This Lesser-Known Colorado Ski Area Is FREE On Sundays
What if we told you that there’s a mountain in Colorado where you can ski for free?
It’s true!
This Steamboat Springs ski area offers completely free lift tickets on Sundays.
Mike and I are avid skiers and snowboarders, respectively, and we love to check out ski resorts and mountains around the world. For us, it’s all about the powder and the associated ski town.
A perfect winter day is one spent on the slopes, followed by some apres skiing with friends.
Ski towns are quirky and full of personality, making them the perfect destination when we plan our travel itineraries. Of all the ski towns we’ve visited, Steamboat Springs always stands out because it’s where we first met.
In fact, we loved it so much that we moved here in 2012.
As locals in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, I wanted to let you in on a local secret: there’s a “mountain” near us where you can ski for free.
And no, I’m NOT talking about Steamboat Resort.
Howelsen Hill in Steamboat Springs offers visitors the chance to ski for free on Sundays throughout the season. Just bring your skis (or snowboard) and check in at the ticket office for your free lift ticket.
This Colorado Mountain Has Ski-Free Sunday
This small ski mountain (Emerald Mountain), Howelsen Hill, in downtown Steamboat Springs is the oldest operating ski mountain in the state and has sent 89 skiers to the Olympic games.
We want to be clear: Howelsen Hill is not to be confused with the much larger and better known Steamboat Resort. They’re completely separate mountains.
As locals, we always tell visitors that the best time to visit Steamboat is to come over a weekend.
That way, they can spend one of the days that they’re in town skiing for free at Howelsen Hill.
Not only is skiing at Howelsen a great way to save on lift tickets, but it’s also an opportunity to experience Colorado skiing outside of the mega-popular resorts.
Our favorite part, as lovers of ski towns? After a long day skiing on Howelsen Hill, you can head to a local Steamboat Springs restaurant for happy hour. We call this apres skiing, and it’s a time-honored tradition in Colorado’s ski towns.
One of my favorite spots is Backdoor Grill, a beloved local burger joint that made a list of the best burgers in the US a few years ago.
Their signature burger is the Dirty Harry, which is served on a glazed donut with peanut butter, hashbrown, fried egg, and bacon.
You can pair your Dirty Harry or other burger with happy hour drinks from 3:30 to 5:30pm daily.
When is Howelsen Hill open for skiing?
Howelsen Hill is open for skiing Monday through Friday from 11am to 8pm, and Saturdays and Sundays from 10am to 4pm. The ski area is closed on December 25 for Christmas Day.
The ski season in Steamboat Springs is always dependent upon what the conditions permit. This year, Howelsen Hill is open from November 25, 2023 to March 24, 2024. Howelsen Hill is not one of the Colorado ski areas that occasionally opens before Halloween.
All Sundays during the ski season are free days at Howelsen Hill. In order to ski for free on Sundays, you simply need to visit the ticket office to pick up your free lift ticket.
The impressive history of Howelsen Hill
Howelsen Hill is the oldest operating ski area in Colorado and has been welcoming skiers since 1915. It is named after Carl Howelsen, a Norwegian circus star who transformed the way that locals thought about skiing.
Prior to Howelsen’s arrival in Steamboat Springs, skiing was simply a means of transportation in the snowy mountain conditions.
Mr. Howelsen introduced locals to the thrill of European ski jumping, eventually building a permanent ski jump on Elk Park. A few years later, Elk Park was renamed Howelsen Hill.
The mountain has produced more Olympians than any other mountain in the United States.
Today, Howelsen Hill is owned and operated by the City of Steamboat Springs. The city started funding Howelsen Hill’s free days on Sundays as a way to celebrate the community’s Olympian spirit and pay homage to the ski area’s historic significance.
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FAQs
Planning your visit to Steamboat Springs and still wondering if Howelsen Hill is a good choice for your trip? Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about Colorado’s oldest operating ski resort.
Is Howelsen Hill good for beginners?
Howelsen Hill is a good ski resort for people of all ability levels. Beginners will love the opportunity to ski cheaply or for free, with long runs that offer plenty of practice.
