20 TOP Things to Do in Steamboat Springs During Summer
Discover the 20 top things to do in Steamboat Springs this summer, showcasing must-try experiences like whitewater rafting on the Yampa River, hiking the Flat Tops Wilderness, and soaking in Strawberry Park Hot Springs. This guide highlights the best outdoor adventures, local festivals, and family-friendly activities across one of Colorado's most beloved mountain towns, complete with tips on timing and what to bring. Whether you are planning a solo escape or a family vacation, Westgate Resorts helps you make the most of your Steamboat Springs summer trip.
| Activity | Type of Activity | Cost | Time Commitment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Strawberry Park Hot Springs | Relaxation / Nature | $25 per person | Two to three hours |
| Yampa River Tubing | Water Adventure | $25 to $30 (rental and shuttle) | Two hours |
| Fish Creek Falls Hike | Hiking / Sightseeing | $5 vehicle day-use fee | One to two hours |
| Steamboat Gondola Ride | Sightseeing / Family | $30 to $45 per adult | One to four hours |
| Steamboat Pro Rodeo | Entertainment / Culture | $25 to $35 per adult | Three hours |
| Saturday Farmers Market | Shopping / Foodie | Free admission | Two hours |
| Emerald Mountain Biking | Outdoor Sports | Free (bike rentals extra) | Two to four hours |
| Fly Fishing the Yampa | Guided Sport / Nature | $150 to $300 for tours | Half day |
| Steamboat Zipline Adventures | High Adventure | $85 to $110 per person | Two hours |
| Tread of Pioneers Museum | History / Education | $6 per adult | One to two hours |
The Best Things to Do in Steamboat Springs During Summer
Are you ready for the ultimate mountain vacation? If you are looking for unforgettable family things to do in Steamboat Springs, you have found the perfect destination. Whether you want an adrenaline rush or prefer peaceful things in Steamboat Springs to reconnect with nature, this Colorado town offers something for everyone. With sunshine warming the peaks and rivers flowing, you will quickly discover endless things to do in steamboat springs in summer. To make your trip complete, staying at the beautiful Village At Steamboat Springs gives you the perfect home base for exploring all the best local attractions.
Steamboat Springs is famous for its winter powder, but the summer months offer a completely different kind of magic. The snow melts away to reveal vibrant green valleys, rushing rivers and wildflower meadows that look like they belong in a painting. When you visit this charming mountain town in the warmer months, you can trade your skis for hiking boots, mountain bikes and inner tubes. The friendly atmosphere, rich Western heritage and stunning Rocky Mountain scenery make it a top tier vacation spot. Below, we have rounded up the very best activities to add to your travel itinerary.
The Ultimate Guide to Summer in Steamboat Springs
1. Soak at Strawberry Park Hot Springs
Few experiences in the Rocky Mountain West rival a soak at Strawberry Park Hot Springs, a collection of natural mineral pools nestled in a canyon about 7 miles north of downtown Steamboat Springs. Fed by geothermal waters that hover around 104°F, these rustic pools are surrounded by massive boulders, wooden decks, and old-growth forest that creates a sense of total seclusion. Summer is the perfect season to visit: the lush green foliage overhead and the sound of a nearby creek create an ambiance that feels like stepping into another world entirely.
Why Go: The combination of natural beauty, therapeutic mineral water, and a clothing-optional nighttime policy (for adults) makes this one of the most unique and rejuvenating things to do in Steamboat Springs in summer. It’s also a fantastic family destination during daylight hours.
WHERE: 44200 Co Rd 36, Steamboat Springs, CO 80487 | WHO: (970) 879-0342
RELATED ARTICLES:
The 10 Best Spring Break Destinations for Nature Lovers and Outdoor Adventurers
40 Things to Do in Steamboat Springs, CO to Reconnect With Nature
The 15 BEST Family Things to Do in Steamboat Springs, CO, This Weekend
10 BEST Spots for Yoga Steamboat Springs Locals Want to Tell You About
2. Cool Off With Yampa River Tubing
Nothing says summer in a mountain town quite like a lazy float down a beautiful river. Yampa River Tubing is a beloved local tradition and a fantastic way to see the town from a completely different perspective.
