Yampa River Core Trail

• Length: Approximately 7.5 miles one way (can be hiked in sections)
• Elevation Gain: Minimal
• Description: This paved, multi-use trail winds along the scenic Yampa River, offering easy access to parks, fishing spots, and downtown Steamboat. Perfect for a leisurely walk, a family stroll, or a gentle jog. Enjoy riverside views and watch for tubers and kayakers in the summer.
• Access: Multiple access points throughout town.
• Why we love it: Urban convenience with natural beauty, perfect for all ages and abilities.

Fish Creek Falls Lower Trail

• Length: 0.25 miles one way
• Elevation Gain: Minimal (paved, accessible)
• Description: A short, paved path leads to a stunning overlook of the magnificent 283-foot Fish Creek Falls. An iconic Steamboat experience, perfect for a quick visit and impressive photos.
• Access: From the Fish Creek Falls parking lot (fee required).
• Why we love it: Jaw-dropping views with minimal effort, great for all ages.

Fish Creek Falls Upper Trail (to Upper Falls)

• Length: 2.2 miles round trip
• Elevation Gain: 400 feet
• Description: Beyond the lower falls viewpoint, a dirt trail continues through a beautiful aspen and pine forest, crossing a historic bridge and leading to the serene upper falls. A more challenging but rewarding extension of the Fish Creek experience.
• Access: From the Fish Creek Falls parking lot (fee required), continue past the lower falls viewpoint.
• Why we love it: More immersive forest experience and a second beautiful waterfall.

Spring Creek Trail

• Length: 1.5 miles one way (to Dry Lake Campground) or longer into National Forest
• Elevation Gain: ~400 feet to Dry Lake, more beyond
• Description: Starting just outside downtown, this popular trail follows Spring Creek through a lush canyon. It's a gradual climb, offering shaded relief and a peaceful escape. Connects to a larger network of trails in the Routt National Forest.
• Access: Off Amethyst Drive, just east of downtown.
• Why we love it: Convenient access, beautiful creek-side scenery, and options for longer hikes.

Thunderhead Trail (Steamboat Ski Resort)

• Length: ~3.6 miles one way
• Elevation Gain: ~2,200 feet
• Description: Hike from the base of the Steamboat Ski Resort to the top of Thunderhead Peak. A challenging but rewarding climb with stunning views of the Yampa Valley as you ascend. You can hike down or take the scenic gondola down for free (seasonal).
• Access: Base of Steamboat Ski Resort.
• Why we love it: Great workout, incredible panoramic views, and the option for a scenic gondola ride down.

Mount Zirkel Wilderness Area Trails (e.g., Gilpin Lake, Gold Creek Lake):

• Length: Varies (e.g., Gilpin Lake 8.8 miles round trip)
• Elevation Gain: Varies (e.g., Gilpin Lake ~1,500 feet)
• Description: Located a bit further from town (north of Steamboat), the Mount Zirkel Wilderness offers truly spectacular alpine hiking. Expect rugged terrain, stunning mountain lakes, and a true wilderness experience. These are full-day hikes requiring preparation.
• Access: Trailheads located off Seedhouse Road (County Road 129).
• Why we love it: Untamed wilderness beauty, crystal-clear alpine lakes, and breathtaking high-country vistas.

Devil's Causeway (Flat Tops Wilderness Area):

• Length: ~10.5 miles round trip (includes Chinese Wall section)
• Elevation Gain: ~1,800 feet
• Description: A truly unique and exhilarating hike. The "Causeway" is a narrow, exposed rock bridge with steep drop-offs on either side. It's not for the faint of heart or those with a fear of heights, but the views and the experience are unforgettable. Located southeast of Steamboat.
• Access: Trailhead accessed via Forest Service Roads from CO-131.
• Why we love it: An iconic and thrilling adventure with unparalleled views of the Flat Tops. (Caution: Not recommended for those with a fear of heights or during high winds/inclement weather.)