Steamboat Springs

Steamboat  Springs, Colorado’s most western mountain town, has a down-to-earth authenticity.  Never far from its ranching roots, Steamboat, elevation 6700 feet, lies in the Yampa Valley surrounded by the 12,000 foot Flat Tops, Sleeping Giant mountain and the solitary summit of Hawks Peak.  The historic downtown with century-old red-brick buildings is the hub for shopping, dining and festivals for families and visitors alike. The main drag, Lincoln Avenue, is still wide enough to accommodate a cattle drive, once a regular occurrence a century ago.

 The ranching traditions are alive and visible as cattle graze the open pastures around town. Steamboat’s retail giant, the 100-year old F.M. Light & Sons,  sells 6,000 cowboy hats a year, clearly a nod to its western heritage.  Join the locals at the Pro Rodeo Friday and Saturday evening and watch the bull riders and rope handlers compete.   Go early and enjoy a barbequed rib dinner on site.

The Ute Indians were the first inhabitants to Steamboat Springs adopting the area as their summer home. With fish in the rivers, abundant wild game and a mild climate, it was paradise.  First the Ute, then the white settlers, enjoyed soaking in the thermal springs clustered near the Yampa River. Today there are multiple hot springs around town where you can enjoy the soothing waters.

Late June and July marks the start of tubing season on the Yampa.  You can float downriver putting in at Rotary Park and taking out roughly two hours later at Bud Werner Memorial Library.  Other outdoor pursuits include road riding, lift-assisted mountain biking, fly-fishing, hiking or trail running on Howelson Hill and kayaking.

Skiing became an integral part of Steamboat’s framework around the turn of the century. In 1913, the well-known Norwegian ski jumper, Carl Howelson taught locals how to soar through the air and began a tradition of winter sports.  Known as Ski Town, USA, Steamboat has produced more Olympic athletes (69 and counting) than any other in North America. env

Steamboat’s come-as-you-are community combined with the dry clean air environment invigorates visitors year round.

FAA Identifier: SBS

Runway 14/32

Dimensions: 4452 x 100 ft.

http://www.airnav.com/airport/KSBS