friday, Sept 15th
Beer Stroll 3-7 pm
SATURDAY, Sept 16th
Beer Garden 2-6 pm
Presented by
Après revelers toasting the day’s adventure in Steamboat. Photo by Ben Duke, Steamboat Ski & Resort Corp.
A very large Alaskan phallus; bars we’ve lost; the Fox—Steamboat’s newest bar; skiing in the buff at Bluebird; the SHRED Act; snowpack stats; microwrestling comes to Oak Creek; bears waken at Sunlight; a reality show hits Routt County; Hollywood’s Paramount dishes out free drinks; dancing lessons from the sage grouse; and, believe it or not, more!
Weird food names; food truck roundup; top hot dogs in the ‘Boat; inside The Commons; Steamboat’s new Boatyard; dirtbag charcuterie; and more.
Slopeside bartendress Brittany Kohler; off-beat Happy Hours; Meet Mythology, Steamboat’s newest distillery; inside Truffle Pig’s Tequila Dinner pairing; and town’s brewery roundup.
Blue Heron budtender Kelly Chesna; dispensary roundup; dope-elgangers; Billo launches a “Cultivated Cuisine” event; and strains explained.
Pickleball Town USA; SUP tips; locals’ favorite rides; First Friday Artwalks; and more!
All Happy on the Western Front: Swillin’ & Chillin’s Happy Hour roundup; tips for backyard bashes; town’s top patios; and more!
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Summer music scene; catching up with DJ Whoski; confessions of a WinterWondergrass player and Jay Roemer unplugged.
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Sleepwear from Chill Angel; a new pack from Big Agnes; Creek Co.’s new 9’8” fishing craft; and apparel from 970.
It hit me while surfing the A-Wave on the Yampa this spring: We live in a pretty sweet town. Because there to my right (facing upstream because I was surfing), on the face of Howelsen were my ski tracks from earlier in the morning, etched into the hillside. Look closely and you could probably also see the paw prints of our dog, Banjo.
Not that the tracks were that great…instead of powder, they were carved into corn, sinuous curves of white weaving into the brown canvas of March’s dust storm. And they were tight, old-school turns, three to every one of a more accomplished carver. But they were mine, nonetheless. It’s not that my surf was anything to brag about, either—just routine carving back and forth across the wave, and not nearly as impressive as the rides by the board surfer next to me in the eddy.
But it gets better. Between my wake on the wave and tracks on Howelsen was a fly fisherman just below the bridge, casting nymphs into an eddy seam, as well as a skateboarder metronoming back and forth on the Howelsen skate park halfpipe, at times his cadence matching both my carves and the casts of the intrepid angler. With the afternoon sun making us all aglow, as well as onlookers and bicyclists on the bridge and snow-covered slopes of Mt. Werner in the distance, it created a scene any Chamber of Commerce should seize upon. Capture it all in the same video frame and the phone would likely start ringing.
Later, on another wave downstream, my eyes glanced upward toward the mountain, staring at the new lift line going up Mahogany Ridge, trying to eye lines I had skied over the winter and where, exactly, I had dropped into Fish Creek in the new maze of glades. Then top it all off with this: a full moon rising like a giant golf ball over Mt. Werner, the dot on the exclamation point of the day. And lest I forget, all this took place on a routine “work” day, with the commute for the activities taking less time than it did to make a PBJ for lunch.
After drying off in the parking lot and taking one last look at the mountain, I headed home realizing we do, in fact, have it pretty good here in ol’ Steamboat. We’re trying to make it even better, of course, with each issue of Swillin’ & Chillin’—helping show you where to head out in this great town of ours. But as far as our outdoor pursuits, you don’t have to head far. There are trails, rivers, ponds, bike paths, golf courses, ski slopes and more, all just a paddle splash away—as well as plenty of places to swill and chill afterward as you celebrate your day and plan the next.
No, contrary to rumors circulated this spring, Steamboat’s beloved base area bar didn’t expand into an insta-lodge next to T-Bar in March. The pop-up pub, complete with fake logs and fireplace, was a promotion for Paramount+, making its final stop on a three-city tour including Mammoth and Austin. Designed to bring “the ultimate ‘mountain lodge’ experience to its fans,” the promotion touched upon such franchises as Star Trek, 1923, Grease: The Rise of the Pink Ladies, Fatal Attraction, and Top Gun: Maverick, letting fans engage through cocktails, photo-ops (like with the helmet from Maverick, the Vince Lombardi Trophy and “Rydell High bleachers”) and more. And the free cocktails were pouring, including Manhattans, Old Fashioneds and Tequila Spritzers. “Steamboat was the ultimate last stop for this lodgethemed experience,” says a Paramount+ spokesperson. “We’re incredibly excited by the reaction and hope to do more.” Still, many a local was heard to exclaim, “Whoa, did you see that Paramount expanded?”
The marketing department at Sunlight Mountain Resort outside Glenwood Springs got the last laugh this spring when they published an April Fool’s Day post with photoshopped picture of bears awakening from their hibernation early and roaming the ski slopes alongside skiers and riders. The post was shared thousands of times by those thinking Yogi and Smokey were rubbing the sand out of their eyes on the slopes. The post read, “Due to early wake up from hibernation this year there has been an influx of bears on the mountain. Today will be our official closing day in order to keep the public safe. While you’re out riding today be extra loud to alert the bears of your presence. The safest way to ski around bears, is with a group while all singing in unison. Stay frosty!”
It went from Sake 2U to a rambunctious bar called the Boathouse. Now, the riverside building near 6th and Yampa is back open and accepting reservations. Except it’s not a bar or restaurant anymore. The newly renovated property is now accommodations, offering modern living spaces, amenities, picturesque gathering area, and awesome-sauce views. Its owners are targeting it as a venue perfect for bridal weekends, rehearsals, ceremonies, receptions, brunches, and more, with the first-floor featuring a private event space with a river frontage deck space to extend the party outdoors; the second-floor residence boasting two bedrooms and baths, with panoramic views from the living area, a full chef’s kitchen, and an additional deck and hot tub perched above the Yampa. A private suite on the third-floor features one bedroom and one bathroom with a secluded deck and hot tub.
Steamboat allows three licensed commercial tubing outfitters to take 49,000 total tubes down the river over a three-month period in the summer (about half of those are utilized). That’s a lot of rubber.
“Let’s go surfing now, everybody’s learning how…” You might be humming that little ditty more this summer at Steamboat’s newest “beach” bar, located behind Orange Peel at 1136 Yampa St. in the former home of Bingham Built Bikes. The Fox Bar is owned and operated by John Fransella, a former graphic designer from Miami who also spins under the DJ name TEAK, along with manager Steven Tomaszewski (DJ Whoski). Fox’s includes a sand-filled courtyard to create a beach atmosphere just a rock skip from the Yampa. “It will totally have a chill beach vibe, with hammocks, chairs and even a VIP area,” says Tomaszewski. “It should be a pretty sweet scene.” For drinks, look for beers, wines and cocktails, including CBD drinks and the perfect-for-summer White Rabbit, made with white rum, mint leaves, lime juice and simple syrup and topped with a cotton candy ball. For vittles, dive into such hors de oeuvres as caviar, cheese and crackers and a “caviar corndog” straight from Trail’s End next door.
Seems like life’s pretty real here as it is. But Reality TV came to our fair hamlet this winter when Bravo TV’s Winter House set its sights on Steamboat. Under the tagline “When the temperature drops, the drama heats up,” the show picks up on Bravo’s Summer House and Southern Charm franchises, following a group of 20- and 30-somethings as they spend two weeks together on a winter vacation in rental home, this one in Strawberry Park, for season three of the series. During the day, the stars hit the slopes and, at night, they partied and dealt with drama. The cast includes stars from Southern Charm and Summer House, and several new additions, including Tom Schwartz (in water as hot as our hot springs for having prior knowledge of Tom Sandoval’s affair), Family Karma’s Brian Benni and returning cast member Kory Keefer. As well as hitting the slopes (and their heads from the usual roommate drama), they reportedly dined at Timber & Torch, O’Neil’s and bopped into Steamboat Meat & Seafood Co. “They all had a great time,” says O’Neil’s GM Gabriel Sanchez-Diaz. “They were entertained by the staff, ordered a lot of tequila soda and chicken sliders and the filming went great. It’s awesome they wanted to film here.”
Yep, Steamboat Ski Area saw a summit snowfall total of 563 inches this past winter, spelling epic, epic powder days, having to stoop over to clank the Buddy Werner statue for good luck, and a lower town GNP due to employees taking off so much time for their “powder clauses.” Snorkels sold out at local dive shops, home chores got pushed to the back burner, pets went unfed in the morning, and fat skis came out in droves as locals schralped up freshies all season long. How did the year fare compared to others, you ask? Mid-mountain’s 448 inches (really, ski corp., are you counting that extra quarter inch?) tallied the second-highest snowfall in 43 years and the summit’s 563 inches came in as the second highest in 30 years. See how this snorkelicious season stacks up to years past:
This year’s summit tally got us thinking…what other things are special about the number 563?
563 BC: Death of Greek fable-teller Aesop
563 BC: Birth of Siddhartha Gautama Buddha
563: Area code in northeastern Iowa
563: Name of Mozart’s Divertimento for String Trio K., written in 1788
563: Name of USS Tang (SS/AGSS-563), first American submarine designed for underwater performance
563: weight (in carats) of famous gemstone Star of India, the world’s largest sapphire
563: height in feet of South Dakota’s Crazy Horse Memorial
Talk about breathable layers. A gaggle of gals flocked to Bluebird Backcountry on the other side of Rabbit Ears Pass in March to celebrate each other and…nakedness. Connecting with each other, supporting local artists and jamming to live music, the group ended the day by de-skinning and exposing their skin while taking a naked (clothing-optional) ski lap in a safe, judgment-free environment. The run “symbolizes stripping down barriers and systematic bull,” says founder Jenny Verrochi, who conceived the Boot Tan Festival in 2021 when 27 women showed up to strip down. Last year, 250 participants partook and this year, more than 400 gals disrobed to schuss downhill. “It’s truly exceeded my expectations,” says Verrochi. “The outdoor industry is pretty male-dominated and privileged, so we’re keeping it accessible with free tickets to those who can’t afford it. We’re excited to keep it going.” The festival’s values of making the backcountry accessible aligns with Bluebird’s mission. “We love ski culture,” says Bluebird co-founder Jeff Woodward. “Skiing should be fun and playful, laughing with your friends. We’ll support anything that drives ski culture and keeps it fun and a little goofy.”
To that end, the Boot Tan Fest included free beer, a giant snow globe party, dancing, camping and more, culminating with a lap of clothes-free carving. “It was pretty moving to join hundreds of women skinning up together to find live music at the summit, before everyone stripped down and skied down in collective joy,” says Verrochi, thanking all the women and femmes who showed up with vulnerability and created a space for hearts to grow. “It’s truly humbling to think of the joy and connection Boot Tan has created.”
Finally, an Act with a sweet acronym as well as cause. Sponsored by Senator Michael Bennet and Congressman Joe Neguse, the Ski Hill Resources for Economic Development (SHRED) Act stipulates that 75% of the funds that come back to national forests where ski areas like Steamboat are located should be used for costs the forest service incurs in overseeing ski area operations there. It would also increase efficiencies in administering permits, worker training, visitor information signs, wildfire preparation, avalanche-related safety education and more. “Colorado’s outdoor recreation economy depends on strong partnership between ski areas, the U.S. Forest Service and our mountain towns,” said Bennet. “The SHRED Act will provide support to our mountain communities and national forests as their landscapes face increased demand.” We just like the name.
Spectators and participants got ready to rumble at The Colorado Bar & Grill in April, as the Micro Wrestling Federation descended on Oak Creek for its heightchallenged showcase. Performing 200 shows a year from coast-to-coast as well as four shows a week in its mini arena in Pigeon Forge, Tenn., the federation is a full-scale, WWE-type event supported by an entire cast under five feet tall. Its participants body slammed, bear hugged, headlocked and more throughout an evening of nonstop action that included single matches, a micro brawl and a Micro Royal Rumble, where all the micro superstars entered the circle and stood tiny toe to tiny toe against one another in the main event. With the coveted belt on the line, only one micro wrestler left as champion. Afterwards, fans stuck around to get autographs from the cast members. “Founded in 2000, the MWF is the longest-running organization within the Little Person wrestling industry,” maintain organizers, adding their wrestlers have been featured in Sports Illustrated, Country Music Television and the WWE. “We’re the number one Little Person wrestling organization on the planet.”
Well, we never thought we’d be writing about this, but we are: a giant penis stomped out in the snow in Alaska. Yep, in March under a full moon a bunch of local skinners (foreskinners?) climbed a couple thousand feet up a ridge in the Chugach Mountains outside the Alyeska Ski Resort and stomped out a massive phallic image in the snow in Tea Cup Bowl. Not enamored with the image of the massive male reproductive organ, the resort’s mountain manager hired a helicopter from Chugach Powder Guides to fly some ski patrollers up to bootpack it out. But that only made matters worse, with social posts blowing up with comments like, “Gross, they just gave it pubic hair.” Then, someone even laid tracks down it, stirring up such comments as, “Now they gave it a vein!” In the end, the pilot used the helicopter’s rotors to whitewash the offending illustration away.
Who says you can’t get a Grammy growing up in Steamboat? Certainly not Tyler Johnson, a 2004 Steamboat Springs High School graduate, who won a 2023 Grammy Award for his work on Harry Style’s album “Harry’s House.” Admitting they “were up against incredible artists,” Johnson was a writer and producer on the album alongside friend Tom “Kid Harpoon” Hull. The album, the second the duo wrote and produced with Styles, was nominated for Album of the Year, with its hit single “As it Was” being nominated for Record of the Year and Song of the Year. Harry’s House won the coveted Album of the Year as well as the first televised award, Best Pop Vocal Album. Other nominees included ABBA’s “Voyage”, Bad Bunny’s “Un Verano Sin Ti”, Lizzo’s “Special” and Beyonce’s “Renaissance.” Hopefully drawing inspiration from his hometown mountains, Johnson also co-produced the song “Flowers” by Miley Cyrus, the lead single on her “Endless Summer Vacation” album.
