Colorado residents don’t often slow down during the winter months. Instead, they don their snowshoes, snowboards, skis, and warm-weather clothing and hit the outdoors. Steamboat Springs is no different in that it sees a multitude of residents and visitors alike out on the trails during the winter months. You can still enjoy your favorite summer trails while they’re covered in snow, though it does take a bit more preparation and gear to safely traverse the wilderness during the winter!
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Uranium Mine
This 3.1-mile trail is situated close to town, making it a convenient option for those afternoon outings this winter. The trail is typically lightly traveled, so there shouldn’t be a crowd. Keep in mind that trails may be busier on weekends and on holidays when people are visiting from out of town. Moose are known to frequent the area, so make sure to keep an eye out when heading up the trail and keep your distance. Over the course of the route, hikers should expect an elevation gain of approximately 600 feet up to the mine on this out-and-back trail. A $5 parking pass is required, so have some cash handy. Dogs are welcome and may be off-leash in some areas.
Emerald Mountain via Blackmere
The Emerald Mountain hike is approximately 3.7 miles, which takes hikers around 2 hours to complete. Expect over 900 feet in elevation gain over the course of this out-and-back hike, which is generally considered to be moderately challenging. This is a popular area for hiking and mountain biking in the summer months, with visitor numbers dwindling in the winter. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash. At the top of this hike, you’ll be greeted with a magnificent view that overlooks Steamboat. There is little to no shade, so it’s essential that visitors wear sun protection and carry ample water for their hike. Conditions can become muddy and slippery in the winter, so wear the proper footwear and exercise caution.
Sarvis Creek
If you want to skip the foot traffic at Emerald Mountain, Sarvis Creek is another solid option for a wintertime hike in Steamboat Springs. The drive to the trailhead is a relatively short one heading southbound. Hikers will enjoy the scenic snowshoe path along the Yampa River. During the winter, a good portion of the area is not plowed — so expect skiers, snowshoers, and snowmobiles to be out and about in the area. This is considered a challenging route, with the complete trail spanning 10.2 miles and over 1,700 feet of elevation gain. Dogs are welcome and can be off-leash in some areas, so pay attention to the signage. Challenges on this hike include steep climbs and muddy sections, so start early and bring sturdy footwear with plenty of traction.
Dry Lake
Looking for solitude this winter? Check out the Dry Lake hike near Steamboat. The trip into the backcountry from the Dry Lake Campground also gives you an opportunity to spot moose or other native wildlife in the area. Snowmobilers aren’t permitted in this non-motorized area, so you’ll enjoy the trail without all the noise. Cross-country skiers also frequent the area and it’s encouraged that snowshoers are mindful to walk parallel and not on top of existing ski tracks whenever possible. If you can, time your hike at Dry Lake with the sunset to be rewarded with the spectacular alpenglow views of the surrounding mountains. The Dry Lake parking lot can fill up at certain times, as there are other accessible trails in the vicinity for snowmobilers and other outdoor recreation enthusiasts. Arrive early on weekends to ensure you can snag a spot. Keep in mind that the Dry Lake Campground is closed until 2025 as it undergoes construction for the season.
Prospectors Trail
On sunny, clear days in the winter — the open meadows found in Trilby Flats make for the perfect snowshoeing destination. The area is located north of the town of Hahn’s Peak. During the summer, hikers know the route as Prospectors Trail, which officially starts off Forest Service Road 486. The Trilby Flats area is between 486 and 488, approximately 11 miles north of the Clark Store and on the left side of Routt County Road 129. The trail opens to motorcycles during the summer season. Prospectors Trail spans over 9 miles from point to point, with a significant elevation gain that isn’t for the faint of heart.
Rabbit Ears Peak Trail
This moderately challenging route is approximately 5.5 miles in length out and back, with just over 1,000 feet of elevation gain. Most hikers take around 2.5 hours to complete the trail, though your mileage may vary during the winter. This is a popular area for birding, hiking, and snowshoeing — so you’re likely to encounter others while you explore. Dogs are welcome and can even be off-leash in some areas. Rabbit Ears Peak is a well-known summit with remarkable remnants of a historic volcanic plug. As you get closer to the summit, the trail involves a rock scramble and caution should be exercised regardless of the time of year. Whenever you’re venturing out in Colorado during the winter, keep in mind that avalanche danger is possible. Hikers should have the proper training and gear before heading into the backcountry on this route during the winter months.
