The Irish are not the only ones who get to feel lucky. Spending a springtime vacation in Steamboat Springs will make you feel blessed, and here 10 reasons why.

1. Skiing or boarding on the fresh groomers in the morning and soft snow in the afternoon sun. (Although an impending storm is going to add a fresh layer of powder to the mix next week).

2. Rockin’ out at to a free concert at the base area with Bud Light Rocks the ‘Boat series.

3. Slopeside’s Ice Bar – après ski just got cooler.

4. Soaking in thermal waters at the Strawberry Park Hot Springs – one of 19 mineral springs on the Historic Hot Springs Tour through Colorado.

5. Cross-country skiing in a t-shirt and refueling with a picnic on Rabbit Ears Pass. (Pick up a to go from Backcountry Provisions but be warned, you might need a nap, it’s so good).

6. Gear sales have started in town and on the mountain so there’s plenty of bargains to snag.

7. Snowshoeing and hiking at Fish Creek Falls where the ice is beginning to melt. When it does, you can’t hear yourself think for the roar.

8. Sipping suds at the four local breweries dotted around town.

9. Road biking past miles of rolling ranch lands.

10. Taking an early morning hot air balloon ride as the valley below awakens.

Who knew that something used as a method of survival 6,000 years ago would evolve into a recreational pastime? Snowshoeing’s long and storied past has been eclipsed by technology making it a winter-sport favorite for many.

In December Condos in Steamboat guest Lesley Philip left her native Scotland, and came to Steamboat Springs to spend Christmas with the family. She didn’t ski or snowboard and according to her, she “has never felt part of the winter scene.” All that changed after a day spent tramping around the Steamboat Ski Area on snowshoes.

“It was absolutely wonderful and for the first time, I could join in with the rest of the family and share time on the mountain,” she says. For the remainder of her trip, Lesley spent multiple days clipped into snowshoes crunching over snowy terrain all over Steamboat.

Steamboat Ski Area has created several snowshoe loops that follow well-marked cat tracks and gentle terrain to Four Points and Rendezvous lodges. For those who’d prefer not to navigate the routes alone, there are multiple guided options available. Free tours are offered daily at 1 p.m., leaving from the information center at the base of the mountain. An on-foot lift ticket is requirement. Make a day of it and book a gourmet lunch at Hazie’s Restaurant, which is served prior to the tour. Make a night of it instead, and take the Moonlight Tour with dinner at Hazie’s afterwards.

Explore the nooks and crannies in hillsides and forests all around Steamboat by snowshoeing on designated hiking trails. Popular local favorites include; the Quarry Trail on Emerald Mountain, favored for the unsurpassed views of Mount Werner and the entire Yampa Valley; Uranium Mine Trail which overlooks Fish Creek Falls; and Walton Peak Trail on Rabbit Ears Pass for incredible panoramas of the south valley. Learn about local wildlife on naturalist lead snowshoe tours offered weekly by Yampatika. (www.yampatika.org)

Spend a day at any of the Nordic centers, where trails for snowshoe use are clearly marked. Haymaker Nordic Center and Catamount Ranch and Club both allow dogs during weekdays. Both offer equipment rental and full-service dining. Steamboat Touring Center is the most centrally located of the three and also offers equipment rental and a cafe.

Know Before You Go

• Dress in layers, as you would to go skiing. Avoid cotton, as there is no way for the moisture to escape, which can make you feel cold.
• Wear snow boots, or hiking boots and use gators to keep the snow out.
• Pack plenty of water to stay hydrated.
• Take snacks to keep energy levels up, especially young children.
• Take poles to maintain good balance on steeper terrain.
• Stretch legs and hips prior to snowshoeing as it is a workout and you’ll be thankful you warmed up first.
• Pack a camera – the scenery will be beautiful, wherever your shoes take you.

Last night in downtown Steamboat Springs there was a slew of mysterious behavior. The mad hatter danced down Lincoln Avenue followed by a family of sea gods. A crowd of Vikings strolled the sidewalks passing a monkey with a banana before stopping to greet the three pink ladies. A dragon towered over a crowd of people breathing fire as members of the emergency services looked on, while tossing candy to passing children.