Think intramural/beer league sports don’t matter? From hoops and volleyball to softball, soccer and even, yes, curling, they’re a huge part of living in town for athletic locals (and a great excuse to go hang out with the gang). Case in
point: this photo of the A league Mad Dogs hockey team, after cinching its win at Howelsen Ice Arena this spring, complete with a raucous crowd largely made up of ski instructors with nothing better to do on a Tuesday night (don’t ask about the helmets they’re wearing).
Having trouble wooing a mate on Schmiggitys’ dance floor? Take a cue from the greater sage-grouse. Once a huge part of our local culture (Hayden used to harvest it “by the wagonload” and Craig hosted annual “Sage Hen Days”), the bird’s population may have declined, but not its “Hey there, big boy” mating ritual—or allure for bird watchers eager to glimpse its gyrations. Both the Wilderness Society and Colorado Environmental Coalition lead excursions to watch their chest-puffing mating rituals, which we could all learn from. “Every spring folks come from all over the country to watch the males do their strangely intriguing mating dance on the traditional mating grounds or leks,” says Soren Jespersen, former northwest Colorado Wildlands coordinator for The Wilderness Society. “It’s truly an amazing courtship ritual...not a single person we’ve taken there has come home disappointed.”
The courtship entails male sage grouse inflating air sacs on their chests while dancing on their ancestral breeding grounds. But without a guide, they’re hard to find. “Because of their rarity Colorado Parks & Wildlife doesn’t reveal the exact locations of the leks,” adds Jespersen. While some grouse ply their trade in North Routt, the best place for viewing is north of Craig, where TWS and CEC conduct tours, as do grouse-savvy outfitters like Dean Visintainer, who takes guests to a lek on his private land. Whatever you see, pay attention; emulate its moves and you just may lure in a possible mate yourself at the free summer concert series.
From distillery to desks. That’s the plot line for the new Steamboat Social Club, a workspace/party hub put together by Michael Britton and Tim Hickory at the former downtown home of the Steamboat Whiskey Co. With a variety of community membership options, from full use of the club’s amenities and social events to partial and even day options, the space will offer a mix of open desks and private rooms, conference rooms, breakout rooms and lounge areas, all with a modern industrial feel. The pet-friendly space will also offer a deck, standing work desks, extra monitors, high-speed internet, printers and more—including parties.
Sure, we empathize with all you vegans, vegetarians, pescatarians and Glutenfree, dairy-free, and even quinoa-free eaters out there. But how about a shout out to all the underserved “opportunarians” out there, you know the ones who chow down on any and everything, whatever’s around? They’re also the easiest to prepare for and please. So, next time you encounter one, tip your hat (as long as it’s not leather, because that might be fair game also).
“How you doin’?”: Try this move on the Old Town Pub dance floor...Courtesy Photo Courtesy Photo
Just
We hope your timing hasn’t slipped over the past five years. The Steamboat Bike Park will be fully open this summer, along with Christie Peak Express lift and the Steamboat Gondola, for the first time since 2018. The park was closed last summer because of construction, had limited access in 2021 and was fully closed in 2020 summer due to the pandemic. It was also mostly closed in 2019 due to the installation of the gondola. When fully operational, the Steamboat Bike Park offers more than 50 miles of downhill trails and freeride terrain, as well as several wooden and dirt features. Favorites include Rustler’s, Rawhide, Tenderfoot and more.
We have a winner! Yep, local David Box is our illustrious winner of a pair of GrassSticks ski poles in our Swillin’ & Chillin’ official sweepstakes. “I’m super excited for my new GrassSticks!” he says. “Thank you Swillin’ & Chillin’!” Visit swillinandchillin.com to enter!
Well, duh. A study has revealed the best states for mountain biking, with Colorado climbing (in granny gear) close to the top. Conducted by icebike.org, the study analyzed all 50 states based on such factors as number of trails, percentage of hilly terrain, number of national parks, the state’s bikeability score and the number of top destinations. It revealed that Vermont is the country’s best, followed by Utah in second and Colorado in third. Vermont, the “Green Mountain” state, has 2,520 bike trails (402 per 100,000 people, the highest of any state), with 80% hilly terrain. While it still has lousy beer, Utah, the study reports, has 6,036 trails, or 199 per 100,000 people, with five national parks and 65% hilly terrain. Colorado—whose third-place ranking we’re thankful for, so people will bike elsewhere—serves up 6,980 trails, or 123 per 100,000 people, with 66% hilly terrain and four national parks. But it tallied one of the highest scores for bikeability, a rating which includes factors such as safety, infrastructure and policies. The worst state? Nebraska, with only 12 trails per 100,000 people and a paltry bikeability score of just 27.
Get your inner sommelier on Sept. 28-Oct. 1 at the Steamboat Food & Wine Festival, a celebration of all things field-to-fork and vine-to-glass. Guest chefs walk participants through nuances that influence flavor while renowned winemakers hold court on the fruits of their creations. The event is put on by founder Nicole Jarman of HobNob Events, who has produced over 1,200 events throughout Colorado, raising $5 million for nonprofits in the process (USA Pro Challenge ring a bell?). Among this year’s highlights are Chefs Alberto Collarte Pindar and Alex Seidel leading a Fire & Flavor/Cuisine from Baja dinner pairing; Chef Clay Conley whipping up an Exquisite Flavor Huneeus wine dinner; local Primrose owner and Chef Collin Kelley leading a pairing on Caviar Surf & Turf; Chef Dana Rodriguez captaining Tortillas, Tequila & Tinto; and Chef Hosea Rosenberg pairing a dinner called The Whole Lamb. Participants can also join a Guided Fishing and Sipping on the Elk River Welcome Cocktail Party; Sabores & Sobremesa at the Alpine Mountain Ranch & Club Barn; a Bubbles, Bourbon & Burgers program hosted by Truffle Pig; and a seminar on New American Innovation by Yampa Valley Kitchen. Info: steamboatfoodandwine.com.
At 10 a.m. on Wed., April 26, a “zoomabomber” took over the livestream of a City Council meeting and displayed inappropriate material on the screen. (We’re sure that woke some council members up…)
Cast your eyes skyward at the end of July. After taking a hiatus from its high-flying antics last year, the Yampa Valley Balloon Rodeo is back on for this summer, taking to the skies July 29-30. The event is being organized by Karen Beauvais of Coldwell Banker Distinctive Properties, who helped organize it in its first two years over 40 years ago (Coldwell has sponsored a balloon since its inception).Balloon pilots arrive in town July 28 for a pilots’ dinner, with launches the following two mornings. Want to sponsor it? You’ll receive two balloon rides on July 29.
And, no, they have nothing to do with Chinese spy balloons.
Breathtaking property spanning 430 acres, platted as 11 lots and borders 4,300 acres of BLM land.
$8,500,000 #2067096
Immaculate wooded home with high ceilings, log beams and 6,225 sf overlooking the golf course.
$4,850,000 #6963825
Big Valley Ranch retreat on 38 acres with mountain views, a 3,700 SF Morton barn, and private trails. $2,981,000 #4534247
3,189 sf home in Fish Creek beaming with high-end finishes and inviting access to the outdoors.
$2,295,000 #9555316
Three adjacent lots offer 1.25 acres of seclusion among towering pine trees below Thunderhead Lift. $1,800,000 #6217144
Like ski seasons, ski town bars come and go, some with more staying power than others. Below is a quick rundown of a few which had at least a 10-year run here in Steamboat now relished to those empty glasses of yesteryear.
Dos Amigos: Formerly home of best apres margs on the mountain—especially the famous Chicarita, formulated by Chic McMaster.
Inferno: Basement dive with the infamous Shot Wheel.
Mattie Silks: Known for its “Animal Night,” when all animal-themed beers were half price (i.e. Elephant Beer).
La Montana: Topshelf Tequila shots and carne asada.
Old West Steak House: Downtown hotspot for beef and beers (and a quirky taco happy hour squished inside old barrels).
Gorky Park: One word: vodka.
Double Z: Classic dive bar lined with age-old bar flies.
Steamboat Smokehouse: Coldest beer mugs in town until it burned down.
Giovanni’s: Fine wine and some olives, perhaps?
Levelz: You could feel the dance floor undulating beneath you.
Harwigs: Great downtown hotspot now a shadow of its former debauchery.
Cantina: Now Besame, this Mexican joint had the best Halloween party going, drawing in revelers from the Halloween stroll off the main drag. Plus, they gave away a free season pass prize for best costume!
Tug Boat: Ski Time Square favorite, known for its memorabilia hanging from the ceiling and walls, late night debauchery and bartenders with nicknames like Big Kid, Fast Eddie and Spanish (and whose building is still standing and smelling).
Antares: A local favorite, thanks to Chef Rocky.
BW3/Tap House: Wings, pitchers and catching the game.
VFW: Budweiser long necks, pool and a great story from the barstool next to you.
Yacht Club: What better place to wear your captain’s hat?
Sure, cold plunge pools are all the latest rage and all, restoring vitality and reducing inflammation. But how do they stack up against our own Mighty Yampa right at our doorstep?
Pros:
Controlled environment and temperature
Comfort and privacy of your own home
Doubles as beer fridge
Private shrinkage
Cons:
Chemicals
Expensive
Ups your electric bill
Yampa River
Pros: Free
No chlorine
Can change up locations
Might find sunglasses
Cons:
Errant leeches
Lingering algae on body hair
Dodging tubers
Public shrinkage
Want to take the plunge to cool off during the dog days of summer? Below are a few of the top spots for cannonballing:
C and D Holes
By Walton PondsHippie Dip Hot Springs
Swimming Hole by D&D
Christina Beach (Elk River)
specials, burgers, appetizers and an array of brewha’s. For breakfast, start your day with smoked meat breakfast burritos, freshly baked cinnamon rolls, scones and muffins, and more. Dueling D’s will be open from 6 a.m. until 8 p.m. on Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays and 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays (but closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays).
Tired of restricting yourself to one type of food whenever you go out? Fear not, oh indecisive ones. The Boat Yard, a new food truck space between Backdoor Sports and Aurum on Yampa Ave., offers a mix of munchies for all palates. “We’re super excited to see it come to fruition and officially open this summer,” says manager Alex Kaulbach. “With its proximity to the river and Howelsen, our goal is to create a unique community gathering space, with large pergolas and tables, landscaping and local food truck vendors. It will be an inexpensive and fun alternative to dining on Yampa Street.” They plan to have a minimum of three and no more than five food trucks onsite, six days a week for two shifts: lunch from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. daily, and dinner starting at 4:30 p.m. Vendors so far, he adds, include Mountain Berry Bowl run by David Hughes; Blake Steinford’s Tie Dye Cones; Antonio Jarana’s mobile burgers; and Susana Rivera’s El Bajio Southwest fare. Now that’s a galley we can rally behind.
West Steamboat breakfast aficionados who loved Sharon’s Café will be pleased to know that by driving a little bit north they can still get her famous smothered burritos and massive biscuits and gravy to fuel up for North Routt adventures. The greasy spoon diner has re-opened at the Glen Eden Resort in Clark, on the way to the Steamboat Lake, Hahn’s Peak, the Zirkles and other North Routt recreation hotspots.
Head south, young swine swiller. There’s a new BBQ joint in Oak Creek, headed up by Dana Christensen.
Located at 116 E. Main St., the restaurant will serve Christensen’s homespun Texas-style barbecue, including brisket, ribs, pulled pork, sausage, chicken, sandwiches and more. It will also feature daily
Billing itself as “locally world famous,” Mountainside Grill & Bar has officially taken over at the same location as former Rex’s American Grill, which closed this past winter due to the sale of the hotel. Located at 3190 S. Lincoln Ave., it offers “upscale casual American fare,” with loyalty programs (free entrée on your birthday), and, oh yeah, $5 drafts and wells for Happy Hour.
After a decade in Denver and 20 years each in the restaurant business—including running the Crown Social jazz and blues club—Christopher Stackpole and Kell Kaiser have opened Steamboat’s newest restaurant, Stonewall, at 685 Marketplace Plaza, formerly home of McKnight’s Irish Pub. Offering ranch-to-table fare showcasing small-batch Colorado producers, it’s open from 4 p.m. to close Wednesdays through Sundays. “We’re thrilled to share our passion for Colorado’s culinary heritage and high-quality ingredients,” says Stackpole. Joining them is executive chef Julie Eade, who relocated from Yosemite and whips up such dishes as braised elk with house-made leek gravy, basil-baked halibut served with chardonnay caper butter, lamb rack lollies, Anasazi bison chili and seared duck street tacos. As well as 16-person bar, 12-person communal high top and patio, it also features art from the Jace Romick Gallery. As for its name? It’s a tribute to the 1969 Stonewall Riots, allowing people to pursue their passions.
Sure, well all love Laura the Butcher and her scrumptious charcuterie plate. But unless you cashed out in Bitcoin at the right time, chances are you can’t afford it every day. So, impress your friends by making your own with a few Swillin’ embellishments. One dirtbag correspondent’s recommendations for keeping your food plate frugal: Spam, salami, Velvetta, Cheese Whiz, Ritz and banana peppers and olives, “just for something green or yellow or whatever.”
For a town that, like its residents, is always on the move, it was only a matter of time until food trucks hopped on the road to satisfy the postadventure cravings of locals and visitors alike. Whether they’re parked at a special event or based around town, local food trucks are bringing a world’s worth of culinary options to the Yampa Valley. Here’s a list of some favorite spots to grab a quick snack, drink or full meal without stepping out of the summer sunshine.
Q Live Crew is Steamboat’s go-to place for authentic, local barbeque. The food truck offers brisket, pulled pork, chicken teriyaki balls or the fan-favorite pork sundae, each fresh and slow cooked for up to 14 hours. The business has won multiple awards for its barbecue in competitions, and took third place in the Best of the Boat barbeque category. “You can’t compete with the nostalgia of somebody who has a place back home,” pitmaster Dean Montgomery said. “If I can create some nostalgia and some consistency, that’s great.” Q Live Crew offers catering and can be found at the Steamboat Springs Farmers Market and Steamboat Free Summer Concerts.
