Are you planning summer adventures in Colorado? Steamboat Springs deserves a serious spot on your itinerary—and not just for the skiing. Summertime in Steamboat means hiking, whitewater rafting, hot springs, farmers markets, and outdoor adventures that make it easy to fill a long weekend without repeating yourself.
On a recent trip to Steamboat Springs, Chris and I drove through Poudre Canyon from Fort Collins—and honestly, the drive alone was worth the trip. The canyon scenery was stunning, and we even spotted a moose along the way. Not a bad start to a summer adventure.
27 Things to Do In Steamboat Springs in Summer
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Steamboat Springs has a way of surprising people who only know it as a ski town. Summer unlocks a completely different side of the city—think rushing rivers, wildflower-covered trails, rodeos, and enough outdoor adventures to fill a week without touching a ski slope. Looking for more Colorado inspiration? Check out my complete Colorado road trip guide for the best stops across the Centennial State.
1. Scenic Drives
If you are coming from the Denver International Airport, you have a few route options for driving to Steamboat Springs. You can drive through Poudre Canyon or you can drive up I-70 and then branch off toward Steamboat Springs at Silverthorne. Either route offers stunning mountain views.
You can also try these scenic drives:
- Rabbit Ears Pass
- Flat Top Trail
- Buffalo Pass
The scenic drives in and around Steamboat Springs in summer are worth the road trip. And if you happen to miss your chance to visit in the summer months, plan a trip close to the end of September for some amazing fall color. You won’t be disappointed.
Related Post: 30 Best Tips for Driving in the Mountains
Questions to Ask on Road Trips
Steamboat Springs Hot Springs
Chris and I are slowly working our way through the hot springs of Colorado. There are a lot of options that range from high end resorts and spas to hidden spots along a river. For a relaxing soak, all are enjoyable.
2. Strawberry Park Hot Springs
Strawberry Park Hot Springs is about 20 minutes up the mountain from Steamboat Springs on County Road 36. The road is reasonable to navigate in the summer months; in the winter season, all-weather tires and 4-wheel drive are essential. There is a shuttle that runs regularly from Steamboat to Strawberry Park Hot Springs—the entrance fee to the hot springs is included in the shuttle fee.
Strawberry Park is a unique facility offering not only thermal pools in varying temperatures for your soaking experience, but also overnight lodging, spa treatments, and massages. When making your reservation, you will be given a two-hour soaking window. Please note that after sundown, Strawberry Park Hot Springs becomes a “clothing optional” facility.
You may also see wildlife wandering by in the nearby forest. I saw a bear meandering through the trees as we sat in the hot springs. Cool huh!?
3. Old Town Hot Springs
Old Town Hot Springs is located in the heart of Steamboat Springs. It is an indoor facility with pools and water temperatures ranging from 102 to 103 degrees—that’s the water temperature as it comes out of the ground!
This is a perfect venue for an afternoon of family fun.
4. Hippie Hot Springs
Without doing a little advance research, you might never know that Hippie Hot Springs even exists unless you happen to float by while tubing and notice a significant change in water temperature. It is a hidden gem in downtown Steamboat Springs right along the Yampa River.
The good news? The springs are free to use and open to the public. You’ll find the springs at Dr. Rich Weiss Park. These springs are fed from the runoff from Old Town Hot Springs. The water will likely be a little cooler than you’ll find at Old Town, but hey, it’s FREE. Don’t forget your hot springs etiquette to keep these springs accessible for all.
Book Your Adventure in Steamboat Springs
Hikes in Steamboat Springs
Steamboat Springs has no shortage of trails worth lacing up your boots for. Fish Creek Falls is the most popular—and for good reason—while Mad Creek Trail winds past historic barns and open meadows that feel a world away from the main drag. For something more challenging, Rabbit Ears Peak and Gold Creek Trail deliver the kind of panoramic views that make every uphill step worth it.
5. Enjoy the Fish Creek Falls Overlook
The Fish Creek Falls Overlook is a popular viewing site of the lower Fish Creek Falls that is easily accessible for families and tourists with a variety of walking skill levels. And, it is just minutes from downtown Steamboat Springs.
As the water cascades down Fish Creek Canyon, it creates a mighty 280 foot waterfall. There is an upper viewing area which can be reached via a paved path and offers pristine views of the fall. There is not a significant elevation change along this path. If you walk to the lower overlook, you’ll be at the base of the falls. There is some elevation change on this path.
Chris and I walked to the view area for the Lower Fish Creek Falls and then set off on a 4.5 mile round trip hike to the Upper Fish Creek Falls.
6. Hike to Fish Creek Falls
If you are feeling more adventurous and want to set off to see the Upper Fish Creek Falls, cross the bridge at the lower Fish Creek Falls Overlook and continue on the trail.
