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Steamboat Magazine

Local Knowledge: Lynna Broyles

06/28/2015 12:30PM ● By Christina Freeman

Lynna Broyles with daughters Emma and Maddie party in style on the Fourth of July. Photo courtesy Lynna Broyles.

Texan Lynna Broyles found her way to Steamboat Springs in 2003 after working as a ski buyer in Loveland. A member of the Vanatta Team at Steamboat Sotheby's International Realty, Lynna relishes summer family time with her husband, wild land firefighter Lance, and their two girls, Emma, 8, and Maddie, 6.

Favorite way to spend a summer's day as a family?

Hahn’s Peak Lake with friends, armed with a paddleboard, snacks and a portable grill. It is kind of like camping, but you get to spend the night in the comfort of your own bed.

Favorite fun and free activity for kids?

Bike the Core Trail, pack a lunch, and stop at calm spots along the river to let the girls play in the water.  Our kids skip rocks, play in the dirt and rocks on the shore and simply soak up the beautiful Steamboat sun.

What would you recommend for a fun activity for teenagers in town?

Fuel their adrenaline on the Alpine Slide, take a mountain bike lesson through Steamboat Bike School, or hit the Bear River Skate Park. For evening entertainment, Friday Movies on the Mountain throughout summer is a unique mountain-town experience, perfect for teens.

Where is your go-to place for an evening with the family?

The patio at Rex’s American Grill & Bar. A great happy hour menu and kids can run around on the grass. They have hula-hoops and corn hole which keeps the kids, and adults, entertained. We also love riding our bikes to Howelsen Hill for summer concerts, via the Old Town Pub for a quick bite. Pack chairs, blankets and an extra layer of clothing for when the sun goes down.

Favorite summer events?

Balloon Rodeo, for sure. Kids are so excited to see hot air balloons inflate and launch in such close proximity. Despite the early morning arrival, this event is worth dragging your kids out of bed. They will thank you for it…later. The Pro Rodeo Series for a fun family night out full of Western tradition. My girls idolize the barrel racers. They love the fact that they can join in the fun with ram and calf scrambles. Plus, there is not a bad seat in the house. It doesn’t matter if you sit in the grandstands, in the VIP section or on the concrete bleachers, it is always a great time. Get there early to enjoy the barbecue.

Suggestions for where to leave kids for a little grown up time?

The Boys and Girls Club is a great place for kids 6 and up, with fun daytime activities planned Monday through Friday throughout summer. Drop-in programming does not require parents to sign up in advance and allows kids to stay for an hour, a morning, an afternoon or all day. Plus, you can’t beat the low cost.

What's in your summer bag for days out?

Sunscreen, towel and water shoes just in case we make an impromptu dip, water bottles, LOTS of snacks like granola bars for long-lasting energy, a ball or Frisbee in case the opportunity arises.