While you can catch Mountain Berry trucks rolling throughout Colorado, Idaho and Montana, its staple ingredient of açai comes from as far as Central and South America. Each menu item offers a different variation on the açai smoothie bowl, with superfood toppings ranging from granola to blueberries to bee pollen. “It’s just an awesome meal or snack that’s gluten free, dairy free, all natural and we source as many local ingredients as we can,” says owner Lindley Lynch. This summer, Steamboat’s Mountain Berry truck owner David Hughes will be extending the hours of operation, which means more chances for a refreshing treat. Catch it at the Farmers Market, Free Summer Concerts and Boat Yard food truck court. It offers catering as well. mountainberrybowls.com
Skull Creek Greek’s “Wagon-A-Go-Go” is more than just a food cart. Serving up traditional Mediterranean fare, including Greek gyros, salads, falafels and more, it’s a converted 1930s sheepherder’s wagon, which can be booked for catering and has its own electricity and water holding tanks. It can be found at the Farmers Market, Free Summer Concerts, and other special events around town. A popular
By Abby Van der Graaffchoice among locals, the wagon has been voted best food truck in the Best of the Boat competition for eight years in a row. “We’re planning on getting it out more of the year,” says company owner Jason Partobi, who featured it at Winter Wondergrass. “We’re carrying on the tradition of serving great food at fun events and working with awesome people.” skullcreekgreek.com
A list of local food trucks wouldn’t be complete without a business that honors the Yampa Valley’s ranching roots. Saddleback Ranch operator Cara Iacovetto offers freshly baked comfort foods like pies, cinnamon rolls and mac ‘n cheese from “Bessie,” her mobile restaurant. “I specialize in pies and I’m kind of known locally as the ‘Pie Lady,’” Iacovetto says. “Baking a beautiful and delicious pie is a bit of a lost art nowadays, so it makes me happy to see the smile on customers’ faces when they take home one of my pies.” Catch Bessie at the Farmer’s Markets in Steamboat and Hayden and at various events throughout the summer. Iacovetto also will be cooking at the Moffat County Fair and the Meeker Sheepdog Trials, as well as offering catering and online orders. cookinguntilthecowscomehome.shop
What’s not to like about mobile brews and ‘zas? Mountain Tap Brewery takes its show on the road with its custombuilt mobile trailer equipped with a wood-fired oven and crafted to look like a Yampa Valley barn. Available for private events only, it serves up pizzas, appetizers, desserts, and handcrafted beers. “We don’t have space to accommodate all the private party requests we receive at our brewpub during the summer,” says co-owner Wendy Tucciarone, adding they’ve served small family gatherings on up to wedding celebrations for 100, and as far away as the Wyoming border. “It’s really taken off in the past few years—we provide the food, handcrafted beer and friendly staff to help you and your guests enjoy your mountain experience.” mountaintapbrewery.com
Jamerican Joe’s brings a taste of the Caribbean to the Yampa Valley with a menu offering a fusion of American, Mexican and authentic Jamaican dishes. “People love the food, vibe and energy,” says owner Joseph Richardson. “When you come around me, you’re going to feel the Caribbean vibes, the good music and all of that.” When not serving at the Farmers Market and various other events, it’s parked outside the Yampa Valley Brewing Co.’s Hop House located at 1125 Lincoln Ave. “I respect my customers because they’re the ones that keep me going and without them I wouldn’t be where I am now,” Richardson adds. “I want to grow bigger, and it solely depends on my customers.” Hint: try the chicken curry, jerk pork and beef.
Can’t decide? The Boat Yard downtown is a new, family-friendly outdoor gathering space that utilizes rotating food trucks and a riverside location to bring the community together. Vendors this summer include Mountain Berry Bowl, Tie Dye Cones, Mobile Burgers; and El Bajio. theboatyardsteamboat.com
By Abby Van der Graaff
Dog fans rejoice! Steamboat’s been graced with a handful of hot dog aficionados who have elevated the simple backyard snack into something bigger and better. While a small mountain town isn’t the first place that comes to mind when imagining a hot dog hall of fame (ahem, Chicago, anyone?), that doesn’t stop local chefs from creating dogs that keep people howling. Here’s a look at two new dog spots that have popped up in town, each bringing new flavors to the scene while still honoring the scrumptiousness of the original frank.
Midwesterners can find a bit of home in a cozy little spot at 1124 Yampa St., where the classic Chicago dog still rules the menu. “I love the Chicago-style hot dog because it’s got so many ingredients on it,” says Trail’s End owner Jake Hardin, who hails from the suburbs of the Windy City. “It kind of has the sweet, the spicy and the savory, so it’s got a little bit of everything in it.” For those not in the know, the Chicago dog starts with a poppy seed bun, then is topped with mustard, raw onion, sport peppers, sweet green relish and celery salt. These ingredients may sound simple, but they’re of extreme importance to those who adhere to the way of the top dog. Down to the steamed buns, true fans notice if one of the essential elements is missing, Hardin says.
With toppings ranging from mac and cheese to Fritos, The Dawg House is serving up sausages with a classy, homecooked twist. “Everything’s cooked to order, cut to order, gourmet veggies, gourmet everything,” says owner Ronnie Hewins. In addition to the classic hot dog, the stand boasts a popular veggie dog, elk sausage and rotating game sausage. This summer, it will offer ice cream as well (though not between two buns). The stand, located on Lincoln Avenue between 6th and 7th Streets, is open at lunch time through early evenings, and on weekends for the munchie crowd it has a graveyard shift from 10 p.m.-2 a.m., offering a late-night option for hungry patrons. “I’m almost like the ambassador to Steamboat in a way,” Hewins says. “About 2,000 people walk by this stand and they’re not only seeing this kitchen but the guy that’s front and center in the sidewalk.”
Steamboat’s newest cool-to-hang-out-in food court is The Commons in the former Ghost Ranch building at 56 Seventh St. Showing that teamwork is thriving in the eatery world, it houses food vendors, a full bar, large deck over Butcherknife Creek, and more. “It’s an awesome space with a great bar and food options,” says co-owner Cam Boyd. “It’s a cool place to hang out with your friends.” Here’s a look at the vendors inside. steamboatcommons.com
Steamboat props: I love all the outdoor things here. But my main draw will always be its sense of community, which is like no other place. People here care about Steamboat and each other. It’s truly an amazing community.
Favorite activities: Shredding the gnar, “trying” to catch fish, and pedaling to a cold brew somewhere.
Unknown info nugget: I like Taylor Swift (more than I’d like to admit).
The Common Bar is arguably the pulse of the court. No matter what people choose to eat, they congregate here or have drinks brought to their tables. Specializing in craft cocktails (you should see their bartenders shake), and beer and wine on tap, it’s run by The Barley’s Justin Keys, meaning it’s easy to borrow a keg from next door.thecommonbar.com
Steamboat move: I moved here in 2017 to buy The Barley. I grew up in Colorado and when my best friend moved here I visited as often as I could. Eventually, I had my “existential crisis,” ditched my old career, and started a brewery. Fate plopped me right where I wanted to be.
What’s your bar/restaurant background? I worked restaurants in college a bit, but mostly delivering late night calzones. Otherwise, my expertise was in construction management. I worked a brewery in Denver for six months, but most of my bar experience has been at The Barley.
Uniqueness: We wanted to provide two relatively opposing concepts: highquality cocktails, but casually and efficiently. Instead of trying to define what we want, it’s easier to define what we don’t want to be. You know when you’re in a big city cocktail bar and you have no idea what half the words on the menu are, the cocktail is $20, and you order another one as soon as your first arrives because they take so long? That’s not us. We provide delicious, unique, consistent and approachable cocktails. We take the “nose in the air” out of the cocktail bar.
Best seller: Tied between our super simple, clean and delicious house marg (I like it with a mezcal floater and tajin rim), and the cocktail named after our GM, the Tallahassee, which is fluffy, floral and delicious.
Commons atmosphere: I love it. We tried to keep little bits of the Ghost Ranch and Off the Beaten Path, its former tenants, while updating the feel and brightening it up. We tried to elevate everything, and then turn it back down a notch. It’s fast casual, but nicer than that. Casual, communal, and unique.
Owned by Monique Baker and Dane Findley, Sizzlin’ Jamaican Cuisines serves up authentic, fast casual Jamaican cuisine, from curry goat to Jamaican patties and more. Its best-sellers, says Findley, are its jerk chicken and slow braised oxtail. Want to make your own at home? They have a store, M&D Jamaican Delights, at 440 S. Lincoln. Below, we catch up with Findley. sizzlinjamaica.com
Steamboat move: Most of my family members are from New York and New Jersey but I had a cousin living here and she convinced me to visit. I fell in love with it and moved here in 2015. This town offers tremendous opportunities if you’re willing to work hard. I’m actually on my third business, along with my Jamaican grocery store and cleaning business.
Restaurant background: I come from a long family history of restaurateurs. My cousin owns two restaurants in the Bronx, and my stepdad owns a Jamaican restaurant in New Jersey. Several family members in Jamaica have also owned restaurants and I’ve seen how they operate. A restaurant is more than just food. It’s about the customer service, the experience and how you make people feel.
Uniqueness: We carry a wide range of authentic Jamaican dishes cooked traditionally, all using natural herbs and spices. While the meats are hard to source, our curry goat and oxtails are the best around. Our Jamaican beef patties are great, as well as our Sizzlin’ Jerk Chicken, Jerk Pork and Jerk Wings. But we’re so much more than our food—we try to bring people together through our culture, which also includes our music and history.
Commons atmosphere: It’s truly one of a kind, with such a diverse selection of vendors and food options all under the same roof. There’s an option for everyone.
Steamboat props: There’s so much to love about this community,
including its unwavering support for local businesses. We also have a beautiful farmers market and free concerts in the summer, lots of great food options and a warm, welcoming spirit. It all makes Steamboat a great place to live and raise your family.
Favorite activities: The bowling alley, playing soccer and going to church at the Christian Center. The spirit of the church community, and the support they give everyone, makes you feel like you’re part of the family. It keeps you grounded, showing that all things are possible.
Unknown info nugget: I love to run. I did track and field in school and became pretty good at it.
Yield is a farm-to-counter bowl and burrito experience, operated by Bryan Baker, who also owns and runs Corner Slice Pizza just a burrito’s toss away. steamboatcommons.com
Steamboat move: I moved here in 2017 to chase my dream of opening a restaurant and being closer to family.
Restaurant background: My first job was at age 15 running food and busing tables at a BBQ joint and I’ve been in the industry ever since.
Uniqueness: Farm-to-counter bowls and burritos—local fuel to keep you
on the go in the Yampa Valley. Featuring a plant-based approach, we welcome most any dietary restrictions without compromising taste or substance. And you can add on some local carnivorous options.
Commons atmosphere:
It’s the perfect addition to the downtown dining and gathering scene. The preservation of the Ghost Ranch’s character, focus on the community and downtown location make it the perfect destination for any occasion.
Steamboat props: The access to the outdoors.
Favorite activities:
Snowboarding, biking, running rivers, the Howler, and the ice rink’s bumper cars.
Unknown info nugget: Carly and I had a baby in May!
friend Patrick Ayres in January 2023. clydespies.com
Uniqueness: Alec: We adhere to strict traditional methods in their preparation and baking. Our dough is made from authentic Italian “00” flour with a cold fermentation for 48-72 hours; our sauce is made from Italian San Marzano tomatoes; and our toppings are made with labor-intensive care. The pizza is assembled after hand stretching each dough and then fired in a 750-degree oven burning only Colorado peach wood for just a few minutes.
Clyde’s Pies whips up Italiano-style, wood-fired pizza that you take home from the alley window or get it delivered upstairs to the Commons. It was founded by Clyde Nelson, who arrived with his family in 1989 as executive chef at The Home Ranch. After retiring, he started Clyde’s Pies, fueled by a love for wood-fired cookery, selling it to his son, Alec, and his
Restaurant background: Alec: Clyde spent 30 years at the Home Ranch as their executive chef, building a wood-fired brick oven as the centerpiece of its outdoor kitchen and quickly becoming passionate about that method of cooking. I learned a lot from him over the years, mostly from being kitchens as a kid. But I’ve served tables in a few restaurants, helped my dad open Clyde’s Pies and have learned a lot about the art of making Neapolitan pizza.
Patrick: I’ve been in the restaurant industry in some form or another since I was 16. My first job was as a
busser at the Yacht Club, where Aurum is now. Since then, I’ve cooked in Seattle, Louisiana and around Colorado. I opened Cloverdale Farm and Restaurant here in 2016 and have been working with the Clyde’s Pies team nearly three years, buying into the company in January.
Commons atmosphere: Alec: We love it. It’s in a great building with a lot of personality and offers something for everyone and every occasion. It can be a great place for work or meetings during the day and turns into a fun lively bar in the evenings. It’s got big open spaces great for socializing as well as cozy, more private corners on the upper level. And the deck with a view of Howelsen is awesome in the summer.
Steamboat props: Alec: Steamboat is a beautiful place full of genuinely friendly and active people. I love having the opportunity for so many outdoor activities right at my fingertips, including mountain biking, paddleboarding, hiking, camping, skiing and more. I’m also a big fan of the adult and youth sports communities. I’ve enjoyed coaching
young soccer players, play in the adult soccer league, and just got back into hockey thanks to the encouragement of friends.
Patrick: I like the summer.
Favorite activities: Alec: Hiking, mountain biking, soccer and paddleboarding.
Patrick: Live music, pickleball, tennis and golf.
Poke the Bear was conceived by owner Jake Carson to cater to the local community and broaden the dining scene with a new concept of Asian-inspired poke bowls. @pokethebearsteamboat
Uniqueness: In Hawaii, “poke” means to cut something. We slice and marinate normally uncooked seafood (ahi tuna or salmon) and mix it with sauces and heaps of veggies along with sushi-inspired ingredients. We then drizzle a sauce on top, from savory umami to spicy. It’s a combination of Hawaiian and Japanese influences that is nutritious and delicious. We love to make people smile about what they’re eating.
Restaurant background: Combined, we have 50-plus years of restaurant and culinary experience from around the world. We use fresh, farm-grown ingredients, along with line-caught fish.
Menu faves: Joining our build-your-own bowls are such signature bowls as Lemme Shoyu (white rice, ahi tuna, sesame shoyu sauce, cucumbers, edamame, seaweed salad, pickled ginger, scallions, Sriracha mayo, and topped with crispy onions, sesame seeds and wasabi peas); as well as ever-changing garnishes, including orchids, tropical umbrellas and even an occasional Swedish Fish or two.
