Explore Steamboat summer 2015

ZEST DINING GUIDE!

SUMMEr2015

S t E a M b o at

A to Z

ACTIVITY GUIDE

Guides of Summer PA G E 3 2

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Photo by John F. Russell

inside High-flying fun at the base area’s Coca-Cola Adventure Zone.

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Rob Burden, Ray Heid and Barry Smith are just a few of the guides who can lead you on memorable adventures in Steamboat Springs.

Photo by John F. Russell

Explore Staff adventure

guides

An inside look at Steamboat’s Bike guide

Trevyn newpher Living and riding in Steamboat for more than 10 years, Steamboat Bike Park manager Trevyn Newpher, 33, is the person to tap as your family’s guide and instructor when riding down the mountain.

Growing up riding BMX and an Elite racer since 2005 and current World Cup Series rider, he has a decade of coaching under his belt and maintains the Steamboat Bike Park for Steamboat Ski Area, which he samples as often as he can. When not riding bikes, you can find him riding his dirtbike or teaching kiteboarding at the Outer

Banks of North Carolina. He also dabbles in guitar. Info: www.steamboatbikepark.com Explore: When did you move to town?

Newpher: I’ve been in Steamboat for eight winters and three summers. It was the summers that sealed the deal on settling down in Steamboat.

Explore: How long have you been riding and guiding?

Newpher: I started riding in high school in 1998, raced in college and haven’t turned back since. I earned my pro license in 2004 and have taught and coached mountain biking since the beginning of my bike park days. In 2006 or so, when the general “school” of mountain bike instruction was getting

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formalized, I got certified.

being on a bike.

Explore: What do you like about it?

Explore: Why is Steamboat such a great place to do ride?

Newpher: It’s an exciting time to be in the industry.

From a ski industry standpoint, bike parks are still in their infancy. But there’s been a huge evolution in bikes, safety equipment, trail design, and instructional programs, which is bringing the sport to the masses.

Like skiing, it offers the excitement of the mountains and gravity, thanks to great equipment. With proper bikes, gear, trails, and guidance, the sport is accessible to almost anyone. For me, the real reward is the descent, which I think is why most of us were attracted to bikes at a young age. I’m fortunate that my job revolves around

Newpher: Steamboat has the complete package, no matter what type of rider you are.

When you add in our extensive bike heritage, a packed events calendar, and one of the most incredible mountain towns in the U.S., it’s a truly mountainous package.

Explore: What kind of tricks do you teach?

Newpher: One trick I get requests for is learning how to ride a wheelie. By practicing a few core skills, people can actually master it quite easily.

Explore: What do you need to know how to do beforehand?

Newpher: For first time park ExplorEStEaMboat.coM

riders, there are a few boxes to check. Always bring a buddy, be familiar and confident with your equipment, know how to use your front and back brakes properly, lower your seat for greater stability, and be comfortable standing on your pedals. Also, wear protective equipment, which is essential in the park. Your bike should also be specific to downhill use. Cross countrystyle bikes don’t belong in the bike park. If in question, stop by the Steamboat Bike Shop and ask. Our staff can get you answers to any questions you may have, and run you through the latest technology in downhill-specific bikes as well as our rental and lesson packages.

—Eugene Buchanan SUMMEr 2015 explore | 33

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Savoring t h e M o u n ta i n

S t e a m b o a t

Calendar of events .................................. 6 Activity guide: Steamboat A to Z ........... 10 Getting around ..................................... 25 Biking .................................................... 26 Chamber bucket list .............................. 28 Yampatika programs ............................ 29 Wildlife .................................................. 30 Steamboat’s adventure guides .............. 32 Trevyn Newpher ................................ 32 Erin Birtwistle ................................... 34 Pete Scully ......................................... 36 Luke Brosterhous .............................. 37 Danny Tebbenkamp .......................... 38 Barry Smith ...................................... 39 Bud Whitehead ................................. 41 Rob Burden ....................................... 42 Ray Heid ............................................ 43 Karen Vail .......................................... 44 Steamboat Zest dining guide ................ 46

On the cover

XXX meal at XXX restaurant.

For complete restaurant listings, menus, hours and more, visit exploreSteamboat.com

ZEST

Suzanne Schlicht – Chief operating officer Lisa Schlichtman – Editor in chief Eugene Buchanan – Magazine editor Laura Tamucci – Local sales manager Jenni DeFouw – Magazine sales specialist Lindsay Porter – Creative services supervisor Steve Balgenorth – Circulation manager Photographers Scott Franz, John F. Russell, Matt Stensland, Joel Reichenberger and Ben Ingersoll Copy editors Jim Patterson, Deanna Allen Advertising design Veronika Khanisenko, Mack Maschmeier, Chris McGaw and Jessica Wagner For advertising information, call Jenni DeFouw at 970-871-4235.

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Calendar of events

ExploreSteamboat.com for a complete list of events

2 — Free film “Spirit Creatures: Niassa's Invisible Realm,” 7 p.m., Library Hall; www.steamboatlibrary. org/events 3 — Free film “Return of the River,” 7 p.m., Library Hall; www.steamboatlibrary.org/events 3 — 27th Youth Education Scholarship (Y.E.S.) Golf Tournament; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Rollingstone Ranch Golf Club; 970-819-0851 4 — Free film “Return to Homs,” 7 p.m., Library Hall; www.steamboatlibrary.org/events 4 — Yampatika’s 13th annual Wild Edible Feast; 6 to 9 p.m., Lake Catamount; 970-871-9151, www.communityagalliance.org

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5 — First Friday Artwalk, galleries throughout downtown Steamboat; 5 to 8 p.m.; www.steamboatartcenter.com 6 — Corey Voyek Memorial Tournament, Haymaker Golf Course; www.haymakergolf.com 7 — 34th annual Steamboat Marathon, half marathon and 10K; races begin at 7:30 a.m.; www.steamboatmarathon.com 10 — Kickoff Town Challenge mountain bike race; www.townchallenge.com 10 to 15 — Steamboat Bike Week; www.steamboatbiketown.com 11 — Gondola opens, daily 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; www.steamboat.com

Photo by John F. Russell

June

12 & 13 — 18th annual Ski Town USA Golf Classic; Catamount Ranch & Club and Rollingstone Ranch Golf Club; www.skitownclassic.com 13 — 2nd annual Moots Colorado Ranch Rally; www.moots.com 13 — Cayuse Classic at Sidney Peak Ranch; silent auction, live music, cocktails and barbecue dinner; $50; 970-879-4370, www.communityagalliance.org 13 — Mainstreet Farmers Market; 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Seventh and Yampa streets 14 — National Cattledog Association Finals, Flying Diamond Ranch 17 — Dance on Film, “Tap World” 7 p.m., Library Hall; www.steamboatlibrary.org 17 — Summer Style Show, 6 p.m., Chief Theater; www.mainstreetsteamboat.com 18 — Free film “Art and Craft,” 7 p.m., Library Hall; www.steamboatlibrary.org/events 18 to 21 — 27th annual Rocky Mountain Mustang Roundup; www.steamboatsummer.com 19 — Free Summer Concert Series, Chris Robinson Brotherhood, 6 p.m., Howelsen Hill 19 & 20 — Steamboat Springs Pro Rodeo Series; 7:30 p.m., Brent Romick Rodeo Arena; www.steamboatprorodeo.com 20 — 9th annual Downtown Street Festival; www.steamboatsummer.com 20 — Howelsen 8 Miler, 8M and 4M trails; www.runningseries.com 20 — Mainstreet Farmers Market; 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Seventh and Yampa streets, www.mainstreetsteamboat.com 20 — California Honeydrops, 8 p.m., Strings Music Pavilion; 970-879-5056 Ext. 105, www.stringsmusicfestival.com 22 — Free film “All About Bluebirds,” 7 p.m., Library Hall; www.steamboatlibrary.org/events 22 & 23 — Haywhacker (CJGA), Haymaker and Rollingstone golf courses; www.haymakergolf.com 23 — Essence, 11 a.m., Strings Music Pavilion; 970-879-5056 Ext. 105, www.stringsmusicfestival.com 24 — Town Challenge mountain bike race; www.townchallenge.com 24 — Free film “God’s Slave,” 7 p.m., Chief Theater; www.steamboatlibrary.org/events 25 — Music on the Green: Catalyst Quartet, 12:15 p.m., Yampa River Botanic Park, 970-879-5056 Ext. 105, www.stringsmusicfestival.com 26 & 27 — Steamboat Springs Pro Rodeo Series; 7:30 p.m., Brent Romick Rodeo Arena; www.steamboatprorodeo.com 27 — Opening Night Orchestra, 7 p.m., Strings Music Pavilion; 970-879-5056 Ext. 105, www.stringsmusicfestival.com

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27 — Mainstreet Farmers Market; 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Seventh and Yampa streets; www.mainstreetsteamboat.com 28 — Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, 7 p.m., Strings Music Pavilion; 970-879-5056 Ext. 105, www.stringsmusicfestival.com 30 — The Pop Ups, 11 a.m., Strings Music Pavilion; 970-879-5056 Ext. 105, www.stringsmusicfestival.com 30 — Free film “The Private Life of Deer,” 7 p.m., Library Hall; www.steamboatlibrary.org/events

1 — Perry-Mansfield Performing Arts School Under the Stars; 970-879-7125, www.perry-mansfield.org 1 — Steiner Cup (Match Play), Haymaker Golf Course; www.haymakergolf.com 1 — Yoga in Strings Park, 10 a.m., Strings Music Pavilion; 970-879-5056 Ext. 105, www.stringsmusicfestival.com 1 — French Chamber Music Favorites, 6 p.m., Strings Music Pavilion; 970-879-5056 Ext. 105, www.stringsmusicfestival.com 1 to 5 — 112th annual Cowboys’ Roundup Days; www.steamboatsummer.com 2 — Music on the Green: Catalyst Quartet, 12:15 p.m., Yampa River Botanic Park, 970-879-5056 Ext. 105, www.stringsmusicfestival.com 2 to 4 — Steamboat Springs Pro Rodeo Series; 7:30 p.m., special performance at 6:30 p.m. on July 4, Brent Romick Rodeo Arena; www.steamboatprorodeo.com 3 — Ski Town Shenanigans launch party, 4 to 6 p.m., Off the Beaten Path, www.skistownshenanigans.com 3 — Brent Rowan and Friends, 8 p.m., Strings Music Pavilion; 970-879-5056 Ext. 105, www.stringsmusicfestival.com 3 — First Friday Artwalk, galleries throughout downtown Steamboat; 5 to 8 p.m.; www.steamboatartcenter.com 3 — Free Summer Concert Series, New Orleans Suspects, 6 p.m., Howelsen Hill 3 to 6 — 13th annual Art on the Mountain, Gondola Square; www.steamboat.com/artonthemtn 4 — Mainstreet Farmers Market; 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Seventh and Yampa streets, www.mainstreetsteamboat.com 4 — July 4th Celebration: Parade, block party, concert, fireworks, cattle drive; www.exploresteamboat.com 4 — 22nd annual Steamboat Sprint 400-yard Dash; www.runningseries.com 4 — Mountain Madness, 13.1M/10K; www.runningseries.com 5 — A Night with Perry-Mansfield Dance, 7 p.m., Strings Music Pavilion; 970-879-5056 Ext. 105, www.stringsmusicfestival.com 7 — Free film “Beats of the Antonov,” 7 p.m., Library Hall; www.steamboatlibrary.org/events 7 — Alphabet Rockers, 11 a.m., Strings Music Pavilion; www.stringsmusicfestival.com 7 — Free concert: “Jazz with a Twist of Lime,” 7 p.m., Library Hall; www.steamboatlibrary.org/events 8 — Cliburn Gold Medalist Olga Kern, 6 p.m., Strings Music Pavilion; 970-879-5056 Ext. 105, www.stringsmusicfestival.com 8 — Town Challenge mountain bike race; www.townchallenge.com 9 — Music on the Green: Leaner and Lunker, 12:15 p.m., Yampa River Botanic Park, 970-879-5056 Ext. 105, www.stringsmusicfestival.com