Why Go: Floating down the river is a quintessential summer experience. It is the perfect way to cool off on a warm afternoon while enjoying the scenic views of downtown and the surrounding peaks. The gentle rapids add just enough excitement without being overwhelming, making it a great activity for older kids and adults alike. You can rent a tube from local outfitters who also provide shuttle services, making the entire trip seamless and stress free.
WHERE: 841 Yampa St, Steamboat Springs, CO 80487 | WHO: (970) 879-6249
3. Embark on a Fish Creek Falls Hike
Just two miles east of downtown, Fish Creek Falls is one of the most spectacular natural landmarks in all of northern Colorado. A short, paved 0.4-mile walk leads to the base of a thundering 283-foot waterfall (one of the tallest in the state) where mist fills the air and the roar of cascading water drowns out the world. For those seeking more, a steeper trail continues several miles up the canyon to Upper Fish Creek Falls and beyond, offering sweeping views of the Yampa Valley and the chance to connect deeply with nature.
Why Go: This is one of the premier things to do in Steamboat Springs to reconnect with nature, and the accessible lower trail makes it ideal for families with strollers or visitors of all fitness levels.
WHERE: 34165 Fish Creek Falls Rd, Steamboat Springs, CO 80487 | WHO: (970) 879-0880
4. Enjoy Mountain Biking Emerald Mountain
Steamboat Springs has earned a well-deserved reputation as one of the premier mountain biking destinations in the American West, and Emerald Mountain (located just minutes from downtown) is the jewel in that crown. With over 30 miles of singletrack trails ranging from flowy beginner loops to technical expert descents, Emerald Mountain offers an experience for every level of rider. The trails weave through open sage meadows and pine forests, delivering spectacular panoramic views of the Yampa Valley with virtually every turn.
Why Go: Whether you’re a seasoned shredder or a curious beginner renting a bike for the first time, the Emerald Mountain trail system is one of the most exhilarating things to do in Steamboat Springs in summer.
WHERE: 845 Howelsen Pkwy, Steamboat Springs, CO 80487 | WHO: N/A
5. Ride the Steamboat Ski Area Gondola
You don’t need to ski to ride the gondola at Steamboat Ski Area; and in summer, the ride becomes something arguably more spectacular than any powder day. The Steamboat Gondola whisks passengers 10,568 feet to the summit of Mount Werner, where the panoramic views stretch across the Flat Tops Wilderness, the Park Range, and seemingly all the way into Wyoming. At the top, you’ll find hiking trails, a summit restaurant, and the kind of perspective on the natural world that makes you feel genuinely small; in the best possible way.
Why Go: The gondola ride is one of the most scenic and effortless things to do in Steamboat Springs in summer, perfect for families, couples, and anyone who wants sweeping mountain views without a strenuous hike.
WHERE: 2305 Mt Werner Cir #2291, Steamboat Springs, CO 80487 | WHO: N/A
6. Experience Fly Fishing the Yampa
The Yampa River is one of Colorado’s most celebrated trout fisheries, and summer is prime season for fly fishing in its cold, clear waters. The river supports healthy populations of brown and rainbow trout, and its diverse runs, riffles, and deep pools offer engaging water for anglers of every experience level. Local outfitters offer guided half-day and full-day trips that include equipment, instruction, and access to the best stretches of river, including some sections that require a guide to legally access.
Why Go: Fly fishing the Yampa is one of the most serene and rewarding things to do in Steamboat Springs to reconnect with nature, combining patience, skill, and an almost meditative focus on the rhythms of the river.
WHERE: 655 Yampa St Unit C-2, Steamboat Springs, CO 80487 | WHO: (970) 879-6552
7. Take a Majestic Hot Air Balloon Ride
Floating above the Yampa Valley in a hot air balloon at sunrise is an experience that defies description. The stillness of the early morning air, the golden light spilling over the mountain ridges, and the impossibly wide panorama of meadows, rivers, and peaks below combine to create one of the most romantic and awe-inspiring adventures available anywhere in the Colorado Rockies. Several local balloon companies offer daily sunrise flights throughout the summer, typically including a champagne toast upon landing.
Why Go: This is a bucket-list experience and one of the most unforgettable things to do in Steamboat Springs in summer for couples celebrating anniversaries, families marking milestones, or anyone who simply wants to see the world from a new perspective.
