It’s all smiles and perfect snow at Steamboat Ski Resort in Colorado.
In fact, some days, making it to the bottom is a miracle.
Then, there are what I call “superwoman” ski days.
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It’s so unique that the resort trademarked it, calling it Champagne Powder.
“We are sort of known for being friendly.
We’re just sort of down to earth,” Rillos shared.
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“People come here because there’s not an attitude.”
She pointed to the Winter Carnival as one of Steamboat’s most inviting offerings.
Cowboy culture meets ski culture at the event, which has been running since 1914.
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Here are all the little details you should probably know about to plan the perfect getaway to Steamboat Springs.
When to Go
Steamboat Ski Resorttypically opens in late November and closes around mid-April.
In December, you get mostly artificial snow, plus crowds as the holidays inch closer.
It’s right at the base of the resort, only a five-minute walk to the ski area.
On that note, you should go ahead and order the dessert special.
The menu includes soups, salads, sandwiches, pastas, and a popular turkey pot pie.
Go during happy hour, 4:30 to 5:30 p.m., for bargain tacos and deals on select drinks.
Table 79 Foodbar
Table 79 Foodbarhas a divine small-plate menu and a cosmopolitan yet friendly vibe.
The interior will transport you to Mexico with colorful decor and a giant Frida Kahlo mural.
Highlights include on-the-snow seating and a diverse menu featuring everything from crawfish mac to hot pot to Argentinian empanadas.
The beer is craft and the cocktails are mixed with high-end spirits like 1792 bourbon and Patron.
Off-mountain Activities
Soak in Old Town Hot Springs.
What could be more relaxing after a day of skiing or snowboarding than soaking in warm, mineral-rich waters?
It’s a great activity for families and easily accessible by the free town bus and hotel shuttles.
Peruse the Steamboat Art Museum.
Admire the works of artists from Colorado and even Steamboat Springs' own Yampa Valley atSteamboat Art Museum.
Go snowshoeing at Haymaker Nordic Center.
There are a few trails to choose from and all can be knocked out in a day.
You’ll catch great views of Mount Werner and the Flat Tops Wilderness Area along the way.
Go midweek and during off-peak times for the lowest rate.
Skiing and Snowboarding Info
Steamboat Ski Resort has 182 trails over 3,741 acres.
Its 23 lifts include an eight-person and 10-person gondola, one high-speed six pack, and eight quads.
Terrain is 14 percent beginner, 42 percent intermediate, and 44 percent expert-level.
There are also three terrain parks, each catering to a different level of skier and snowboarder.
Intermediate adults can reserve the three-day SkiStrong camp, taught by an Olympic skier.
Space is limited to six people.