We did this hike as a family when our girls were younger. In fact, Chris carried our youngest in a kid backpack while I helped Misha and Amy along. The older two did not enjoy the hike at all. Kristen, however, says she remembers it fondly back when she first started out as a passenger princess (I think she slept most of the way!).
On our recent hike to Fish Creek Falls, the weather was lovely when we started out. In fact, Chris and I were both wearing pants and opted to change into shorts. The hike, as most mountain hikes do, starts with a brisk uphill climb that never really levels out much. Those are the moments when I wonder why I like hiking so much!
We first made it to the bridge where we must have stopped and turned around when we were with the girls years ago. From there, the trail continued up, even along some precarious granite ledges around the edge of the mountain.
The weather turned cold, such that I could see my breath, and Chris and I were both wishing we were still wearing our pants. We made it to Fish Creek Falls, stopped for a quick bite to eat, took some pictures and started back down.
7. Hike the Mad Creek Trail
To reach the trailhead for the Mad Creek Trail, you will need to drive about 40 minutes outside of Steamboat to the Mad Creek Falls Trailhead in the Mount Zirkel Wilderness.
This hike was 9 miles round trip with 1700 feet of elevation gain. The elevation was spread out between the first mile or so of the hike and then the last mile before turning around. Most of the hike in between was on pretty level ground.
Be sure to make a slight detour from the main trail to see the Mad Creek Barn and take a few pictures.
8. Hike the Rabbit Ears Peak Trail
The Rabbit Ears Peak Trail is four miles long with 600 feet of elevation gain. To be honest, Chris and I completed this hike in the winter wearing snow shoes. It was hard. It would probably be so much easier in the summertime.
If you happen to visiting Steamboat Springs in summer, give this hiking trail a try.
9. Hike the Gold Creek Trail
When planning things to do in Steamboat Springs, Chris and I opted for another day of hiking on the Gold Creek Trail from the Slavonia Trailhead. The drive to the trailhead was about an hour outside of Steamboat. It rained for much of the drive, and we wondered if the trails would even be passable.
We ate a packed lunch (packing in our foldable cooler) as we sat in the parking lot at the trailhead and then headed out as the rain stopped. The trail was about 7 miles round trip with 1500 feet of elevation gain. But it was much more enjoyable than hiking the Mad Creek Trail from the previous day—there was minimal shade along the Mad Creek Trail.
We had just crossed a river, balancing carefully across a huge fallen tree when the rain started in earnest again. Chris and I pulled out our rain jackets and waterproof backpack covers and decided to hang out under a tree for a bit to see if the rain would ease up.
A couple coming down the trail, joined us under our tree and asked, “Have you heard about the hornets?”
We hadn’t. They proceeded to tell us that the hornets nest was marked by two hiking poles next to a downed tree alongside the trail. The rain eased a little so we continued on.
After a mile or so and a number of switchbacks, we spied the hiking poles. Chris opted to walk off-trail through the forest and I just passed by on the trail. I figured, if hornets were going to attack, I didn’t want to be trying to run through the undergrowth of the forest to get away from them!
We finally reached Gold Creek Lake and the rain started again. I got some pics of the calmness of the water before the rain began to fall again. After having a snack and resting a bit, we headed back down the trail.
Biking in Steamboat Springs
Steamboat Springs is a legitimate cycling destination—both on and off the pavement. The paved recreation trail running along the Yampa River is perfect for a leisurely ride through town, while the mountain biking trails surrounding Steamboat are some of the best in Colorado. Whether you’re a casual cruiser or an aggressive trail rider, Steamboat has a route with your name on it.
10. Biking
When Chris and I visited with our girls many years ago, we brought bikes along to ride along the Yampa River Core Trail. Sporting the title, Bike Town USA, bikes are definitely available to rent if you are looking for active things to do in Steamboat Springs.
11. Mountain Biking
My husband is always up for careening down a mountainside on a mountain bike. Mountain bikes are available to rent. Yelp lists the top ten locations for renting.
Here are some bike paths you should try that range in difficulty from easy to expert:
- Emerald Mountain Loops (Intermediate)
- Spring Creek and Spring Roll (Intermediate to Advanced)
- Flash of Gold/Buffalo Billy’s/Grouse Ridge (Expert)
- Grouse Ridge (Advanced)
- Beall-Ridge Loop (Intermediate)
- Mad Creek/Red Dirt Loop (Advanced)
- Panorama (Easy)
Downtown Steamboat Springs
Downtown Steamboat Springs is worth a few hours of your time—and your credit card. The Saturday farmers market is a local favorite packed with fresh produce, artisan goods, and enough temptation to derail any budget. Wander the shops, pop into the art galleries, and grab a bite at one of the locally owned restaurants that make this mountain town feel like anything but a tourist trap.
