Hiking

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Hiking

hikers.jpgHiking in Steamboat Springs is an adventure everyone should experience. We are located on the edge of some of Colorado’s least populated national forests and Wilderness Areas, so you can enjoy the peaceful serenity of the Rocky Mountains without the crowds.

Mountain Altitude and Elevations


If you are coming from a low elevation, it is best to take some time to acclimatize before heading above 9,000 feet. Fortunately Steamboat's elevations are moderate in comparison with other destinations in Colorado.

Downtown Steamboat Springs
     
6,732 feet
Base of the Steamboat Ski Area
  6,900 feet
Top of the Steamboat Gondola
  9,080 feet
Summit of Storm Peak (at the ski area)
  10,372 feet
Hahns Peak
  10,839 feet
Devil's Causeway
  11,600 feet
Mt. Zirkel
  12,180 feet 

Wildflowers peak mid-late July. In the fall, Aspen trees usually see their peak colors mid-late September. Always bring water, snacks, extra layers, a map, cell phone and let someone know where you are going and when you will return. Please hike with others, it's more fun and safer!

Ask our staff, or just about anyone in town for suggestions on hikes. We have a variety of hikes for all levels and abilities and depending on how much time you would like to spend on the trail. Here are a few suggestions:

Nearby hikes in Steamboat Springs

FishCreekFallsSmall.jpgFish Creek Falls: The trailhead for this spectacular 283-foot waterfall is just 3 miles from downtown Steamboat Springs. It is located in the Routt National Forest and there is plenty of parking available for a $5 fee. There is a paved overlook trail (ADA compliant), and it is a short walk downhill to the bridge and spectacular photo opportunities.

Hot Springs Trail: Just ten minutes from town off of Routt County Road 129 you will find the Mad Creek Trailhead. Park there and double back on the road by foot and you'll find the Hot Springs Trail. It's about a 3 mile hike to the Strawberry Park Hot Springs. Bring your bathing suit, towel and money for admissionand enjoy a soak!

Steamboat Ski Area: You can ride the Steamboat Gondola up to access beginner-moderate trial, or you can hike from the base area up to the top of the Steamboat Gondola and enjoy the ride down.

Yampa River Core Trail: This paved multi-use trail winds alongthe river through town connecting several city parks. Perfect forhikers of all ages, and easily accessible from several parking areasthroughout town.

Local favorites within 1-2 hours

DevilsCauseway.jpgDevil's Causeway: The Flattops Wilderness Area is less than 2 hours from Steamboat Springs. This is one of Colorado's most unique land features with its table-toped mountains surrounding high-altitude lakes and meadows. The Devil's Causeway is a narrow rock band (elevation 11,600 feet) that at its narrowest point is 4 feet wide. Even if you are not brave enough to cross, the hike to get there is worth it for the views.

Continental Divide Trail/Wyoming Trail:
The Rocky Mountain version of the famous Appalachian Trail, the "CDT" follows the Continental Divide from Canada to Mexico. Part of this trail is accessible on Buffalo Pass or Rabbit Ears Pass, less than an hour from town. It is also called the Wyoming Trail or Forest Service 1101.

MicaLake.jpg"The Zirkel Circle": About an hour north of town there are several Mt. Zirkel Wilderness hikes accessed from Seedhouse Road. (Take Routt County Road 129 north to Clark and take a left). The Zirkel Circle is a full day loop that takes you to both Gold Creek and Gilpin lakes.

Mica Lake: Also located off of Seedhouse Road, Mica Lake is an up and back trail into a basin near the base of Big Agnes.
 

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Current Conditions:
Fair, 57 F

Forecast:
Thu - Clear. High: 73 Low: 40
Fri - Sunny. High: 72 Low: 40

Full Forecast at Yahoo! Weather

(provided by The Weather Channel)

It was a great ski season and we expect that trails will dry and be open for riding and hiking in May.

 
 
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