While many travelers find their way to Steamboat Springs, Colorado, in the name of ski-focused thrills, this is also a terrific place to include a scenic drive or two on your itinerary. Year-round, there are routes here well worth exploring when you can’t wait to make the most of your incredible surroundings. When you’re ready to enjoy breathtaking adventures, the following are scenic drives around Steamboat Springs you definitely won’t want to leave off your must-experience list the next time you’re here.
Explore Rabbit Ears Pass
A fan-favorite scenic drive in Steamboat Springs, among locals and visitors alike, with good reason, is Rabbit Ears Pass. This iconic local route earned its unique name from the distinctive rock formation you’ll encounter along the way that resembles rabbit ears. To enjoy this scenic drive, head out on US Highway 40 and make your way East. If you complete the itinerary, you’ll climb over 9,000 feet in elevation along the way and be treated to gorgeous views out over the Flat Tops Wilderness. Set aside a bit of extra time for yourself on the Rabbit Ears Pass route because you’ll definitely want to check out some of the designated pull-offs for photos and quality time admiring your surroundings.
Take Time to Drive the Seedhouse Road Near Steamboat Springs
Where Rabbit Ears Pass provides a highly traveled scenic route to explore, the Seedhouse Road near Steamboat Springs may be a better option for those seeking a scenic drive with fewer crowds to contend with a more rustic, and off-the-beaten-path vibe. You’ll head North of town to access Seedhouse Road in North Routt County, and once you’ve found your route, enjoy driving along the Elk River. This scenic drive includes views of local forests and ranchlands alike as you make your way to Steamboat Lake and eventually, the Hahn’s Peak area. The drive is sure to be peaceful and inspiring, and passengers in the vehicle will want to have binoculars handy because this scenic drive also comes with great chances for spotting wildlife along the way.
Access Buffalo Pass Right from Downtown
You don’t have to venture far to add incredibly scenic moments to your trip when you make time for a scenic drive along Buffalo Pass. This route can be reached right from downtown Steamboat Springs, and adventurers should be prepared to traverse a dirt road through dense aspen groves on this drive. Buffalo Pass leads to Summit Lake, where you’re going to want to stop and get out to enjoy amazing views out over the greater Yampa Valley. As long as you have a high-clearance vehicle, this drive could be the highlight of your stay.
Tips for Scenic Drives Around Steamboat Springs
If you’re lucky enough to be adding a scenic drive to your itinerary in the fall, you’re in for a treat. Mid to late September is typically the very best time to catch the dazzling effects of the changing color of the leaves in this area. All of the above-listed routes are great for admiring fall foliage, but Rabbit Ears Pass holds a special place in many leaf peepers’ hearts.
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