Hidden spots, quiet corners, and local favorites come together in this guide to Steamboat Springs, offering relaxing hot springs, scenic parks, great food, and plenty of places to unwind like a true local.
Did you know Steamboat Springs has a cool, unexpected vibe with plenty of hidden gems? This charming Colorado town is full of spots locals love, many of which never make it into blogs or guidebooks.
Curious? Here's a quick peek before we jump in:
- Strawberry Park Hot Springs: A rustic hot springs retreat tucked into the mountains.
- Fish Creek Falls: A stunning 280-foot waterfall with easy and moderate trails and incredible seasonal scenery.
- Steamboat Lake State Park: A year-round playground for boating, paddleboarding, snowshoeing, and more.
- Saddleback Ranch: A ranch offering horseback rides, cattle drives, sleigh rides, snowmobiling, and tubing.
- Stagecoach State Park: A quiet reservoir for boating, swimming, hiking, bird-watching, and overnight camping.
- Bud Werner Memorial Library: A riverside library with reading spaces, events, kids' programs, and film screenings.
- Dine Like a Local: Creekside Café, Café Diva, and Yampa Valley Kitchen for refined, Colorado-sourced cuisine.
- Drink & Mingle: Storm Peak Brewing: A relaxed taproom offering craft beers, games, and music nights.
At Retreatia, we have extensive local expertise in luxury rental properties, ski-in/ski-out options, and downtown lodging. Many of our rentals are pet-friendly, and all are perfect for any time of the year!
We also consider ourselves local experts, and in our destination blog, we cover everything from hidden gems and indoor attractions to wonderful coffee shops around town. You'll find plenty of tips that will help make your stay in Steamboat Springs a memorable one, no matter the season. Pack your bags, bring your curiosity, and get ready to make memories in this unforgettable corner of the American West!
Today, I'm skipping the famous tourist spots and taking you straight to Steamboat Springs' hidden treasures. These are spots favored by locals, places where they like to run away from the big crowds, relax, and enjoy the best Colorado has to offer.
Let's get started with some natural wonders!
1. Strawberry Park Hot Springs
One of the best hot springs among locals in Colorado.
Nestled in the heart of the Colorado Rockies, Strawberry Park Hot Springs is considered one of the best hot springs among locals in Colorado, offering pristine and beautiful springs with varying temperatures. You can enjoy hot, warm, and cold springs both during the day and at night.
The natural beauty is unmatched, with crystal-clear springs cascading down the mountainside into multiple pools of varying temperatures. Whether you prefer a toasty soak or a refreshing dip, there's something for everyone.
You can also relax and unwind on the spacious decks with plenty of lounge chairs or take a dip in the cool river running alongside the pools. With on-site facilities like restrooms, changing areas, and picnic areas, you can easily spend a relaxing afternoon or even a whole day indulging in the rejuvenating waters.
2. Fish Creek Falls
A breathtaking waterfall cascading 280 feet through a lush forest.
A short drive from downtown, Fish Creek Falls is another local gem. Cascading 280 feet through a lush forest, this waterfall beckons visitors year-round for a fun family adventure amidst pristine nature.
Each season offers a unique charm: in summer, you can relish the cool mist and explore the rocky formations around the tranquil pool. Fall paints the surroundings in warm hues, while winter transforms the scene into a breathtaking wonderland.
Several trails lead to the falls, catering to all levels. You can opt for the easier paths with informative signs to learn about the vibrant local flora and fauna. Keep an eye out for fragrant pine trees, and maybe even spot deer, elk, foxes, magnificent birds, or even a rare black bear!
3. STEAMBOAT LAKE STATE PARK
A haven for outdoor enthusiasts.
Also, a short drive from downtown lies Steamboat Lake State Park, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Nestled amidst dazzling lakes, pine forests, and wildflower meadows, this park offers endless opportunities to reconnect with nature.
Here, you and your vacation crew can glide across the tranquil waters on a rented motorboat, kayak, canoe, or paddleboard while soaking in the breathtaking mountain views. For a dose of adrenaline, try water skiing!
Back on land, you can cool off with a refreshing dip at the sandy beaches, great for sunbathing and summer fun. Winter transforms the park into a snowy wonderland, ideal for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. What's more, family-friendly hikes wind through the park's meadows, offering glimpses of fascinating wildlife like deer, elk, bald eagles, and maybe even a rare mountain lion.
4. Saddleback Ranch
Embark on a scenic horseback ride through breathtaking mountain meadows.
This is a true off-the-beaten-path experience! Saddle up for an adventure at Saddleback Ranch, a sprawling 8,000-acre cattle ranch steeped in Colorado tradition. Just a short ride from Steamboat Springs, this fourth-generation family operation offers a taste of the authentic West. When locals want to escape the crowds of tourists, that's the place they go.
