Dive into Relaxation in Steamboat Springs
Most mornings are filled with quick showers, scalding coffee, and a rush to get started on the day’s to-do list. Busy rush hour traffic, the ‘ping’ of emails arriving in your inbox, and some sickly-sweet pop song on the radio is the soundtrack that starts your day. But what if this time next week, your morning routine could be underscored by quiet tranquility?
There’s no sound more soothing than the gentle ripple of water across a twinkling lake, surrounded by towering mountains. The early morning sunshine gives the water a glassy finish, where white peaks, blue skies, and soaring birds are reflected in the pools below you. At long last, you can hear your own thoughts. But not the muddled, stressed meanderings of a busy mind… instead, your inner monologue is one of peace.
In Steamboat Springs, there are endless relaxing water activities for you to try. This charming mountain town features an abundance of opportunities to take a dip. So many, in fact, that you’ll question whether Colorado is a land-locked state at all!
From within this Rocky Mountain paradise, sitting in traffic is replaced with balancing on a paddle board. Rushed showers are replaced with slow, restorative hot springs. Your never-ending list of meetings, projects, and tasks is replaced with choosing the right tackle for your fishing hook. As the summer months grow warmer, Steamboat’s cooling waters invite you to let go of your day-to-day troubles, and immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature.
Here at The Astrid, we’re passionate about ensuring your next vacation in Steamboat Springs is the most relaxing one yet. That’s why we’ve curated this list of the most soothing water activities in the ‘Boat, guaranteed to bring you a deep sense of peace.
Take a Dip at Strawberry Hot Springs
Surrounded by nothing but tranquil wilderness, Strawberry Park Hot Springs invites you to paddle, swim, or simply float in nature’s own bathtub. During the summer months, after a day of hiking or biking across thrilling mountain terrain, comes the time to soothe your aching muscles.
With its unique stone masonry and natural thermal pools, Strawberry Park Hot Springs blends in with the rugged beauty of its surroundings. Each pool is naturally warm all year round, even at night. This cozy ambiance is enhanced by adults-only experiences after dark, where the only interruption to the peace is a glistening starlit sky.
Let Go of Your Cares on the Yampa River
If you’re looking for a relaxing activity where all your worries can simply drift away, then tubing down the Yampa River is the perfect activity for you.
As the river lazily winds through Steamboat, you can rest gently on a donut-shaped inner tube that will carry your body smoothly along the water. With each gentle ripple along the water’s surface, you’ll be peacefully rocked from within the comfort of your tube. You’ll feel so tranquil as you take in the luscious surroundings, as the gentle thrum of rushing water fills your ears.
Just down 13th street bridge is a secluded swimming area named the Yampa River’s D-Hole, which is a particularly wonderful spot for slow-paced tubing. This quiet section of the river is well worth the extra time it will take you to get there.
Reel in the Serenity of Fly Fishing
Whilst the excitement of fly fishing in downtown Steamboat is a must-do experience for all keen anglers, at The Astrid we’re partial to locations that are a little more exclusive. An off-the-beaten-track fishing spot will allow you to escape the crowds, enjoy a serene fishing experience, and form a meaningful connection to nature.
These are some of our favorite lesser-known fishing locations:
- Elk River: For exquisite solitude, even during peak seasons, Elk River is a magnificent choice where you can catch almost every species of trout in the west. The tailwaters yield large catches all year round, including the wintertime. However, this location tends to be less popular as access can be difficult. The river mostly runs through private locations, but there is public access around the headwaters in Routt National Forest, or in the Christina Wildlife Refuge Area.
- Mad Creek: This tributary to the Elk River offers parking and a public access trail towards the upper section of the creek. Keen anglers can follow the trail for a few miles before reaching the confluence of the North and South Forest. This hidden spot is difficult to find, with extremely difficult terrain. However, as this section is rarely accessed by anglers, the water is teeming with brook trout, which makes it an extremely satisfying area to fish.
- Dumont Lake: As one of Steamboat’s higher altitude lakes, this location is not typically busy and is surrounded by glorious mountain peaks. Visitors can enjoy both spin and fly fishing, however Dumont Lake only permits the use of electric motors or hand propelled boats.
- King Solomon Creek: This remarkable location is kept hush-hush among local anglers in the area. While most visitors are splashing about near the waterfall, fishers seeking the most peaceful experience in Steamboat Springs can walk a little further down the river to catch trout and enjoy the silence. It’s a little tricky to access, so be sure to wear good quality hiking shoes.
A Soothing Ride Across Steamboat Lake Marina
Steamboat Lake Marina offers premier paddle boarding experiences amidst the stunning scenery of Steamboat Lake State Park.
With a fleet of HALA stand-up paddle boards (SUPs) in various sizes, catering to all skill levels, you can enjoy serene mornings on the water. If you’d like the reassurance of a seat, opt to rent one of the marina’s single or double kayaks for a leisurely glide across the lake.
For those seeking the tranquility of the water, combined with the satisfaction of a physical challenge, paddle boarding or kayaking at Steamboat Lake Marina promises to be a bucket-list-worthy experience. Book your paddle board or kayak rental in advance to secure your spot, and immerse yourself in the natural splendor of Colorado’s most beautiful lake.
Float and Feast on a Private Pontoon Boat
For a truly unforgettable summer picnic adventure in Steamboat Springs, head to Steamboat Lake Marina and rent a pontoon boat.
As the longest continuously operated, family-owned marina in the area, Steamboat Lake Marina offers the largest fleet of pontoon boats for every occasion. Cruise the pristine waters of Steamboat Lake State Park, surrounded by breathtaking scenery and endless opportunities for fishing, swimming, and relaxation.
The pontoon boats are ideal for a picnic on the lake, thanks to onboard grills and spacious decks accommodating up to 10, 12, or 15 guests depending on the boat. Boat rentals can be for just the morning, afternoon, or a whole day, guaranteeing you plenty of time to relax and enjoy your picnic.
Plan Your Next Tranquil Escape in Steamboat Springs
From gently bobbing along the Yampa River, to admiring the stars from the comfort of a natural hot spring, Steamboat Springs is the epicenter of relaxing water activities in Colorado. Where else can you experience the thrill of a mountain bike ride, take an outdoor yoga pit-stop, jump on board a UTV, and end the day with a tranquil float across a gently rippling lake? Nowhere but Steamboat Springs.
Here at The Astrid, we’re passionate about ensuring your next vacation is full of relaxing water activities, luxurious outdoor experiences, and a deep sense of connection to nature. That’s why we’re building a remarkable community of like-minded serenity-seekers, who are ready to take their vacation experience to opulent new heights. Whether you’re enticed by Steamboat’s summer sun, or world-renowned ski season, there’s no end of luxury in this Rocky Mountain town.
We’re breaking ground on this pioneering new project in Summer 2024, and we invite you to join us in this exciting journey. To join our community, simply provide us with your name and email address. By doing so, you’ll be invited to join our exclusive mailing list. As part of this list you’ll gain access to insider information and behind-the-scenes content. Enjoy a highly personalized email experience reserved only for members of The Astrid community.