WHERE: 753 Dougherty Rd, Steamboat Springs, CO 80487 | WHO: (970) 879-9191
8. Shop the Farmers Market (Saturdays)
Every Saturday morning from late June through late August, the Lincoln Avenue Farmers Market transforms downtown Steamboat Springs into a vibrant celebration of local food, art, and community. Vendors from across the region set up colorful stalls offering organic produce, handmade cheeses, artisan breads, local honey, fresh flowers, handcrafted jewelry, pottery, and much more. Live music fills the air, children dart between stalls, and the friendly, unhurried atmosphere perfectly captures the spirit of a Western mountain community at its most joyful.
Why Go: The Saturday Farmers Market is one of the most delightful family things to do in Steamboat Springs, offering a genuine taste of local culture alongside fresh Colorado flavors.
WHERE: 75 5th St, Steamboat Springs, CO 80487 | WHO: (970)367-7060
9. Go on Horseback Trail Rides
The wide-open valleys and forested mountain trails surrounding Steamboat Springs were made for exploring on horseback, and several local outfitters offer guided trail rides for all experience levels. Whether you opt for a one-hour introductory ride along a gentle meadow trail or a multi-hour backcountry excursion that takes you deep into the Routt National Forest, the experience of exploring the Colorado high country on horseback connects you to the region’s deep ranching and cowboy heritage in a way that nothing else can.
Why Go: Horseback riding is one of the most authentically Western things to do in Steamboat Springs in summer and a beloved family activity that creates memories lasting a lifetime.
WHERE: 55675 Co Rd 62, Clark, CO 80428 | WHO: (970) 879-3495
10. Play a Round at Rollingstone Ranch Golf
For golfers, Rollingstone Ranch Golf Club represents one of the finest mountain golf experiences in all of Colorado. Designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr. and winding through native sage meadows, wetlands, and aspen groves, this 18-hole championship course plays to 6,900 yards and delivers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains from nearly every fairway. The high-altitude air, the dramatic scenery, and the challenging but fair course design have made Rollingstone Ranch a must-play destination for traveling golfers for decades.
Why Go: Playing golf here is one of the most pleasurable and scenic things to do in Steamboat Springs in summer for sports enthusiasts who want world-class recreation framed by world-class natural beauty.
WHERE: 1230 Steamboat Blvd, Steamboat Springs, CO 80487 | WHO: (970) 879-1391
11. Try Rock Climbing at Rabbit Ears
The distinctive twin rock formations of Rabbit Ears Pass, rising dramatically from the Continental Divide just east of Steamboat Springs, are one of the most recognizable landmarks in the Colorado Rockies; and they offer surprisingly accessible rock climbing for adventurers of various skill levels. The volcanic trachyte rock provides excellent friction and a variety of routes, while the surrounding high-alpine meadows filled with wildflowers make the approach hike a joy in its own right. The summit views span hundreds of miles in every direction.
Why Go: Climbing at Rabbit Ears is one of the most thrilling and visually stunning things to do in Steamboat Springs to reconnect with nature, offering a genuine wilderness adventure just 20 minutes from town.
WHERE: Forest Service 311.1, Kremmling, CO 80459 | WHO: N/A
12. Experience Kayaking Stagecoach Reservoir
Located about 16 miles south of Steamboat Springs, Stagecoach Reservoir is a hidden gem for water sports enthusiasts. The reservoir’s calm, clear waters are ideal for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding, and the surrounding landscape of rolling hills and sage meadows creates a peaceful, unhurried atmosphere quite unlike the busier mountain lakes. Rentals are available at the state park, and the absence of motorized boats on certain areas of the reservoir makes for especially serene paddling.
Why Go: Kayaking Stagecoach is one of the most relaxing and accessible things to do in Steamboat Springs in summer for water lovers of every age and experience level.
WHERE: 25500 Co Rd 14, Oak Creek, CO 80467 | WHO: N/A
13. Unwind With Steamboat Lake Camping
For those who want to immerse themselves fully in the natural world surrounding Steamboat Springs, a night (or several) at Steamboat Lake State Park is an experience without equal. Located 26 miles north of town near the small community of Clark, Steamboat Lake offers over 200 developed campsites, a full-service marina, excellent fishing for kokanee salmon and rainbow trout, and some of the most dramatic mountain scenery in northern Colorado, with the rugged Zirkel Wilderness rising dramatically beyond the lake’s northern shore.