This is especially good news for new snowboarders, who often struggle to get off the lift when they’re starting out.
Howelsen also has a small bunny hill, perfect for absolute beginners who want to try their hand at skiing or snowboarding. The bunny hill also has its own lift.
How many chairlifts does Howelsen Hill have?
Howelsen Hill has one chairlift, one carpet lift, and a Poma lift. In total, Howelsen Hill has 19 trails, including 7 black diamond runs, 8 intermediate trails, and 4 easy trails. One of the runs connects to a terrain park.
There is a separate lift for the tubing hill. Note that the tubing hill does not have a free day.
Who owns Howelsen Hill?
Howelsen Hill is a local, lesser-known ski area in Colorado. It is owned and operated by the City of Steamboat Springs, and the city provides free lift tickets on Sundays to the public. The ski area was most recently renovated in 2001.
What are other things to do in Steamboat Springs in winter?
There’s no mistaking it; skiing (and snowboarding) is one of the top things to do in Steamboat Springs in the winter.
Mount Werner and Howelsen Hill are our two favorite places to ski in the area. The well-known Steamboat Ski Resort is located on Mount Werner and has a whopping 170 total runs and 21 lifts, so you definitely won’t get bored.
If you’re ready to try something new, you can go tubing, snowshoeing, hiking, or even snowmobiling in Steamboat Springs. Tubing is especially fun for groups and older children because it offers a lot of fun and thrill of downhill skiing but without the skills needed.
When you’re ready to unwind, spend a little time soaking in one of the local hot springs. There’s nothing quite like sitting in a warm hot spring while the snow gently falls around you.
The Wrap-Up: Ski Free Sundays At Howelsen Hill In Steamboat
Skiing at Howelsen Hill in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, is one of the most unique experiences you can have in the area.
This historic ski area has long been a training ground for Olympic athletes and was part of the force to popularize recreational skiing in the state. Today, it is the oldest operating ski area in Colorado and welcomes skiers of all levels.
As locals in Steamboat Springs, Mike and I love to send visitors to this historic ski hill where they can ski for completely free on Sundays.
We always encourage visitors to come for a full weekend, where they can experience the mammoth runs on Mount Werner and then ski for free the next day at Howelsen Hill.
So, if you’re planning your trip to Steamboat Springs or just looking for a more budget-friendly way to ski in Colorado, keep Howelsen Hill on your radar.
After a long day of skiing, don’t forget to head into town for some apres skiing, or happy hour after a day on the slopes, at a local restaurant.
Steamboat Springs is also one of the most magical Rocky Mountain Christmas towns so consider a visit during the holidays.
25 Best Things To Do In Steamboat Springs In Winter
You don’t have to be an avid skier or snowboarder to fall in love with Steamboat Springs in the winter. This incredible little mountain town has something for everyone to enjoy, regardless of age or activity level.
1. Visit Strawberry Park Hot Springs
Located about a 20-minute drive from downtown Steamboat, Strawberry Hot Springs is an absolute must-do winter activity! There are two large natural hot spring pools, one is a few degrees hotter than the other. Then there’s a cold-water pool to plunge into if you need some relief from the heat.
Nestled deep in Routt County National Forest, Strawberry Park Hot Springs is the perfect place to reconnect with nature. Facilities include bathrooms and heated changing rooms, but after dark, there is extremely limited lighting, so you’ll need to bring a torch to find your way back out.
Note: You will definitely need a 4×4 vehicle with snow tires to reach these hot springs. If you don’t have an appropriate vehicle, you can book a shuttle.
2. Hike Up Fish Creek Falls
Located about 3 miles from downtown off of Fish Creek Falls Road, you’ll find the parking lot and trailhead to the falls themselves. The 280ft tall waterfall is a sight to behold, especially in winter! During the coldest months, Fish Creek Falls freezes over and becomes a recreation spot for ice climbers.
Fish Creek Falls is accessible year-round. There is a short 0.8-mile loop trail to get to the falls. But, for those with walking difficulties, there is also a wheelchair-accessible viewing platform, just a quarter mile from the car park.