Commons atmosphere: It’s perfect for our concept, and we love sharing space with like-minded chefs and entrepreneurs, who all drive business together.
Steamboat props: What’s not to like?
It’s absolutely beautiful, and it’s great to have an awesome downtown community whose members actually have a say in what they want in their town. It’s rare to see a community care for proper growth without ruining the vibe. We hope we’re contributing to what separates us from other towns.
Steamboat is full of foods that speak to the soul, but how do they advertise their near-spiritual goodness while crammed onto a menu that will only be glanced at and then cast aside and smudged with ketchup? This is where the importance of a name comes in. So, behold our tribute to the delectable diction behind some of town’s odder-named dining and drink choices.
Most dishes at Back Door Grill make great hangover food, but perhaps none are as functional as the Holy Spicoli. The burger comes complete with American cheese, a corn dog, fried egg, bacon, lettuce and fry sauce. It’s named for “Spicoli,” a.k.a. Cole Townsend, an employee from Back Door’s early days. After a long night out and about, Townsend would habitually find himself at one of Steamboat’s local Kum & Go convenience stores, loading up a corn dog with nacho cheese. “It got to the point where at both Kum & Go’s in town, I knew how to change the cheese dispenser,” Townsend says. When Back Door randomly received a box of sample corn dogs, Townsend knew what to do. He created a corn dog sandwich that, over time, evolved into the hearty heap of protein known as the Holy Spicoli today.
This cocktail is a mix of iced chai, nutmeg, Colorado cream and rum, which makes it perfect for warming up after stumbling around in the snow — or ice cold Yampa River. “You get to have a lot of fun with bar stuff, because you get to be more cheeky,” says owner Justin Keys of the naming process. Keys likes to surprise his friends by naming menu items in their honor. This one highlights his sister, as she and a friend came up with it.
The Goomba sandwich at How Ya Doin’ Pizza is stuffed full of ham, pepperoni, salami, provolone, banana peppers, lettuce, tomato and onion, all smothered with Italian dressing. And it comes with fries or a house salad. “It’s my favorite sandwich on the menu,” says How Ya Doin’ general manager Sean Moore. “It’s got a lot of flavors, and it’s got a little kick to it with the banana peppers. It’s like a traditional Italian with a step up.” While the restaurant’s team doesn’t quite remember how the name came to be, the sandwich was invented by an employee who liked to keep things unique, Moore says. If you really want to dig deeper, a Goomba is also a fictional mushroom-like species from Nintendo’s Mario franchise; Sicilian for “mate” or “fellow,” referring to Italian-American men; and means “mushroom” in Hungarian or “chestnut person” in Japanese. But we’ll just take the sandwich.
This sandwich is too extravagant to put on the formal menu, but it’s been a local’s favorite for years. Yampa Sandwich employee Taylor Leary invented the snack when he worked there as a high school student, dressing it up with roast beef, chipotle mayo, avocado, roasted red pepper, cheddar cheese and tomato. The sandwich is one of Yampa Sandwich Co.’s secret menu items that are named for their clever creators. “It’s all community driven,” says co-owner David Pepin. “When you can tie your community and employees into menu creation, it makes it fun.”
“Seinfeld” fans have a way of finding one another, especially when their meeting place revolves around a selection of beers honoring the show’s most iconic punch lines. “‘Hipster Doofus’ is great for that beer since it’s a high alcohol by volume IPA,” says Storm Peak managing partner Wyatt Patterson. “If you aren’t careful, it can turn you into a hipster doofus, which is, of course, Elaine’s favorite put-down for Kramer.” Hipster Doofus embodies ‘90s nostalgia combined with the modern infatuation with local brews. And, of course, don’t forget the Serenity Now, a red ale kettle-soured with Greek yogurt fermented with 850 pounds of plum puree.
Artisanal wood-fired pizzas and tasty lagers and IPAs get you stoked?
Mountain Tap’s cozy taproom and patio downtown at 910 Yampa Ave serves up innovative beers, a full menu and a family-friendly atmosphere. It carries 12 taps, pouring everything from hoppy IPAs to porters, ales and lagers (Swillin’ fave: the Macaroon). A giant wood-fired oven cranks out homespun ‘zas, and a firepit-lined patio fuels the social vibe. “Our beers, cuisine and casual ambience all depict our mountain town atmosphere,” says owner Rich Tucciarone, who’ll likely be dripping wet from surfing the A-Wave a stroll away. Seasonal line-ups include its Prickly Pedal, a benefit for Routt County Riders concocted with prickly pear and guava; Get Out!, a Belgianstyle saison brewed to celebrate Colorado Public Lands Day; the Hala Lima, a session light lager with a hint of key lime, to benefit Friends of the Yampa; and BotanicALE, an assertively hopped IPA aged with local wildflower honey and fresh rosemary sprigs. Bonus: its delectable popcorn spice is now available to bring home. mountaintapbrewery.com
With a new roof-top bar and Bus Stop on-mountain location, there’s a lot brewing at Storm Peak Brewing Co., located west of town at 1885 Elk River Plaza. Swill down its lagers and pilsners, as well as its Maestro, an IPA heavily hopped with citra and chinook, with flaked wheat and caramel malts. “It helps refuel those carbs you burn up adventuring outside,” says co-owner Wyatt Patterson, also touting their lighter IPAs. “We’ve also had great response to our seltzer, a great option for those who don’t like ‘beer.’” Storm Peak makes its beer in a 4,600-square-foot facility with 20 taps and garage doors that open to a large patio with yurt and fire pit. Other mainstays include its Mad Creek Kolsch, Urban Sombrero Lager, sourfruited Serenity Now and Insanity Later, guava-kettle-soured Hoochie Mama and Zomb Brown Ale. “We love sharing our passion for beer — there’s almost always something new to enjoy,” says Patterson. stormpeakbrewing.com
Located downtown on 5th Street and Lincoln Avenue, Mahogany Ridge, owned by longtime locals Charlie and Nancy Noble, is Steamboat’s oldest brewery, serving up craft-made brewhas in the heart of downtown. A longtime locals’ favorite is its potent Alpenglow, a rich, full-bodied, amber ale with a toasted malt character and sweet finish. Use it to wash down its “dipping menu’s” 20 different sauces. “The beers are great and it’s not your typical brewpub fare,” says Charlie, touting its fish and chips, burgers, ribs and long-loved Onion Ale soup. Bonus: one of the best happy hours in town. mahoganyridgesteamboat.com
Headquartered in Hayden just two miles from the airport, Yampa Valley Brewing Co. churns out delicious craft brews at its downtown Tap House and Brewery. Its new Steamboat Hop House location at 1125 Lincoln Ave. downtown now brings its swillicious selections to the Yampa Valley. To keep its three tap houses supplied (including Craig’s YVBC Barrel Room), it recently completed a new 1,500-squarefoot brew house in Hayden, increasing its production threefold. Year-round favorites include Yampa Valley Blonde, Sandhill Crane Red and Coal Miner Stout, with plenty of special seasonal rotations. Swillin’ fave: the orange-hued Space Dog IPA, with equal parts piney, citrus and herbal hops combining for vibrant flavor, with hints of light caramel. yampavalleybrew.com
Steamboat’s newest distillery, Mythology, is an award-winning craft whiskey and gin distillery originally from Denver, now making Steamboat its new home. Based in the former Butcherknife Brewery headquarters at 2875 Elk River Road, it offers an inside cocktail bar as well as outside terraced whiskey garden where customers can enjoy craft cocktails, local craft beer, boutique wines and an Asian soup dumpling restaurant. Recognized as one of Colorado’s top distilleries, its spirits have won more than 50 awards, with mainstays including its Best Friend Bourbon, Hell Bear American Whiskey and Needle Pig Gin. It also offers local bus rides as well as tours of its distillery and barrel-aging rack house. “We love it here,” says co-owner Scott Yeates. “Steamboat offers an incredible opportunity to be involved and have an impact in our community.” mythologydistillery.com
Steamboat spirits purveyor Routt Distillery is a “grain-to-glass” distillery specializing in gin, vodka and single malt whiskey, complete with a tasting room and deck. The grain is sourced from southern Colorado and the Front Range, with everything made in-house at its production facility and tasting room at 975 Captain Jack Drive. It focuses on local agriculture products, with its bottles even featuring a 1920 map of Routt County and its spent grain fed to animals at Hayden Fresh Farm. Owner Brad Christensen also makes a Routt County single malt whiskey with locally grown barley, as well as an absinthe and serviceberry bitters recipe and an agave spirit and rum. Bonus: spend $100 or more at CAA and receive a coupon for a free cocktail. routtdistillery.com
Unleash your inner sommelier at Steamboat Winery, located at Two Brothers Ranch 20 minutes away. Due to Steamboat’s short growing season, it purchases its grapes from Sonoma and Napa, but makes its wines here in the Yampa Valley. All of its labels center around Steamboat, including River Angler Cabernet Sauvignon, Slopeside White Chardonnay, Ranch Dog Rose’ of Pinot Noir, The Daisies Sauvignon Blanc, Expert Slope Syrah, The Aspens Barbera, Barn Red Blend, The Antlers Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Rodeo Merlot, and a Bunny Slope sparkling grape juice. Its wines are also available for purchase locally (as well as wine and chocolate gift baskets), as are private in-home tastings with charcuterie by appointment. steamboatwinery.com
It ain’t no myth…Steamboat’s getting another uber-sweet distillery, with Mythology, an award-winning craft whiskey and gin distillery from Denver, making Steamboat its new home as of this summer. Its new digs—including distillery and the Confluence bar, tasting room and outdoor whiskey garden—is at the former Butcherknife Brewery headquarters at 2875 Elk River Road. Co-funder Scott Yeates has lived in Steamboat with his wife, Lauren, since 2017 and is cork-popping excited to base Mythology in Steamboat after founding it with partners Scott Burg and Mike Zakhem in Denver in 2018. When he saw the 5,000-square-foot Butcherknife property was available, he knew it was the answer. “We’re super excited,” he says. “We’ll have the full guest experience cocktail bar, whiskey garden and restaurant where customers can enjoy craft cocktails, local craft beer, boutique wines and an Asian soup dumpling restaurant. We want to create a community gathering space for people to come together and have a great time.” Recognized as one of Colorado’s top distilleries, its spirits have won more than 50 awards, with mainstays including its Best Friend Bourbon, Hell Bear American Whiskey and Needle Pig Gin. It also experiments with different finishing barrels—including one bourbon batch aged on the Mississippi River for five years, rising and falling with the water level before being moved into Jamaican rum barrels. And yes, the distillery’s dog name is (wait for it)… Whiskey! mythologydistillery.com
Mythology uses sonic aging in its rackhouse to stimulate whiskey and wood interaction during the cold winter months when the wood barrels contract—so don’t be surprised to hear music emanating from inside to keep the whiskey active.
“Mujer Americana!” Uh, that’s “American Woman” in Spanish for all you Luddites. But it’s also the name of a new tequila launched by Steamboat’s own American Woman Spirit Co., which is now entering the agave market for the first time. Coming this summer, its new Tequila Blanco, Reposado and Anejo brings forth a unique and premium tequila from Jalisco, Mexico. What’s different about it? One thing, says owner and longtime Steamboat local and blues guitarist John Lupori, is that it’s aged in its own bourbon barrels. “It’s made from the best blue weber agave plants and produced in a unique process that uses less energy and less water than traditional methods,” he says, adding the result is a pure extract of agave and resulting blanco. “Then, we age it in fine barrels with
the staves of our whiskey barrels to combine American Woman Whiskey with Mujer Americana Tequila.” Joining the company’s American Woman Straight Bourbon and Special Release Rye, Mujer Americana Tequila also helps contribute toward the company’s give back program to the National Association of Woman Artists, sponsoring women sculptors in their pursuit of their dreams. Que bueno! americanwomanwhiskey.com
Bringing town’s official count to nine, there’s a new liquor store downtown, with Ski Town Wine and Spirits opening this spring at 1107 Lincoln Ave. Owned by wine pros AJ Fossum, Mike Lang and Andre Swanson, who also own Ski Town Wine and Spirits in the Steamboat Grand and The Collective Wine Bar on Ski Time Square, the store prides itself on selection, convenience and service, with all of its products personally vetted by its workers. Including a “fine wine room,” craft beer and specialty liquor, the new downtown location is in a refurbished building and is open from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. every day, with ample parking. And it benefits from six sommeliers on staff researching all of its products. “We want to be that neighborhood bottleshop for the downtown community,” says Swanson. skitownwineandspirits.com
While you might not be mountain biking up to them on the Pioneer trail due to chairlift construction (thank God, as that was never that fun anyway), Sunset Happy Hours are back in full swing Thursday and Sunday evenings this summer from June 18 to Sept. 3 (Sundays only through Oct. 1), with live music at the top of the gondola at Thunderhead Lodge, where everything from sunsets to suds and swing dancing all converge for a fun-filled evening. Live music runs from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m., with the last upload taking place at 7:30 p.m. Pass holders ride for free and non-pass holders pay $30 to ride up to Thunderhead Lodge. Guests are encouraged to park for free in the Upper Knoll lot. steamboat.com
The latest hip rage? Negronis. And no one does it better than How Ya Doin’ Pizza’s Pepperoni Negroni, which both rhymes, has meat and is damn good. How Ya Doin’s cocktail artist created the drink as a version of a classic negroni with a unique spin. “Being a pizza joint, we just called it the ‘pepperoni negroni,’ and why not have some pepperoni in it while we’re at it?” says general manager Sean Moore. The drink has gin, sweet vermouth, Campari and orange twirl, along with a little snack of pepperoni on top for a savory touch on the refreshing classic.
First it was 3.2 beer (remember those urine-inducing days?), then regular, then craft. Now, any store with a beer license in town, such as our Big Box grocery stores, can also add wine to the mix (“Let’s see…what goes good with paper towels?”) But local liquor stores aren’t exactly popping the cork in celebration. Central Park Liquor, in fact, took out a full-page ad in the paper this spring, reading (with six exclamation points): “Don’t be fooled! Don’t let corporate big box stores ruin locally owned stores! CPL will beat grocery/chain store pricing! Keep local dollars in Routt County! Service, Selection, Knowledge and Pricing! You won’t get those at the grocery!” So, when you’re planning on swillin’ and chillin’, please support your smaller local dealer. “Wine in grocery stores is just another example of corporate America taking over middle America,” says Rick Pighini of West End Liquors. “Years ago, my mother told me her butcher closed shop. Meanwhile she was starting to buy her meat products at Costco. As it turns out her butcher was working there.”