Exploresteamboat.com

Photo by John F. Russell

July

10 — Free Summer Concert Series, Jonny Lang, 6 p.m., Howelsen Hill 11 — The 5 Browns, 7 p.m., Strings Music Pavilion; 970-879-5056 Ext. 105, www.stringsmusicfestival.com 11 — Yoga in Strings Park, 10 a.m., Strings Music Pavilion; 970-879-5056 Ext. 105, www.stringsmusicfestival.com 10 & 11 — Steamboat Springs Pro Rodeo Series; 7:30 p.m., Brent Romick Rodeo Arena; www.steamboatprorodeo.com 11 — Cowpie Classic rugby tournament; Ski Town Fields; www.steamboatrugby.com 11 — Mainstreet Farmers Market; 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Seventh and Yampa streets, www.mainstreetsteamboat.com 11 & 12 — Hot Air Balloon Rodeo; Bald Eagle Lake (free transportation from Meadows parking lot); www.steamboatsummer.com 11 & 12 — 40th annual Art in the Park, West Lincoln Park; www.mainstreetsteamboat.com 14 — Trout Fishing in America, 11 a.m., 970-879-5056 Ext. 105, www.stringsmusicfestival.com 15 — Ariel Quartet, 6 p.m., Strings Music Pavilion; 970-879-5056 Ext. 105, www.stringsmusicfestival.com 15 — Music on the Green: Chamberlin Birch, 12:15 p.m., Yampa River Botanic Park, 970-879-5056 Ext. 105, www.stringsmusicfestival.com 15 — Free foreign film “Human Capital,” 7 p.m., Chief Theater; www.steamboatlibrary.org 16 — Free film “Ballet 422,” 7 p.m., Library Hall; www.steamboatlibrary.org/events 16 to 19 — Mountain Soccer Tournament; www.steamboatsummer.com 17 — Trout Steak Revival, 8 p.m., Strings Music Pavilion; 970-879-5056 Ext. 105, www.stringsmusicfestival.com 17 & 18 — Steamboat Springs Pro Rodeo Series; 7:30 p.m., Brent Romick Rodeo Arena; www.steamboatprorodeo.com 18 — Kitchen and Garden Tour, 9:30 a.m., 970-879-5056 Ext. 105, www.stringsmusicfestival.com 18 — My Sinatra, 8 p.m., Strings Music Pavilion; 970-879-5056 Ext. 105, www.stringsmusicfestival.com 18 — Mainstreet Farmers Market; 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Seventh and Yampa streets, www.mainstreetsteamboat.com

18 — Three Club Tournament, Haymaker Golf Course; www.haymakergolf.com 18 — Eriksen Cycles Tour de Steamboat; www.rockypeakproductions.com 19 ­— Steamboat Lake Sprint Triathlon, www.withoutlimits.com 20 — Seminars at Steamboat: Hanna Rosin/Shifting Dynamics Between Men and Women, 5 p.m.; Strings Music Pavilion, www.seminarsatsteamboat.org 21 — Big Bang Boom, 11 a.m., 970-879-5056 Ext. 105, www.stringsmusicfestival.com 22 — Igudesman & Joo, 6 p.m., Strings Music Pavilion; 970-879-5056 Ext. 105, www.stringsmusicfestival.com 22 — Town Challenge mountain bike race; www.townchallenge.com 23 — Music on the Green: C Street Brass, 12:15 p.m., Yampa River Botanic Park, 970-879-5056 Ext. 105, www.stringsmusicfestival.com

Library Kids events June 4 — Teddy Bear Picnic, 11 a.m. - noon June 12 — Stories in the Garden, 10:30 a.m., Yampa River Botanic Park June 15 to Aug. 10 (Mondays) — Summer Reading Program’s Read to Dogs, 2 to 4 p.m.

June 18 to Aug. 6 (Thursdays) — Stories and Hands-on Fun, 10:30 a.m.

June 29 — Free Family Fun: The Pop Ups Puppet Workshop, 5:30 p.m., Library Hall July 10 — Stories in the Garden, 10:30 a.m., Yampa River Botanic Park July 20 — Free Family Fun: C Street Brass, 5:30 p.m., Library Hall, Aug. 7 — Stories in the Garden, 10:30 a.m., Yampa River Botanic Park

Weekly Storytimes: Every Monday — Little Crafters Storytime; 10:30 a.m.

Every Tuesday — Toddler Time 9:30 and 10:30 a.m.

Every Wednesday — Preschool Time 9:30 and 10:30 a.m.

Every Friday — Little Crafters Storytime; 10:30 a.m.

1289 Lincoln Ave., www.steamboatlibrary.org

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Steamboat Springs, Colorado

Steamboat Mountain School offers an engaging college-preparatory curriculum taught by interesting and dedicated teachers. Small and interactive classes allow students to become very involved in their learning. Our Global Immersion Studies Program is a one-of-a-kind program that enables small groups of students and their teachers to experience different cultures through home stays, community building, and adventure.

Our partnership with the renowned Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club allows students to pursue high level training and competing while also completing a college-prep curriculum.

Schedule your campus tour today!

970.879.1350 steamboatmountainschool.org 8 | EXPLORE SUMMEr 2015

23 — Donors Event, 6 p.m., Strings Music Pavilion; 970-879-5056 Ext. 105, www.stringsmusicfestival.com 24 — Lonestar, 8 p.m., Strings Music Pavilion; 970-879-5056 Ext. 105, www.stringsmusicfestival.com 25 — Civil War Brass Band, 8 p.m., Strings Music Pavilion, 970-879-5056 Ext. 105, www.stringsmusicfestival.com 25 — Mainstreet Farmers Market; 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Seventh and Yampa streets, www.mainstreetsteamboat.com 25 — Spring Creek Memorial, 9M/5K trail; www.runningseries.com 24 & 25 — Steamboat Springs Pro Rodeo Series; 7:30 p.m., Brent Romick Rodeo Arena; www.steamboatprorodeo.com 28 — C Street Brass, 11 a.m., Strings Music Pavilion; 970-879-5056 Ext. 105, www.stringsmusicfestival.com 29 — Yoga in Strings Park, 10 a.m., Strings Music Pavilion; 970-879-5056 Ext. 105, www.stringsmusicfestival.com 29 — Opera Arias with Brass and Piano, 6 p.m., Strings Music Pavilion; 970-879-5056 Ext. 105, www.stringsmusicfestival.com 29 to Aug. 2 — Community Mandala Sand Painting, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Library Hall; www.steamboatlibrary.org/events 30 — Seminars at Steamboat: Chris Barrett, Food Or Consequences, 5 p.m., Strings Music Pavilion; www.seminarsatsteamboat.org 30 — Music on the Green: C Street Brass, 12:15 p.m., Yampa River Botanic Park; 970-879-5056 Ext. 105, www.stringsmusicfestival.com 31 — Say Goodnight Gracie, 8 p.m., Strings Music Pavilion; 970-879-5056 Ext. 105, www.stringsmusicfestival.com 31 and Aug. 1 — Steamboat Springs Pro Rodeo Series; 7:30 p.m., Brent Romick Rodeo Arena; www.steamboatprorodeo.com

AuGuSt 1 — Mainstreet Farmers Market; 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Seventh and Yampa streets, www.mainstreetsteamboat.com 1 — Yoga in the Strings Park, 10 a.m., Strings Music Pavilion; 970-879-5056 Ext. 105, www.stringsmusicfestival.com 1 — David and Julie Coucheron, 7 p.m., Strings Music Pavilion; 970-879-5056 Ext. 105, www.stringsmusicfestival.com 2 to 8 — Moffat County Fair, www.moffatcountyfair.com 3 — Celebrity House Party, 6 p.m., Strings Music Pavilion; 970-879-5056 Ext. 105, www.stringsmusicfestival.com 4 — Fara Tolno & Kissidugu, 11 a.m., Strings Music Pavilion; 970-879-5056 Ext. 105, www.stringsmusicfestival.com 5 — Town Challenge mountain bike race; www.townchallenge.com 5 — Yoga in Strings Park, 10 a.m., 970-879-5056 Ext. 105 www.stringsmusicfestival.com 5 — Harp and Guitar Duo, 6 p.m., Strings Music Pavilion; 970-879-5056 Ext. 105, www.stringsmusicfestival.com 5 to 9 — 12th annual Steamboat Wine Festival; www.steamboatwinefestival.com 5 — Free Summer Concert Series, Ziggy Marley, 6 p.m., Howelsen Hill 6 — Vince Gill, 8 p.m., Strings Music Pavilion; 970-879-5056 Ext. 105, www.stringsmusicfestival.com 6 — Music on the Green: Emerald City Opera, 12:15 p.m., Yampa River Botanic Park; 970-879-5056 Ext. 105, www.stringsmusicfestival.com 7 — Junior Championship, Haymaker Golf Course; www.haymakergolf.com 7 — First Friday Artwalk, galleries throughout downtown Steamboat; 5 to 8 p.m.; www.steamboatartcenter.com 7 & 8 — Steamboat Springs Pro Rodeo Series; 7:30 p.m., Brent Romick Rodeo Arena; www.steamboatprorodeo.com 8 — Mainstreet Farmers Market; 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Seventh and Yampa streets, www.mainstreetsteamboat.com 8 — Strings Festival Orchestra, 7 p.m., Strings Music Pavilion; 970-879-5056 Ext. 105, www.stringsmusicfestival.com 8 — Yoga in the Strings Park, 10 a.m., 970-879-5056 Ext. 105, www.stringsmusicfestival.com 10 — Seminars at Steamboat: Strobe Talbott, The Future of America in a Changing World, 5 p.m., Strings Music Pavilion; www.seminarsatsteamboat.org 10 to 16 — Steamboat All Arts Festival with Sunday block party; www.exploresteamboat.com

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yAmPAtiKA Summer ProGrAmS Every Tuesday — Hike with a naturalist on Mount Werner, 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Every Wednesday — Mineral Springs tours, 9 to 11 a.m.