Why Go: Camping at Steamboat Lake is the ultimate way to experience the things to do in Steamboat Springs in summer for nature lovers, combining adventure, stargazing, fishing, and complete immersion in the Colorado wilderness.
WHERE: 61105 Co Rd 129, Clark, CO 80428 | WHO: N/A
14. Savor a Downtown Dining tour
Steamboat Springs has quietly evolved into one of Colorado’s most exciting dining destinations, with a downtown core packed with independent restaurants, brewpubs, wine bars, and cafés that celebrate both local Colorado ingredients and global culinary traditions. A self-guided downtown dining tour (spanning everything from elevated farm-to-table cuisine to world-class craft beer and hand-crafted cocktails) reveals the delicious depth and creativity of Steamboat’s food scene. Many restaurants feature outdoor patios perfect for lingering over a long summer evening meal as the mountain light turns golden.
Why Go: Exploring the local dining scene is one of the most delightful things to do in Steamboat Springs in summer, especially after a long day of outdoor adventure when a great meal and a cold local beer feel perfectly earned.
WHERE: 50 7th St, Steamboat Springs, CO 80487 | WHO: N/A
15. Cheer at the ProRodeo Series (June)
Every summer, Steamboat Springs hosts one of the most authentic and entertaining professional rodeo events in the American West, drawing top competitors from across the country to Howelsen Hill Rodeo Grounds. The ProRodeo Series events in June feature all the classic disciplines — bull riding, barrel racing, calf roping, steer wrestling, and more — performed by skilled athletes who have dedicated their lives to preserving and celebrating the cowboy traditions that shaped this region. The crowd energy is electric, the atmosphere is festive, and the talent on display is genuinely world-class.
Why Go: Attending the ProRodeo is one of the most culturally rich family things to do in Steamboat Springs, offering a genuine window into the Western heritage that defines this remarkable community.
WHERE: 401 Howelsen Pkwy, Steamboat Springs, CO 80487 | WHO: (970) 879-1818
16. Soar on the Steamboat Zipline Adventures
For a pure shot of mountain adrenaline, Steamboat Zipline Adventures delivers one of the most thrilling experiences available anywhere in the Steamboat Springs area. Riders soar across multiple zipline runs with sweeping aerial views of the surrounding valleys, forests, and peaks, a perspective on the Colorado Rockies that simply cannot be matched from the ground. Professional guides ensure safety throughout the experience while adding local color and fun commentary, and the operation is designed to welcome participants of a wide range of ages and fitness levels.
Why Go: Steamboat Zipline Adventures is one of the most exhilarating things to do in Steamboat Springs in summer, a high-flying, memory-making adventure that tops the list for thrill-seekers and is an absolute highlight of any family itinerary.
WHERE: 32075 US-40, Steamboat Springs, CO 80487 | WHO: (970) 879-6500
17. Explore the Tread of Pioneers Museum
Understanding the deep history of Steamboat Springs (from the Ute people who called this valley home for centuries to the Norwegian ski jumping pioneers who put this town on the world map in the early 1900s) enriches every other experience the destination has to offer. The Tread of Pioneers Museum, housed in a beautifully restored Victorian home in the heart of downtown, tells this multilayered story through engaging exhibits, historical photographs, and artifacts that bring the past vividly to life. It’s a genuinely excellent regional history museum.
Why Go: A visit here is one of the most enlightening things to do in Steamboat Springs in summer, offering meaningful cultural context and a deep appreciation for the remarkable community this valley has become.
WHERE: 800 Oak St, Steamboat Springs, CO 80477 | WHO: (970) 879-2214
18. Conquer the Thunderhead trail run
For runners seeking a high-altitude challenge with extraordinary scenery, the Thunderhead Trail on the ski mountain offers a spectacular and demanding experience. The trail climbs from the base of the ski area to the Thunderhead summit at 9,080 feet, winding through aspen groves and wildflower meadows before opening onto sweeping views of the Yampa Valley and the peaks beyond. The ascent covers roughly 2.5 miles of steep, well-maintained trail, and the descent can be made on foot or via the gondola for those who prefer a scenic ride down.
