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Steamboat Magazine

Make Steamboat Springs Your Winter Playground

11/11/2020 03:35PM ● By Rachel Miller

Jake Zopes and Laura Ying ride the Outlaw Mountain Coaster at the Steamboat Ski Resort. 

STEAMBOAT SPRINGS- Not everyone who visits Steamboat Springs will begin and end their day at the base of the ski mountain. Have no fear, because there’s plenty of fun to be had here in addition to skiing.

The Yampa Valley’s outdoor spaces offer wonderful scenery for the less-extreme winter activities. Snowshoeing is a great, low-impact way to explore Routt County’s landscapes. Climb to valley views with a guided snowshoe tour at the Steamboat Ski Area, or rent snowshoes from a local gear shop and explore the backcountry. Fish Creek Falls and Rabbit Ears Pass are two popular locations with spectacular views – think snowcapped forest trees, rolling hills and fresh powder in wide-open spaces.

Steamboat Springs is also known for its vast snowmobiling terrain, attracting snowmobilers from across the country to Rabbit Ears Pass and North Routt County. Whether you’re a beginner or expert rider, there is plenty of backcountry to explore for every level.

Looking for adventures for the whole family? Spend a laughter-filled day snow tubing at Saddleback Ranch or venture to the Steamboat Ski Area to ride the Outlaw Mountain Coaster and take a scenic gondola ride.

New this winter, Howelsen Hill is converting its two tennis courts into outdoor lighted ice rinks. Join in on a public skate, a figure skating session or stick & puck hockey.

Regardless of winter-activity preference, don’t let the snow keep you indoors – the Yampa Valley’s outdoor spaces have too much to offer.