Take a Hike: Staff Favorite Trails at One Steamboat Place
June 15, 2024
Take a Hike: Staff Favorite Trails at One Steamboat Place
In the early 2000’s, I spent time in Big Sur, California, where I unexpectedly found myself drawn to the beautiful, lush hiking trails of Monterey County. When I found myself living in hot, humid, flat Florida, the thought of hiking in 90 degrees and 85% humidity just didn’t sound like fun to me. When I moved to Steamboat Springs in 2022, my hiking flame was reignited. Here are a few of our team’s hiking suggestions, ranging from easy to challenging. – General Manager William Hartman
Easy: Yampa Core Trail – 7.1 Miles
A gem for both locals and visitors, the Yampa Core Trail is a flat, paved “out and back” trail that’s perfect for a leisurely walk or bike ride. This trail is the closest to One Steamboat Place, making it an ideal choice for those looking to explore the area without venturing too far.
The Yampa Core Trail meanders alongside the picturesque Yampa River, offering stunning views and a serene atmosphere. A great starting point is Rotary Park, just past the Highway 40 overpass at the bottom of Mt. Werner Road. The trail ultimately concludes at the west side of town near Storm Peak Brewing, a perfect spot to reward yourself with a refreshing beverage. And if you need a lift back, owners can call One Steamboat Place for a ride.
Moderate: Spring Creek Trail
For those seeking a moderate challenge, the Spring Creek Trail is beloved among the One Steamboat Place team. This multi-use trail is popular for both hiking and biking, gradually climbing almost 1,500 feet from start to finish. The ascent is gentle enough to be manageable but offers enough of a workout to leave you feeling accomplished.
The trail is well-marked and features natural break points about every mile, allowing you to assess your stamina and decide whether to push on or turn back. The tranquil creek and lush alpine greenery provide a calming backdrop, making this hike as enjoyable as it is invigorating.
Easy to Challenging: Fish Creek Falls
If you’re looking for a trail that offers something for everyone, look no further than Fish Creek Falls. This “in town” trail is a true crowd-pleaser, catering to a wide range of hiking abilities. The trailhead is conveniently located at the top of Fish Creek Falls Road and features paid parking for $5.00.
For a leisurely walk that’s suitable for the whole family, the lower falls are just one quarter-mile down a gravel path. This short stroll rewards you with a breathtaking view of the falls cascading down a rocky cliff, a perfect spot for a family photo. For a slightly more moderate hike, cross the bridge and climb to the second falls. The trail becomes more rugged and the climb steeper, but the views are worth the effort.
For those who crave a challenge, the trail continues past the second falls and heads toward Long Lake. Here, the path becomes rockier and the elevation gain more pronounced. Despite being only 4.36 miles in total, the 1,400-foot elevation change beyond the bridge can make it feel much longer. With every step, you are rewarded with increasingly stunning vistas.
Real Estate at One Steamboat Place
Whether you’re searching for your second home, a place you can ski in and ski out every winter, three- and four-bedroom residences at One Steamboat Place blend elegance and convenience.