Every Thursday and Saturday — Hike Fish Creek Falls with a naturalist Every Thursday through June 18 — Weekly Bird Walks 925 Weiss Drive, www.yampatika.org

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Photo by Scott Franz

11 — Free film “Point and Shoot,” 7 p.m., Library Hall; www.steamboatlibrary.org/events 12 — Chris Botti, 8 p.m., 970-879-5056 Ext. 105, www.stringsmusicfestival.com 13 — Seminars at Steamboat: Craig Whitlock, Drones: Can They Revolutionize Aviation, 5 p.m., Strings Music Pavilion; www.seminarsatsteamboat.org 13 — Music on the Green: Missed the Boat, 12:15 p.m., Yampa River Botanic Park; 970-879-5056 Ext. 105, www.stringsmusicfestival.com 13 to 16 — 101st annual Routt County Fair; Hayden Fairgrounds; 970-276-3068 14 — New Moon Glowball Tournament, Haymaker Golf Course; www.haymakergolf.com 14 & 15 — The Opera Institute Performance: The Child and the Spells/Bon Appetit, 1:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., Julie Harris Theater and Perry-Mansfield; www.steamboatopera.com 14 & 15 — Steamboat Springs Pro Rodeo Series; 7:30 p.m., Brent Romick Rodeo Arena; www.steamboatprorodeo.com 15 — Mainstreet Farmers Market; 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Seventh and Yampa streets, www.mainstreetsteamboat.com 15 — Free Summer Concert Series, Jeff Austin Band, 6 p.m. Howelsen Hill 15 & 16 — Steamboat Stinger (50-mile mountain bike race; full/half trail marathons); www.honeystinger.com, www.runningseries.com 16 — Steamboat Olympic at Lake Catamount Triathlon; www.steamboattriathlon.com 17 & 18 — USA Pro Challenge; www.usaprocyclingchallenge.com

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19 — Town Challenge mountain bike race; www.townchallenge.com 15 — Emerald City Opera Performance: Candide, 7:30 p.m., Steamboat High School; www.steamboatopera.com 21 — Third Friday free foreign film; 7 p.m., The Depot; www.steamboatlibrary.org 21 — Yampa Street Live Street Fest; www.mainstreetsteamboatsprings.com 21 and 22 — Steamboat Springs Pro Rodeo Series, 7:30 p.m., Brent Romick Rodeo Arena; www.steamboatprorodeo.com 22 — Mainstreet Farmers Market; 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Seventh and Yampa streets, www.mainstreetsteamboat.com 22 — 17th annual Ski Haus Continental Divide Trail Run, 16 mile; www.runningseries.com 22 — STARS Biking The Boat Charity Ride, 5-, 26-, 52- and 75-mile rides; includes après party and T-shirt, www.steamboatstars.com 23 — Steamboat Enduro-X Mountain Bike Race; www.enduro-Xrace.com 25 — Free film “The Overnighters,” 7 p.m., Library Hall; www.steamboatlibrary.org/events 26 — Free foreign film “Stations of the Cross,” 7 p.m., Chief Theater; www.steamboatlibrary.org 29 & 30 — Steamboat Stock Dog Challenge at Stanko Ranch; 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.; 970-879-5214 29 — Mainstreet Farmers Market; 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Seventh and Yampa streets, www.mainstreetsteamboat.com 28 & 29 — Steamboat Springs Pro Rodeo Series, 7:30 p.m., Brent Romick Rodeo Arena; www.steamboatprorodeo.com

SePtember 2 — Town Challenge mountain bike race; www.townchallenge.com 2 — Free foreign film “The Chambermaid,” 7 p.m., Chief Theater; www.steamboatlibrary.org 4 — First Friday Artwalk, galleries throughout downtown Steamboat; 5 to 8 p.m.; www.steamboatartcenter.com 5 — Mainstreet Farmers Market; 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Seventh and Yampa streets, www.mainstreetsteamboat.com 5 & 6 — 10th annual Wild West Air Fest, www.steamboatsummer.com 5 to 7 — 7th annual Steamboat Springs Stage Race; www.bikesteamboat.com 6 — 30th annual 10K at 10,000 Feet; www.runningseries.com 9 — Meet the Author, Craig Johnson, 6:30 p.m., Library Hall; www.steamboatlibrary.org/events 10 to 14 — Yampa Valley Crane Festival; www.steamboatlibrary.org/events, www.coloradocranes.org 12 — Rubber Ducky Race for Hospice; 970-871-7609, www.nwcovna.org 12 — Town Challenge mountain bike race; www.townchallenge.com 12 — Mainstreet Farmers Market; 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Seventh and Yampa streets, www.mainstreetsteamboat.com 18 — Third Friday free foreign film; 7 p.m., The Depot; www.steamboatlibrary.org 18 & 19 — 9th annual Run Rabbit Run (100M/50M ultra-marathons); www.steamboat50.com, www.runningseries.com 18 to 20 — 5th annual Steamboat OktoberWest; downtown/Steamboat Ski Area 19 — Mainstreet Farmers Market; 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Seventh and Yampa streets, www.mainstreetsteamboat.com 19 & 20 — Haymaker Fall Classic, Haymaker Golf Course; www.haymakergolf.com 23 — Moose is Loose Golf Tournament, Rollingstone Ranch Golf Club, 970-819-0851 25 to 27 — 5th annual Hay Cup Open, Haymaker Golf Course; www.haymakergolf.com 26 — Emerald Mountain Trail Run, 12K Trail; www.runningseries.com 26 — Community Barn Dance and BBQ, benefitting Steamboat Rotary Club, www.steamboatrotary.com 27 — Gondola closes for season; www.steamboat.com

oCtober 2 — First Friday Artwalk at galleries throughout downtown Steamboat; 5 to 8 p.m.; www.steamboatartcenter.com 10 — 23rd annual Literary Sojourn Festival of Authors, Sheraton Steamboat Resort; www.literarysojourn.org.

10 — Final-Final, two person, Haymaker Golf Course; www.haymakergolf.com 16 — Third Friday free foreign film; 7 p.m., The Depot; www.steamboatlibrary.org 26 — Steamboat Sneak, 5K and Fun Run, www.runningseries.com

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Steamboat A B C ... It’s easy as 1 2 3.

As simple as do re mi.

The Jackson 5 had it right, especially when it comes to using the alphabet as your guide for activities to do in Steamboat.

A to Z A

Alpine Slide Exploresteamboat.com

Photo by John F. Russell

Art scene Steamboat’s burgeoning art community has helped it become one of the state’s premier arts destinations. Visitors can take in everything from paintings and photos of local wildlife and landscapes to bronzes, jewelry, ceramics, furniture and more in an ever-growing array of venues. You can also browse more acclaimed international work, from tribal hand-woven rugs to etchings from master printers.

Steamboat’s stores and galleries reflect the town’s Western heritage, with historic downtown boasting an art museum and a dozen galleries.

“There’s a strong artist community here, from established artists to younger ones fostering their talent,” Steamboat Springs Arts Council’s Mical Hutson says.

One of the best ways to see this wealth of talent is through the First Friday Art Walk, a tour organized by local gallery owners from 5 to 8 p.m. the first Friday of every month. Nearly 20 galleries, businesses and other venues participate in the monthly event, showcasing local art with drinks, appetizers and live music.

“It’s a great community event,” says local artist Ken Lee. First Friday Art Walk maps are available at downtown art galleries and the Steamboat Springs Chamber Resort Association (1255 S. Lincoln Ave., 970-879-0880). Contact the Arts Council (970-879-9008, www. steamboatspringsarts.com) for more information.

Alpine slide Want to fire up your adrenal glands?

Head to the base of Howelsen Hill at 645 Howelsen Parkway and take a quick run down The Howler Alpine slide, a fasummer 2015 explore | 11

vorite for families. Steamboat’s most exciting summer attraction lets you enjoy scenic views of downtown and Mount Werner as you ride a chairlift to the top of historic Howelsen Hill. From there, it’s all downhill on a sled that puts you in control of your exhilarating ride as you wind down the track. Children 2 to 6 years old must ride with an adult; ages 7 and older can ride solo. Bonus: See if you can break the 43 second descent record. Info: 970-819-8010, www.steamboatalpineslide.com.

b biking Roll ’em! While those in Hollywood might say that in the movies, in Steamboat Springs people say it about bikes.

With hundreds of miles of trails and roads, a world-class bike path, and improvements to the Steamboat Bike Park, the new Bear River Bike Park and more, it’s as bike-friendly a town as you’ll find anywhere. In fact, some people arrive and never use their cars until they leave.

JuDee - Jeanne

Downtown, the Yampa River Core Trail offers great family riding along the Yampa River, while Emerald Mountain, rising from the heart of downtown, offers an array of trails leading from the base of Howelsen Hill. Steamboat Bike Park at the Ski Area serves up 50-plus miles of trails, while plenty of road biking options also exist. And don’t forget that the USA Pro Cycling Challenge comes to town Aug. 17 through 18. So hop in your saddle and explore yet another side of Steamboat that takes advantage of our world-class terrain.

bowl Steeeee-rike! Look to bowl spares and strikes at Snow Bowl (970-879-9840), Steamboat’s bowling facility on the west end of town. Theme nights and daily specials are common, making it a great place for the entire family.

C Calf and ram scrambles

ones getting in on the action at the weekly Steamboat Springs Pro Rodeo Series. Turn your tykes into cowboys and cowgirls at the event’s weekly Calf and Ram scrambles, events set aside specifically for kids. The Calf Scramble is for kids ages 6 to 12, while the Ram Scramble is for kids 5 and younger.

Held in between events such as steer wrestling, tie-down roping and bronc riding, kids feel as much a part of the show as the professional riders, gathering in the arena to chase and grab a ribbon off a calf’s or ram’s tail. Ribbon in hand or not, everyone’s a winner.

Info: www.steamboatprorodeo.com.

Candyland Reward your kids for an outing well done with a visit to Fuzziwig’s Candy Factory (845 Lincoln Ave.,) or Rocket Fizz Soda Pop & Candy shop (601 Lincoln Ave.,) downtown in the Alpenglow building, where gummy worms, fudge and more can help entice your brood to continue their outdoor adventures.

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D Dog Town USA Already known as Ski and Bike Town USA, Steamboat now has another moniker to hang its hat on: it was recently dubbed Dog Town USA by Dog Fancy Magazine for its care of canines.

Dogs, which are considered just as much a part of the community as people, are welcome across town, whether it’s at an outdoor restaurant or dog-friendly park. They also enjoy their own special activities, including the Poochie Paddle, where dogs are invited to the Old Town Hot Springs to dip in the lap pool, and the annual Crazy River Dog Races as part of the Yampa River Festival, which has pups competing for longest river jump and best trick.

With hundreds of miles of dogfriendly trails, Fido can stretch his legs and explore Steamboat to his heart’s content. There’s even a dog station at the local car wash.

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Embrace an event Steamboat in the summertime offers a slew of events to keep everyone busy.

The farmers market and Pro Rodeo Series take place every weekend, and a host of more active events keep your heart rate up, from the annual Steamboat Marathon to weekly Town Challenge mountain bike races and Enduro-X series. Other traditions include the annual Art in the Park, where you can peruse artistic vendors while enjoying a warm day in West Lincoln Park, the Fourth of July Parade and fireworks show downtown and the Hot Air Balloon Rodeo, where the sky, rather than canvas, is painted with color.

For more scholastic types, Bud Werner Library hosts book clubs throughout the summer, including the Literary Sojourn, an annual festival that celebrates the power of the book. The Strings Music Festival also offers entertainment all summer long with innumerable world-class concerts, and the Free Summer Concert Series brings free acts downtown to the base of Howelsen Hill. There’s an event for everyone when you visit Steamboat in the summertime. Info: www.steamboatsummer.com, www.exploresteamboat.com.

Eat out Steamboat offers too many great restaurants to list, all guaranteed to refuel carbs burned up from a day outside.

From having breakfast or lunch next to Soda Creek or the Yampa River, to enjoying a drink and meal in historic downtown or up on the mountain, dining options exist for every palate under the sun. This summer, pay special attention to the offerings on Yampa Street downtown along the river, featuring an array of new restaurants. Wherever you go, be assured of friendly service, a great meal and options as varied as Steamboat’s terrain (turn to the Steamboat Zest restaurant guide on page 46 for more information).

