Steamboat Ski Resort - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

Although best known for its world-class skiing and snowboarding, Steamboat Ski Resort in Routt County, Colorado has much to offer visitors all year round. In the summer, the resort's gondola takes adventure-seekers to the top of the mountain, where they can hiking, mountain biking, and take in sweeping views of the valley below. Those who prefer to stay closer to ground can enjoy the resort's 18-hole golf course or one of the many hiking and biking trails that wind through the picturesque town of Steamboat Springs. In the winter, of course, skiers and snowboarders flock to the slopes, which offer gentle beginner runs as well as challenging black diamonds. No matter what time of year it is, Steamboat Ski Resort is a perfect place to enjoy all that Colorado has to offer.

The Steamboat Ski Resort is a world-renowned ski area located in Routt County, Colorado. The resort first opened its doors in 1963 and has been operated by the Booth Family since 1969. The resort boasts over 3,000 acres of skiable terrain and is known for its Champagne Powder snow, which falls in abundance thanks to the nearby Yampa Valley. In addition to its excellent skiing and snowboarding, the resort is also home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and hotels, making it a popular destination for both winter and summer vacations. While the Steamboat Ski Resort is most famous for its skiing, its history actually dates back much further. The area now known as the resort was originally inhabited by the Ute people, who used it primarily as hunting grounds. It wasn't until the late 1800s that white settlers began to move into the area and establish homesteads. However, it wasn't until the construction of a local railroad line that the area began to see significant development. Following the completion of the railroad, several hotels and resorts were built in the area, capitalizing on its natural beauty and its growing reputation as a premier ski destination. Today, the Steamboat Ski Resort is one of Colorado's most popular tourist destinations, attracting visitors from all over the world. Thanks to its rich history and abundant natural wonders, it's easy to see why.

There truly is no bad time to visit Steamboat Ski Resort in Routt County, Colorado. However, the months of January and February offer the best opportunity to enjoy all that the resort has to offer. During this time, the slopes are typically covered in a thick layer of snow, providing ideal conditions for skiing and snowboarding. 

1.  Plan ahead and book your accommodations early. While there are many accommodation options in and around the resort, they can fill up quickly during peak season.
2. If you're planning on hitting the slopes, be sure to purchase your lift tickets in advance. Not only will this save you time, but it can also offer significant savings.
3. Pack appropriate clothing for both on and off the mountain. The temperature can vary widely throughout the day, so it's important to be prepared for both warm and cold weather conditions.
4. If you're not an experienced skier or snowboarder, consider signing up for lessons at one of the resort's ski schools. They offer instruction for all levels of ability.
5. Make time to relax in one of the resort's hot tubs or pools after a long day on the mountain. You'll find several located throughout the village area.
6. Take advantage of Steamboat's vibrant nightlife scene by checking out one of the many bars or clubs in town. live music is often featured at many of these venues.

1. Steamboat Ski Resort was founded in 1963 by Robert E. Fletcher Jr. and Joern van der Veer. The resort is home to more than 165 trails, including four peaks (Buddy's Run, Storm Peak, Christie Peak and Elkhorn), accessed by 26 lifts.
2. The resort is known for its Champagne Powder®, which refers to the light, dry powder that often falls in the area.
3. Steamboat Springs hosted the 1989 World Championships in Alpine skiing. 
4. The Steamboat Ski Resort is home to seven peaks, including Mt. Werner, which is the tallest peak in the resort at 10,577 feet.
5. The resort has been named the #1 Family Resort in North America by Ski Magazine for 11 consecutive years.
6. In addition to skiing and snowboarding, the Steamboat Ski Resort also offers a variety of other activities, including tubing, ice skating, snowshoeing, and dog sledding.
7. Steamboat Ski Resort is home to the Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club, which trains some of the world's best athletes.

While it is possible to explore the entire resort in one day, most visitors prefer to spend at least a few days here in order to experience everything that Steamboat has to offer. 

The easiest way to reach the resort is by car, and there are several routes that can be taken depending on your starting point. From Denver, take I-70 west to US 40 west. Follow US 40 for about 160 miles until you reach Steamboat Springs. From there, follow signs to the ski resort. You can also take a shuttle from Denver International Airport to the resort. The trip takes about four hours and reservations must be made in advance. 

The entrance fee for the resort is $10 per person. 

The resort is open daily from 9 AM to 4 PM, with extended hours on Fridays and Saturdays.