Steamboat Springs, Colorado, is a top destination for families who love spending time in the great outdoors. No matter what season you arrive, there are plenty of family activities in Steamboat Springs to make your stay memorable.
Year-Round Family Fun
Winter, spring, summer, and fall are filled with options for adventure in Steamboat Springs. Whether you hit the hiking trails, get out on the water, or make the most of the ski slopes, thrilling moments are waiting for guests of all ages. Here, everyone can enjoy quality time together in a laid-back place where kids, adults, and multigenerational groups will make memories that last a lifetime.
Skiing and Tubing at Steamboat Ski Resort
When you arrive in the winter for a family vacation, time spent at Steamboat Ski Resort is a highlight. The resort offers terrain for every skill level as well as fun learning zones for newcomers to the sport. Many families who head this way appreciate:
- Opportunities to book group or private ski lessons on-site
- Convenient ski gear rental options
- Snowboarding areas to check out
- Tubing hills to explore
- Night skiing events on select evenings
- The many on-mountain dining options
Steamboat Ski Resort is accessible, spacious, and offers options for fun for everyone.
- Address: 2305 Mt. Werner Circle, Steamboat Springs, Colorado, 80487
- Trails: 40
- Ski & Snowboard Lessons
Biking Trails for Kids of All Ages
Steamboat Springs is home to a vast trail network. This makes it easy for families to rent bikes and spend time riding together. A great option for those heading here with younger kids is the Yampa River Core Trail. While it spans nearly 10 miles of paved pathways, families can easily pick and choose sections to explore. It’s an out-and-back route with plenty of room to roam and options to build picnic stops into your outing.
- Length: 9.7 miles
- Difficulty: Easy
- Elevation Gain: 167 feet
- Trail Map
If you’re traveling with older kids who are looking for more of an off-road challenge, the mountain bike loops at Emerald Mountain are a great choice. While they’re relatively straightforward, there are options to veer off to wide grave roads and stone pathways that come with the reward of wonderful views overlooking Steamboat Springs.
- Length: 3.8 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Elevation Gain: 938 feet
- Trail Map
Slow Down and Take the Scenic Trails
For families looking to explore at a slower pace, Steamboat Springs has just as much to offer. The Spring Creek Trail is an inviting option when you don’t necessarily want to break a sweat but would like to focus on some breathtaking scenery as you explore. While the trail winds its way through the foothills surrounding town, the incline is gentle, and there are wildflowers and creeks to admire.
- Length: 10.4 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Elevation Gain: 1,496 feet
- Trail Map
Enjoy a Good Meal Together
Outdoor adventure is a big draw for families heading to Steamboat Springs. However, the city’s dining scene is just as appealing! When cravings come calling after a day on the trails, you don’t have to look far to find a flavorful moment. Consider stopping by Mazzola’s Italian Restaurant when your family is in the mood for a slice of pizza, pasta topped in rich house-made sauces, and sides of meatballs and mozzarella sticks.
- Address: 917 Lincoln Avenue, Steamboat Springs, Colorado, 80487
- Hours: 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM daily
- Menu
You might also consider dropping by:
Salt & Lime—To enjoy a menu packed with bold flavors and selections like shrimp tacos, quesadillas, and churros, that can be savored on a rooftop patio
Winona’s Restaurant—To fuel up for a day of fun and browse a menu featuring cinnamon rolls, coffee, biscuits & gravy, and eggs benedict
Family-Friendly Hiking Trails
Finding a family-friendly hiking trail in Steamboat Springs is a breeze, whether you’re looking for an easy, moderate, or challenging scenic route. The Fish Creek Falls Overlook Trail is a must-try when you’re excited to quickly reach cascade views worth capturing on camera.
- Length: .6 miles
- Difficulty: Easy
- Elevation Gain: 16 feet
- Trail Map
If you’re interested in pairing your hike with birding, the Tombstone Nature Trail is a great family-friendly loop to explore. It only takes about 30 minutes to complete at a leisurely pace, and there are plenty of interpretive signs to check out as you roam.
- Length: 1.1 miles
- Difficulty: Easy
- Elevation Gain: 134 feet
- Trail Map
Beat the Heat at the Yampa River
When summer temperatures rise, the Yampa River offers a beautiful, refreshing place for families to cool off. One of the most popular family things to do in Steamboat Springs is to explore the water here by paddleboard or on a tube. Make time in your itinerary this year to:
- Paddleboard near Fetcher Park
- Tube through the heart of downtown
- Picnic along the water
- Give kayaking a try
Book Our Family-Friendly Rentals in Steamboat Springs
Your family vacation is sure to be extra memorable when you take time to book incredible accommodations through Elevated Properties. Our family-friendly rentals in Steamboat Springs are close to the river, trails, and slopes, making it easy for our guests to make the most of their stay. Our property options feature full kitchens, large living rooms, private decks, and plush furnishings designed for families. We can also offer event-ready spaces like our Yampa River festival rentals when you’re in town to celebrate this spring. Reach out today to learn more and to begin turning travel plans into reality soon.
