Steamboat Springs is known for its wide range of extreme activities that would be sure to satisfy any adrenaline junkie. From mountain biking to ziplining, and even riding in a hot air balloon! There is something for everyone in Steamboat Springs, CO. Read on to learn some of our favorite, and most popular heart-pounding activities you can participate right here in The ‘Boat this summer!
1. DOWNHILL MOUNTAIN BIKING
One of the most popular activities during the summer in Steamboat is downhill mountain biking. This extreme sport will definitely get your blood pumping, the thrill of racing down the mountain feels freeing and so exhilarating.
With a variety of terrain fit for all levels, from beginners to the best riders in the world, Steamboat has a trail for everyone! Steamboat Resort has just recently opened back up downhill biking on the mountain, so this is the year to go up and enjoy everything Mt. Werner has to offer! Just hitch a ride up the gondola or Christy Peak Express and let gravity bring you back down from the top. Downhill bike rentals and services are available at Ski Haus and Steamboat Ski and Bike Kare.
| DATES | DAYS OF THE WEEK | HOURS |
|---|---|---|
| June 16 – September 4, 2023 | Daily | 10:00am – 4:00pm |
| September 8 – October 1, 2023 | Friday, Saturday, Sunday | 10:00am – 4:00pm |
Local’s Tip: Check out local’s favorite bike shop, Wheels.
–> For more information check out Mountain Biking Returns To Steamboat Resort & 12 Mountain Bike Trails In Steamboat Springs.
2. RIDE IN A HOT AIR BALOON
During your visit to our tiny slice of mountain heaven, take your vacation to new heights with a premier hot air balloon ride with Wild West Balloon Adventures. Whether you’re looking for the perfect moment for your romantic getaway, a group event, or a fun family activity – nothing beats this memorable experience in the sky.
To help you get started, check out some fun facts and insights from our favorite local hot air balloon company in our blog: Best Hot Air Balloon Ride in Steamboat Springs.
3. FLY FISHING
One of the most unique attributes of Steamboat Springs is the fact that you can catch a world-class rainbow or brown trout right in the heart of downtown. Just grab a rod, walk to the river, and start fishing. It’s that easy! No maps, access fees (fishing license is required), private guides or long drives required. Of course, you can always hire a guide—and we’ve got some famous ones here in Steamboat—but if a quick fishing fix is on your Steamboat bucket list, then just mosey on down to the Mighty Yampa River, find a hole, and start casting.
Local’s Favorite Guide Service: Yampa Valley Anglers
–> For more information, check out Best Fishing In Steamboat Springs, CO & 5 Tips For Fly Fishing In Steamboat.
4. TOUR A LOCAL AMERICAN BISON RANCH
Tucked away in the hills beyond Steamboat Springs, CO in a little town called Oak Creek, is an incredible 3,000+ acre ranch, home to Colorado’s largest buffalo restoration project. The Lucky 8 Ranch has been family owned and operated since 2014 and hosts over 500 head of bison (and growing) along with horses, alpacas, llamas, and chickens. Lucky 8 Ranch is the only touring Buffalo Ranch in Colorado, so we are so incredibly fortunate to have this right in our backyard!
Lucky 8 Ranch shares with you a phenomenal personal experience with these magnificent creatures and showcases a simpler way of life here in rural Colorado. Individuals and groups can partake in a spectacular guided off-roading ATV (or seasonal snowmobiling) adventure. The tour features winding trails through herds of bison, driving through a creek valley floor, meandering through hay meadows, and summiting all the way up to stunning panoramic views of Routt County.
Learn more here: Bison Ranch Tour Near Steamboat Springs
5. GO FOR A HIKE
Thinking about traveling to Steamboat Springs in the summertime? Hiking in Colorado is one of the state’s favorite summer activities! Steamboat is home to an assortment of trails for all ages and abilities. The mountain views from anywhere in the Yampa Valley are truly spectacular, and a day out on the trail is the very best way to take it all in!
Check Out –> 9 Best Hiking Trails In Steamboat Springs
Whether you want to take a quick walk to the base of a waterfall, test your balance on a rocky ridge, or trek deep into the wilderness with your camping gear, you will not be at a loss for trails in and around Steamboat Springs. If you’re more interested in biking the trails, check out our list of our favorite early-season mountain biking trails.
6. ZIP LINING
Zip Lining alongside the scenic view of Rabbit Ears pass is an experience packed with heart racing drops and scenic views of Steamboat and the green Yampa Valley. Steamboat Zipline Adventures offers a state-of-the-art six segment zipline course, two quick jump belay systems and a trip down memory lane with an ATV ride along the old Rabbit Ears Pass Road. Hidden away in a valley just minutes from the town of Steamboat Springs, this six segment zipline adventure awaits, with breathtaking views of the mountainous and valley terrain of the Yampa Valley and Flat Top Mountain Range.
Book your family trip with Steamboat Zipline Adventures: Open May through October.
(970) 879-6500
steamboatziplineadventures@gmail.com
Steamboat Zipline Adventures
32075 E. US Highway 40,
Steamboat Springs CO 80487
7. WHITEWATER RAFTING
The Sun is hot and the waves are big. Cool off with the thrill of whitewater right through downtown Steamboat Springs. The Yampa River is class III whitewater during the runoff season. “Town runs” as they are locally known, are about 1:30 minutes long and cover around 4 miles of river distance. If you are trying it by yourself, river experience and familiarity are necessary.Don’t worry, local outfitters, Bucking Rainbow Outfitters, run three town runs a day. With experienced guides at the helm, the whole family can find their adrenaline pulse. Trips run daily and meet at Bucking Rainbow Outfitters at 10 am, 1 pm, and 3:30 pm, $50 per adult $45 per child. Transportation is included. Spots must be reserved ahead of time. If you would like more than just a taste you can sign up for a full day adventure rafting nearby rivers ranging from class II-V (depending on water levels).
Rafting Options Within 90 Minutes Of Steamboat Springs:
| Family (Class II-III) | Adventurer (Class II-III+) | Thrill Seeker (Class III-V) |
| Yampa Town Run | Elk River | Eagle River |
| Colorado River | North Platte River | Cross Mountain Canyon (Yampa) |
Local Professional River Guides: Bucking Rainbow Outfitters
REST EASY IN STYLE AFTER A DAY OF HEART POUNDING STEAMBOAT ADVENTURE
Call us at Steamboat Lodging Company, we are your local boots on the ground lodging company providing top-notch accommodations and assistance with all things Steamboat 970-457-4785