12. Visit the Farmers Market in Downtown Steamboat Springs in Summer
Peruse the community farmer’s market on a warm Saturday morning in the summer. If you like to enjoy a picnic lunch, buy some rolls and pastries to go.
Before heading out to our first hike, Chris and I stopped at the farmer’s market first and then at the grocery store to get some lunch meat and cheese. It’s a perfect way to start the day.
13. Shopping in Downtown Steamboat Springs
Walk along Main Street in Steamboat Springs and enjoy the multitude of shops. You’ll find everything from outdoor gear and rentals, clothing stores, tourist mementos, treats and plenty of places to sit and enjoy the view over lunch.
14. Peruse F.M. Light and Sons
Owned and operated by the 5th generation of Lights today, if you are interested in some authentic western wear, you’ll want to make a stop at F. M. Light and Sons for the perfect cowboy hat, pair of boots, or clothing items.
15. Stroll Through the Art Galleries
If you love art, you’ll love the art galleries in Steamboat Springs, with a little something for everyone. TripAdvisor shares the Top 9 Galleries you’ll want to add to your list of things to do in Steamboat Springs:
Water Adventures in Steamboat Springs
The Yampa River runs right through the heart of Steamboat Springs and it is practically begging you to get in. Tubing the Yampa is a summer rite of passage—laid back, refreshing, and genuinely fun for all ages. If you want more of an adrenaline rush, whitewater rafting trips are easy to book, and the fishing on the Yampa is some of the best in Colorado for anyone who prefers their water adventures at a slower pace.
16. Tube on the Yampa River
It is kind of a family joke now, but when Chris tubed the Yampa River with our two older girls, our oldest was not a fan of the “nature” in the water that touched her along the way.
If you don’t mind a little “nature”, you can rent tubes from a variety of tubing outfitters.
“Rental tubing is allowed downstream from the 5th Street bridge, while private tubers are encouraged to float from no further than Fetcher Park. This leaves the upper stretch of river quieter for fishing…Tubing outfitters have everything you need for your adventure on the river including rental tubes, life jackets, dry bags, appropriate footwear, and most importantly shuttle service.” ~ Steamboat Chamber of Commerce
17. River Rafting
Along with tubing, you can also enjoy river rafting adventures close to Steamboat Springs. There are a variety of outfitters and options.
18. Fishing
You’ll want to find a quiet place away from the tubers, kayakers, and river rafters. Fishing is great along the Yampa River where you’ll find several miles of public access—in the summer and all year long.
Unique Summer Activities In Steamboat Springs
Steamboat Springs has a knack for keeping visitors happily busy—and the summer activity lineup goes well beyond hiking and biking. From horseback riding and hot air balloon rides to a genuine weekly rodeo and free outdoor concerts, there is always something going on. Stick around for the 4th of July fireworks viewed from the gondola—it’s the kind of experience that ends up on everyone’s highlight reel.
19. Bumper Cars on Ice
The bumper “car” activity is held at the local ice rink and each round lasts for about twenty minutes. While it may seem like a winter-only activity, the bumper cars on ice are available all year long. Our girls lamented that the cars were restricted to the “slow” speed, but they still had a lot of fun. I was telling my chiropractor about them and he said, “Those are the kinds of things that keep me in business!
20. Horseback Riding
Fancy a ride through the Yampa Valley. Saddle up for a fun excursion. You’ll be matched with horses that are easy going and gentle. Perfect for cowboy wannabes 6 and older.
21. Hot Air Balloon Ride
Is a hot air balloon ride at the top of your adventure bucket list? Soar over the Yampa Valley and create the perfect romantic moment or a fun-filled family activity.
The views from the basket of a hot air balloon in Steamboat Springs in summer are stunning in whichever direction you look. Discover mountain vistas in the Steamboat Springs mountain retreat, spy wildlife, and enjoy the breeze as you soar through the sky.
Related Post: Pagosa Springs Hot Air Balloons: A Unique Colorado Sunrise View
22. Golfing
If you would love to try out the golf courses during your visit to Steamboat Springs in summer, you can choose from:
- Haymaker Golf Course
- The Steamboat Golf Club
- Rollingstone Ranch Golf Club
23. Yampa River Botanic Park
Did you know that there are 63 individual gardens in the Botanic Park? You could spend all day wandering around. As you do, you’ll discover a children’s garden, a fairy garden, hummingbird and butterfly gardens, a medicinal garden, and a garden of high country native plants and flowers.
You may even spot some wildlife during your meanderings.