Even if we can’t wrap our hands around its big-chested model, at least we can around the beer’s taste and cause. This summer, Yampa Valley Brewing Co. debuts its Big Joe Ale as well as a limited edition glass benefitting Friends of the Yampa. “We’re stoked to partner with Yampa Valley Brewing, which is donating
$15 of every glass sale to Friends of the Yampa during June,” says FOY’s Katie Berning. “It should make its way into many river rat kitchens.” Named after a rapid on the Yampa River in Dinosaur National Monument, this light-bodied Pale Ale uses the innovative hopping methods to preserve the hop oils, promoting vibrant citrus,tropical, resiny flavors and aromas—all while limiting bitterness and maintaining a light malt body (despite the heavyset body on the label).
Call it T-Bar North. Steamboat-born Chapman “Chappy” Geer and Coleman Holloway have turned a two-story log building in the Hahns Peak Village into the True North Adventure Lodge, complete with the new TNTBar. While the lodge includes a great room with a wood stove and breakfast bar (and large dining area on the second level), the TNTBar (True North T-bar) is a creative, casual finedining and drinking experience. Holloway, who partners with his brother Tres in the T Bar at the base of Steamboat Resort, says the restaurant is a sister to the T Bar, only with a much larger kitchen. The menu includes everything from Rösti cheese on Sundays (carried over from T Bar) to pulled pork sandwiches, burger specials, chicken/tofu bahn mi, cold summer ramen, birria tacos and more.
are passionate about designing architecture that enlivens the spirit while being environmentally sustainable. We recognize that we have an opportunity and responsibility to preserve and enhance the very qualities that define place.”
- Michael J.K. Olsen
What better way to celebrate National Tequila Day on July 24 (yes, there is such a thing) than by heading to Truffle Pig for its annual Truffle Pig Tequila Dinner, where you’ll be saying (or slurring) “arriba” aplenty.
The pairing does what Truffle Pig does best: combine delicious drinks and eats, this time focusing on tequila unions with a six-course tasting menu paired with unique pours of its coveted Single Barrel Select Tequilas, amongst others, as well as a handful of scrumptious, tequila-based cocktails. “It’s one of my favorite days of the entire summer,” says owner Scott Engelman.
Those in attendance are seated at family-style tables, complete with a shot and appetizer awaiting, while your tequila sommeliers, including Engelman and reps straight from the distillery in Mexico, give short educational seminars up front. Each time a new course is served, you’re also served a new tequila, complete with a lesson from the experts on what makes it so good and unique. “This year we’re focused on our single barrel program and expressions from different haciendas,” says Engelman, adding that it’s all aged in bourbon barrels, including casks from Buffalo Trace, Sazerac Rye and more. This year’s they’ll also focus on heralded
And in the morning your pairing might be coffee and aspirin.
Corazón tequila from the Sazerac family, as well as Silver and Extra Anejos.
True tequila, you might learn from the pairing, is the oldest spirit in North America, dating back to the 16th Century. And it has to come from a certain region in Mexico, the same area where mariachi music originated, and is made from 100 percent blue weber agave, which takes seven years to grow. It also has to meet certain aging requirements: Blanco is aged zero to three months; Repazado three months to one year; Anejo one to three years; and Extra Anejo three years plus. The real stuff, Engelman adds, grows above 4,600 feet in elevation in the region’s rich volcanic soils.
Whatever your tastes, they’re sure to be placated at the pairing, with Truffle Pig’s executive chefs whipping up courses that mesh with every sip. And if you can’t make this one (seatings are limited to 50), take heart: Truffle Pig is planning to host another Tequila and Tapas tasting in September, as well as specialty wine and spirits dinners throughout the year. Info: trufflepigrestaurant.com
Shaken, not stirred: Kohler working her magic. (970) 879-7278
Open Daily 9am - 8pm 1450 S. Lincoln Ave, Steamboat Springs, CO
Slopeside bartender Brittany Kohler has a way of bringing people together. “Most of us don’t have biological families out here, so we’ve created our own,” Kohler says.
Indeed, when walking into Slopeside, Kohler’s infectious enthusiasm and sidesplitting laugh is there to greet you. “Happiness is contagious,” she adds. “I like to have a good time and hope that allows others to have a good time right along with me. In this line of work, your attitude makes the difference.””
For Kohler, originally from Alton, Illinois, the hospitality business has always been second nature. Her bartending roots started in 2011 at “The Loading Dock,” her late grandfather’s regional staple in Grafton, Illinois, after being honorably discharged from the Marine Corps. Coming from a big family, Kohler moved to Steamboat in the fall of 2016 and started working at Slopeside three years later, quickly becoming part of its family in roles from server to manager. She also helps run the Warhorse Ranch equine therapy program, which offers horse therapy sessions for those dealing with trauma.
Bartending has been her forte for the last three years, which she says is “right down my alley.”
“I love people,” she says. “I pull people out of their shells and make friends anytime, anywhere.”
Her favorite part about working at Slopeside? The locals and regulars, reliving “the good ol’ days” of Steamboat. “I love bringing people together,” she says. “Everyone has a unique story to tell.”
“This signature cocktail is probably my most suggested and the prettiest on our menu— because, yes, that absolutely matters. We use Stoli Blueberry and club soda with a splash of lemon juice and add the blueberries, giving the drink a beautiful purplish color. The presentation oftentimes grabs the attention of others nearby and compels them to try it.”
“I’m not typically one to choose gin, but our Lemon Bruise is one of my all-time favorites and I always get positive feedback. We use Hendricks gin mixed with club soda, a splash of lemon juice, and a St. Germaine floater. That last step is the anchor and excellent after a day outside.”
“I love me some Chai tea! Even more so when liquor is involved. It’s as simple as Steamboat Roasters coffee, RumChata, and 477 Distilling Chai Spirit. I’ve only heard positive feedback on this one. Add whip cream for extra sweetness. It’s warm, boozy, and caffeinated—what more could you ask for?”
Sure, the regular Happy Hour haunts are great and all, but how about some that are a little different than all the others? Following is a nonrun-of-the-mill roundup of Happy Hours around town that you might just find will keep you there a bit longer than 60 minutes.
Steee-rike!! You’ll be yelling that and doing your dorky little moon walk celebration at SnowBowl Steamboat, whose Happy Hour runs Wed-Fri from 4-6 p.m., with half price appetizers and $2 off well cocktails, draft and canned beers, house wine. Also look for cosmic bowling and a cornhole series. Hit it on Wednesday and it coincides with its free Summer Music Festival beginning June 14, running every week through Sept. 27.
Yes, the ski resort’s Sunset Happy Hours are back in full swing, offering live music and sweeping views with your IPAs. They run Thursdays and Sundays from June 18 to Sept. 3 (Sundays only through Oct. 1), with live music from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. “They’re super popular—we’re excited to have them back,” says the resort’s Maren Francosi, who you just might find on the dance floor.
Lupita’s: Get out of town and head south to Oak Creek, where Lupita’s offers margs, nachos and more—and often live music—right on its outside deck. It’s classic Oak Creek old school and the perfect spot for some R&R after your South Routt adventure in the Flat Tops and beyond.
Try some suds and wine-sipping after supping. You can happy hour from 4-6 p.m. after you SUP at Pearl Lake, thanks to a liquor permit held by Paddleboard Adventure Co. “It’s pretty sweet,” says owner Danny Tebbenkamp, adding the retro-fitted bar/trailer comes complete with a fenced-in turf yard and will feature occasional live music. “And the sunsets up there are awesome.” The rental kiosk and bar are
located on the old boat ramp on the point, a veritable oasis overlooking the lake. Bonus: Rent the giant SUPSquatch for float-and-bloat parties.
Not to undermine our fine, local Happy Hour providers, but with regulations easing up after the pandemic about open containers in city parks, you can also now embrace your own dirtbag/BYO happy time in our beloved parks. A few of our faves:
Fishing, supping and sipping wine at Fetcher Park
Tossing horseshoes and beers at Li’l Toots
IPAs in Elk Park
PBRs at our riverside benches
Emerald stroll (we won’t tell you our favorite spot, but find one yourself by strolling up Emerald to take in views of all the Who’s down in town below)
Sure, normal hour happy hours are great and all… but how often do you arrive too late? Fear not. You’ll never do that at this at local hotspot O’Neil’s, whose Late Night Happy Hour runs from from 10 p.m.-12 a.m., until the cows truly come home.
$4 Well Drinks / $6 Double Wells
$2 Off Drafts, Micro & Imports
$7 The Dirty Duke, Bud Heavy-Shot of Jamo
$6 5oz. House Wines/$9 8oz House Wine
$6 Car Bombs
Jumbo Pretzel $7 (plus Irish Banger, $10)
Potato Skins $8
Fried Chicken Sliders $9
Hand Breaded Chicken Tender $6
Irish Mac and Cheese $7
Fish and Chips $7
Classic Cheeseburger $7
Supping and chardonnay at Pearl Lake.
Where: 735 E Jefferson Ave., Hayden Web: annadispensary.com
What: Blue Heron’s sister dispensary Anna (“a play off the word “cannabis,” says co-owner Mark Wellstone) is fueling the cannabis stoke in Hayden at 735 E. Jefferson St. — right next to the “windmill” property — carrying its selection of high-quality flower. Like Blue Heron, it’s a “small and mellow” boutique-style pot shop, serving up all-organic flower and locally sourced concentrates. “It’s very similar in terms of what we offer,” says Wellstone, who operates the shop with partner Cherie Sanders. “It’s Hayden’s first dispensary and we hope to be an important part of Hayden’s revitalization and are excited to provide top quality service to the community.”
Where: 3150 Ingles Lane Web: mybillo.com
What: Carrying a complete line of flower, concentrates, edibles, topicals and more, Billo Dispensary prides itself on having a friendly and knowledgeable staff and the highest quality cannabis. Located on the east end of town, the first dispensary you see after driving down Rabbit Ears Pass, its products are as prime as its location, with the company winning multiple awards for its locally grown strains. In this year’s THC Classic, the state’s only blind-judging cannabis competition hosted by Rooster Magazine, Billo won Best Indica Strain (1st Place – Banana Mac); Best Flash Frozen (2nd Place – Durban Diesel Diamonds and Sauce); Best Disposable Vape (2nd Place –Grapple x Jealousy); and more. Billo also carries products from brands like Wana, Wyld, 1906, Keef, Escape Artists, Green Dot Labs and more. “It’s an honor to be recognized now for the third year in a row,” says head of grow operations Dave Kulberg, who helped the company debut six new strains this fall.
Where: 100 W. Main St., Oak Creek |Web: blueherondispensary.com
What: Oak Creek’s Blue Heron is known for having one of the best selections of the highest quality flower in northwest Colorado. The small, boutique-style pot shop offers all-organic flower, and the concentrates are locally sourced. The dispensary features a variety of products from farms all over the state, including Binske chocolate bars and concentrates, Honest Marijuana Company’s flower and joints, and Wild Fire, a newer Steamboat company featuring vape pens and
concentrates. “We enjoy catering to locals on a first-name basis,” says owner Mark Wellstone, who named the company in honor of a blue heron that always on the water when he went boating with his late friend Matt Lansing. “We’re the hidden gem in Rout County, and carry the best of the best.”
Where: 1755 Lincoln Ave. Web: goldenleaf.co
What: Located on the west end of town, Golden Leaf cultivates cannabis with nutrient-rich soil, pure Rocky Mountain water and advanced growing techniques to produce some of the highest quality cannabis in Colorado. Whether you’re looking to enhance your Yampa Valley experience or help an ailment, Golden Leaf strives to provide a comfortable and informative experience for everyone. It recently completed an onsite grow facility with Manufactured Infused Product (MIP) license behind its retail store at 1755 Lincoln Ave. and is riding high on a slew of awards, including 1st Place Sativa for its Lemon Poison at the 2022 THC Rooster as well as 1st Place Hybrid for its Dry Ice, which also earned 2nd at the 2022 Hemp Connoisseur THC Championships. It also appeared on the Discovery+ Channel’s THC show, focusing on dispensary remodels. With friendly, service-oriented budtenders, it also offers a complimentary shuttle service and online recreational ordering.
Where: 2093 Curve Plaza, #C-103
Web: tumbleweed420.com
What: Proud to be owned and operated by females, Tumbleweed— named after the namesake plant its owners saw blowing across the highway when they moved west from Minnesota—began in Parachute, Colo., in 2016. Growing like a weed itself, it’s since rolled across Colorado to include eight dispensaries in Frisco, Edwards, Carbondale, DeBeque, Eagle, Craig and Steamboat (which it formed by purchasing local dispensary Rocky Mountain Remedies in 2019). Its Steamboat team has 13 years of experience managing other dispensaries in Routt County, so is well-versed in understanding the wants of locals and visitors. It proudly serves the Colorado high country with quality green bud, edibles, topicals, CBD products, concentrates and everything in between. (It also has the world’s first drive-thru dispensary.)
Okay, maybe we’ve had a little too much ourselves. But we couldn’t help playing around with the names of our local weed shops, from how they got their monikers to what else they sound like.
Why the name? A play on the word “cannabis.”
Confused on the Web With: Anna, from Disney’s Frozen, and the good ol’ town of Anna, Texas.
Movie: 2019 action-thriller “Anna,” starring Sasha Luss as a government assassin (33% on Rotten Tomatoes).
Rhymes with: Nana (who was born way before cannabis became legal).
Why the name? Other than being tangentially related to a “billow” of smoke, an agency came up with it back in the day.
Confused on the Web With: Zillo (for buying edifices instead of edibles).
Movie: “Beautiful Billo,” a film made in 2022 featuring a pregnant Punjabi woman who lives in an empty house in the UK, with chaos ensuing when a newlywed couple moves into the same mansion.
Rhymes with: Pillow (what you put your head on after too much Indica).