3. Attend The Steamboat Winter Carnival
In Steamboat, we love to party and we especially like having things to look forward to during the long, dark winters. So, to help combat our cabin fever in the middle of winter, the Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club (SSWSC) founded the Winter Carnival 111 years ago.
The Winter Carnival is a celebration of Steamboat’s western heritage and pays homage to the town’s traditional winter sports. Highlights include:
- Skiers being pulled by horses ridden by cowboys right down main street (Lincoln Avenue)
- Pro alpine ski jumping
- Obstacle course cross-country skiing
- Fireworks and nighttime festivities
And many more exciting winter activities, particularly for couples and families.
4. Hike Up Emerald Mountain
Overlooking Howelsen Hill and Steamboat Town is Emerald Mountain. This small mountain is only 8,252 feet (2,515 meters) and it’s the perfect spot for an afternoon hike, even in the winter. There’s a 3.8-mile out-and-back trail to reach the top, it’s a moderate hike that most young kids can manage too.
This is a favorite outdoor exercise spot amongst locals. People hike, run, and mountain bike here year-round. Due to the high traffic, the wide trail is always well-maintained and easily accessible even when covered in snow.
Local’s Tip: Hike up Emerald Mountain at night during a full moon. You won’t regret it!
5. Visit The Hot Springs At Old Town Hot Springs
If you don’t want to make the drive through the forest to reach Strawberry Hot Springs mentioned earlier, you can still enjoy the hot springs experience right in downtown Steamboat.
Old Town Hot Springs has been a center for recreation and rejuvenation in the local community for over 100 years, and it’s worth noting that it is very kid-friendly.
Today, Old Town Hot Springs has 8 outdoor pools fed by the Heart Spring, a climbing wall, a spa, and a world-class fitness center. You can choose just to soak in the warm waters, or get some exercise in the Lap Pool. There are also water slides and a kiddie pool.
6. Go Snow Tubing At Saddleback Ranch
If your legs are worn out from intense skiing or snowboarding, there is another fun way to get down the slopes with no skiing skills required: Go snow tubing at Saddleback Ranch.
It’s worth noting that Saddleback Ranch is kid-friendly, but I wouldn’t necessarily recommend this activity for families with children under the age of 4.
Located just 15 miles west of Steamboat Springs, Yee-Haw Hill at Saddleback Ranch is sure to be a highlight of your winter vacation; we used to go here every year for our employee party.
This tubing hill has 3 runs that you can speed down on in your inner tube, and there’s a tow lift system to take you back to the top. When you need a break from the cold, you can grab a warm drink and bite to eat at the Warming Lodge at the base of the hill.
7. Cross-Country Skiing
If bombing down steep ski slopes isn’t quite your cup of tea, Steamboat offers several great cross-country skiing tracks, too. Here are the main cross-country skiing locations in Steamboat:
- Rabbit Ears Pass
- Stagecoach State Park
- Pearl Lake State Park
These locations will keep you fully immersed in nature with incredible views. There are also four specific ski touring centers:
- Steamboat Ski Touring Center
- Lake Catamount Ski Touring Center
- Howelsen Ski Area
- Haymaker Nordic Center
Local’s Tip: If you want to save some money and still enjoy winter activities near Steamboat, head to Oak Creek. This small town is 21 miles away from Steamboat, and it offers free Nordic ski trails and free equipment. Use this Google Maps link to find the trailhead and shed full of free ski equipment.
8. Attend A Music Festival
One of my favorite parts about Steamboat Springs is the music scene. And why wouldn’t I love the music scene? Mike was the face of Steamboat music for years and years, headlining many of the music festivals around town.
If you’re visiting Steamboat in the winter, you’ll be dazzled with many music festivals including:
- The MusicFest at Steamboat – often called “Texas Week” (January)
- WinterWonderGrass Colorado (March)
These festivals are located at the base of the mountain at Steamboat Resort.
9. Ride In A Hot Air Balloon
If you’re looking for a truly unforgettable winter activity, you should definitely book a hot air balloon tour! Wild West Balloon Adventures is a family-run business in Steamboat, operating year-round.
