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A Summer Mountain Adventure

Publisher Jane Krzysiak Sings the Praises of Steamboat Springs

Many think of visiting Colorado only in the wintertime, when the slopes are lined with snow, and skiing is in full swing. But Colorado offers a wealth of beauty and activities during the summertime. Cross Timbers Lifestyle Publisher Jane Krzysiak and her family visited Steamboat Springs last July and fell in love.

What led you to Steamboat Springs?  

We love Colorado and have been many times to different places.  The kids like to ski but also enjoy fishing and hiking.  My husband and I also often traveled to Colorado with friends when we were dating and in the early years of our marriage.  For whatever reason we had never been to Steamboat, but knew it was family friendly. 

What was your immediate impression of the town? 
It's a very quaint town, and even in the summer there is lots to do – people are on the move.  We stayed at a friend’s place - One Steamboat Place - and it was on the slopes and just majestic!  Such a joy to take in that breathtaking view over coffee or cocktails in the mornings and evenings.  As well, the downtown area is simply picturesque and very walkable. 

Steamboat Springs is known for its natural beauty. What did you observe? 

Staying on the slopes afforded us a great opportunity to take in the majesty of the mountains.  Those gorgeous mountains are definitely the pièce de resistance of the area.  The rivers and lakes are also beautiful.  You can literally pull over and any of these spots along the various rivers are straight off a post card.  There are also so many beautiful hiking trails.  We spent a morning over at Fish Creek Falls which has this stunning enormous waterfall.  Our boys hiked up and took some phenomenal photos.

Outdoor activities abound in Steamboat Springs. What were some of the activities in which you and your family took part? 

Unfortunately, while we were there several activities were closed for two reasons – some fires in the area and the rivers were lower due to below average snow fall that year.  Still, we had a great time riding the chair lifts to the top of the mountain where we hiked and had a fabulous lunch.  Mountain biking is very popular.  You can put your bike on the chair lift and take them up to the top of the mountain!  Try out the Howler Alpine slide for a 2400 feet thrilling experience. 

We enjoyed zip lining and also played golf at a nice public course – Haymaker.  If you are lucky and have a friend who can get you on at Catamount Ranch & Club -they have a world-class Tom Weiskopf course, plus lake activities on the 530-acre private lake.  Some frequent visitors of Steamboat indulge in a private membership to this iconic private club where you can also have a home to enjoy all four seasons. 

If you are looking for a western experience, you will love Saddleback Ranch!  There are wagon dinners and a cattle drive to participate in.  If you prefer to be more of an observer – check out the Steamboat Pro Rodeo. This is incredibly popular and happens every weekend during the summer starting end of June.  This is not "just for tourists," but it is a real pro circuit level rodeo.  You will be amazed!

Water activities abound in this part of the country.  We fished in some public waters on the Elk River and Casey’s Pond.  Trout fishing the Yampa River and Lake Catamount are highlights of this area. There is also tubing down the Yampa – right through the town but be sure to make a reservation! You can also enjoy paddle boards and canoes, which can be rented at Pearl Lake.

What do you suggest for those who wish to venture beyond Steamboat Springs? 

A day trip suggestion would be to drive into Wyoming and fish their “blue ribbon” trout waters as a special treat.  Another very unique opportunity is a visit to Strawberry Hot Springs – it’s family friendly during the day and more couples friendly at night.  You can enjoy the springs and a massage!

I understand shopping is fabulous in Steamboat. Did you do any retail therapy while visiting? If so, what were some of the fun treasures you found? 

Steamboat Springs is a very, creative artsy town.  Pine Moon Fine Art is a great place where many local artists may be at work while you are there.  Ohana is very cool – clever t-shirt designs plus they carry locally made jewelry, leather goods, knit hats and kitchen goods.

For the foodies, what was the food like in Steamboat Springs? Any must-visit restaurants? 

We enjoyed Mambo's Italiano.  The food was wonderful and the atmosphere – particularly sitting outside was terrific.  Apres Burger Bistro was walking distance from where we stayed and was excellent for breakfast or lunch.  They had this crazy good burger called The Gnarley Nutter that was an Angus burger with cheddar cheese, pecan smoked bacon, creamy peanut butter and carmelized onion jam.  Laundry Kitchen & Cocktails is a fun option for a couple. 

What was the weather like? 

Being there in July it was very nice compared to Texas heat. Averages temperatures are 82/44 for July but June is 76/37! 

What advice would you offer those who are interested in visiting Steamboat Springs? 

Make reservations early because some of the activities get booked up. Also, take comfortable shoes because you will likely be walking and hiking.  Be aware that there is a huge renovation going on right now on the mountain, so some things are closed down around the base of the ski resort.  This information is frequently updated and available so just be sure to check that out.   Sounds like the improvements are going to be fantastic so keep that on your radar as well for a future visit.  I know we hope to ski there soon when these improvements are complete. 

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