F Fish Creek Falls For a great, close family stroll, head to the 283-foot Fish Creek Falls, site of one of the original advertisements for Coors beer. Located just a three-mile drive from downtown, find it by heading down Lincoln Avenue, turning one block 14 | EXPLORE SUMMEr 2015

Photo by John F. Russell

E

Art on the Mountain north on Third Street and then taking a right on Fish Creek Falls Road. From the parking lot it’s an easy quarter-mile walk to the bridge at the base of the falls or to an overlook above. You can also extend your hike by following the trail farther up valley.

“It’s one of the most spectacular places in Steamboat,” says local mom Blair Seymour. “It’s close to town, and you can dip your feet or even dunk your whole body in its cool waters at the end of the line.”

Fee: $5 per vehicle per day for parking.

Farmers market fun Looking for something fun to do on a Saturday? Hit the farmers market, held downtown along Seventh Street between Lincoln Avenue and Yampa Street.

“It’s a great location, right in the middle of downtown and offers something for the whole family,” says organizer Tracy Barnett, adding that the weekly event has more than 100 vendors letting visitors shop, mingle, taste, drink and more the first day of every weekend.

Every vendor, Barnett adds, follows the city’s Zero Waste Contract as part of their exhibiting guidelines. With live music each week, she says it’s become one of the most popular farmers markets in the mountains. Filled with food booths, arts and crafts kiosks and more, the market offers something for everyone and is open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. June 13 to Sept. 19. Info: 970-846-1800, www. mainstreetsteamboat.com.

Free Summer Concert Series Take in great national acts at the

free summer concert series downtown throughout the summer at the base of Howelsen Hill. The events are fun for the whole family and offer food, music, libations and more. This year’s line-up includes the Chris Robinson Brotherhood June 19, the New Orleans Suspects July 3, Jonny Lang July 10, Ziggy Marley Aug. 5 and the Jeff Austin Band Aug. 15. Presented by Budweiser, KFMU, the city of Steamboat Springs, Steamboat Today and more, the family-friendly series is a gathering for all ages and has become one of the signature family events in the valley.

“We’re absolutely thrilled with the lineup this year,” says series president Coleman Cook. “It reaches a great cross section of locals and visitors.”

Fishing The Yampa River harbors one of the best reasons to visit Steamboat Springs in the summer: world-class trout fishing.

You’ll never have a better chance to try fly-fishing than in Steamboat, where rivers like the Yampa and Elk offer a perfect place to cast a line. Throw in our wealth of lakes and there’s something for every angler under the sun.

With as many as 2,000 trout per mile in the city limits, from the tall grass meanders of Rotary Park near the Mount Werner Road exit to the faster water along the Core Trail at Emerald Park, the town stretch offers some of the best, most accessible fishing in the state.

Probe the eddies of Dr. Rich Weiss Park or head to holes near the historic railroad depot. (Hint: Fish early when the water is cool and the tubers have yet to launch.) Another hot spot is the Chuck Exploresteamboat.com

Lewis Wildlife Areas upstream and accessed off River Road. All trout must be returned unharmed to the water, and flies and lures only.

Two nearby state parks offer great lake fishing. Fish Stagecoach Reservoir 13 miles south via Colorado Highway 131 and Routt County Road 14, early and get your fly down 10 to 11 feet in mid-summer.

For great scenery and magical evening fishing, head north 24 miles to Steamboat Lake State Park. (Hint: fish woolly boogers beneath the surface for rainbows.) Boat rentals are available at both marinas. Other lakes include Elkhead Reservoir east of town, as well as Hahn’s Peak and Pearl lakes near Steamboat Lake.

To get the kiddos hooked, head to two stocked ponds within the city limits. Bait fishing is allowed in both Casey’s Pond, located at the intersection of U.S. Highway 40 and Walton Creek Road at the last stoplight toward Rabbit Ears Pass, as well as Fetcher’s Pond, a short drive west down Pine Grove Road off U.S. 40 — turn at Walgreens. Another hot spot is Spring Creek Pond, a short hike up Spring Creek Road off Amethyst Drive across from the high school. (Note: No parking at the ponds, so either walk or bike.)

A Colorado fishing license is required for anyone 16 and older. An annual fishing license is $26 for Colorado residents

and $56 for non-residents. Resident seniors 64 and older can purchase an annual fishing license for $1. Visitors may purchase one- ($9) and five-day licenses ($21). All licenses also require the purchase of a Colorado Wildlife Habitat Stamp for $10. In water where trout may be kept, the daily bag limit for rainbow, brown and cutthroat trout is four fish, with a possession limit (includes coolers) of eight. The bag and possession limit for brook trout is 10.

Fishing is with flies and lures only. Info: www.wildlife.state.co.us/fishing.

G Golf Hit the links at any of Steamboat’s four beautiful and varied courses. The city-owned Haymaker Golf Course is a hybrid links-style course set on the valley floor. The semi-private Rollingstone Ranch Golf Club and the members-only Catamount Ranch & Club offer true mountain golfing at its finest. And for a quick nine, try the Steamboat Golf Club on the west side of town. Its narrow

fairways and mature trees make it as tough as any course in the valley.

“Steamboat has a wealth of great golf courses, from Robert Trent Jonesdesigned Rollingstone to Haymaker and Catamount, which has the best greens in the valley,” says local Olympian Moose Barrows, founder of the Moose’s Loose Golf Tournament. “You can play everyday and not get tired of any of them.”

Haymaker Golf Course: This cityowned golf course was given four stars

by Golf Digest in 2012 and ranked sixth in Colorado for Golf Week’s Best Courses You Can Play. Playing anywhere from 5,059 to 7,308 yards, greens fees for 18 range from $69 in the off-season (opening day to June 13, and Sept. 13 to closing day) to $98 in summer, with a $58 rate for nine holes and $63 after 1 p.m.. Info: 970879-1846, www.haymakergolf.com.

Catamount Ranch & Club: This 7,000-yard, championship golf course was designed by Tom Weiskopf and offers stunning views and a 530-acre private lake. With 4,000 acres preserved in the Yampa Valley Land Trust, the private course is open to members and their guests. Info: 970-871-9200, www. catamountranchclub.com.

Rollingstone Ranch Golf Club: Try to keep your eye on the ball and not Fish Creek rushing by at Rollingstone, a

Photo by John F. Russell

Carnival

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Robert Trent Jones-designed course off Clubhouse Drive near Mount Werner.

Open to members and the public, fees for 18 range from $95 in the off-season (opening day to June 4, and Sept. 11 to closing day) to $140 during peak. Steamboat Sheraton guests receive discounted rates. The par-72 course is 6,900 yards from the championship tees. Info: 970879-1391, www.rollingstoneranchgolf. com.

Steamboat Golf Club: Founded in 1964, the Steamboat Golf Club is the oldest established golf course in the valley. Located just west of town, the nine-hole course borders the Yampa River and features beautiful views and challenging, tight fairways. It’s also the most affordable course in town, with greens fees running $38 for 18 holes or $29 for nine. Info: 970-879-4295, www. steamboatgolfclub.com.

Yampa Valley Golf Course: Located 45 minutes west of town in Craig, this 18-hole course plays alongside the Yampa River through 240 acres of cottonwoods, wetlands, native grasses and sage. It’s 6,548 yards from the tips and 5,242 yards from the forward tees, and is priced affordably at $42 for 18 holes and $30 for nine. Info: 970-824-3673, www.yampavalleygolf.com.

Get in shape If Steamboat’s outdoor activities aren’t enough to get your blood flowing, try a fitness center. Steamboat offers an array of gyms to fit your aerobic needs.

The Old Town Hot Springs (970-8791828; www.steamboathotsprings.org), is equipped with a full fitness center that offers more than 30 fitness classes per week. It also has a complete weight room and cardiovascular area, as well as customized fitness programs put together by personal trainers to whip you into skiing shape. Other ways to add some muscle include lung- and leg-busting Crossfit classes at Fusion Fit (www.steamboatcrossfit.com); Anytime Fitness’s 24-hour gym (www.anytimefitness.com); personal trainers at Peak Fitness (www.peakfitnesssteamboat.com); and Manic Training off Downhill Drive (www.manictraining.com).

Gymnastics Need to have the kids burn off some excess energy? Excel Gymnastics off Shield Drive at the west end of town offers a full array of gymnastics classes for kids and hosts open gyms for the public — oftentimes at night, making it double as a great babysitter — where anyone can flip, tumble, jump and spin to their

heart’s content. The gym is equipped with uneven bars, rings, balance beams, trampolines and the ever-popular foam pit.

Info: 970-879-3467; www.879-egos.com.

H Hot springs Soothe your weary muscles in natural hot springs after a day of outdoor adventures. Steamboat Springs earned its named from early pioneers for the “chugging” sound of its springs, and you can experience them yourself in the area’s natural pools.

The Old Town Hot Springs at Third Street and Lincoln Avenue (970-8791828, www.oldtownhotsprings.org), which recently underwent a $5 million expansion, provides the most convenient option, complete with waterfalls, a pool-plunging climbing wall and a pair of 230-foot waterslides for the kids.

For a more rustic setting, Strawberry Park Hot Springs (970-879-0342, www. strawberryhotsprings.com) seven miles

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Photo by John F. Russell

Bumper cars on ice

out of town lets you change in a teepee and experience the healing powers of the hot springs just as the Utes once did.

A variety of different temperature pools, complete with shoulder-caressing waterfalls, reside right beside a creek you can plunge into to cool off. Just heed the sunset curfew with your kids as clothing is optional after dark.

Horseback ride Enjoy a taste of Steamboat’s authentic Western heritage by taking a horseback ride with the entire family on the area’s scenic trails. In the heart of downtown, try Sombrero Ranches horse stables at the base of Howelsen Hill for anywhere from two-hour to half- and full-day horseback rides up Emerald Mountain (970-879-2306, www.sombrero. com). Farther away, saddle up at Del’s Triangle 3 Ranch, offering hourly, daylong and multi-day rides since 1962, 18 miles north of Steamboat near Clark (970-879-3495, www.steamboathorses. com); Hahn’s Peak Roadhouse, the only outfitter licensed to operate in Steamboat Lake State Park, offering one-hour to full-day guided rides (800-342-1889, www.hahnspeakroadhouse.com); or Saddleback Ranch, a family owned 8,000-acre working cattle ranch offering hourly, full-day and wagon dinner rides (970-879-3711, www.saddlebackranch. net).

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For lessons, try the CR Summit Riding Club for English and Western clinics just 15 minutes west of downtown (970-8796201, www.crsummit.com).

Hiking Steamboat’s undulating, mountainous terrain lends itself perfectly to hiking with the whole family. While a wealth of hiking trails already exist for all skill and fitness levels, there are soon to be even more as the city council recently voted to allocate more than $5 million in tax proceeds toward future trail building. Choose from day hikes on such classics as the Spring Creek and Emerald Mountain trails downtown to more wilderness-oriented hikes in the high country of the Mount Zirkel and Flat Tops wilderness areas. Hiking hints: Bring a map, sunscreen, water, food and appropriate clothing, let someone know where you’re going and hike early in the day to avoid thunderstorms.

Howelsen Hill Howelsen Hill across the river downtown is a city-owned park with more recreation offerings packed into a square half mile than perhaps anyplace else in the world. Here’s a sampling (and it’s only for summer): tennis, volleyball, horseshoes, a playground, mountain bike trails, BMX bike park, an Alpine slide, softball, baseball, disc golf,

soccer, skateboarding, basketball, ice skating, rodeo, horseback riding, hiking and more.

