Steamboat winter fun off the slopes

While Steamboat is known for it's Champagne powder on the slopes, there's more to the town and more to do than just skiing and snowboarding in the winter. On your day off from the slopes, or for those non-skiers in your group, experience a different memorable mountain adventure, from hot springs to ice skating or snow tubing, and more.

Check out our top picks for off-the-slopes winter adventures in Steamboat.

A favorite for kids and thrill-seeking parents alike, tubing is a must. Try out Tube Howelsen at the base of Steamboat's hometown ski hill downtown. Take a magic carpet ride up and zoom down the hill on a snow tube. Another exhilarating option is Saddleback Ranch's Yee-Haw Hill, featuring a tow rope to take you to the top of the hill and some gravity to bring you down- laughing and smiling the whole way.

Check out Skeeter's Ice Rink, a centerpiece of Steamboat Square in the base area. Twirl around on skates while onlookers enjoy fire pits, live entertainment, and views up the ski mountain. 

Another option is heading downtown to Howelsen Ice Arena for indoor ice skating and Bumper Cars on Ice, always a family favorite. Climb into one of the colorful rubber bumper cars and zoom around, bouncing into your friends. Kids of all ages will enjoy this hilarious fun.

There’s more than one way to dash through the snow in Steamboat and snowmobiling is always a favorite off-mountain activity. Thousands of acres, groomed trails, tree-lined meadows, and open space offer plenty of room for high-powered playtime. There are numerous options for all ages and abilities.

Curious about what doing the Iditarod would be like? Then try the thrill of dog sledding in Steamboat (no Arctic location required). You can learn to drive your own dog team for the full experience or choose a guided sled ride for a once in a life-time experience.

There are miles of groomed cross-country and skate ski trails between Steamboat's four Nordic centers. Peacefully glide across meadows and through aspen groves enjoying the views and crisp mountain air at a much slower and more relaxing pace than schussing down the mountain.

The Nordic Centers around the area all have designated and well-marked snowshoe trails. Or take a guided on-mountain tour lead by a Steamboat SnowSports School instructor. Discover the beauty of Mount Werner and views of the Yampa Valley below.

Yes, even if there's a snowstorm swirling outside! Steamboat boasts a state-of-the-art, year-round Pickleball Center. The entire Steamboat Tennis and Pickleball Complex features 12 cushioned indoor, year-round pickleball courts, 8 outdoor pickleball courts, and twelve indoor/outdoor tennis courts. It's the largest facility of its kind in the Rocky Mountains and is already gaining national attention. Pack your skis AND your paddles!