Summer in the Rocky Mountains is an amazing time of year, and we think Steamboat Springs is one of the best places to experience it! While the cooler mountain air is often a welcome escape for those coming from more hot and humid climates, Steamboat’s daytime temps during the summer months can get into the mid to high 80’s, which can feel quite warm at 7,000 feet! Luckily, there are a ton of great ways to stay cool in Steamboat Springs during those dog days of summer. From thrilling river adventures to hiking at higher elevations, and even some fun indoor activities, there are so many ways to stay cool during the summer months. If you’re feeling the heat on your next visit to Steamboat Springs, here are some fun ways to beat the heat and enjoy summer in this beautiful mountain town.
Tubing on the Yampa River
This quintessential Steamboat Springs summer activity is an ideal way to cool off and have some fun. Throughout the summer months, happy tubers can be seen floating right through downtown Steamboat – a refreshing and fun activity for all ages! Tubing on the Yampa River offers a unique way to take in the beautiful scenery of Steamboat Springs at a relaxed pace. Local outfitters provide tube rentals and transportation, or you can bring your own – just make sure to wear a life jacket and some type of water shoe (no flip flops!), and check water levels before embarking on this adventure to ensure everyone’s safety.
River Rafting
If you’re more of an adrenaline seeker, you can level up your river adventure with a whitewater rafting trip. The Yampa River offers Class II and III rapids that are perfect for beginners and families, while the nearby Colorado River has more challenging rapids, ideal for more experienced rafters. Book a guided trip with a local outfitter for a worry-free experience, and get ready to get soaked with a smile on your face!
Fishing
There are plenty of opportunities to get out on the water and go fishing around Steamboat Springs. The Yampa River is known for its excellent trout fishing, and there are several spots around town for anglers to try their luck. Nearby Steamboat Lake and Stagecoach Reservoir also provide some great lake fishing, with trout, walleye and pike ready to bite. Guided tours are a great way to discover some of the top local spots, from fly fishing in meadow streams to some of the best private waters in the Steamboat area.
Hiking
When the valley heats up, you can always head to the higher elevations for a cooler hiking experience. In the mountains, the temperature can decrease by at least a few degrees for every 1,000 feet of elevation gain, so hiking into the alpine is the perfect way to escape the heat. The refreshing waterfall mist at Fish Creek Falls is a great way to cool off close to Steamboat. If you head a bit further north, trails like the Mount Zirkel Loop or Gold Creek Lake Trail offer stunning views and cooler temperatures as you ascend into the alpine. You can even take a dip in a mountain lake if you’re brave enough, which is the best way to cool off in the summer!
Gondola Ride
Gain a new perspective on Steamboat Springs by taking a scenic gondola ride up Mt. Werner. The ride offers stunning views of the Yampa Valley and surrounding mountains, all while keeping you comfortable as you ascend to cooler elevations. Once at the top, you can explore hiking trails, enjoy a picnic, or take in the breathtaking scenery. Be prepared for sudden weather changes and cooler temperatures up on the mountain – we always recommend packing a light jacket or long sleeve top when hiking or exploring up high.
Paddleboarding
Paddleboarding in Steamboat Springs is a great way to enjoy the refreshing waters in this area. The Yampa River flowing through downtown provides a more exhilarating experience if you’re up for whitewater paddleboarding. For a more laid-back experience, head to calmer spots in nearby state parks like Pearl Lake or Stagecoach Reservoir, where the waters are perfect for a leisurely paddle and even paddleboard yoga. Local outfitters offer rentals and lessons, ensuring that both beginners and experienced paddlers can make the most of their time on the water.
Hot Air Balloon Ride
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Steamboat Springs from a unique vantage point with a hot air balloon ride. As you rise slowly in the sky, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the Yampa Valley and surrounding Rocky Mountain peaks. Rides take place in the early morning, so you can enjoy a cool mountain breeze along with stunning views.
Ice Skating at Howelsen Ice Arena
For a truly “cool” experience, head indoors to the Howelsen Ice Arena. Open year-round, this facility offers public skating sessions where you can glide across the ice and beat the summer heat. Try the ice bumper cars for a fun family outing! This is also a perfect rainy day activity to keep in mind.
Visit the Tread of Pioneers Museum
Step back in time and cool off indoors at the Tread of Pioneers Museum. Located in a charming historical home downtown, this museum offers fascinating exhibits on the history of the area, including its Native American heritage, pioneer roots, and the development of the ski industry.
Grab a Drink
If you’re traveling with beer enthusiasts, cooling off with a refreshing brew from one of Steamboat Springs’ excellent craft breweries is a great way to get out of the heat! Our tip is to get out on an early morning hike or mountain bike ride while the temperatures are still cool, and then stop into a local watering hole for lunch and a beer afterwards. Storm Peak Brewing offers a rotating tap of over 20 beers and ciders, with nice mountain views. Yampa Valley Brewing has a large selection of diverse craft beers and a large patio with games and live music. Mountain Tap Brewing is the perfect stop for a solid IPA and a wood-fired pizza before heading across the street for a walk along the Yampa River Core Trail.
Steamboat Springs is the perfect destination for summer fun in the Rockies. And while it can get toasty in the day during the months, the evenings and mornings are delightful with cooler temperatures, so you get the best of both worlds. Whether you’re out on the water or getting a birds-eye view of the spectacular landscape, there are so many ways to beat the summer heat. Book your Steamboat vacation rental today and start planning your summer getaway!