Why Go: The Thunderhead Trail is one of the most rewarding things to do in Steamboat Springs to reconnect with nature, combining physical challenge, breathtaking scenery, and the pure elation of reaching a mountain summit.
WHERE: 2305 Mt Werner Cir #2291, Steamboat Springs, CO 80487 | WHO: N/A
19. Enjoy a Stagecoach State Park Swim
On a warm summer afternoon, few pleasures compare to a swim in the cool, clear waters of Stagecoach Reservoir at Stagecoach State Park. The park features a designated swim beach with gentle entry, lifeguards on duty during peak season, picnic areas, and ample shade, making it an ideal destination for families with young children. The surrounding landscape of open meadows and distant mountain ridges provides a naturally beautiful backdrop, and the park’s relative lack of crowds compared to more famous Colorado reservoirs means a genuinely relaxed, unhurried experience.
Why Go: Swimming at Stagecoach is one of the best free family things to do in Steamboat Springs, delivering classic summer fun in a stunning natural setting.
WHERE: 25500 Co Rd 14, Oak Creek, CO 80467 | WHO: (970) 736-2436
20. Take a Scenic Drive Rabbit Ears pass
One of the most effortlessly beautiful things to do in Steamboat Springs in summer requires nothing more than a full tank of gas and a desire to see the world from above. The scenic drive over Rabbit Ears Pass along US Highway 40 crosses the Continental Divide at 9,426 feet, winding through high-alpine meadows carpeted in summer wildflowers, past crystalline beaver ponds, and through dense spruce and fir forests where elk and mule deer are frequently spotted roadside. Numerous pullouts allow for photography and short walks, and the panoramic views from the pass summit are simply extraordinary.
Why Go: This scenic drive is one of the most accessible and rewarding things to do in Steamboat Springs to reconnect with nature, delivering world-class mountain scenery from the comfort of your own vehicle.
WHERE: US Highway 40, Kremmling, CO 80459 | WHO: N/A
Helpful Tips for Your Summer Visit
To make the most of your trip and check off all the things to do in steamboat springs in summer, a little preparation goes a long way. First, remember that you are at a high altitude. The town sits at nearly 7,000 feet above sea level, and many activities take you even higher. Drink plenty of water before you arrive and continue to hydrate throughout your stay to prevent altitude sickness.
Second, the weather in the mountains can change rapidly. Summer days are typically warm and sunny, but afternoon thunderstorms are very common. Pack layers, including a lightweight rain jacket, so you are always prepared for a sudden temperature drop. Finally, be sure to book your activities and dining reservations well in advance. Summer is a popular time to visit, and securing your spot early ensures you will not miss out on the fun.
Make This Summer Your Most Memorable Yet in Steamboat Springs
Planning a summer vacation to the Rocky Mountains guarantees a trip filled with fresh air, incredible scenery and endless adventure. By tackling these 20 top activities, you will experience the very best that this incredible destination has to offer. Whether you are zipping down a mountain, casting a line in a clear river, or simply relaxing by a campfire under the stars, your days will be packed with joy.
Do not wait to start planning your perfect itinerary filled with the best things to do in steamboat springs in summer. Pack your bags, gather your family and get ready to create lasting memories in one of the most beautiful mountain towns in the entire country. Safe travels and enjoy every moment of your incredible Colorado getaway!
Ready to conquer the trails or looking for a mountain escape in Steamboat Springs, Colorado? Visit the Westgate Resorts Travel Blog for more guides to the best activities in Steamboat Springs!
RELATED ARTICLE: 10 BEST Spots for Yoga Steamboat Springs Locals Want to Tell You About
At Westgate Resorts, when you Check-In, there’s a LOT to Check-Out! Your vacation awaits! Start planning your next vacation today or talk with a vacation planner at 888-852-2959 or 407-355-2690.
* Westgate Resorts is in no way affiliated with the attractions featured in this article. Items or places listed are current as of the publishing date of this article. Please call or visit the respective website for the most up-to-date offerings and details.
When You Check-in, There's a Lot to Check Out
Sign up for our newsletter and check-in to great offers, secret stuff, and special events.