The best hikes from bus stations in Routt County

Steamboat Springs is situated at an elevation of 6,700 feet in northwest Colorado. It is known as Ski Town USA, boasting two ski resorts within the town. Steamboat features a historic downtown area with local businesses, restaurants, and geothermal hot springs. Additionally, the Yampa River flows right through downtown.

Sweetwater Spring has a temperature of 64°F. Sweetwater is one of a number springs that feed Lake Spring. To help dry some of the surrounding marshy land, this lake was created by making a bowl into which a number of springs bubble up and into. While you are here, look on the surface and see if you can tell how many springs flow into Lake Spring. Information and map of all the springs at https://hotspringsguide.net/steamboat-springs-hot-springs-maps-information

The Yampa River Core Trail is a 7.5-mile paved multi-use trail that runs through the heart of Steamboat Springs and along the Yampa River. The Core Trail ties all aspects of Steamboat together: it’s a straight shot from one side of town to the other. Walk or bike your way from park to park, stopping at the various scenic stops to enjoy the views. You’ll cruise over wooden bridges and alongside the picturesque Yampa river. The Core Trail offers excellent fishing access, as well as a place to start or end a relaxing float down the Yampa on an inner tube. As you make your way down the Core Trail, you can watch fishermen cast flies and listen to the delighted whoops of children playing in the water at the famed C Hole standing wave, located on the trail just behind the Library.

1995 the Yampa River Botanic Park sprang from a flat horse pasture to a six-acre gem of ponds, berms, and over 60 gardens. Follow the paths that meander throughout the gardens to enjoy trees, shrubs, perennials, and annuals. The gardens are also home to sculptures placed throughout the Park. Hours are from dawn to dusk 7-days a week. Admission Free. Donation boxes may be found in the gardens near the kiosks. https://www.yampariverbotanicpark.org/

Nine mineral springs around Steamboat Springs have been designated as local landmarks, thanks to their cultural and historical significance in this place. This is one of those springs.

Sulphur Cave has a temperature: of 73°F. According to the sign, this is the most mysterious of the springs. Legend has it that the early Indians used this cave and its springs during rituals. Oracles in similar sites throughout the world have prophesied future events after being mesmerized by sulphur vapors. The geologic features of this cave are particularly unique, displaying the strength of the springs as they travel upward through the porous rock. There is a significant amount of bacterial/algae growth called myceum, the original life form dating back 4 billion years. No entry.

Here, you can observe the active hot springs, which is how Steamboat Springs got its name. As you ride along the bike trail, you'll come across informative signs about each hot spring. Please note that swimming is not allowed.

The Yampa River runs through the heart of Steamboat Springs and offers a variety of recreational activities right in town, including tubing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and fly fishing.