Steamboat Lake State Park
This state park boasts year-round fun and stunning mountain views at Steamboat Lake. At 8,100 feet, you’ll experience breathtaking views of Hahns Peak and the Park Range, which beckons hikers and outdoor enthusiasts to explore over seven miles of trails that connect to even more in the surrounding Routt National Forest. Winter activities include snowmobiling, ice fishing, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. There is a daily vehicle pass of $10 or an individual daily pass of $4. The park is open daily from 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM and leashed dogs, service animals, and horses are permitted.
Yampa River Core Trail
The Yampa River Core Trail is a favorite amongst residents and visitors to Steamboat throughout the year. The paved surface makes this an accessible spot for hikers, walkers, runners, and even those in wheelchairs or parents pushing strollers. The 7.5-mile multi-use trail runs through the heart of the city and along the Yampa River. It’s a straight shot from one side of town to the other, which helps to bring together people of all ages on one path to enjoy the outdoors. Whether you’re using the pathway as a means to get to a destination or you simply want to enjoy the scenic stops along the way — this is one of the best winter trails for those who don’t want to go too far into the wilderness.
Tips for Hiking in Steamboat this Winter Season
Before setting off on your next adventure this winter, keep these tips in mind. When you head outdoors during any part of the year, you’re leaving the comforts of home behind — including food and water, shelter from the elements, and easy access to emergency services. Whether you plan to explore a local park’s hiking trail system or you’re aiming to go deeper into the backwoods, preparation is key when it comes to ensuring you have a safe hike.
Prepare, Prepare, Prepare!
Preparation comes in many forms, including dressing in the proper clothing. In the winter, this can mean multiple layers of clothing to stay warm in sub-freezing weather. Sunglasses and sunscreen are also key when preparing for any trip into the outdoors, as well as lots of water and snacks. The winter season brings new challenges, so you’ll want to research before you go and make sure you have traction devices if you plan to walk on ice and snow.
Tell Someone Where You’re Going
Not only do you need to know where you’re going on your hike and understand that you may not have a signal when you’re in the woods, but you should always tell a loved one where you’re headed as well. This ensures that someone knows your location if you happen to get lost and require assistance. To help avoid this situation, carry a map and a compass and make sure you know how to use them! Getting lost outside is very easy, especially when it’s snowing and it’s more difficult to find unique features in the trail to remind you where you’ve already been.
Check the Forecast
While not always perfect, the weather forecast can give you a pretty good idea of the conditions you might expect to encounter. Remember, the weather can change quickly at higher elevations — so be prepared to turn back around if a storm comes on quicker than you expected. The forecast can also help you layer appropriately and gauge whether you need additional clothing.
Invite a Friend
While hiking solo can be a pleasant experience that allows the hiker to enjoy the solitude of the wilderness, it’s encouraged that you bring a friend if you’re heading into the backcountry. This is especially true for the winter months, when exploring can get more challenging and hikers are more prone to losing their way if they don’t have honed route-finding skills.
Keep your Distance from Wildlife
Practicing wildlife etiquette is a fundamental hiking skill, especially in Colorado. Keep your eyes and ears peeled for furry companions and always remain a safe distance from animals. Do your best to not startle wildlife via noise or sudden movements. Never feed wildlife and if possible, leave your own animals at home so they don’t startle the native inhabitants of the wilderness.
Stay Safe this Winter in Steamboat and Explore Responsibly!
Steamboat Springs is a beautiful mountain town all throughout the year, though it especially shines under a fresh layer of powder. If you plan on hitting the trails this winter around Steamboat, make sure you tell someone where you’re headed and how long you expect to be gone. Grab your snowshoes and hit the trail and remember — keep an eye out for moose and other wildlife!