Why the name? “It’s a bird with significant spiritual meaning, in honor of friend Matt Lansing, who we lost far too early in life.”
Confused on the Web With: The bird, and Blue Heron Homes in Las Vegas.
Movie: Blue Heron Films has produced and distributed several features, including “Charlie’s Christmas Wish” (Lionsgate), “The Next 24” and “The Vindication of Teri Horton.”
Rhymes with: Glue Baron (which you might use to fix your bong).
Why the name? Owner’s perogative.
Confused on the Web With: Half marathon in Aspen.
Movie: Gold Leaf TV series (based in Taiwan), James Bond’s “Gold Finger” and “On Golden Pond.”
Rhymes with: Sold on spleef!
Why the name? Named after the namesake plant its owners saw blowing across the highway when they moved west from Minnesota.
Confused on the Web With: Tiny Home company and Tex-Mex grill in Indiana.
Movie: “Tumbleweed,” a 1953 American Western film starring Audie Murphy, Lori Nelson and Chill Wills.
Rhymes with: Bumblebee (which might fly a little funny after sucking these flowers).
Walk into a dispensary and the chortle choices can be as mindboggling as their effects. Behold: a cheat sheet in layman’s terms on what to expect (but ask your friendly budtender for more info):
Anna manager Kelly Chesna, 34, loves helping customers select from Anna’s 25 strains and leaving (and returning) to the Hayden dispensaries with smiles on their faces. We caught up with her to get to know her a little better.
When did you move to Steamboat and what were you doing beforehand?
My husband and I moved to Hayden when we bought our first home together in 2017. I received my Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2011 and spent most of my time since graduation as a bedside nurse in acute care hospital settings.
plenty of time to feel the effects. We offer a range of options for new and experienced users.
Indica: The mnemonic device for remembering this one is “in the couch,” as that’s where it often puts you. It provides a relaxing and calming high, or a “body high,” and is great for insomnia, stress, anxiety, pain and more.
What do you like about budtending?
I enjoy cannabis and sharing my joy of it with others—it’s fun. “Show and tell” from our display case is one of my favorite tasks. It’s fun to let people see and smell the buds up close. I love to see customers’ smiles when we land on one they can’t wait to try. I enjoy when locals come into the shop after they’ve had a chance to try a product I’ve recommended, usually for pain or inflammation. It’s gratifying when it exceeds their expectations and improves their quality of life. I’ve had customers successfully use cannabis as an alternative to narcotics after surgery, and that to me is really promising for the future of cannabis.
What are some of your newer products?
Despite that uplifting high you’re still not as smart or funny as you think you are.
Sativa: Provides an uplifting, cerebral or a “head” high (note: you’re still not as smart or funny as you think you are). Good for outdoor activities (but play it safe), creativity and listening to music. We can’t think of a mnemonic device for this one.
These cross-bred Indica/Sativa plants serve up a combined head and body high. Good for a lot of things, they can be weighted on either side of the equation.
I’m stoked that we offer Lowell Smokes pre-roll joint packs—including sustainable packaging, magnetic closure, matches with match strike, and blend of two to three strains for a reliable and feel-good experience. I have had some very happy customers come back for these.
What would you tell a newcomer to try first?
Finding out how someone prefers to consume is a good place to start. As a customer, the more you can tell me about the experience you’re looking for the better I can recommend products that’ll give you what you want. My general rule of thumb for new users (or new to our altitude) is to start small and give yourself
Which strains are the most popular?
Colorado Cream Soda (LoCol Love) plus Watermelon Punch (Antero Sciences). Furious George (Twelve Peaks) was one of the most requested and well-loved strains I’ve sold to date. (What can I say? When it’s good, it’s good.) And locals love our ounce special bud. As the weather gets nicer, I have more requests for sativa strains.
What’s the most common question you hear?
Can I and how do I fly with it? The answer is no. Just don’t do it.
What’s something people don’t know about Anna?
Come visit us on your birthday for a free one-gram birthday joint (with purchase). Also, Anna, often thought to be my name, is actually named after the word cannabis.
In the warmer months, I love camping and spending time on the river fishing with my husband, our dog, and our friends and family.
What do you like about Steamboat?
The wildlife, especially the eagles, moose and elk...it always puts a smile on my face to see them.
Elkstone Farm in Steamboat’s Strawberry Park will play host in July to Steamboat’s first Cultivated Cuisine cannabis consumption event, brought to you by Billo.
A self-sustaining ranch, Elkstone grows nutritious, naturally cultivated fresh produce, making it the perfect host for the event, which is rolling out the red carpet to special guests for its first-ever cannabis/food pairing. Taking place Thursday, July 20 (with a second one anticipated in September), the pairing includes a gourmet, seven-course farm-to-table dinner, combined with intermezzos of cannabis sampling, live acoustic entertainment, educational presentations, farm tour, complimentary transportation and more. Elkstone Farm executive chef Russel Goodman will lead the dinner portion, with Billo experts leading the cannabis pairings. “It’s going to set the bar for what an elevated cannabis experience should be,” says Billo’s Charlie Peddie. “It’s shaping up to be an unforgettable experience.”
Elkstone was quick to climb aboard for the event. “Our sustainable farm is the ideal setting for it,” says manager Marco Lam. “We grow a huge variety of vegetables, fruits, mushrooms and herbs using permaculture principles, and guests will be able to learn about our sustainable practices and discover how we cultivate a thriving ecosystem while enjoying a cultured event with BIllo.” Other partners include THC beverage-maker Keef, concentrate provider Green Dot Labs, edibles company Dialed In, and device company Stundenglass. “With their fresh food and wonderful staff, Elkstone is the ideal setting,” adds Dave Wittlinger. “Add the products we’ll pair with their courses and it’s going to be a marquee event.” Info: mybillo.com/cuisine/
“We always write our menus within a week or so of a dinner so we can maximize our fresh harvest. We’ll be serving seven courses of farm-driven, locally sourced food. Historically, we often open with an amuse bouche course, followed by a salad— showcasing the uniqueness of our high-altitude produce. We gently gild our greens with dressings made from the lemons in our greenhouse or our house-crafted kombuchas or red currants from the back porch. Our high altitude results in a sweeter, crisper lettuce, with our salad one of my favorite courses throughout the year—it’s a window into the beating heart of the farm.
“We often make fresh pasta, with flour made from wheat grown by an organic collective and milled in Boulder and eggs from Hayden Fresh Farm. Combined with our fresh vegetables, our pastas highlight the terroir of our farm. Because the dinner is in late July, we’ll also have a broad range of additional produce, including tomatoes, cucumbers, squash, radishes and more. We’ll also serve beef from the cattle that graze in our fields, as well as chickens from Hayden Fresh Farm and lamb from local producers. And our fish is sourced from throughout the Rocky Mountains.
“A variety of fresh fruits will be available in July for desserts as well, including our amazing strawberries, currants, raspberries, blueberries, cherries and other perennials. Then we’ll finish the meal with mignardises, a traditional last bite of something sweet to close the evening. Think handmade chocolates filled with something special from the farm, or candies made with honey from our beehives.
We all know the biking here is Steamboat-licious. So we canvassed a few longtime locals for their favorite rides. (Just don’t tell them we sent you.)
“I love Larry’s Trail on Emerald Mountain, finishing with a quick trip across Prayer Flag Meadow. It reminds of a giant slalom ski race, with its sweeping, banked turns. The meadow feels like my own private oasis. I often stop and marvel at this hidden spot in the middle of town. It’s one of my favorite places in Steamboat.”
“The climb up Buff Pass. It’s on dirt and takes you to some incredible spots. You can ride to it from town and be out in remote wilderness with incredible views pretty quickly. It’s great when the gates are closed, restricting cars and leaving the road entirely to bikers. Plus, it climbs 3,100 feet in 10.5 miles, so it’s solid training.”
“The climb up Mount Werner. It’s arduous but has a great payoff. It’s 3,400 vertical feet to the summit, and possibly that many calories burned. Thankfully, it’s all downhill from there. It has everything — tough climbs, smooth singletrack, tight corners, fast rollers, jumps, boulders, logs, aspens, pines, open meadows and great views.”
“No question — Emerald Mountain is my favorite place to ride in the whole valley. I can coast down from my house and be riding fantastic singletrack in just five minutes. I can ride up there all day and never do the same trail twice. It’s a gem right in our backyard.”
“My favorite ride is right behind my house off Strawberry Park Road, involving various routes up and down Two-track, Upper and Lower Bear, the Elk Park Road and Hot Springs Trail. It’s all great singletrack in a wilderness setting, with everything from open meadows to forests of aspen and pine. Plus, you can soak in the hot springs after your ride.”
“I like the Divide Trail starting from Dumont Lake on top of Rabbit Ears Pass. It has all the elements of a fantastic ride — scenery, little traffic, rolling terrain, limited climbing, singletrack and a few easy technical aspects. You can ride it fast and go for it or take it easy with a lakeside lunch stop along the way.”
“I like Coal Mine-Trout Creek, a mix of dirt and pavement perfect for my cross bike, taking Twentymile Road to County Road # 29 along Trout Creek and into Oak Creek, then south on Highway 131 to the Stagecoach turn-off, the dam and down through Pleasant Valley, taking River Road back to town. Total mileage: 65. Best shared with friends.”
Is it just us, or have you also noticed a new cult in town, one taking your playmates away from trails and the river to someplace else? Yep, pickleball is taking over, drawing singles and couples to tiny courts throughout the valley, from the newly recoined Steamboat Tennis and Pickleball Center to homemade courts on cul de sacs, drawing the whole neighborhood.
What is it, exactly? Invented in 1965 by three middle-aged fathers in Washington— who named it after family dog Pickles—it’s a cross between tennis, ping pong and badminton, played with a paddle and a perforated plastic ball. The reason for its uptick is it’s fun, easy on the body (especially compared to running down tennis lobs), requires little gear, and can be set up virtually anywhere. In fact, it’s the country’s fastest-growing sport, with nearly 9 million active players in 2022, and over 36 million people trying it. It also has two pro tournaments and is bidding for the Olympics. And Steamboat is becoming pickle-central.
“The trend is spot on here,” says the Center’s Meg Tully, whose facility has eight indoor courts, eight outdoor and is adding 12 more. “Our courts, clinics, league and open play sessions were packed all winter, with many events having a waiting list. And now that the sun is out, all of our outdoor courts are bustling.”
Of course, pickleball does has its, uh…stigma. First comes the name, which is a little hard to get over. Couldn’t they have come up with something more gritty sounding, with a little more…vinegar? Names we’ve also heard include “E-tennis” and “marinated cucumber sphere,” but the latter doesn’t really roll off the tongue that well. Still, while it might have once been chided as the official sport of the AARP, or at least the Association of Former Tennis Players (AAFTP), it is gaining steam amongst the youngsters, with the world’s top player, Anna Leigh Waters, only 16 and pulling in six figures. And we all know what players like her drink to rehydrate: pickle juice! Our only other gripes: the rules are kind of wonky, the scoring requires classroom time to figure out, and what’s with the whole “kitchen” thing, and why is it called that? (And aren’t kitchens where everyone is supposed to hang out?)
We have a big water year this season, meaning plenty of floating all season long. But don’t be a gomer and go in the drink unprepared. Following are a few tips from Danny Tebbenkamp, owner of Paddleboard Adventure Co., to stay safe this summer.
Wear your PFD! No exceptions, at all times while on the water.
Don’t go alone! If you have never paddleboarded anything above a Class II, take a lesson from a qualified instructor.
Scout the section of the river you’re going to run (especially if not familiar with it). Be aware that runoff brings trees, logs, and other debris down with it, so strainers and other hazards may exist that weren’t there last season.
Dress the part! This may be common sense, but the water was snow yesterday, so it is very cold. A drysuit provides the best comfort and warmth. For a less expensive option, wear a wetsuit, the thicker the better. Also wear a helmet and closed-toe river shoes. I always wear wool socks with neoprene socks over them for extra warmth. It can also help to have a whistle attached to your PFD.
Use a leash. This is very important. And only use a quick-release leash that attaches to your PFD (not your ankle). I wear a Type V PFD with a quickrelease harness so I double up on safety by attaching my quick-release leash to my safety harness so I have two points of release from my board if needed.
Pack your phone or GPS in a dry bag or waterproof phone case. Also, let people know your plan. A small first aid kit with essentials for survival (firestarter, blanket, food, etc..) is advised for more remote sections.
Paddle the right board! The bigger the whitewater, the more specific the paddleboard should be for it. A lot of people buy big all-around boards with little rocker, thinking they can do everything on it. But in Class III whitewater you need other design features; you need to be stable but also able to control/pivot your board to keep your line or miss hazards. Whitewater boards have rocker for rolling over and punching through waves, and for surfing. Rent one to have better success.
Most importantly, have fun! It’s a rare breed of person that takes on the exhilarating thrill of paddling and punching through the whitewater on a paddleboard. Enjoy being that person!
Wear your PFD. Colorado
State Parks require PFDs to be on the board. I suggest you wear it. If you fall in and your board gets blown away, you’re stuck treading in really cold water without any flotation. It only takes about 5 minutes for hypothermia to set in.
A lot of people are confident in their paddleboarding skills on flat water, but just in case, wear appropriate clothing to keep you warm if you fall in. No cotton or anything that will make you less buoyant.
Leash. A regular surf leash is all you need. If you do fall off your board, you’ll be attached so you can pull it back to you.
Enjoy the views! Crazy, but true. The view from on the lake is always more captivating than from shore. Take a moment or two to put the paddle down and just breathe, relax, and enjoy your surroundings.
