat’s iconic mountains overlook ranches and open roads sprawled across the Yampa Valley. Downtown buzzes with tourists, locals, cyclists, and skiers alike- and has places they can all enjoy.

Ski Spots

Expert skiers, snowboard shredders, and newbies alike can all agree that Steamboat has more than enough terrain to offer. Long, wide runs and fast lifts make for a great day. Most chairs here have enough room for all your buds, but you’ll find enough variation at the top for your whole group to cruise as they choose and link up at the bottom! With so much incredible terrain to choose from, we can get a little overwhelmed, so we asked designated Steamboat expert Emma for her faves.

Why Not

‘Why Not’ is bound to wow skiers and boarders of all levels. This crowd-pleaser is a wide green cruiser that meanders for 3 miles (yes, you read that right!) through pines and aspens, and is easily accessible right off the gondola. Your legs will be burning but the crew will be smiling the whole way down.

coloradoski.com

Pony Express

When you’re feeling up to something a little more challenging than ‘Why Not’, hop on Emma’s favorite lift, the Pony Express. With access to powder day dream run ‘Royal Flush’, the Pony Express is a seasoned skier's heaven. Lap this lift a couple times for never-crowded, tree-lined terrain and views that never fail to make Emma stop in her tracks.

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Where To Stay

Right next to the resort or closer to Downtown?! Visiting a new ski town with hundreds of options can be overwhelming, which is why we ask the locals. According to Emma, you really can’t go wrong. At Halfdays, we seek out places that are unique to each ski spot. Emma helped us nail down a couple spots you’ll only find in Steamboat, so you know you’ll have a one-of-a-kind stay in one of Colorado’s great ski towns.

Strawberry Park Hot Springs

Get off the beaten path and head up to Strawberry Park Hot Springs, where inventive accommodations (like a restored train caboose!) line natural hot spring pools. After a long day on the mountain, spend the evenings in nature’s hot tubs and then snuggle up in a covered wagon or rustic cabin. Here, guests can even treat themselves to Watsu, a type of massage that’s performed in the mineral springs, so you don’t ever have to leave these glorious, naturally heated pools!

strawberryhotsprings.com

Steamboat Grand

The Steamboat Grand hotel, located at the heart of Steamboat’s base, boasts first-in-class amenities and dining, plus super plush rooms to decompress in post powder day. Hop on the hotel’s complimentary shuttle to explore bustling downtown, or sip on an apres-drink at their poolside Bistro before hitting one (or both!) of their two hot tubs. You’ll be feeling like a movie star all weekend long.

steamboatgrand.com

Where to Après in Winter Park

It’s not quite dinner time, but your toes are cold and you need a beer blanket. Steamboat’s ski mountain base has got you covered with ample options for slopeside snacks and drinks.

T-Bar at Steamboat

You barely need to take your skis off for this one: slide right up to T-Bar at the bottom of Christie III. Kick back in a lawn chair or grab a picnic table and soak in the sun while you sip a beer at this locally owned and loved joint. With a wide array of yummy soups and sandwiches to choose from, you’ll be heading back out onto the slopes in no time.

@t_bar_steamboat

Truffle Pig

Just as the name suggests, fans of all things truffle will fit right in at this upscale eatery. Truffle Pig is aptly situated on Après Ski Way right at the mountain’s base, and offers a wide range of delicious snacks and larger plates for all to enjoy. Emma’s go-to are the truffle fries topped with parm (yes please!). Pro tip: stop in between 2 and 4 for special Après deals. 50% off wine? Say no more.

trufflepigrestaurant.com

Other Activities

Steamboat Springs offers the best of the best when it comes to skiing and boarding. But when you’re looking to mix it up (or just want to give those legs a rest), have no fear, there are plenty of exciting alternatives.

Hot Air Balloon Ride

Feeling adventurous? Take in the views of the Yampa Valley via a hot air balloon! Wild West Balloon Adventures will be sure to provide an unforgettable experience that may just separate Steamboat Springs from the rest. How many of your friends will be able to say they skied and took flight in a balloon on the same trip?

steamboatchamber.com

Snowmobiling

Those who’d prefer to stay on land can try their hand at snowmobiling, Emma’s favorite winter activity (besides skiing, of course). Cruise at high speeds through snowy trails, slowing down only to take in the breathtaking views of the Yampa Valley. Does it get any better?!

@saddleback_ranch

Where to Eat

As for food, Steamboat is full of locally owned gems. You’ll have no trouble running into one of the many breweries or eateries downtown, but we wanted to fast-track you to the highlights. Whether you’re in town for just a weekend or are enjoying a longer stay, make sure you check out Emma’s go-tos.

Winona's

Emma’s eyes glazed over when we asked her where to get the best breakfast in Steamboat Springs. Winona’s… 2 words: Cinnamon. Rolls. The rest of the menu does not disappoint- Dive into an omelet or eggs benedict filled with your choice of goodies- the opportunities are endless- blue crab to tofu to sweet potatoes and everything in between.

@winonas_steamboat

Salt and Lime

Post-ski and snow, hit Salt and Lime for the best tacos in town, served up in their beautifully decorated dining room. Grab a marg on the rooftop on warmer days, but good luck picking one out- this menu has not one, but TEN different margaritas to choose from, plus additional delicious cocktails and beers on draft.

@saltandlimesteamboat

We can’t disagree with Emma, Steamboat Springs really is special. Whether you’re hiking, skiing, eating, or drinking, the views never disappoint and the good times just keep on comin’. Use this guide to plan the perfect weekend in the mountains…we might just see you there.

Emma Atwell

Emma lives in Denver, Colorado and is an avid skier with a love for all things Colorado. She spends weekends hiking, running, and skiing at her home mountain, Steamboat Springs, Colorado.