Riding in a hot air balloon is a bucket-list-worthy experience. And what better way to take in the beautiful snow-covered mountains, valleys, and forests surrounding Steamboat Springs?
Flights usually last 45 minutes, while the whole experience takes about 2 hours. Tours cost around $275 per person.
9. Snowmobile Tours
For another adrenaline-pumping activity on the snow, you should check out Steamboat Snowmobile Tours. The team of expert tour operators provides a free shuttle service from your lodging to the beautiful Rabbit Ears Pass.
There are tours for all ages and abilities. So, whether it’s your first time on a snowmobile or you’re an expert rider, you’ll have a fun-filled day zooming through the snow in Routt National Forest on the Continental Divide.
Helmets, gloves, snow bibs, and hot drinks are provided. And your guide will take you to some of the most scenic spots with plenty of photo opportunities.
10. Go Snowshoeing on Rabbit Ears Pass
Rabbit Ears is the iconic pass you go up and over driving into Steamboat on Highway 40. Not only is it full of hiking and biking trails in the summer, but it’s also home to some amazing powder-filled snowshoeing tracks.
Most trails are marked and designated for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Depending on how much snowfall there has been, the trails can be full of untouched, fluffy powder or packed down. There are a number of snowshoe rental places in Steamboat such as Christy Sports and Ski Haus.
Note: There are plenty of other places to go snowshoeing in and near Steamboat in the winter. Consider Pearl Lake State Park, Oak Creek, and Stagecoach Lake for more places to explore.
11. Haymaker Sleigh Ride Dinner
Golf course in summer and winter wonderland in winter, Steamboat Springs’ Haymaker Golf Course offers enchanting sleigh rides around its grounds.
Two gorgeous draft horses will take you dashing through the snow across the rolling hills of the Yampa Valley, and you’ll be able to take in amazing views of the surrounding mountains.
You can then get cozy inside the Haymaker Clubhouse and enjoy a delicious mountain-style 4-course dinner, gazing out at the sunset. Reservations must be made in advance and a private 2-person sleigh is also available on request.
12. Rent Fat Tire Bikes
If cycling is a favorite vacation pass-time of yours, great news. You can still enjoy this hobby in winter because Steamboat is a town full of avid cyclists (you’ll notice the hundreds of bikes around, hence our nickname, “Bike Town USA”), so there are many bike paths that are well-maintained throughout the year.
You can rent a fat tire bike from one of Steamboat’s many bike shops and cycle along the Yampa River Core Trail. The Core Trail snakes along the Yampa River and takes you through downtown, all the way to the Howelsen Ski Area.
As the snow starts to really dump in December, the Yampa River Core Trail is typically well-maintained throughout the winter, but be cautious of big snowfall days.
13. Go Dog Sledding
Mush! You can drive your own team of sled dogs or go on a fully guided experience. The team at Snow Buddy Sled Dogs will take you on an epic adventure through the backcountry wilderness of Dunckley Pass in the Little Flat Tops mountains.
You will be involved in the whole experience, even harnessing and hooking up your team of dogs to the sled. During this half-day adventure, you will cover 12.5 miles of gorgeous winter scenery… and of course, you can get pictures with the adorable Alaskan huskies.
14. Go Ice Skating
Steamboat Resort has made many changes to its facilities over the years and one of the most extravagant additions is their beautiful ice rink in Ski Time Square.
This winter activity is family-friendly, so bring the kids, rent skating equipment, and hop on the rink for a few laps. Finish your time by heading over to Timber & Torch for some hot chocolate or warm cocktails while watching the skiers zoom down the hill to the gondola.
Local’s Tip: There’s also a free ice skating rink located in Oak Creek, the small town just 20-25 minutes from Steamboat Resort.
Winter Skiing Options In Steamboat Springs
Did you know Steamboat Springs has TWO skiing mountains? I didn’t know this before I moved to the town back in 2015. Here are your two options for skiing and snowboarding in Steamboat this winter:
15. Ski & Snowboard On Mount Werner
Steamboat Springs is nestled deep in the Rockies in northwest Colorado, along the Yampa River. The town sits at 6,695 feet, while the top of Mount Werner, Steamboat’s main ski mountain, reaches 10,570 feet, making this place a premier destination for champagne powder snow.