June
23 Free Summer Concert Series, Greyboy Allstars with Bonfire Dub,, keepinitfree.com
24 Reds, Whites & Brews Festival, redswhitesandbrews.net
24 STARS Biking the Boat, steamboatstars.com
July
9-10 Art in the Park, steamboatcreates.org
15 Tour de Steamboat, tourdesteamboat.com
21 Free Summer Concert Series, Wood Brothers, keepinitfree.com
22 Spring Creek Memorial (9.5 Mile and 5K), runningseries.com
27-30 Steamboat Mt.Soccer Tournament, steamboatchamber.com
29-30 Yampa Valley Balloon Rodeo
29-30 Steamboat Revolution Enduro, revolutionenduro.com
August
5--6 Opera Steamboat, operasteamboat.org
5-6 Emerald Mountain Epic (50-mile, plus full/ half trail marathons), emeraldmtnepic.org
11 Free Summer Concert Series, St. Paul and the Broken Bones, keepinitfree.com
11-12 Opera Steamboat, operasteamboat.org
11-20 Routt County Fair, routtcountyfair.org
20 SBT GRVL Race (37 to 141 miles), sbtgrvl.com
September
31-3 Steamboat Crane Festival, steamboatchamber.com
3-5 Steamboat Springs Stage Race, bikesteamboat.com
3 Free Summer Concert Series, Yonder Mtn, with Buffalo Commons, keepinitfree.com
3 10K and 10,000 Feet (10K and 5K), runningseries.com
9 Steamboat OktoberWest (presented by The Resort group), steamboatoktoberwest.com
15-16 Run Rabbit Run (100 Mile and 50 Mile), runrabbitrunsteamboat.com
22-29 SAM Plein Air Festival, steamboatartmuseum.org
23 Routt County Humane Society 5K9 Family Fun Run/Walk, runningseries.com
28 Steamboat Food and Wine Fest, steamboatchamber.com
30 Emerald Mountain Trail Run, r unningseries.com
Free, 16-week summer concert series held every Wednesday, from June 14 through Sept. 27, from 6:30-9:30 p.m. Key on DeadPhish Orchestra July 26. Swillin’ tip: Try rafting or tubing there! snowbowlsteamboat.com
Saturdays throughout the summer from June 11- Sept. 24, Yampa Street downtown, mainstreetsteamboat.com
Every Friday and Saturday night, June 23-Aug. 26, steamboatprorodeo.com
Shakespeare comedies, musicals, music in the park and more throughout the summer, pikniktheatre.com
Steamboat OktoberWest (presented by The Resort Group)
“Yum, beer!” (in your best Homer Simpson voice). Celebrating its 14th year, OktoberWest is a celebration of craft beer in beautiful Steamboat on Sat., Sept. 9. Instead of German beer it has a western twist, featuring a Rocky Mountain-crafted beer garden and local food and festivities. Expect over 40 Colorado brewers and the I Love Beef Cook Off.
8th Street Steakhouse
4:30 to 6 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. to close daily; 8thstreetsteakhouse.com
Aurum Food & Wine
4 to 6 p.m. daily; aurumsteamboat.com
Back Door Grill
3:30 to 5:30 p.m. daily, all day Sundays upstairs at the bar; thebackdoorgrill.com
The BARley Tap & Tavern
5 to 7 p.m. daily; thebarleycolorado.com
Besame
4 to 5:30 p.m. daily; besamesteamboat.com
Carl’s Tavern
3 to 6 p.m. daily; carlstavern.com
Commons
11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sun.-Fri.; steamboatcommons.com
The Corner Slice
4 to 5:35 p.m. daily; thecornerslice.com
E3 Chophouse
3 to 5 p.m. daily; e3chophouse.com
How Ya Doin’ Pizza & Eats
4 to 5:30 p.m. daily, howyadoinpizzaneatz.com
Johnny B Goods Diner
3 to 5 p.m. daily, johnnybgoodsdiner.com
Laundry Kitchen & Cocktails
4:30 to 5:30 p.m. daily; thelaundryrestaurant.com
Mahogany Ridge
4 to 5 p.m.; mahoganyridgesteamboat.com
Mai Thai
3 to 6 p.m. Tuesday to Sunday; maithaimenu.com
Mambo Italiano
4 to 5:30 p.m. daily; mambos.com
Ocean Dragon
3 to 5 p.m. Monday to Saturday; oceandragonchinesesushi.com
Back Door Grill (3:305:30pm daily): Sample Drinks: $5 house wines, $3.5 draft beers, $5 Jameson’s, $4 wells. Food Deals: fish tacos, burgers/wings/large basket o’ fries, cream cheese jalapeno poppers.
Carl’s (3-6pm daily):
Sample Drinks: $5 house margs, half-price glass wines, $6 mules, $3.50 select drafts, $5 well drinks/shots. Food Deals: half-price wings, the business, deviled eggs and more; pulled pork sliders.
The Commons (11am2pm Sun.-Fri.): Sample Drinks: $5 drafts, Montucky tallboys & Seltzers; $6 Mules, draft wines, Spritzers; $7 house margs, Commons G&T, Ghost Ranchwater.
E3 Chophouse (3-5pm
daily): Sample Drinks: $7 house margs, $6-$8 glass wines, $6 sangria slush, $5 drafts/microbrews, $4 domestic/imports, $5 well drinks.
Food Deals: truffle fries, lobster mac/ bisque, ceviche, French dip.
Bus Stop (3-6pm daily):
Sample drinks: $4 beers every day at Storm Peak’s tap room on the mountain
Mahogany Ridge (4-5pm daily): Sample Drinks: All drinks half price. Food Deals: tapas menu (try the brie and mango filo cups, carne asada taco and pork belly lollipop).
Angling for some après? There’s no shortage of the big HHs in town. The only problem: finishing your day’s adventure in time.
Off The Beaten Path
4 to 6 p.m. Monday - Saturday, 4 to 5 p.m. Sundays; steamboatbooks.com
Old Town Pub & Restaurant
3 to 6 p.m. daily; theoldtownpub.com
O’Neil’s Tavern & Grill
3:30 to 5:30p.m. and 10 p.m. to midnight daily; oneilstavernandgrill.com
Otto Pint
4:30 to 5:30 p.m.; ottopint.com/steamboat
Primrose
4-6 p.m.; primrosesteamboat.com
Salt & Lime
3:30 to 5:30 p.m. and 10 to 11 p.m daily; suckalime.com
Schmiggity’s
8 to 9 p.m. daily; schmiggitys.com
Seedz
2 to 5 p.m. weekends; seedz-café.com
Sunpie’s Bistro
3 to 6 p.m. daily; sunpiessteamboat.com
Table 79 Foodbar
4 to 6 p.m. daily; table79steamboat.com
Tahk Omakase Sushi
4:30 to 5:30 p.m. Wed.- Sun.
Taco Cabo
4 to 6 p.m. daily; tacocabo.com
Vaqueros
2 to 6 p.m. daily; vaquerosmexican.net
West End Sports Grill
4 to 6 p.m. daily; thewestendtavern.com\
Yampa Valley Ice House
3 to 5:30 p.m. and 9 to 10:30 p.m. daily; yampaice.com
Otto Pint (4:30-5:30pm
daily): Sample Drinks: $2 off drafts, well drinks and wines by the glass. Food Deals: small plates, 1-topping pizza + Odell lager or PBR.
Primrose (4-6pm): Sample Drinks: $3 off signature cocktails and drafts, $5 premium well cocktails. Food Deals: seasonal specials (hopefully the crispy, apple cider vinegar/parmesan Brussels sprouts).
West End Sports Grill
(4-6 pm daily); Sample drinks: $3.99 any draft beer, 4.99 any house well. Food Deals: chicken wings, Yellow Belly Burger.
O’Neil’s (3:30-5:30pm /10pm-midnight daily):
Sample Drinks: $5 house wines, $2 off beers, $6 car bombs, $5 cocktail of the day. Food Deals: pretzels, pub salad, potato skins, Irish mac n’ cheese/ fish n’ chips.
Yampa Valley Ice House (3-5:30 pm daily); Sample drinks: $2 off drafts, house cocktails and wines by the glass. Food Deals: 25% off apps.
Nothing brings people together like summertime lounging—specifically, patio lounging. Behold a few hotspots where you can drink in the outdoor action.
Sunpie’s Bistro: Satisfy your hankering for Hurricanes at Steamboat’s classic, riverside watering hole. Located along the banks of the Yampa, the South-meets-Rockies bistro has a backyard patio where you can watch floaters drift by in craft of all walks. With a Louisiana-style menu, it’s packed with comfort foods, beer, and specialty drinks. Bonus: that aggravating Ring Toss game and a pseudo-stairway for tuber access!
Ice House: Steamboat’s newest riverside (and rooftop) patio belongs to the Ice House at 751 Yampa Ave. right along the river next door to SunPies. Owned by John and Jarret Duty, the new live-fire BBQ joint features both a rooftop bar and riverside deck serving up views of Howlie, the river, Mt. Werner and more. Just remember to wipe your fingers before touching your glass.
the perfect location to relax and enjoy an afternoon in the sun, affording sweeping views of Howelsen Hill. Try their shepherd’s pie, fall-off-the-bone lamb shank, or, for cheese lovers, the beer cheese.
Carl’s Tavern: Known for its homemade wing batter, two-day marinated pot roast and classic happy hour, Carl’s sidewalk-lined patio lets you breathe fresh air like its namesake Norwegian Carl Howelsen did when soaring off the jumps across the river at Howelsen Hill. And you might see friends who decide to join you.
Mahogany Ridge Brewery & Grill: Head to Mahogany’s brickpaver patio for its Happy Hour bites and tapas — including the twisted pretzel and tangy tuna ceviche. Warm, summer nights are prime time for hanging out and grabbing grub under the stars and exploring its many brews on tap—all with a charm of a neighborhood local hangout.
The Commons: The Commons at 56 Seventh St. houses five food vendors, a full bar (operated by Justin Keys, owner of The Barley), and, best yet, a large, 650-square-foot deck with outdoor seating overlooking cascading Butcherknife Creek. “It’s a pretty awesome spot to hang out, especially the deck outside,” says co-owner Cam Boyd. “People are loving it as a place to come relax and enjoy great food and drinks.”
Storm Peak Brewing Co.: A westside local hotspot, Storm Peak serves up mircobrewed beer and kombucha, with large garage doors bringing the outside in and vice versa, as well as a new rooftop deck for sunsets with your Pilsner. The scene is young and lively, with everything brewed on site from Champagne Powder snowmelt. Expect good times, good company, and a good vibe.
Aurum Food & Wine: American fine dining meets chic riverfront space at Aurum, whose lively lounge space is perfect for watching musicians and tubers arm-circle by. A large, gas fire keeps you warm when the sun drops, and an elevated deck upstairs offers views of Howelsen Hill. Combine that with great food (try the street tacos), a turf yard for the kids and retractable awnings and it’s the complete patio package.
Taco Cabo: Homemade chorizo and chocolate flan—as well as burritos, chips/salsa, and ice-cold margaritas—await at the riverside deck of Taco Cabo, whose ship-rope railing and trees that should harbor monkeys put you south of the border (you’ll feel like ordering in Spanish). And you’re just a stone’s throw from tubers (but please, don’t throw stones), as you saddle up to its outside bar. Tip: Watch your head on its low tree branches.
E3 Chophouse: Mouth-watering steaks, lobster mac and more take center stage at E3 Chophouse, whose riverside deck is both upscale and downhome. The steakhouse comes alive nightly, especially at sunset, with its pared-back deck menu still offering some of the best fare around (try the juicy ribeye with TruffleParmesan shoestring fries). Bonus: the best cozy couple’s nook around.
Mountain Tap Brewery: With giant glass garage doors bringing the inside vibe of the brewery outdoors, Mountain Tap’s patio along Yampa Street is a local’s favorite. Gas fireplaces keep the nighttime chill at bay, popcorn fuels your thirst for handcrafted IPAs, and picnic tables encourage camaraderie with neighbors—who might show up dripping wet from surfing the nearby A-hole.
O’Neil’s: O’Neil’s combines the energy of an authentic Irish Pub with the local atmosphere of a small town. With a low-key, cozy setting, its south-facing deck is
Mythology Distillery: Located at the former home of Butcherknife Brewery, Steamboat’s newest distillery, Mythology, serves up an outdoor whiskey garden bar none at 2875 Elk River Road. Enjoy craft cocktails, craft beer, wine and Asian soup dumplings at a terraced patio and garden, complete with a builtin slide for the kids (and adults). “We just want people to come together and have a great time,” says co-owner Scott Yeates, whose Best Friend Bourbon leads to doing just that.
Mambo Italiano
Italians love wining and dining outside and you will, too, at Mambo’s quaint, umbrella-topped patio along Lincoln Avenue. The menu ranges from old family recipes and chef-inspired specials to gluten-free and seasonal options, all from an open kitchen where the chefs work their magic. Bonus: Happy Hour pizzas and the waft of fresh garlic outside.
Creekside Cafe & Grill/The Laundry: In a unique, cinnamonroll-like twist, Creekside Cafe and The Laundry have partnered on their patio space along Soda Creek, letting you listen to its babble at both breakfast and early evening Happy Hour. Credit the combining-of-forces to its owners busting through the shared wall, creating access for both restaurants to its brick-walled, rustic charm.
Hop House: Yampa Valley Brewing Co.’s Hop House downtown at 1125 Lincoln Ave. has a streetside, outside patio with fireplaces ward off the evening chill rises. Try the Yampa Valley Blonde or orange-hued Space Dog IPA, whose tint matches the sunset.
Salt & Lime: From the rooftop of Salt & Lime you can see the white snow still lingering on Mt. Werner over the white salt rimming your glass. Margaritas top the menu, and you might find yourself inviting up friends who you see walking or driving along Lincoln Avenue with the lesser mortals down below. Hint: bring a jacket—you’ll likely be there until well after the sun, and your third margarita, goes down.
Vaqueros: Steamboat’s newest rooftop revelry belongs to Vaqueros on Lincoln Avenue, giving the Mexican joint three floors of tequila-toting service. Appreciate the buffed arms of your servers who carry it up if you order a trayful of the Large marg, whose “Millionaire,” made from 1942 Don Julio Anejo, is worth every peso.
Paramount: Paramount offers cheap drinks and food grounded in familiar flavors for the whole family (the kids can unleash energy within yelling distance in the adjacent yard). Mouth-watering options include S@#^ on a shingle, chilaquiles and the chicken fried steak and eggs. For cocktails give the paloma, greyhound punch and tequila sunrise the college try.
Los Locos: If a sunny afternoon puts you in the mood for big-pour, easydrinking margaritas, bomb-ass tacos and lip-tingling, green chili-smothered burritos, Los Locos has your seat on its outside patio, with heaters to keep you happy-houring well into the evening. A no-frills joint, the barkeeps remember how you like your marg.