It was Halloween, the most cherished community event of the year. Last night did not disappoint. For two hours Lincoln Avenue was closed to all traffic, except those on foot. Storeowners generously dished out volumes of candy, slices of pizza, pots of ice cream and toothbrushes – yes toothbrushes! There was a scream contest, live musicians and fire jugglers. Families, kids, couples, singles, empty nesters and canine friends strolled the street together absorbing the quintessential Steamboat vibe.

The snow held off despite the chill in the air – much to the amazement of long time locals, who expect the first big dump of year on that very night. The snow never came, but all the usual tradition remained with most adults feeling thankful they are not waking up to teach school in the morning. Thank you Steamboat for another spooktacularly fun night.

Things are about to get crazier than normal this winter for Dan and Kim Filler, and they couldn’t be happier about it. For nearly two decades the Fillers have owned and operated Condos in Steamboat, specializing in vacation rentals. Winter season means two things to them: looking after clients, and running back and forth to Howelsen Ice Arena to support their hockey mad son Jake.

This year they have even more reason to be at the rink cheering at a hockey game. The Fillers opted to become a host family for the first-ever junior hockey team to be permanently stationed in Steamboat Springs – The Steamboat Wranglers.

In August Quinny Baker switched coastal California for the Rocky Mountains and moved into the Fillers. It will be his home away from home for the next eight months. The senior in High School is part of a new team that will train players hoping to make college teams.

Up to 25 players hope to be billeted in Steamboat and play for the newest team in the western division. Players have strict guidelines to adhere to, including evening curfews which hold serious consequences if broken.

The Fillers became aware of the new team at Howelsen Ice Arena and volunteered their support. Kim entered the contest to name the team and her quintessential Steamboat term – The Wranglers – won. She will drop the first puck when the team plays their first game, this Friday, September 30th, 2016 at 7pm.

“We are looking forward to meeting and accommodating as many of the traveling families as possible,” Kim says. Eleven-year-old Jake is years away from playing at the same level, but he has set his sights on hockey. Having a big brother figure at home to show him the ropes is a good thing. He was equally thrilled to earn a spot as one of two stick boys.

“Our business is to take care of people coming to Steamboat, but this time we are taking it to the next level. I wanted to pay it forward, knowing one day it could be our son doing the same as Quinny.”

Quinny Baker and his teammates can be sure of one thing this winter, they might be far from home but they’ll be plenty of people cheering them on at Howelsen Ice Arena, especially the Fillers.

10 Fun and Free Family Activities in Steamboat Springs 

Fun doesn’t need to cost a cent with a playground like Steamboat Springs. Spend a morning, an afternoon or a whole day entertaining the family without breaking the bank.

1. Take advantage of free casting classes at West Lincoln Park, sponsored by Steamboat Flyfisher, on Saturdays at 5 p.m.
2. Hike Emerald Mountain leaving from Blackmere Road all the way to the quarry for incredible views of Steamboat and the Yampa Valley. Climb Mount Werner later in the day to watch the sun setting over town.
3. Play volleyball, tennis and skateboard at Howelsen Park.
4. Paddle in the Yampa River and soak in the run off from the Hot Springs in natural pools just before Rabbit Ears Motel as you head into town.
5. Experience Steamboat’s heritage from ranching to skiing by watching the Fourth of July Parade. Head over to Howelsen Hill to witness ski jumpers including past and present Olympians compete in the Jumpin’ Jammin’ contest. Come back when night falls for an incredible firework extravaganza.
6. Check out: free talks, movie nights, seminars, and kids workshops at Bud Werner Memorial Library.
7. Learn from a local naturalist at Yampatika about flora, fauna, birds, wildlife and archaeology on a free weekly-guided hike. www.yampatika.org
8. Spend an evening strolling through downtown Steamboat visiting an eclectic mix of venues during first Friday Artwalk. Meet local artists; sip wine and snack on appetizers that are served at a variety of locations.
9. Enjoy live music every Thursday afternoon in the Yampa River Botanic Gardens. Music on the Green is run by Strings Music Festival. Programing changes weekly. Music starts at noon and typically runs for one hour. Spend time strolling through the gardens before and after.
10. Hike and bike to your hearts content on acres of trails from mellow pathways to adrenaline fueled climbs. www.biketownusa.com