The Mount Warner ski area opened in 1963 and has 170 ski runs, accessible by 18 ski lifts. The main three lifts are the Gondola, Thunderhead Express, and Christie Peak Express. You can spend days exploring all the slopes and still not cover everything.
There’s even more snow to cover if you enjoy backcountry skiing in the back bowls of Steamboat.
Local’s Tip: For some extra fun, why not rent ski bikes? Yes, that’s right, bikes on skis. You can take your ski bike on lifts with you, and then ride it down the slopes. It’s an absolute blast!
16. Ski & Snowboard On Howelsen Hill
What most people don’t realize is that Steamboat has another little ski mountain called Howelsen Hill located in downtown (Steamboat Resort is NOT downtown, it is located approximately 5-10 minutes from downtown).
Although Howelson Hill is much smaller, it still deserves attention. It’s actually Colorado’s oldest continuously operating ski area dating back to 1915. It also has the largest natural ski jumping complex in North America.
Located across the Yampa river, opposite Steamboat’s downtown area, Howelson Hill is a fun day out for the whole family.
And while it’s been the training ground (or snow we should say) for over 100 winter Olympians, it’s the perfect place for beginners to practice their ski or board skills, without all the crowds of Mount Werner.
What To Do In Steamboat Springs In Winter: Indoors
While Colorado gets plenty of winter sun, Steamboat Springs can get very cold in the winter – the average low in December is 4°F (-15.5°c). So, if you don’t feel like strapping on all your ski gear and want a little break from the harsh temperatures, here are some fun indoor activities to do in Steamboat:
17. Attend A Concert At Schmiggity’s
Schmiggity’s is THE music venue in Steamboat Springs. It caters to locals and tourists alike. Our good friends, Pat and Kim, run this venue and bring in some pretty awesome artists.
Whether you’re looking to participate in karaoke or see one of the many live bands, you can’t go wrong at Schmiggitys!
Note: If you’re lucky, you might see Mike get on stage at Schmiggitys to play a song or two!
18. Eat Food & Drink Beer At Steamboat Restaurants & Breweries
There’s no shortage of delicious restaurants in Steamboat Springs. Fuel up after a long day of winter activities at some of our favorite places to eat:
- O’Neil’s Tavern & Grill
- Mazzola’s Italian Restaurant
- Laundry
There are also a few notable breweries to check out. Our favorite is Mountain Tap Brewery, but you might also enjoy Mahogany Ridge or Storm Peak Brewing.
19. Go Bowling at Snow Bowl
It opened its doors in 1977, but Snow Bowl Steamboat was completely remodeled in recent years. There are now 12 state-of-the-art bowling lanes that you can reserve for personal use, groups, or league play.
Snow Bowl also has an extensive menu from hearty sandwiches to tacos to classic BBQ dishes. You should also keep an eye on their events page while you’re in town because Snow Bowl often hosts great concerts too.
20. Drive Bumper Cars On Ice
It’s probably been a while since you were last in a bumper car… and we bet you’ve never been in a bumper car on ice. Now you can book ice bumper car sessions at the Howelsen Ice Complex in Steamboat.
This is a super fun activity for all ages. You can slide, spin and bump on the ice. Reservations are recommended as slots fill up fast and each ice bumper car session lasts 20 minutes. You can also rent ice skates and skate around the rink before or after the bumper cars.
21. Visit The Crooked Key
If you want to put your brain to the test, you should definitely pay a visit to The Crooked Key, Steamboat’s very own escape room. Collaborate with family and friends to find clues and solve puzzles in one of the themed game rooms. You need to make it out in 1 hour or less!
Our friend Paul owns The Crooked Key and he’ll be sure to make your escape room experience professional and memorable. With 3 different game rooms to choose from, Steamboat’s escape room is a great venue for birthdays, bachelor parties, and other special occasions.
22. Rock Climb At Old Town Hot Springs
Whether you’re an experienced climber or a total beginner, you can put your skills to the test at the 37-foot climbing wall in downtown Steamboat Springs.
