You came to Steamboat Springs for some much-needed time away and some fall color on top. No matter how long you’re in town, there’s plenty to see and do, including seeing the fall colors that helped the state earn the nickname Colorful Colorado. You’ll enjoy a mix of fun, excitement, adventure, and fall activities on your trip. There is plenty of other fall fun waiting around town to keep you happy and busy throughout your stay. Prime color season and fall foliage viewing is mid-September to mid-October, so mark your calendars!
Buffalo Pass
The area is just a short drive from downtown Steamboat, but the beautiful and rich fall colors are worth it. Considered a prime location for fall color viewing, the pass takes you a few miles up a dirt road and through Aspen groves that put on a color show not to be missed.
Highway 131 to Yampa
Located just south of Steamboat, the driving tour offers incredible views of aspens bursting with fall color from gold to red and many shades in between. Continue on the winding road’s southward journey to towns including Oak Creek, Phippsburg, and Yampa as you find your way to the Flat Tops Wilderness area.
North Routt County
Surround yourself with fall colors at the Steamboat Lake and Hahn’s Peak area. It’s a popular fall color driving tour that gives you views of beautifully colored Aspens from every direction. Take a trip to Seedhouse Road on your way to Steamboat Lake. Shortly after passing the Clark Store, take a right and follow the road for a scenic drive along the Elk River.
Rabbit Ears Pass
Pack your group into the rental car and head to one of the area’s most iconic spots near Steamboat for fall foliage viewing at its best. Rabbit Ears Pass has a myriad of spots to experience the area’s fall foliage. Head east out of Steamboat on US-40 where you’ll climb the pass and experience what everyone’s talking about.
Horseback Riding
Saddle up for a view of Steamboat’s fall foliage and let someone else do the “driving.” There are several ranches around Steamboat that will guide you through scenic trails that Old West cowboys used to travel. You’ll be surrounded by fall colors as your horse winds their way along the trail. Please book in advance, and ask about any restrictions, guidelines, or special accommodations you may need.
Mountain Biking
Grab a mountain bike and hit the trails to see the colorful fall foliage from a different perspective. Cut through the gorgeous landscape and take in views of the mountains and valley, as well as the yellows, reds, and myriad of other autumn leaf colors, as you bike your way through Steamboat Springs’ great outdoors. There are several loops and trail systems of varying degrees of difficulty. Many of the trails are a great hike or dirt bike excursion too, so make sure you share the trails with others.
Hot Springs
Make time to visit the springs of Steamboat Springs. There are two that keep locals and visitors coming back time and again, and they have fall foliage viewing to show, too. Old Town Hot Springs is located in the heart of downtown Steamboat Springs and is a multi-use complex, giving you a full body workout and relaxation session. It features eight natural mineral water hot pools, two water slides, a fully equipped fitness center, aquatic rock climbing wall, kids’ area, and more. Strawberry Park Hot Springs is located on the edge of the Yampa Valley. You’ll find thermal pools ranging in temperature from 101-106 degrees Fahrenheit. Make sure to check COVID-19 restrictions before heading to either location. They may include the springs operating at limited capacity or schedule, and reservations may be required. Make sure to bring a mask and wear it whenever you’re not in the water and observe social distancing when possible. Restrooms are still available, but changing rooms are limited. Only cash will be accepted for entry fees. No credit or debit cards.
Fall Foliage in Steamboat Springs
You chose Steamboat Springs for a fun getaway full of color with the ones you love this fall. Extend the and fun you crave and add some extra privacy to your accommodations by booking a vacation rental with Elevated Properties. When you’re not out experiencing Colorful Colorado, prepare a tasty meal in the fully equipped kitchen. Afterward, spread out in the open living area for some TV or a movie together.
For a sweetheart getaway or small family, choose a one-bedroom unit. If your party is a bit bigger, there are units as large as six bedrooms! Choose a premium unit for upgrades and perks like stainless steel appliances, granite counters, hardwood floors, flat screen TVs and more!
Contact us today to start planning your fall foliage getaway to Steamboat Springs!