I Ice skating Howelsen Hill Ice Arena (970-8794300) features an Olympic-size sheet of ice where you can unleash your inner Apolo Ohno or Dorothy Hamill all summer long. It also hosts an array of adult and youth drop-in hockey sessions, as well as broom ball options. Unsure of yourself on the ice? Sharpen your skills with a lesson from the rink’s certified skating director. For the kids, the rink also offers bumper cars on ice, where your children can drive into Dad, as well as its popular Rock On Ice program, where kids can skate to music under a disco ball. If you’re lucky, your visit might also coincide with a local figure skating performance or hockey game.

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J Jump in a river or lake Come the lower river flow months of July and August, riverside swimming doesn’t get much better than in the city-built C and D holes downtown by the Bud Werner Memorial Library.

Plunge into either one for a refreshing dip and soak up some rays on the rocks. (Hint: Watch out for the tubers.) Bring a boogie board to surf the waves. For more warm-blooded bathing, try the riverside hot springs just above the Rabbit Ears Motel in Rich Weiss Park, with a knee-high depth perfect for kids.

Popular lakes for swimming include Steamboat Lake north of town and Stagecoach Reservoir to the south, each with a sandy beach for lounging and a rope-bordered swimming area. Each lake also offers a variety of watercraft rentals for even more fun in the sun. If you have the stamina, you can also plunge into such lakes as Gilpin, Gold and Three-mile in the Mount Zirkel Wilderness Area as a reward for hiking in.

Plan on a full day for the round-trip hike.

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For a little “me time,” let Steamboat Ski Area take care of your kids. The Kids’ Vacation Center lets your kids have as much fun as you will. Mini-Campers (3- and 4-year-olds) are provided with fun activities including short hikes, arts and crafts, outdoor games and water sports; Yampa Campers (5-year-olds) add Strings in the Mountain concerts, kayaking, tennis and more; Routt Scouts (second- and third-graders) take field trips to Steamboat Lake, the Craig Wave Pool, Stagecoach Reservoir, Alpine slide and more; and Pioneers (fourth-graders through 12-year-olds) enjoy kayaking, mountain biking, teambuilding activities and more. Info: www.steamboat.com.

l library For books and a relaxing, educational area for the kids, visit the Bud Werner Memorial Library at 13th Street and Lincoln Avenue. Steamboat Springs’ 33,000-square-foot library is a true showcase, overlooking the Yampa River downtown and receiving a silver Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design certification from the U.S. Green Building Council. It includes dedicated spaces for children and teenagers, a coffee shop, large community and conference rooms, various artwork, a Library Hall for presentations and more. Carrying more than 88,000 titles, the library also has 30 public computers, audio books downloadable to MP3 players, self check-out counters (with fines payable by credit card), an electronic wand book stocking system, free wireless, access to the library’s database subscriptions and additional cutting-edge features.

“The community has given themselves an incredible gift with this facility,” says president of the library board Bob Matteo.

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M Mount Werner For awe-inspiring views of the Yampa Valley and beyond, take to the trails of Mount Werner. You can either hike the 2,000-foot vertical climb or ride the gondola to the 9,000-foot-high top of Thunderhead. From there, hike or bike along the numerous trails through dense aspen forests and open switchbacks, identify wildflowers and revel in John Denver’s Rocky Mountain High. Bonus: You might see hang gliders launching before your very eyes.

“Hiking the mountain is one of my favorite activities in Steamboat,” says Steamboat Springs Chamber Resort Association’s Kara Stoller. “Best of all, it offers a breathtaking view of the valley and town.” Info: www.steamboat.com.

Massage Want a rest day from the trails?

Pamper yourself with a massage or spa treatment. A host of salons, day spas and massage studios can soothe what ails you, from dry skin to your spine.

Top spas to visit include Rocky Moun-

tain Day Spa (970-871-6111), Waterside Day Spa (970-875-0271), Life Essentials Day Spa (970-871-9543) and Old Town Hot Springs (970-879-1828). Wherever you go, enjoy an endless collection of massage services, including deep tissue, reflexology, sports therapy, Swedish and more. Local providers also offer nail services, facials, skin care and other body treatments, all meant to relax and rejuvenate your body after your summer outing in Steamboat.

Museum For a glimpse into Steamboat’s colorful past, visit the newly renovated Tread of Pioneers Museum at Eighth and Oak streets downtown, which will have you feeling like a fourth-generation local in no time. Utes, pioneers, a flying Norwegian who brought ski jumping to town and even the Lighted Man’s original suit are all on display, as is a new tribute to the history of skiing in Steamboat Springs. Info: www.treadofpioneers.org.

Maze Celebrating its 20th anniversary, Amaze’n Steamboat at 1255 U.S. Highway 40 offers miniature golf, bumper cars, laser games, a bungee trampoline, gemstone panning and, yes, a giant maze where your kids can run around

and get out of your hair for as long as they’re lost. In racing through its giant maze, participants can race against their friends while searching for four letters — M-A-Z-E — to win prizes. Bonus: Finishing in eight minutes or less gets you in the drawing to win an iPad Mini.

To cool off, kids can grab a supersized squirt gun and head into the maze to soak friends and family and get even closer to water in the facility’s new water-walker balls. Info: 888-909-6293, www.amazensteamboat.com

N Nature loving at the Yampa River Botanic Park Smell the roses and take in other blooms at Yampa River Botanic Park just east (upriver) of downtown along the Core Trail. The outdoor oasis features 30 gardens and a variety of ponds and is home to a spectacular array of plants and flowers that thrive in a mountain climate that offers only 60 frost-free days a year. The park, with free admission, also is home to the Music on the

Photo by John F. Russell

Bud Werner Memorial Library

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O Ogle Olympians Swing by Olympian Hall on the second floor of Howelsen Lodge, where you can see photos touting Steamboat’s Olympic ties and flags depicting Olympic host countries where local athletes competed. Also tour the Walk of Olympians — start on the corner of Fifth and Yampa streets — featuring 18-inch-by18-inch bronze plaques inlaid into brick pavers honoring local Olympians with photos and accomplishments. You can also find tributes to local Olympians on the second floor of Thunderhead Lodge at the top of the gondola, complete with a pair of Nordic jumping skis longer

than anything you’ll ever ride.

“The community really embraces our Olympians here,” says former Olympian Todd Wilson, now the Nordic director for the Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club. “There aren’t many towns with such a proud Olympic heritage.”

P Picnic in a park Enjoy an outside lunch at an array of picnic sites perfect for your basket and checkered blanket. Drive to the Spring Creek Trailhead at East Maple Street and Amethyst Drive by the high school and then hike up a short dirt road to a gazebo picnic shelter and two small ponds. After your meal, keep going up Spring Creek Trail, fish or relax by the water and toss sticks for your dog to retrieve before returning to town. For closer options, try Rich Weiss Park just above the Rabbit Ears Motel (complete with riverside hot springs for the kids), Little Toots Park by the Bud Werner Memorial Library, Fetcher Pond (also a

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great place to fish) or Whistler, Elk and Emerald parks.

Q Quarry Trail One of the best views in town can be found at the Quarry overlook on Emerald Mountain, offering a scenic vista of the entire valley. To get there, hike up Blackmer Drive or access any number of multi-use trails from the base of Howelsen Hill. The popular Lupine Trail starts at the Sombrero Ranches Steamboat Stables and leads to a more challenging trek while the Bluffs Loop starts at the stables entrance and leads to a moderate climb.

Popular among bikers, hikers and horseback riders, the trails lead to a breathtaking view of the Yampa Valley, downtown Steamboat and Steamboat Ski Area. About a four-mile roundtrip, this hike is well worth the effort.

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Green concerts at 12:15 p.m. every Thursday. Take a picnic and a blanket, but not your dog.

“My kids love it,” says local mom Valerie Dietrich. “It’s easy to ride your bikes to and has tons of secret little trails to explore. It’s also a great place for a picnic.”

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Pro Rodeo Series

Rodeo A PRCA-sanctioned event and former winner of the association’s Small Outdoor Rodeo of the Year Award, Steamboat’s weekly Pro Rodeo Series is one of the most successful weekly rodeos in the country.

“Steamboat was a cowboy and ranching town before it was anything else, and our rodeo reminds us of our heritage,” says announcer John Shipley. “It’s one of the best events of the summer.”

The shows, at 7:30 p.m. every Friday and Saturday are packed with ongoing action to keep everyone entertained until the last second, including bareback riding, team roping, steer wrestling, bronc riding, barrel racing, bull riding and a clown act. For the kids, the Calf and Ram Scrambles are a fun way to take part in the big show. The Calf Scramble is for kids ages 6 to 12. Kids gather in the arena and a calf is let loose for them to chase down to get the ribbon tied to its tail. The Ram Scramble is for kids ages 5 and younger.

Schedule and information:

Rodeo performances start at 7:30 p.m.

Fridays and Saturdays, June 19 to Aug. 22, at Brent Romick Rodeo Arena. There is a special performance Ranch Rodeo at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, July 2, and early 6:30 p.m. performance Saturday, July 4.

Tickets can be purchased at the gate or in advance at F.M. Light & Sons; Gondola General, the Information Center in Gondola Square; the Steamboat Springs Chamber Resort Association visitors center and Steamboat Central Reservations.

Performances last about two hours, rain or shine. (Hint: Take a jacket.)

Gates open at 5:30 p.m., with pre-show entertainment, barbecue dinners and libations available.

Info: 970-879-1818, www.steamboatprorodeo.com.

Race Looking to tune your competitive edge? Steamboat offers myriad events to

Reservations Recommended • 970-879-1190 On the bus line at the corner of Pine Grove Road & Hwy 40 1465 Pine Grove Rd. • www.orehouse.com • Open 5pm nightly Exploresteamboat.com

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Photo by Joel Reichenberger

Tube the Yampa keep the blood pumping. The Steamboat Marathon, Half-Marathon and 10K feature a course beside Elk River through green pastures on Routt County Road 129, making it one of the “Top 10 Destination Marathons in North America.” The Howelsen 8 Miler, part of Steamboat Springs Running Series, includes four- and eightmiles runs through the gorgeous trails of Emerald Mountain. The Steamboat Springs Running Series offers more than 10 races during the summer on various trails throughout the Yampa Valley.

For bikers, there’s also no shortage of events: The Town Challenge Mountain Bike Series offers six events that vary in hill-climb and cross-country; the Tour de Steamboat boasts 25-, 40- and 110-mile supported road rides; and the Steamboat Stinger showcases a 50-mile mountain bike race up and over Emerald Mountain.

Rabbit Ears Pass Get out of town and into the wilderness among the wildflowers at iconic Rabbit Ears Pass, located just east of Steamboat. With plenty of wide open terrain for hiking, biking and ogling flowers, the West Summit harbors a variety of trails marked by blue diamonds, offering perfect hiking or biking for the whole family. Maps for its Forest Service 22 | EXPLORE SUMMEr 2015

trails can be picked up at the U.S. Forest Service office across U.S. Highway 40 from the Holiday Inn. The East Summit and Dumont Lake offer similar options, including a trail to the Ears themselves.