Embark on a scenic horseback ride through breathtaking mountain meadows in summer, or try your hand at cattle drives alongside the ranch hands. Winter transforms Saddleback Ranch into a snowy wonderland, ideal for exhilarating snowmobile tours or a thrilling ride down Yee-Haw Tubing Hill.
5. Stagecoach State Park
Where locals go to engage in activities like scenic hikes, biking, and wildlife viewing, among others.
Centered around the vast Stagecoach Reservoir, Stagecoach State Park is where locals go to engage in activities such as scenic hikes, biking, and wildlife viewing, among others. Water activities are also highly popular. The reservoir is ideal for boating, jet skiing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
During the summer months, you can enjoy a refreshing dip in the water since swimming is permitted in certain areas. Top-notch fishing opportunities add to the fun, and you don't need to bring equipment since fishing equipment rentals and bait shops are available within the park.
If you need a break between activities, the park offers picnic tables and barbecue facilities where you and your family can enjoy a delicious meal while admiring the stunning landscape. Stagecoach State Park is also a staycation spot for locals, thanks to campground facilities. What about spending a night in the park for an unforgettable night of stargazing?
6. THE BUD WERNER MEMORIAL LIBRARY
A fantastic and free reading space with views overlooking the Yampa River.
The Bud Werner Memorial Library is one of the best-kept secrets in town. It offers a fantastic and free reading space with views overlooking the Yampa River and comfortable chairs. It's not all about reading; the library also screens movies and puts on special events year-round. There are special activities for kids, including storytimes and hands-on activities.
Where else to find nice books? A nice bookshop! Off the Beaten Path Bookstore, also in Downtown Steamboat Springs, is a local favorite. You can browse their great collection of books, buy a tasty treat from the café, and check out their great selection of puzzle games to take back home.
7. Dine like a local in Steamboat Springs
Breakfast: Creekside Cafe
Famous for its Eggs Benedict as well as the charming patio overlooking a creek, Creekside Cafe is an excellent choice for a classic breakfast made with locally sourced and homemade ingredients.
The indoor space is equally inviting, with a cozy, bright atmosphere and an abundance of greenery providing a perfect setting for starting the day in the right mood. A lovely playlist usually enhances the overall morning mood, the cherry on top of a delightful breakfast experience. Indulge in all-time favorites, including Bacon Fried Rice, Breakfast Burrito, and delightful sweet treats like the toasted croissant with caramelized banana and chocolate hazelnut spread.
Lunch: Café Diva
With a seasonal menu serving contemporary American fare, Café Diva is just a 9-minute drive from downtown Steamboat. What locals like most about this place is that it offers an elegant and intimate space for a high-end dining experience, but without the pretentious atmosphere.
The chef creatively designs seasonal menus highlighting the best features of each ingredient. Some of the restaurant's most praised creations are the Spicy Tuna Roll, Mushroom & Gouda Empanada, Crab and Tomato Bisque, Cacio e Pepe Fettuccini, Pork Chop & Apple Sauce, and Beef Tenderloin "French Onion Soup." To make the most of your experience, pair your order with a good wine, and don't ask for the bill before trying the Crème Brûlée or the Pecan Pie Cheesecake.
Diner: Yampa Valley Kitchen
Located in Downtown Steamboat Springs, Yampa Valley Kitchen, affectionately known as YVK among locals, is the ultimate destination for memorable meals in the city. The elegant ambiance is a standout feature, with tall white walls, tropical plants, abundant natural light, and fresh flowers.
With a commitment to using locally sourced produce and meat from Colorado ranches, YVK boasts a diverse menu, and it includes gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian options as well. The dinner menu favorites are the Truffle & Herbs Frites, Shrimp & Grits, Duck L'orange, and Buttermilk Fried Chicken. Don't forget dessert; their Black Forest Mousse and Profiteroles are highly praised by the locals.
8. Drink and mingle with the locals
Storm Peak Brewing is truly a local gem in Steamboat Springs. That's where you can grab a delicious craft beer, have tons of fun, and meet friendly locals.
They offer engaging board games, live sports on TV, great music, and a fantastic atmosphere with locals and visitors. Their music nights feature amazing performances, and all the action is fueled by a large selection of beers crafted to suit every palate, from light and crispy golden ales to flavorful black ales.
While Storm Peak Brewing doesn't serve food, they do provide a list of delivery companies, giving you the option to order food if you ever feel peckish. Also, there's a nearby pizza and burger joint where you can grab some bites to bring over to the brewery and enjoy them alongside their awesome beers.
Enjoy every moment of your Steamboat Springs escape
While in town, why not stay in style with the great backdrop of the Rocky Mountains in one of the most iconic rental properties and complexes that Steamboat Springs offers?
Retreatia offers luxury properties, ski-in/ski-out options, and downtown lodgings, many of which are pet-friendly. Staying in one of our properties, we guarantee you'll have nothing less than a 5-star experience, something that will definitely enhance your Steamboat Springs vacation.