Spring in the mountains is a tempestuous affair when it comes to the weather. Powder days have past for another season and summer pursuits are on hold until the snow melts and temperatures rise. Bikers and hikers are out and about but on rainy afternoons the great indoors comes calling.

Catch up on reading, peruse new book titles and unearth local folklore at the Bud Werner Memorial Library. Sit by the window with a freshly brewed coffee from the café and watch the Yampa River rush by. Kids are easily entertained in the children’s section where oversized beanbags and weekly activities lure mini bookworms.

Test your competitive spirit with a game of bowling at the Snow Bowl. Look out for disco bowling hours when the lights will be twirling and the music is pumping. If you are feeling creative unearth any artistic skills and paint a masterpiece at Splatz, located within the Snow Bowl.

Delve into local history and learn about the people and places that made Steamboat Springs what it is today. The Tread of Pioneers Museum on Eighth and Oak streets is a treasure trove of artifacts and information. Keep small visitors occupied on a scavenger hunt and make time to peruse the gift shop.

Who says ice cream can only be eaten in summer? Rain or shine, a trip to Lyons Soda Fountain for a hot fudge sundae always warms the soul. Put a tune on the jukebox and absorb the old-time atmosphere that keeps Lyons bustling all year round.

Shop until you drop on Lincoln Avenue. Family-owned and operated boutique stores offer an array of locally made creations from clothing to coffee. Step inside art galleries along the way including the Steamboat Art Museum which houses exhibitions by nationally re-known painters.

So our last activity is not indoors, but a little drizzle makes no difference when you are soaking in the hot springs. Relax in thermally warmed waters at Strawberry Park Hot Springs or the Old Town Hot Springs. Look for seasonal offers on massages and take relaxation to an elevated level.

Cloudy skies doesn’t mean the fun stops in Steamboat, it’s simply a case of changing the pace.

Ten ways to propose this leap year in Steamboat Springs. 

Ladies, waiting for the love of your life to drop down on one knee? Listen up and wait no more. Your time has come to leave him to his dithering and do the asking yourself. This month marks a leap year and February 29 is just around the corner.

As a team who loves a touch of romance in our lives, we devised our own top-10 ways to propose in Steamboat Springs this month.

1. Make the day last by popping the question on an early morning hot air balloon ride. Watch the valley awaken below as you cruise slowly along, hovering above Mount Werner and the meandering Yampa River. Air temps can be chilly so they’ll be good reason to cozy up.

2. For the couple that loves speed, go off the beaten path on a snowmobile tour. Hahns Peak Roadhouse offers guided trips in the spectacular North Routt National Forest. Whizz up to Sand Mountain for the perfect backdrop to making the proposal of a lifetime.

3. Pack a beer or a mini bottle of bubbly and head for the Steamboat Ski Area. Make your way over to Wally World, and then take Tomahawk to Baby Powder off the Sundown lift. Just over the first hillcrest on Baby Powder, hang right and look for an A-frame shape opening in a large tree. Cruise in slowly and stop inside the local’s favorite ‘tree cave’. Be sure to cross your poles at the entrance so you can have it to yourself. It’s an intimate little spot and ideal for the skier who doesn’t need to be skiing blacks or double diamonds all day.

4. Share your inner cowboy on a horseback ride through some of Steamboat’s most historic ranchlands. Savor the solitude of a snow-covered aspen grove, then stop in the saddle and surprise him. Del’s Triangle 3-Ranch is the perfect outfit to make it happen.