24. Enjoy a “Scenic” Ride on the Steamboat Gondola
“Scenic Gondola Rides” on Steamboat Gondola are for foot passengers only during the winter months (November thru April) up Mt. Werner. Guests wanting to ski or snowboard will not be permitted to board the scenic gondola with skis or snowboard equipment (snowshoes and poles are OK). Your ticket allows you unlimited rides for the date of purchase.
25. Enjoy Fireworks on the 4th of July
Steamboat Springs celebrated 120 years in 2023 of enjoying the 4th of July and honoring the city’s western heritage. Come for the parade, ski jump competition, pancake breakfast, 1K run and epic fireworks.
26. Attend the PRCA Pro Rodeo
Don’t worry if you can’t attend the rodeo over the 4th of July, the Steamboat Pro Rodeo Series is held every Friday and Saturday night from July through August in Downtown Steamboat Springs at the Brent Romick Arena. Except for the 4th of July performance at 6:30 pm, the rodeo begins at 7:30 pm all summer long.
27. Enjoy the FREE Summer Concert Series
The Summer Concert Series runs from June through September.
The Concert Series of nationally recognized musicians, featuring 5 concerts per year, boasts an average attendance of 3,500 to 7,000 people per concert.
Did I mention these concerts are FREE!
Check out My Hiking & Travel Gear Picks
Travel Must-Haves
Sunscreen: Use sunscreen every day, not just on your beach days.
Laundry Detergent Pods: If you travel for more than a week, you will likely need to do laundry.
Hand Sanitizer: For all the things you touch throughout the day, hand sanitizer is essential.
Travel Adapter: Not all international countries use the same adapters. Be sure to check before you go. Purchase one here.
Travel Backpack: Chris likes his The North Face Recon Backpack. I use The North Face Surge backpack designed for women.
Crossbody Anti-Theft Bag: Pickpocketing is a real concern in busy cities. A secure crossbody bag keeps your belongings close without the bulk. I love the Travelon Anti-theft Messenger Bag.
Packing Cubes: A game changer for staying organized, especially when you’re moving between cities. Shop packing cubes here.
Portable Power Bank: Long days of sightseeing, navigation, and photography will drain your phone faster than you think. Don’t get caught without one. Shop power banks here.
Walking Shoes: You will cover a lot of ground. Comfortable, broken-in shoes are non-negotiable. Shop walking shoes here.
Favorite Camera: My go-to DSLR is the Canon 6D Mark II and it has never let me down. If you’re ready to go mirrorless, the Canon EOS R6 Mark III is the natural upgrade—and your existing Canon EF lenses work on it with an adapter. New to photography? Start with the Canon EOS R50.
Get a Travel Credit Card: We often travel worldwide for free using travel rewards. The Chase Sapphire Reserve is one of our favorite travel credit cards.
Favorite Electronics: We are a family of Apple users—watches, phones, tablets, AirPods, and Apple AirTags for security. Don’t forget the cables and chargers too. Check out our electronics suggestions here.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to visit Steamboat Springs?
If you are coming for winter adventures, plan your visit between December and March. For awesome summer activities—including family reunions in Steamboat Springs—June through August is ideal. Consider the end of September if you want to view fall foliage.
What is Steamboat Springs famous for?
Steamboat Springs is famous for its skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing…winter sports. There are fabulous opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, water adventures as summer activities.
How big is Steamboat Springs?
The town of Steamboat Springs is 9.9 miles square.
Which ski resort is bigger, Steamboat Springs or Vail?
Steamboat Springs offers 2,965 acres of skiable terrain. Vail offers 5,317 acres.
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See You in Steamboat
Chris and I have visited Steamboat Springs in winter, fall, and summer—and honestly, it delivers every single time. If summer is your season, this list will keep you busy from sunrise to sunset and then some. Before you hit the road, grab my free Colorado Road Trip Packing List so you’re ready for every stop along the way.
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Colorado Springs is just the best
Colorado is my favorite state in the USA for sure. Steamboat Springs sounds great, love all the hiking trails in the area!
RRR~ I am so mad we didn’t stop in Steamboat when traveling through CO last summer… I am printing this post now for a 2025 redo… So many incredible outdoor adventures.
Ahh, I love Colorado! There’s so much to do there—truly an outdoor lover’s paradise! I’d love to come back here to hike more!
Steamboat Springs has lots to offer. We’ve been to Colorado, however never stopped here.
Steamboat is one of my favorite Colorado mountain/ski towns. There truly is so much to do and it’s all fun!!
Steamboat Springs sounds like a lot of fun. Love all the hiking opportunities. And I hear you about kids and “nature” in water. When my kids were little I splurged on a three week stay at an airbnb in Santa Monica, blocks from the ocean. You guessed it – my sons were not fans of critters on beach or in the water and we barely spent any time there.