Spring in Steamboat Springs comes alive with concerts, quirky competitions, downhill races, sunny patios, and community events that turn the season into one big adventure with your crew.
As the snow melts and the Rockies swap their winter sparkle for fresh greens and wildflowers, Steamboat Springs shifts into full spring mode. The town that spends winter buried in champagne powder suddenly feels lighter, brighter, and ready to have a good time. Locals come out, trails dry up, patios fill, and the whole place turns into one big invitation to get outside.
If you're heading to Steamboat Springs in spring, there are a few crowd-favorite annual events that always make the season feel extra lively.
Here's a quick peek before we jump in:
- Springalicious Festival: Live music on the mountain, playful competitions, food vendors, workshops, snow sculptures, and laid-back evening bonfires.
- Cody's Challenge: A friendly alpine touring race with long and short course options, a post-race party, and fundraising for ski patrollers.
- Cardboard Classic: Homemade cardboard crafts racing down the hill in a hilarious, creative, and unpredictable spring tradition.
- Splashdown Pond Skim: Bold costumes, big splashes, smooth glides, and cheering crowds as skiers and riders shoot across a cold pond.
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!
In this guide, I'll share the best annual events you'll want to keep on your radar while visiting this Colorado treasure during spring.
Time to dig into the details!
1. SPRINGALICIOUS FESTIVAL (April)
Live concerts on the mountain, goofy competitions, and plenty of good food and local vendors.
The Springalicious Festival serves up spring skiing with a playful twist, live concerts on the mountain, goofy competitions like pond skims, and plenty of good food and local vendors to snack your way through the day. Families jump into workshops, snow sculptures, and nature walks, while evenings settle into community bonfires and a laid-back party vibe. It's a bright, lively sendoff to winter, packed with things to do at every turn.
Highlights
- High-energy competitions and live music.
- Food stalls and local vendors with plenty to taste and check out.
- Hands-on workshops and family activities.
- Snow sculptures, spring skiing sessions, and community bonfires.
- Guided nature walks that show off the local scenery.
- Eco-awareness activities that spotlight Steamboat's natural charm.
2. CODY'S CHALLENGE (April)
A high-energy alpine touring race on the slopes of Steamboat Ski Resort.
Happening during Springalicious, Cody's Challenge brings the community together for a high-energy alpine touring race on the slopes of Steamboat Ski Resort. Racers climb and ski through scenic terrain, choosing a long or short course depending on their comfort level. The day runs on friendly competition, shared excitement, and a meaningful cause. All proceeds support the Cody St. John Foundation, which helps professional ski patrollers continue their medical training. The event wraps up with a relaxed post-race gathering where everyone swaps stories and enjoys the moment.
Highlights
- Two course options for different experience levels.
- Men's, women's, and junior divisions.
- A supportive community vibe throughout the event.
- A swag bag is included with registration.
- A post-race party with lunch and a beverage.
- All proceeds support the Cody St. John Foundation.
3. Cardboard Classic (April)
Pure creativity and a good dose of chaos.
The Cardboard Classic lights up spring in Steamboat Springs with pure creativity and a good dose of chaos. Families, friends, and crafty teams build the most imaginative cardboard creations they can dream up, then send them sliding down the Stampede run at Steamboat Ski Area. The whole scene feels playful and loose, with cheers, wipeouts, and plenty of unexpected moments. It is an easy way to enjoy the fun side of mountain life.
Highlights
- Homemade cardboard crafts racing down the slope.
- Over-the-top themes and clever designs.
- A lively crowd cheering for every attempt.
- A spring tradition that locals look forward to.
- Plenty of laughs as each creation makes its run.
Tips for Building Your Craft
For those looking to build a craft that not only stands out but also has a chance of making it down the hill successfully, consider these tips:
- Weight equates to speed. A well-distributed weight can help the craft slide smoothly.
- Choosing the right type of cardboard is crucial. Cardboard with a plastic coating tends to slide better and resists soggy disintegration.
- Sled-shaped crafts that are long and narrow usually pick up the most speed.
- Duct tape on the bottom of the craft can reduce friction with the snow, making for a swifter journey downhill.
- Pay attention to weight distribution. Rear-weighted crafts may end up going downhill backward, which, while hilarious, might not be the fastest approach.
- Rudders can increase speed by reducing surface friction with the snow.
4. SPLASHDOWN POND SKIM (April)
One of the most entertaining spring traditions at Steamboat Resort.
This is one of the most entertaining spring traditions at Steamboat Resort. Skiers and riders fly down the slope and try to glide across a chilly pond while the crowd cheers them on. Costumes, big splashes, and bold attempts keep everyone laughing. Sunny weather, soft snow, and plenty of wild runs make this event a lively send-off to the ski season.
Highlights
- Skiers and riders racing down the slope toward a man-made pond.
- Costumes that range from clever to totally outrageous.
- Big splashes, smooth skims, and plenty of surprises.
- Judges scoring on distance, style, creativity, and overall vibe.
- A signature event of Springalicious and a playful end to the ski season.
- A cheering crowd that fuels the fun.
Tips on How to Make the Most of Spring in Steamboat Springs
- Start your days early. Mornings warm up fast in spring, and you'll catch the best light on the trails.
- Dress in layers. Sunshine, snow patches, and cool breezes can all happen in one hour.
- Save a little time for patios. Local cafés and breweries roll right into spring mode as soon as the sun shows up.
- Check event calendars ahead of time. Spring weekends fill up quickly with races, concerts, and family activities.
- Keep an eye on the weather. Conditions shift often, and some mountain events adjust times on short notice.
- Try at least one quirky spring tradition. Pond skims, cardboard sleds, live music on the mountain, these are the moments people talk about long after the trip ends.
- Pack sunglasses and sunscreen. Spring sun on the snow is no joke, and you'll be glad you have both.
- Mix indoor and outdoor plans. A quick art gallery stop or hot springs visit balances out busy trail days.
- Explore outside downtown. Rabbit Ears Pass, Stagecoach, and Buffalo Pass each offer their own version of spring fun.
- Leave a little room in your schedule. Spring in Steamboat has a habit of surprising you with last-minute concerts, pop-up markets, or perfect weather for a spontaneous picnic.
Other great spring activities in Steamboat you shouldn't miss
- Soak at Old Town Hot Springs: The hot pools feel extra relaxing on crisp spring afternoons, and kids usually head straight for the slides. It is an easy way to unwind after a morning outside.
- Stroll or bike the Yampa River Core Trail: This riverside path starts opening up nicely in spring. Families walk, bike, or scooter along the water with frequent stops for snacks, photo breaks, or a quick rest by the river.
- Visit the animals at Saddleback Ranch: Spring on the ranch means baby animals, mellow horseback rides, and wide-open views. The whole experience feels welcoming, with plenty to see and do at your own pace.
- Ride the gondola for mountain views: Once spring operations kick in, take a scenic gondola ride and soak in the fresh greenery creeping across the slopes. The higher you go, the prettier the panorama gets.
- Try a guided fly-fishing outing: The rivers start waking up this time of year. Local guides make the experience beginner-friendly, and the calm setting is great for kids and adults.
- Check out spring dining patios: Restaurants and breweries crack open their patios as soon as the weather allows. It is a nice excuse to sit outside with a drink or a meal and enjoy the sunshine.
- Visit the local museums and galleries: If the weather shifts, stop by the Tread of Pioneers Museum or browse downtown galleries. These indoor breaks add a fun, low-key touch to any spring itinerary.
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.