5. Strap on the snowshoes and hike down to the base of Fish Creek Falls. The frozen falls creates a fairytale like setting for popping the question. Pack a flask of hot chocolate (or a beer), and spend the next couple hours hiking the snow-packed trail or return to the overlook and raise a toast to the future.

6. Do it the old-fashioned way and book lunch or dinner for two. Hazie’s Restaurant at the top of the gondola has the best view in town. Ask for a booth on the second floor for the most intimate setting. If your loved one is a foodie, then screw the view and take him to Café Diva. The food is sublime and the staff will go out of their way to make your special moment memorable.

7. Take the chilled out option and opt for the thermal waters of the Strawberry Park Hot Springs. It can be busy and clothing is optional after 5 p.m., but the setting is one of the most romantic in the area. Small cabins are available for rent if you want to make a night of it, so he can hop in and out of hot water as you please.

8. Add a little endurance to the mix by scaling West Summit 1A loop at Rabbit Ears Pass on cross-country skis. The climb is gradual and the views at the top are worth the exertion. Take a picnic from Backcountry Provisions or Cruisers (both make incredible sandwiches), and pop the question over lunch. You’ll feel like you are on top of the world, and you’ll likely see only a handful of folk along the way.

9. Book a sleigh ride and snuggle up under the stars. Two options are available. At the Steamboat Ski Area the sleigh is pulled by snowcat but you are on top of a mountain and there is plenty opportunity to leave the group and find yourselves alone under the starry sky. Horse drawn options are available at Bar Lazy Z Ranch, Hahns Peak Roadhouse and Saddleback Ranch.

10. Last but not least, take Storm Peak chairlift to the top of Mount Werner, hang left and hike up to the top of St. Paddy’s Bowl. If you are alone, pop the question, or take a few turns and find a quiet spot in the trees at the top. Whichever way it goes the drop down is steep, so you’ll either be descending on a double dose adrenaline or he’ll be put through his paces for refusing.

Life is for living, so take the plunge ladies and get romantic this month. Good Luck!

The air is cooler, the crowds are gone and the sun continues to shine. It’s early fall and one of our favorite times of the year here in Steamboat Springs. We thought we’d share five great reasons to head for the mountains and share our Indian summer.

1. Hiking through Aspen groves as their quaking leaves turn from green to gold.  Three Island Lake in the Zirkel Wilderness is number one on our locals list for combining scenery, mixed terrain and the sound of water from the streams that meander by. After Clark turn right onto Seedhouse Road, past Seedhouse Campground on NFSR 443 and continue approximately 3 miles to trailhead on left side of road. Turn right at intersection of trail #1163 and follow to lake in Mount Zirkel Wilderness.
2. Biking trails starting only one block from town will keep even the seasoned adrenaline seeker fueled for a day. Emerald Mountain offers 24 miles of designated recreational space will trails clearly marked for all biking abilities. Downtown a trail map on www.steamboatsprings.net. If riding your wheels over dirt isn’t your thing, then make sure you swing through town for the 9^th Annual Mustache Ride in aid of the Humane Society. Hop on and off your cruiser bike through downtown Steamboat from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. (Mustaches are not optional). http://www.ssmustacheride.com
3. Fishing close to town at Chuck Lewis State Wildlife Area at any time of day in fall will not disappoint. Only a couple miles south of town off CR14, two miles of public access waters with large cut banks and deep holes is home to some big trout.
4. Explore the Yampa Valley behind the wheel with a scenic drive or two. Pass fields of gold travelling past Routt County ranchlands out towards Clark and Columbine, making sure to stop in at the Clark store for a morning coffee or afternoon tea. Take a picnic and head up Rabbit Ears pass where the valley below will unfold like an autumnal tapestry on your descent back to town.
5. Fall shopping and dinning deals abound during fall in the valley. Grab a bargain on last year’s ski and board gear; pick up shoes at a steal or home décor for a snip. Kick back with half price cocktails and plates all over town. By favorite our own favorite is Café Diva on the mountain, where Sunday night is date night for $30 a person. The food is sublime and you’ll eat like a king for a third of the price.