It’s worth noting that this is a kid-friendly activity perfect for families. But, climbers must be within a 25-310-pound weight range and children under 10 must be accompanied by an adult.
Located inside the Old Town Hot Springs complex, access to the climbing wall is included with your gym day pass or membership.
There are both auto-belay climbing and top rope climbing options. Weekly climbing classes are also available to book.
23. Get A Massage / Visit A Spa
After a few intense days on the slopes, a massage and spa treatment sounds ideal, right? Steamboat Springs has several spas to choose from. The luxury resorts like The Steamboat Grand or the Sheraton Resort have their own in-house spas, but we personally recommend Aspenwood.
Additionally, Old Town Hot Springs is a great place to enjoy a professional massage, followed by a soak in the healing mineral waters of the springs.
24. Go Shopping Downtown in Steamboat Springs
Depending on how long you’re staying in Steamboat, we definitely recommend allowing yourself an afternoon just to wander along Lincoln Avenue and explore the boutique shops.
Downtown Steamboat is home to many independently owned stores, full of curiosities. You’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to unique gifts and souvenirs. Some of our favorite shops are:
- West Lyfe
- Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory
- Off The Beaten Path Bookstore
- The famous F. M. Light & Sons, founded in 1905
25. Enjoy Après Happy Hour With A View
Whether you’ve been on the slopes all day or had a lazy afternoon, Slopeside Grill, Los Locos, or TBar are THE spots for happy hour. Located right at the base of Steamboat’s ski mountain, these ski-in-ski-out bars and restaurants offer incredible views of Mount Werner and surrounding peaks.
Check for happy hour deals, live music on outdoor patios with heaters, and family-fun activities.
When Is The Best Time To Visit Steamboat Springs?
Steamboat Springs ski season usually runs from late October to the middle of April, depending on snowfall. So, you’ll be able to enjoy a winter wonderland and an awesome ski town vibe during this whole period.
However, if you’re traveling to Steamboat on a budget, you should be more mindful of your dates and book in advance. There is no getting around it, Steamboat – like most other ski resorts – can get very expensive.
The most expensive times to visit Steamboat during the winter are around the main holidays: Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s, Valentine’s Day, and Easter (depending on the date).
If you want to keep costs down and still enjoy all of Steamboat’s winter activities, we recommend visiting during weekdays, avoiding the major holidays, and avoiding the month of December.
But if money is not an issue and you’re fully prepared to splurge on your winter getaway, then do book your trip around the holidays and get involved in the local celebrations. In particular, New Year’s Eve is a huge event in Steamboat. Every year the fireworks show at Howelsen Hill gets better and better.
Pro tip: When it comes to ski passes, costs can add up really fast. But if you want to save some money and still enjoy Steamboat’s amazing slopes, you can purchase discounted end-of-season 3-day passes.
What Is The Weather Like In Steamboat Springs In Winter?
Sitting at an elevation of 6,695ft with an average annual snowfall of 154 inches (the US average is 28 inches), Steamboat Springs definitely gets pretty chilly in winter. The coldest month in Steamboat is December with average daily highs of 35°F (2°c) and lows of 13°F (-11°c).
However, Steamboat has a dry climate, so it’s not a nasty, damp cold. As long as you have a good ski jacket, hat, gloves, and warm socks, you’ll keep nice and toasty.
Steamboat also gets lots of glorious bluebird days with plenty of winter sun. Even in the middle of winter, people sit outside and bask in the warm rays. But as soon as the sun goes down, you’ll want to get cozy next to a fireplace.
Note: Driving around Steamboat Springs in winter is not for the faint of heart. Whether you’re from a place that experiences a lot of snow or not, Steamboat’s winters are not to be messed with.
Steamboat Springs truly is an incredible place year-round, but the town really comes to life in the winter. Whether you want to spend your entire trip tearing up the champagne powder, soak in the hot springs or go on snowy hikes, Steamboat has something for everyone.
We hope you’ve enjoyed reading through this list of winter activities and learning more about this magical ski town. Start planning an epic winter vacation to Steamboat now!