S Shop downtown Steamboat’s historic shopping district combines the nostalgia of old-time storefronts with boutique shops, galleries and more. Downtown you’ll find such venerable establishments as F.M. Light & Sons (look for the plastic horse on Lincoln Avenue), founded in 1905 and now in its fifth generation of family ownership, as well as such other favorites like All That and Zirkel Trading Co., all sharing that little taste of Steamboat you can take home. If you’re staying on the mountain, take the free city bus to Fifth Street and begin your journey by passing the historic Routt County Courthouse before entering the heart of the downtown area where restaurants, bars and shops await.

Strings on the Mountain Award-winning music can be found at the Strings Music Pavilion between town and the mountain. From its 1988 beginnings to its current 9,000-squarefoot facility on a six-acre site at the corner of Mount Werner Road and Pine Grove Road, the organization brings top acts to Steamboat every year, from Grammy award-winning musicians to New York Metropolitan Opera singers and world-class orchestra performers.

“We have great music and an unbelievably supportive community,” says Strings marketing director Cristin Frey.

“We owe it all to the support of the community and the people who continue to come to our shows.” Info: 970-879-5056, www.stringsmusicfestival.com.

Sleighride Sleigh rides aren’t just for winter.

Saddleback Ranch (970-879-3711, www. saddlebackranch.com), an 8,000-acre, fourth-generation, family-owned ranch just outside of town, offers two options, bells jingling from Belgium horses on each one. A 40-minute dinner ride takes you to the Double Dollar Lodge for home-cooked meals (try the New York strip) and old-fashioned entertainment (like learning how to calf rope). A shortExploresteamboat.com

er ride circles to and from the ranch’s Longhorn Lodge. Elk River Guest Ranch (970-879-6220, www.elkriverguestranch. com) offers a horse-drawn wagon ride with Belgium draft horses to a candlelit teepee dinner, complete with a shuttle to and from town. Your first stop: Poppa Ed’s Saloon for libations and hors d’oeuvres. The Hahn’s Peak Roadhouse (970-879-4404, www.hahnspeakroadhouse.com) offers a similar wagon ride to and from its lodge on Routt County Road 129, beneath Farwell Mountain and Hahn’s Peak.

T Tube the Yampa Float the town stretch of the Yampa River in an inner-tube for one of the most memorable pastimes in Steamboat.

Just play by the rules to preserve the river’s ecosystem — no glass, littering, foam coolers, nudity, dogs or alcohol.

You can go on your own or with one of several commercial outfitters downtown offering everything from tube use to transportation. Bonus: Try to make it through the C-hole by Bud Werner Memorial Library upright.

“It’s become a family ritual that my kids beg me to do every year,” says local river guide Kent Vertrees. “It’s a big part of the Steamboat summer experience.”

Tennis The Tennis Center (970-879-8400; www.steamboatsprings.net) offers six cushioned indoor hard courts, four outdoor hard courts and six outdoor hydrocourt clay courts near the base of the ski area, adjacent to the Meadows parking lot. Spend time working on your own with a ball machine, knock the ball around for fun or take a lesson with a pro. The city also offers two courts on a first-come basis at Howelsen Hill.

U Up in a hot air balloon For the best bird’s-eye view of the Yampa Valley you can get, take an early morning ride in a hot air balloon. Wild West Balloon Adventures (970-879-7219; wildwestballooning.com) offers balloon tours all summer long, complete with a Champagne toast afterward. Setting out in the early morning, the tours let you Exploresteamboat.com

soar across the Yampa Valley, taking in breathtaking views of town and the mountain, including Mount Werner and its trails. To see even more multi-colored balloons in the air, visit during the annual Hot Air Balloon Rodeo, held this year July 11 and 12.

V Vino testing Release your inner sommelier by participating in a variety of wine tastings offered across town, as well as dining at a variety of local restaurants that pride themselves on their wine offerings (many offer specials and samplings throughout the summer). To take in some art with your wine, try the First Friday Art Walk from 5 to 8 p.m. downtown on the first Friday of every month, when local galleries showcase their art with wine, appetizers and live music.

Also, check Central Park Liquor (970879-3428, www.cplsteamboat.com) for its wine tasting specials throughout the summer from its wineries of the month.

And don’t forget to make plans to attend the annual Steamboat Wine Festival (Aug. 5 through 9, www.steamboatwinefestival.com), where wineries from across the country exhibit their wares at various venues across the valley.

W Walking tour Journey in the footsteps of the Yampatika Ute and Arapaho tribes in a walking tour of the city’s mineral springs downtown. Start at Iron Springs across from the library, which puts you within easy walking distance of them all. Easy to reach springs include Iron, Soda, Sulphur, Sweetwater, Steamboat, Heart and Black Sulphur. Extend your tour with a hike to Lithia Spring in Fairview, which some locals still drink from, as well as the Sulphur Cave a short hike up Howelsen Hill. Bonus: Make Old Town Hot Springs your last stop and end your stroll with a soothing soak.

Info and self-guided brochure: www. yampavalley.info.

X Enduro-X racing Enduro-X riding comes back to Steamboat this summer with the Steamboat Enduro-X series on the mountain Aug. 23. The downhill-riding action includes some of the sport’s best, careening down the trails of the Steamboat Bike Park. The event also offers a Kids Pump Track Jam, Dual Slalom Races and even a Strider Challenge for the youngsters, making each event fun for the whole family. Info: www.enduroxrace.com.

Y Yoga Work your kinks out at a variety of yoga and Pilates studios across town. Open to everyone from seasoned yogis to barely-touch-your-toes newbies, Steamboat offers nearly 20 such studios in town. Favorites include Old Town Hot Springs (970-879-1828, www.oldtownhotsprings.org), the Yoga Center of Steamboat (970-870-1522, www.yogacenterofsteamboat.com) or Steamboat Pilates Yoga & Fitness (970-879-6788, www.steamboatpilatesandfitness.com). Each center offers classes for all levels while exploring different styles of yoga so you can stay stretched out during your summer visit.

Z Zip line Steamboat’s newest outdoor activity opens this summer, with the base of Rabbit Ears Pass just outside town now home to the area’s latest family attraction: a state-of-the-art, eight-segment zip line. Opening in June, the lines zig-zag down a mountainside on the west side of the pass, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including Lake Catamount and the snow-covered mountains of the Flat Tops Wilderness Area. A utility vehicle ride is included in the adventure, which lasts about three hours. Info: www.steamboatziplineadventures.com. summer 2015 explore | 23

Zoom around Steamboat trails and dirt roads offer countless miles of motorized riding, for everything from ATVs to dirt bikes. Following is a sampling of places to ride: Sand Wash Basin: With 90 percent of its 165,000 acres open for off-road travel, Sand Wash Basin, which is 50 miles west of Craig, offers two-track and singletrack riding through washes, as well a free-ride area filled with hills and jumps.

Burns/Darby Creek: A series of trails and roads 45 minutes south of Steamboat on Colorado Highway 131 near the turn-off to Burns, this region is filled with hills and singletrack. Similar trails can be found at Darby Creek and Bocco Mountain SRMA near Wolcott.

North Routt County: Once the gates open to trails on national forest lands (typically between June 15 and July 1), head to the trails and roads of Nipple Peak and Sand Mountain just past Steamboat Lake, or head toward Farwell Mountain. The main routes stem from the trail system where Forest Development Road 550 branches off Routt County Road 129 at the foot of Hahn’s Peak. (Note: No motors in the Mount Zirkel Wilderness Area.)

Flat Tops: The Flat Tops south of town offer a wealth of riding options, both on trails and two-track, best accessed from Oak Creek, Phippsburg and Yampa (no motors past the wilderness area boundary).

Rabbit Ears/Buffalo Pass: This region is home to many linked roads and trail systems, all higher than 10,000 feet, including Trail 1101, which heads south off the summit of Buffalo Pass.

Jackson County: This region offers a vast network of trails, ranging from timber rides to 60-plus miles of dirt bikeonly singletrack on the Snyder and Willow Creek trails near Rand. It also boasts the state’s only OHV sand dune riding at the North Sand Hills Special Recreation Management Area.

24 | EXPLORE SUMMEr 2015

ExplorEStEaMboat.coM

DEL ’

You don’t need a horse to get around Steamboat. It’s easier than ever with the following tips:

TRIANG S

City bus system Steamboat Springs’ free bus system runs all year long between the mountain and town and all points in between.

Catch it at the gondola transit center and Ski Times Square and ride it all the way to the west side of town. All buses are wheelchair accessible and can even take your bike. Schedule and map: 970-879-3717, www.steamboatsprings.net.

33 3

3 LE

Getting around

d an 62. d e 9 wn ce 1 O ily d Sin m Fa rate e Op

RANch

taxi and limousine service Photo by Larry Pierce

Go Alpine is Steamboat’s taxi service, offering transportation all day and night. The standard rate is $3 per person plus $2 per mile (children younger than 2 ride for free). Go Alpine and Storm Mountain Express offer shuttle service to and from Yampa Valley Regional Airport and Denver International Airport. Info: 970-879-2800.

lodging shuttles Most of Steamboat’s lodging properties offer shuttle service for guests. Inquire at the front desk of your specific property to see what services are included with your stay.

yampa river Core trail The seven-mile-long Yampa River Core Trail is the city’s concrete path that parallels the river through the entire town.

It’s a great place to bike or walk with the whole family as you work your way around town.

exploreSteamboat.com The website includes Steamboat’s most complete events calendar and online business directory. Looking for sushi?

Simply type “sushi” into the search box and let Explore do the work for you.

O

ffering horse back riding in a scenic environment.

Steamboattoday.com Steamboat’s only daily source of news, sports, weather and event information. Pick up a free copy of Steamboat Today at local newsstands, or visit SteamboatToday.com on your computer, mobile or tablet.

General ski area information: 970-879-6111 Call the ski area’s main line for information on gondola rides, hiking tours, the Adventure Zone, free concerts, the Kids’ Vacation Center, events and more, or visit www.steamboat.com.

yampa valley medical Center: 970-879-1322 Steamboat Springs’ hospital and primary health care services campus (www.yvmc.org).

ExplorEStEaMboat.coM

970-879-3495 Reservations requested. www.steamboathorses.com Hourly horseback rides available • 2 miles left of The Clark Store

SUMMEr 2015 EXPLORE | 25

Bike TownUSA

Yes, Steamboat Springs is known far and wide as Ski Town USA. But come summertime, there’s another moniker fast on its heels that also takes advantage of the town’s worldclass rolling terrain.

There’s a reason the Bike Town USA nickname is gaining such momentum. Hundreds of miles of trails and roads surround town, a user-friendly bike path parallels the Yampa River and the Steamboat Ski and Resort Corp. continues to improve its new downhill offer-

Bike events Town Challenge Mountain Bike Series Want to enter a local race? The Town Challenge Mountain Bike Series takes place on Wednesday evenings throughout the summer at different locations each week. See how you fare against the town’s best, or enter the recreational category just for spins and grins. Info: www.townchallenge.com.

2nd annual Moots Colorado Ranch Rally, June 13 This event features a 50-mile group gravel and dirt road ride to showcase the importance of area ranches while benefitting the Community Agriculture Alliance. Culminating with a party at local bike manufacturer Moots, the event draws 150 riders and ends at the Moots World Headquarters.

“There are no awards other than seeing the amazing countryside around Steamboat and riding with great people,” says Moots spokesperson Cathy Wiedemer, adding participants are also entered into a drawing to win a Moots Routt frame. Info: www.moots.com.

