Steamboat Springs is a popular ski destination in Colorado. People love to head there in the Winter but I argue that Fall may be the best time to head up to the Boat.

We ventured up to Steamboat the first week of October. The weather was gorgeous, the leaves were turning, and we were able to do so much. Here are some things we checked out with our kiddos in tow.

Fish Creek Falls

Fish Creek Falls is a very popular waterfall hike. There are several trail options from the parking lot. We started on the Overlook Trail that is rated easy and is considered wheelchair and stroller friendly.

From the Overlook Trail, you can connect to the short Picnic Trail that will lead you down to the Fish Creek National Recreation Trail. The Picnic Trail has several picnic areas with excellent shade and a restroom. The Fish Creek Trail will bring you down to the Creek and to the historic bridge. This part was again an easy hike but it is not paved and is not wheelchair or stroller friendly.

There are great views and fun creek access near the bridge. You can continue on the trail and up to the Upper Falls area, which is supposed to be stunning. This part of the trail is considered difficult with steep rocky areas so we stuck to the lower falls with the kids. 

There is a parking lot here. You must pay to park but it is free for National Park Annual Pass holders. Get to this trailhead early as the parking lot was full by the time we left. 

West Lincoln Park

West Lincoln Park is one of the many parks that line up against the Yampa River. This park is also home to the Sulfur Springs and the Soda Springs. 

This park also has a nice playground, a pond, and a rocky beach area that makes for excellent river access for the kids. Warning: the sulfur springs smell like….sulfur. So the whole area has a rotten egg kind of smell to it but come on! It’s an adventure.

Steamboat Creates is also located just across the river from this park. They have different classes and activities at their building so check them out.

Yampa River Botanic Park

Another hidden gem of Steamboat is the Yampa River Botanic Park. It is a really lovely and well maintained garden and is worth a stop. Did I mention it was free?

There is a small children’s garden and an activity book for kids that is available. 

The Botanic Park is located in Emerald Park. This park has a playground, open areas, soccer fields and a bathroom with water refill stations. Parking is free. 

Old Town Hot Springs

Strawberry Hot Springs gets all the attention in Steamboat but the Old Town Hot Springs is the place to go if you have kiddos in tow. These hot springs are located in town and are extremely kid friendly. There are pools with varying temperatures including a much cooler kids pool that is 2ft deep. There is a climbing wall, slides, and even lap pools along with the regular soaking pools. I strongly recommended the Old Town Hot Springs for families.

Other Places around Town

Quick rundown of some other places/things you might want to check out while you are in town:

The Steamboat Art Museum is free.

Off the Beaten Path Bookstore is a really lovely bookstore and great place to get a coffee.

Lightning the horse is just outside FM Light & Sons store. Kids can get on for a quick photo. It is kind of a tradition.

Buffalo Pass is just outside of town and has amazing mountain biking and hiking. This road does turn to dirt prior to the parking lot. It is also extremely popular so go early for a spot.

The entire river walk is gorgeous. You can spot steam popping up from different hot springs. Tubing down the river is very popular throughout the summer. It is a great place to spend some time relaxing and enjoying this beautiful area. 

Steamboat Springs has lots to offer no matter the season. Happy Travels!