Slopeside Grill: There’s nothing fancy about Slopeside, which boasts the mountain’s largest outside patio and yard. But that’s part of its charm. It’s all about pitchers of your favorite draft beer and wood-fired pizzas (try the yard sale, valley view, four points, or chutes). And your kids can run around on the grass while you keep the refills comin’.
Truffle Pig: Sniff around (like its namesake swine) for a seat at the Truffle Pig patio and you’ll find one of the nicest wining and dining spots around. Sample the whole menu, with sweeping views and warm fireplaces. “It’s easily the crowd favorite come summer,” says owner Scott Engelman. “Our patio tables are always the first to fill up.”
Ore House at the Pine Grove: Flanked with flowers and soft grass, the Ore House back patio is as verdant a setting as you’ll find for slurping drinks and sampling hors de oeuvres. With an increased outside seating capacity of 100, you’re almost guaranteed a spot anytime in summer. Bonus: walls filled with memorabilia from town’s ranching past.
Timber & Torch: The new base area officially opens up this summer, with Timber & Torch anchoring it with one of the biggest and most terraced patios in town. Enjoy cocktails on its multiple tiers, listen to Burgess Creek babbling by and take in a free summer concert. Fun fact: Inside, look to the ceiling for the engraved names of Steamboat’s Olympians.
Sure, those summer free concert series, Snowbowl jams and other “organized public parties” are great. But backyard bashes are still the best. They come in all shapes and sizes, from a couple brauts on the grill to full-blown birthday or other celebratory bashes. Following are a few tips from our party throwers in the trenches and how to make it go “Bu-yeah!” instead of being a bust.
Games: Don’t rely just on attendees’ personalities to make your bash a hit. Give them a little nudge by offering a few games to play between trips to the mojito bar or keg. Favorites include horseshoes, corn hole, croquet (bring your whites), beersbee, can jam, beer pong, rage cage, badminton, volleyball and more.
It’s summertime. Don’t have your party inside unless the Heavens unleash. Have it in your yard, deck patio or even garage, with the doors open. Plus, it’s easier to clean.
party after they recreate. So, try a time that gives them time to do so (like, say, 5:30 p.m.). Then everyone will be in a better mood to cause mayhem (except for that person who biffed on their mountain bike).
It’s a known fact: Costumes release people’s inhibitions faster and better than any drink. Have a Hawaiian, hippie or even redneck theme to loosen people up.
Live Music: Have tunes blaring, sure. But if you have buddies who play and sing—or, better, a connection with a real, live band—line up some live music to serve as a focal point for the fun.
Have Food: Sure, it’s more expensive. But unless you’re starting late after dinnertime, people need something to absorb all that booze. Try burgers, brauts and veggies on the grill, a burrito bar, fingerfoods and more. Desert option: a pie iron bar, with all the fixin’s on a table for peeps to cook ‘em up themselves. Best yet, don’t be afraid to make it a potluck (so you can end up with leftover potato salad or refried bean dip).
Serve
: Anyone can go drink PBR on their own. Get some halfway decent beer and wine, or better yet, add a cocktail bar, with pitchers of margs, mojitos or other summertime concoction.
If you want a “day-ger,” that’s fine. But remember that people here like to recreate, and especially
String outdoor lights: It makes for some good feng shui
Have a fire pit: Yep, nothing gets people to cut loose like standing around a fire (and perfecting log placement)
Invite or inform your neighbors: That way it can go longer and louder.
Beachfront Music
Afternoons
Fri - Sat - Sun
Details on Facebook
Daily 3-6 pm
THUR - MON: 11-9PM CLOSED TUES & WED
Recently returning from a trip to Africa, including a safari in Kenya, longtime local Jay Roemer is one of the leading faces of original, acoustic Americana and bluegrass in Steamboat. Often performing his own material with just a guitar and harmonica, or with his cohorts in the highly acclaimed Jay Roemer Band, he’s focused on intriguing lyrics and rippin’ guitar, with his songs continuing to connect with all types of audiences. He’s made two albums, including “A Sea of Scars and Tales To Tell,” and continues to light up Steamboat’s grassroots music scene. We caught up with him for his take on his tunes and the town he loves to call home.
The 20th anniversary of the day I moved here is coming up this October. I remember the exact day because it was also my 20th birthday. Luckily, this place is like Neverland and I haven’t aged a bit. That’s Peter Pan’s Neverland, not Michael Jackson’s. I grew up in Wisconsin, spent my first year in Colorado on the Front Range, made some friends, whom I decided to move to a ski town with for a season. We found a place downtown and signed a year lease. I soon realized that the summer here was even better than the winter, and that was that.
I decided to become a musician before I ever even picked up a real instrument. I started by pretending to play with a tennis racket in place of a guitar and jumping on the bed while listening to ‘90s pop. When my dad bought me my first guitar at age 13, I was immediately hooked. I’ve been practicing almost every day since. My tennis game is not very impressive, but the real guitar thing has progressed pretty well.
I write songs. I perform those songs, and sometimes people like them. I’m proud of that. It’s not easy. I think I’m getting better at it, too. Although, in my opinion, my most requested songs aren’t my best work. People like to hear songs about partying when they’re at a party, so I guess it makes sense. If you ever need a child to be put to sleep, or a proper sendoff for a beloved pet, I have songs for those occasions as well.
I’ve recorded two full-length studio albums, and I have the material for two more, but here’s the part of the business that isn’t my strong suit. I don’t really care for YouTube or Spotify, and I despise begging for money on Kickstarter. You can’t find much of anything of mine online, and I can’t afford to record my new songs in a professional manner or setting. Just come see me perform live.
Who all is in your band?
I perform with a rotating cast of musicians. We typically call ourselves “Jay Roemer Band.” All the good band names were taken by the time I put something together. My regulars include Erik Yates, Jarett Mason and Dan Andree. It’s not too difficult to convince these guys, who are also my close friends, to come to Steamboat.
What really made me fall in love with this place was the nightlife and music scene. The mountains, snow, river, library, hot springs and free bus are all amazing, but music has always been my passion, whether that’s performing my own or witnessing someone else. The scene is ever changing. I try not to be that “I remember when…” guy, but I do have some fond, foggy memories of the Tugboat. But the current local scene is great. I love every venue in Steamboat that is hosting live music. I mean that. I would say that we really don’t need any more tribute/ cover bands, but I’ll probably join one before this goes to print.
What do you like about Steamboat?
I realized during the first summer of the latest global pandemic that I really enjoy staying around the Yampa Valley as much as possible when it’s sunny and warm.
Free, 16-week summer concert series held every Wednesday, from June 14 through Sept. 27, from 6:30-9:30 p.m. Key on DeadPhish Orchestra
July 26. Swillin’ tip: Try rafting or tubing there! snowbowlsteamboat.com
Once again, it’ll be a rockin’ summer at the base of Howelsen, with Steamboat’s Free Summer Concert Series continuing to keep in real. keepingitfree.com
6/23 Greyboy Allstars with Bonfire Dub
7/14 Cody Canada and the Departed
7/21 Wood Brothers
8/11 St. Paul and the Broken Bones
9/3 Yonder Mountain String Band with Buffalo Commons
Okay, so we got rid of all the orchestra listings because there were just too many to mention (check their web for those). But catch nine Grammy nominated artists, Hall of Fame inductees, Hugo Award winners and more this summer at the Strings Music Festival, which kicks off June 24. A sampling:
June 27: Graham Nash: Hulloo…Crosby, Stills & What’s His Name Again, anyone?
July 1: John Williams Film and Olympics Music: Star Wars and Jurassic Park theme songs ring a bell?
July 2: Brent Rowan and Friends (w/ Mandy Barnett): Local boy does good.
July 12: Boyd Meets Girl: A classical guitarist/ cellist pairing, covering Radiohead to Beyoncé.
July 13: Nickel Creek: Platinum-selling, Grammy-winning jammin’ good time
Aug. 2: The BoDeans: Somebody shoot us…are you kidding us, the Bodeans?
Aug. 19: Julian Lage and Leo Kottke: Leo, my man!
Aug. 27: Lee Rocker of Stray Cats: “I get my dinner from a garbage can…”
Music on the Green: Free programming and performances at the Botanic Park, Café Classical at Dusky Grouse, and Strings on Tap at the Barley Tap and Tavern. For dates and details, visit stringsmusicfestival.com.
Growing up in Chicago’s electronic music scene, DJ Whoski (aka Steven Tomaszewski) has developed his own flavor of underground house music blending soul, jazz and hip-hop, and brings it to Steamboat at parties, events, bars and more (find him at @ whoskiproductions). We caught with him for the skinny on his spins.
When and how did you start DJing?
Growing up in Chicago around some of the biggest house music innovators in the world—such as Derrick Carter, Mark Farina, Dj Sneak and so many more—house music became my love at a very young age. I’d listen to the 10 o’clock remix on B96 every night, making sure my cassette player was on record. Then I started going to the famous teen club Medusas in seventh grade and fell in love with the scene. I have hip hop, jazz, soul and tons of underground influences in my sets.
When did you move to Steamboat?
I’d been traveling from Chicago to Steamboat to help build a friend’s cabin starting in 2002 for almost 10 years. I moved here five years ago now and am super happy to call this town home.
What do you like about it here?
I love the endless outdoor activities you can do anytime of the year. I’m also a big snowmobile and motorcycle addict.
By Denton Turner, Buffalo Commons
Editor’s note: Want to know what it feels like to play in front of your friends at Winter WonderGrass?
Consider the following post-show Facebook post from Denton Turner of Buffalo Commons.
How would you define your
I’ve created a family-like following here as the “House Gangster” of Steamboat. I don’t dislike any music; in fact, I do everything from the Steamboat High School Prom to weddings and birthday parties. With a music scene that is highly dominated by country and bluegrass, I think the DJ scene brings the same if not more of a dedicated following anywhere, anytime.
I can’t wait to see what the future holds with all my new endeavors. I’m involved in a new ultra-lounge in Steamboat called the Fox Bar opening this summer, and I plan to produce my own music and release an album and spread the love of house. Peace, Love, and House Music forever.
Things are shifting in Steamboat’s music scene, with EDM playing a big role, thanks to the likes of both DJ Whoski and John Fransella, who’s championing the world of electronic dance music under the stage name TEAK, named after his favorite type of wood. Fransella hopes to grow town’s EDM scene one party at a time. Creatives across the country are hosting small, one-off parties to put their stuff out there, he says, and that’s also occurring here. He’s helping by founding events production company and record label Feels Right, which hosts local events. EDM is different from other genres, he says, because of such production amenities as laser lights and TV screens. But it’s all part of creating an authentic EDM experience. “I want people to come both for the act as well as the event and overall vibe,” he says.
The gratitude I have for Steamboat Springs, the people who have helped me in my journey and the Winter Wondergrass festival is deep. The memories I have over the years with different amazing musicians and bands is something I don’t take for granted. My history with WWG started 10 years ago at the inaugural event in Edwards, Colo., playing with my old band The Old Town Pickers—formed in the backyard of my 100-year-old cabin in the alley behind The Old Town Pub, my favorite place to play. We named our band after the bar. That first year of WWG The Old Town Pickers made the front page of the Vail paper. Over the years I’ve played a bunch of times and different stages at WWG and cherish for them all. Last year was an amazing moment when I got to join the WWG Allstars on the main stage for a couple songs with such heroes as Ronnie McCoury and Andy Thorn, Jon Stickley and more. My dreams had come true in that moment. But just when you think it can’t get any better, it does. This year my band Buffalo Commons played a main stage Saturday and I also got to play Friday with The Old Town Pickers.
I have so much thanks and love for my family and friends and supporters and the Winter WonderGrass Festival and all who have helped me. Life is crazy and keeps rolling and everything comes full circle in the end, good or bad. I just try to lead with my heart and soul and live every day like there is no tomorrow and trust and accept whatever comes, because there never is a yesterday or tomorrow to prepare for. Now is all you have. I’m missing a friend dearly today. She was a huge supporter of mine and made me always believe in myself. I’m dedicating my weekend to her because I know she is proud of me looking down and if she was still on earth she’d be riding the rail smiling at me making me play harder. I wore her button on my shirt throughout the weekend so I’d still be able to look down and see her big smile to tell me to keep on going, Lara. #keepongoing #boundtocoverjustalittlemoreground #thesoulneverdies
Local Betsy Seabert knows merino. After heading up sales at both Smartwool and Point 6, she’s now putting her soft touch on her own venture, Chill Angel, whose line of uber-soft and comfy shorts, Tee’s, crews, joggers and sleeping dresses put the coze into cozyville. The premium ultrafine merino wear includes the Stellar Dress, Genie Jogger, RNR Crew, Stargazer Tee and Luna Short—all so soft you won’t want to take them off. chillangel.com
Zirkle Circle, anyone? Hit the trails in style with Big Agnes’ new packs collection, including the Impassable 20L, a top-loading daypack with compartmentalized storage, lined laptop pocket, and an internal hydration sleeve. Made with recycled materials, they’re built for long hauls without weighing you (or the environment) down. Streamlined for exploring in comfort, it features a compression molded back panel, contoured shoulder straps, and foam padded hip belt. Use it to carry your Swillin’ mags home! bigagnes.com
Tout your home area code by throwing on a lid or piece of apparel (including beanies, shirts, hoodies and more) from 970. “Living in the 970 area code is an extremely fortunate and precious lifestyle,” says co-founder Andrew Bisbee. “It enriches our lives and is engrained in our identity. We pay tribute to this mountain life through our quality and stylish apparel that embraces the place we love.” Bonus: 7% of profits goes to area non-profits. ninesevenzero.com
Want the ultimate two-person fishing raft? Weighing just 115 lbs. with frame, Creek Co.’s new 9’ 8” T.Rex Mini Drifter fits in the back of the truck or on the roof rack. Made from heavy duty PVC (42 oz/1200 denier), it comes with a self-bailing, drop-stitch floor, 18” diameter tubes, four air chambers (plus thwart and floor), and custom NRS two-person fishing frame with leaning bar, high back fishing seat and rower’s seat. Packing down to a tight 16”x16”x26 bundle, it also comes with 8-foot Carlisle oars, oar sleeves and Atomic aluminum oarlocks. Throw in a three-year consumer use warranty and it’s time to hit the water! creekcompany.com