Captain of the Boat Series, July 2, 16, 30; Aug. 13, 27 Held at the Steamboat Bike Park, this series provides a competitive gravity opportunity for riders of all ages and abilities. It takes place on Thursday evenings starting July 2 and continues every other week until the final race Aug. 27 (single race $10; series $40). With the focus on fun and camaraderie, experienced

26 | EXPLORE SUMMEr 2015

ings on the mountain. Augmenting Steamboat’s already impressive network of mountain bike trails, Routt County Riders continues to build even more trails in the area, including the recently completed Morning Gloria trail on the frontside of Emerald Mountain and the Beall and Ridge trails on the back.

So hop in your saddle and explore yet another side of Steamboat that takes advantage of our world-class terrain.

racers can test their skills against the best in the ’Boat while new racers can enjoy a relaxed introduction to competitive mountain biking. Info: www.bike. steamboat.com.

Tour de Steamboat, July 18 Benefitting local nonprofits, the Eriksen Tour de Steamboat draws up to 1,000 riders each year for a non-competitive event offering rides of three distances: a 26-mile loop out to Sydney Peak Ranch; 40-mile Stagecoach out-and-back; and the infamous 110-mile Gore Gruel, from Steamboat over Rabbit Ears and Gore passes and back.

“It’s a great event for a great cause,” says Kent Eriksen. “It’s one of the marquee cycling events of the season.” Info: www.rockypeakproductions.com.

Honey Stinger Steamboat Stinger, Aug. 15 & 16 This year marks the fifth running of the Steamboat Stinger race, hosted by Steamboat’s Honey Stinger. The 2015 event will lure 500 mountain bikers to town to race 50 miles up and over Emerald Mountain in a two-loop circuit. This year’s event will again offer solo and duo divisions, as well as half- and full-marathon trail races. Up to 500 mountain bike and 400 runner spots are available.

“It’s a great way to promote our local, world-class trail system and has become a highlight of the summer riding season,” says Honey Stinger’s Len Zanni.

Info: www.honeystinger.com.

USA Pro Challenge, Aug. 17 & 18 For the third time in five years, the USA Pro Challenge will draw the world’s best road bike racers to the Yampa Val-

ley, this time bigger and better than ever as Steamboat hosts the overall start for the seven-stage race. The action begins Aug. 17 with a circuit race, followed by stage two Aug. 18 when riders race out of town for Arapahoe Basin.

“This is the biggest opportunity we’ve had for visitation and exposure in the race’s five-year history,” says Jim Clark, CEO of the Steamboat Springs Chamber Resort Association. “It’s an honor to host the race’s overall start.” Info: www. usaprocyclingchallenge.com.

Steamboat Enduro-X Mountain Bike Race, Aug. 23 Enduro-X riding returns with the four-stage Enduro-X race at the Steamboat Bike Park and Routt National Forest. The downhill extravaganza features descents of 2,000 feet or more, is open to riders 14 and older and benefits Routt County Riders and the Bike Town USA initiative. Kicking off with a barbecue on Saturday, Aug. 22, the event also offers a Kids Pump Track Jam and Strider Challenge for the youngsters. Info: www.

Enduro-Xrace.com.

Steamboat Stage Race, Sept. 5 to 7 The Steamboat Stage Race is a stage race format similar to the Tour de France, requiring racers to compete in all three days of racing. It offers 10 different racing categories for men and women, based on age and ability, with equal prize money for the pro men and women.

“It’s great because you get pro riders racing right alongside locals,” organizer Corey Piscopo says, adding that this year’s event should draw nearly 400 competitors. Info: www.bikesteamboat.com.

Exploresteamboat.com

Photo by Joel Reichenberger

Town Challenge

Favorite rides Family fun For an easy, family-friendly cruise, the Yampa River Core Trail is a wide concrete path that parallels the Yampa River from the east side of Steamboat to the west. It’s a great way to experience Steamboat riding, plunges into the river and lunch along the way.

There are also places for kids (and gutsy grown-ups) to practice BMX and other dirt-riding skills, including a small course at the base of Howelsen Hill (head west, or downstream, to behind the farthest softball field); a new bike park at the Bear River Skate Park, accessed at the farthest downstream end of the bike path (off Shield Drive); and a new pump track at the base of Steamboat Bike Park.

Family-friendly rides can also be found at the top of the resort, where you can ride the gondola up and coast down.

Mountain biking Steamboat’s singletrack is buttersmooth. Emerald Mountain, rising from the heart of downtown, offers an array of trails leading from the base of Howelsen Hill up, around and behind Emerald. Access points include Blackmer Drive, which climbs to a great view Exploresteamboat.com

from Emerald Mountain Quarry, as well as trailheads at the base of Howelsen Hill. (Hint: For a great singletrack ascent, take the Lupine trail from behind the rodeo grounds.)

From the top, drop off the backside on the new Beall or Ridge trails (and loop the new Rotary Trail near the bottom), or return via such frontside trails as Blair Witch, MGM and Eye to Eye. Steamboat Bike Park at the Ski Area serves up 50-plus miles of trails. A gondola ticket will get you and your bike to the Thunderhead summit for a fast and fun ride down a variety of trails back to the base, including a new jump and rampfilled downhill trail on the lower mountain.

You can also climb from Thunderhead to the Storm Peak summit, where more singletrack awaits.

For more seclusion, try Spring Creek, whose trailhead starts near the high school downtown (or you can shuttle up to the top on Buff Pass for a seven-mile ride down). Continental Divide Trail (Trail 1101) on Rabbit Ears Pass is another locals’ favorite, as is northern Routt County off Seedhouse Road — try Pearl Lake to Colter Creek — Trail 1104 — to Scott’s Run. Take a map and the right clothing and gear, and consult a local shop beforehand.

Get more information on local riding options from local cycling organization Routt County Riders, which has a new trail map available at local bike shops,

and the annual Steamboat Bike Guide, produced by the Bike Town USA initiative and the pedal-friendly staff at the Steamboat Today newspaper, available in kiosks throughout town. Also, talk to a friendly local for trail advice specific to the current conditions. Info: www. routtcountyriders.org, www.steamboatbiketown.com.

Road cycling Plenty of road biking options also exist around Steamboat Springs. One favorite is heading out Twentymile Road (Routt County Road 33) from town, accessed from 13th Street. You can ride an out-and-back to the top of the hill in about an hour, or continue on to Twentymile Coal Co. and back, which is about 40 miles. You can also head to Oak Creek on Routt County Road 27, which sees little or no traffic.

Ride through Oak Creek and cut back to Steamboat via Stagecoach Reservoir on Routt County Road 14 and Colorado Highway 131 for a 50-mile loop.

For more punishment, follow the USA Pro Cycling Challenge course by heading up Rabbit Ears Pass on U.S. Highway 40.

Make it epic by continuing to Gore Pass on Colorado Highway 134 and then over Yellow Jacket Pass on C.R. 14. Loop it back to Colo. 131 to complete the 110mile ride, referred to as the “Gore Gruel.” summer 2015 explore | 27

Your Steamboat

bucket list

Still stuck on what to do in town?

Peruse the following list of Steamboat’s top 30 summer experiences put together by the Steamboat Springs Chamber Resort Association. The association chose each item based on visitor popularity, iconic nature, local heritage value and straight-up fun. Print the list at www. summerboatlist.com or pick up a postcard-sized checklists at the Steamboat Springs Visitor Center.

1. Hike to Fish Creek Falls 2. Attend the Steamboat Springs Pro Rodeo 3. Ride the gondola 4. Attend a Strings Music Festival concert 5. Swim at Old Town Hot Springs 6. Cruise the Yampa River Core Trail 7. Ride in a hot air balloon over the valley

8. Golf one of the three 18-hole golf courses 9. Tour local breweries 10. Tube the Yampa River 11. Mountain bike Emerald Mountain 12. Hike Devil’s Causeway 13. Fly fish on the Yampa River 14. Soak at Strawberry Park Hot Springs 15. Shop, eat and browse at the Mainstreet Farmers Market 16. Downhill at the Steamboat Bike Park 17. Stroll the art galleries 18. Camp in the Zirkel Wilderness Area 19. Take a scenic drive to Steamboat Lake 20. Try out The Howler Alpine slide 21. Boogie down at a free summer concert 22. Visit the Yampa River Botanic Park 23. Cowboy up at F.M. Light & Sons 24. Hike Mad Creek Trail 25. Dine by the river on Yampa Street

26. Make a splash at Burgess Creek Beach 27. Standup paddleboard at Stagecoach Reservoir 28. Cheers at Sunset Happy Hour atop Mount Werner 29. Horseback ride through the aspen trees 30. Tour through history at the Tread of Pioneers Museum The Steamboat Springs Chamber Resort

Association is giving away prizes via Facebook, offering a chance to check off Boat List items on its dime, including a free return trip to Steamboat.

The Chamber is also searching for the ultimate Steamboat fan who has photo proof of all 30 experiences.

Visit www.summerboatlist.com for more info.

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To learn about the outdoors while you’re here, join a program by Yampatika, a local nonprofit that inspires environmental stewardship through education.

“Our goal is to develop environmental learning opportunities for children and adults,” says executive director Sonja Macys, whose naturalists lead hikes and other programs throughout the Yampa Valley. “It’s a great program for visitors.”

Offering programs for kids to senior citizens, its Environmental Learning Center at Legacy Ranch offers educational programs, summer camps, field trips, self-guided walking tours and more. Its office at the U.S. Forest Service building (925 Weiss Drive) harbors a small Nature Center with displays of local wildlife and cultural artifacts. Each year, its programs and camps reach more than 15,000 youth and adults with outdoor educational activities instilling environmental stewardship.

Info: 970-871-9151, www.yampatika.org.

2015 Summer Programs Weekly programs: Tuesdays, June 23 to Aug. 25: Mineral Springs Tour, 9 to 11 a.m.

Wednesdays, June 17 to Aug. 26: Guided Gourmet Lunch Hike with a Steamboat Ski and Resort ambassador and Yampatika naturalist, 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, June 25 to Sept. 5: Yampatika naturalist on site at Fish Creek Falls, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Tuesdays, May 26 to June 16: Bird Walks, 8 to 10 a.m.

Adult field schools: May 30: Edible Plants Walk, Lower Bear, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

June 4: Wild Edible Feast, The Cabin at the Steamboat Grand, 5:30 to 9 p.m.

June 13: Wildflower Walk, Greenville Mine Road, Clark, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

June 20: Medicinal Herb Walk, Spring Creek, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

June 27: Wildflower Walk, Coulton Creek, Clark, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

July 11: Medicinal Herb Walk, Aspen Flats, Flat Tops, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

July 18: Mountain Wildflower Walk, Dome Peak, Flat Tops, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

July 25: Mountain Wildflower Walk, Black Mountain Trail, Flat Tops, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Aug. 29: Water Dowsing, Yampatika Environmental Learning Center at Legacy Ranch, 10 a.m. to noon.

Sept. 19: Windy Ridge Archaeological Hike, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

ExplorEStEaMboat.coM

2015 Award-Winning Pro Rodeo

Photo by Fred McClanahan Jr.

Photo by John F. Russell

yampatika One of the West’s greatest traditions.

Fun for everyone!

Every Friday & Saturday June 19 - August 22 at 7:30 pm Brent Romick Arena

Howelsen Hill Rodeo Grounds downtown

 4th of July Weekend!  The 112Th annual Cowboys’ Roundup days July 2 at 7:30 pm — wRCa Ranch Rodeo July 3 at 7:30 pm — pRCa pro Rodeo July 4 at 6:30 pm — pRCa pro Rodeo with fireworks

Presented by &

SteamboatProRodeo.com SUMMEr 2015 EXPLORE | 29

taking inWildlife

30 | EXPLORE SUMMEr 2015

ing through meadows closer to town.

