5 Ways to Get Around Steamboat
07/21/2016 12:04PM ● By Dan Greeson
The free bus makes stops throughout west Steamboat Springs and downtown en route to the mountain community every 20 minutes. Photo by Noah Wetzel.
Forget parking and enjoy that cool glass of beer by the river. Steamboat Springs Transit offers year-round bus service connecting downtown and the mountain area. Free buses run day and night at 20-minute intervals. www.steamboatsprings.net / 970-879-3717
By Bike
Ride the Yampa River Core Trail to and from town. Parking is a cinch and the Steamboat Springs Transit bus is equipped with racks if you don’t want to cycle both ways.
On Foot
The Yampa River Core Trail is a seven-mile paved pathway running alongside the river from one end of Steamboat Springs to the other. Take time to stop at Rotary Park, the Yampa River Botanic Park and Bud Werner Memorial Library. Watch river-users play as you walk and enjoy refreshments at eateries along the riverbank on Yampa Street.
In a Tube
Don a life vest, cover up your head and shoulders, slap on sunscreen and hop in an inner tube at Fetcher Pond. Kick back and relax as this ride to town is for those who are not in a rush. Pass fishermen and watch paddleboarders and kayakers cruise down the Yampa River.
By Air
OK, so this may be a long shot for a morning commute, but a hot air balloon is the best way to orient yourself with the layout of the valley. Wild West Balloon rides depart every morning and offer the opportunity to hover over points of interest throughout the journey.