With swaths of national forest land, private ranches and dedicated wilderness areas, Routt County also provides ideal habitat for smaller species, from waterfowl and other birds to pika and chipmunks. For bird watching, visit The Nature Conservancy-operated Carpenter Ranch (970-276-4626), a 25-minute drive west on U.S. Highway 40, or the Chuck Lewis State Wildlife Area off River Road (Routt County Road 14) to the south.

Find a great introduction to local wildlife at the U.S. Forest Service office in Steamboat (925 Weiss Drive, 970-8702299) and at the Steamboat Lake State Park Visitors Center, 30 minutes north on Routt County Road 129 (970-8793922), which also has petting pelts and other interactive displays.

Hiking in the wilderness areas puts you deeper into wildlife habitat, but practice proper wildlife-viewing protocol. Never feed wildlife or entice it to approach as wild animals can be

dangerous, especially if they perceive you as a threat. Report any incidents to Colorado Parks and Wildlife (970-8702197).

Photo by Scott Franz

Bordered by the Flat Tops Wilderness Area, Service Creek Wilderness Area and Mount Zirkel Wilderness Area, Steamboat Springs is a sure bet for wildlife viewing on your trip out West.

While some species are easier to spot than others, keep your eyes peeled and you have a chance to see black bears, moose, elk, deer, antelope, mountain lions, lynx, foxes, bald eagles, sandhill cranes and more on any given excursion.

Northwest Colorado’s elk herds are among the largest in the nation, making Steamboat one of the best big game viewing — and hunting — destinations in the country. For the best chance at sighting them, head out early in the morning and look in fields and meadows along the Elk and Yampa valley floors.

A multitude of moose also call the region home, especially if your travels take you toward Walden in Jackson County.

Head out early in the morning and look for them in marshes and fields atop Rabbit Ears and Buff Pass or even meander-

ExplorEStEaMboat.coM

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An inside look at Steamboat’s Bike guide

trEVyn nEwphEr Living and riding in Steamboat for more than 10 years, Steamboat Bike Park Manager Trevyn Newpher, 33, is the person to tap as your family’s guide and instructor when riding down the mountain.

Growing up riding BMX and an Elite racer since 2005 and current World Cup Series rider, he has a decade of coaching under his belt and maintains the Steamboat Bike Park for Steamboat Ski Area, which he samples as often as he can. When not riding bikes, you can find him riding his dirt bike or teaching kiteboarding at the Outer 32 | EXPLORE SUMMEr 2015

Banks of North Carolina. He also dabbles in guitar. Info: www.steamboatbikepark.com.

formalized, I got certified.

Explore: When did you move to town?

Newpher: It’s an exciting time to be in the industry.

From a ski industry standpoint, bike parks are still in their infancy. But there’s been a huge evolution in bikes, safety equipment, trail design and instructional programs, which is bringing the sport to the masses. Like skiing, it offers the excitement of the mountains and gravity, thanks to great equipment.

With proper bikes, gear, trails and guidance, the sport is accessible to almost anyone.

For me, the real reward is the descent, which I think is why most of us were attracted to bikes at a young age. I’m fortunate that my job revolves around being on a bike.

Newpher: I’ve been in Steamboat for eight winters and three summers. It was the summers that sealed the deal on settling down in Steamboat.

Explore: How long have you been riding and guiding?

Newpher: I started riding in high school in 1998, raced in college and haven’t turned back since. I earned my pro license in 2004 and have taught and coached mountain biking since the beginning of my bike park days. In 2006 or so, when the general “school” of mountain bike instruction was getting

Explore: What do you like about it?

Explore: Why is Steamboat such a great place to ride?

Newpher: Steamboat has the complete package, no matter what type of rider you are.

When you add in our extensive bike heritage, a packed events calendar and one of the most incredible mountain towns in the U.S., it’s a truly mountainous package.

Explore: What kind of tricks do you teach?

Newpher: One trick I get requests for is learning how to ride a wheelie. By practicing a few core skills, people can actually master it quite easily.

Explore: What do you need to know how to do beforehand?

Newpher: For first time park riders, there are a few boxes ExplorEStEaMboat.coM

Photo by Scott Franz

adventure

to check. Always bring a buddy, be familiar and confident with your equipment, know how to use your front and back brakes properly, lower your seat for greater stability and be comfortable standing on your pedals. Also, wear protective equipment, which is essential in the park. Your bike should also be specific to downhill use. Cross countrystyle bikes don’t belong in the bike park. If in question, stop by the Steamboat Bike Shop and ask. Our staff can get you answers to any questions you may have and run you through the latest technology in downhill-specific bikes as well as our rental and lesson packages.

Photo by John F. Russell

GuiDEs — Eugene Buchanan ExplorEStEaMboat.coM

SUMMEr 2015 EXPLORE | 33

Bird watching guide

Erin Birtwistle Erin Birtwistle, 28, has a fitting last name for someone who loves birds.

“Sometimes, people think it’s bird whistle,” says the avid birder and parttime birding guide for Yampatika.

The New Jersey native and graduate of Rutgers University developed her love for birding during internships in Maryland and Nantucket where she studied sparrows and shore birds. Her most recent job before moving to Steamboat involved monitoring birds in the grasslands of Illinois six days a week. While there, she began waking up early on her one day off to still go birding, and it was then she realized it was her true passion. Info: www.yampatika.org Explore: When did you move to town?

Photo by Matt Stensland

Birtwistle: I moved here five years ago just for the winters as a ski instructor.

The first three summers I worked for a Ph.D. student at CSU doing surveys all over the Rockies. In November 2013, I moved to Steamboat officially and began living here full time. Originally, I’m from New Jersey.

Explore: How long have you been guiding bird-watching tours?

Birtwistle: Only a year, but I’ve worked in different states studying birds and helping protect birds since I graduated from college. I know a good amount about birds.

Explore: What do you like about it?

Birtwistle: It’s like a puzzle figuring out which bird is which. The birds are all unique and beautiful. A lot of people don’t know that much about birds, so it’s cool to share simple information with them and see them get excited about spotting different birds.

Explore: Is Steamboat a good place to go birding?

Birtwistle: Steamboat is such a gorgeous place. There are a lot a different habitats that aren’t too far away, and 34 | EXPLORE SUMMEr 2015

those allow a wide range of bird species to live around here. Steamboat also has a great community of birders and an active birding group — the unofficial Yampa Valley Birding Club.

how I started, by going out with people who knew more than I did.

Explore: Is birding easy to learn? Any tricks to master?

Birtwistle: You need to know how to identify birds’ different bill shapes, sizes and colors, what their habitat is like and what song they’re singing. Knowing how to identify these characteristics makes birding fun and easy. You also need a pair of binoculars and know how to use them. I’d go to Yampatika and take classes to learn more.

Birtwistle: It can be complicated.

There are things you can learn in terms of certain birds by looking for colors or a bird’s size and shape. Learning to identify a bird by sound is pretty hard.

Everything takes practice. The biggest thing for beginners is to go out with someone who has experience. That’s

Explore: What do you need to know beforehand?

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Rafting guide

pEtE sCully Blue Sky West raft guide Pete Scully, 38, has been pushing the oars and manning the guide stick on area rivers for 16 years. Living with his dogs north of town, he moved to Steamboat Springs in 1998 and started guiding rafts right away to paddle the powder he skis in the winter. He calls rafting one of the best things a visitor can do in Steamboat in the summer, and he’s more than happy to help get you wet on area waterways. Info: www.blueskywestrafting.com.

Explore: How long have you been rafting?

Scully: I moved to Steamboat in 1998 from Montana to become a ski instructor and then started guiding right away under the tutelage of local rafting instructor Tammy McDermott.

Explore: What do you like about it?

Scully: It’s just such a great summertime activity to do here.

Every day is different, with different people, different animals and even different currents in the river. It never gets boring. I love the crazy force of nature that the river allows me to be part of.

Explore: Why is Steamboat such a great place to do it?

Scully: Steamboat is a great place for rafting because with just a little bit of driving you’re able to access five different rivers, including the Colorado, Eagle, Elk, North Plate, and of course, the Yampa, which is right in our backyard. And since we get such great snow, there’s always great water.

Explore: Do you have a personal favorite?

Scully: My all-time favorite place to raft would have to be Cross Mountain Canyon of the Yampa, just west of Maybell near Dinosaur. It’s a beautiful canyon with great Class III-IV whitewater, making it an awesome day trip from Steamboat.

It’s a pretty exciting and fun run.

Explore: Is rafting easy to learn?

Scully: It’s pretty easy to learn if you are with good people who know how to teach you how to read the river. It helps to be comfortable in water and like getting wet.

Photo by Scott Franz

— Ariana Kocik

36 | EXPLORE SUMMEr 2015

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Golf guide

Luke Brosterhous

Brosterhous: I’ve been playing my whole life — professionally since 2001, and I’ve been teaching since 2011.

Along the way, I became a Class A PGA member, secured a TPI certification and AimPoint certification and an Impact Zone certification.

Explore: What do you love about golfing in Steamboat?

Brosterhous: It’s such an aesthetically enjoyable time here, especially in summer and early fall — walking around a big, green park and playing a game I enjoy with people I enjoy being with.

That’s the really great part about playing golf here.

Explore: What is your favorite thing about teaching golf?

Brosterhous: I share my enthusiasm for the game with as many people as I possibly can. Encouraging the development of the sport, especially with juniors, is so important to me. Golf is just such a great way to enjoy the people you love while being active.

Explore: What would you tell people who may want to give it a try?

Brosterhous: The first thing is to find people you want to spend time with.

Golf is a great way to spend time with friends and family. From there, keep it simple — there’s a sharp learning curve.

Start close to the hole and understand there are many steps and things to learn along the way to eventually playing the entire hole. More than anything, just have fun.

— Mackenzie Yelvington

Photo by John F. Russell

Throughout the Yampa Valley are opportunities to play golf on courses with high-ranking certifications and equally high-ranking pros ready to show other golfers the ropes and help them play in Steamboat Springs. One such professional is Catamount Ranch & Club’s Director of Golf Luke Brosterhous, 36, who has been a professional golfer since 2001 and has taught golf across the world since 2011. Brosterhous returned to Steamboat last month with his two kids, 4 and 6, and wife Erin, and loves the local links and everything else the valley has to offer. Info: www.catamount ranchclub.com

Explore: How long have you been golfing?

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summer 2015 explore | 37

Photo by John F. Russell

SUP guide

Danny Tebbenkamp Glance out on the river any given day during the summer and chances are you’ll find standup paddleboard instructor Danny Tebbenkamp, 40, either leading a lesson or paddleboarding on his own. His shop, Steamboat Paddleboard Adventures, is located just a stone’s throw from his favorite wave on the Yampa River, and he’s there most afternoons after work refining his own skills after teaching others. Info: www. steamboatpaddleboardadventures.com.

Explore: When did you move to Steamboat?

Tebbenkamp: I always wanted to be a ski bum and so I moved here from Grand Rapids, Michigan, right out of college. My first real job required me to ski to work, which made all my friends back home super jealous.

Explore: How long have you been teaching SUP? Tebbenkamp: I started riverboarding (boogie boarding) and paddleboarding in 2009. In 2013, I began Steamboat 38 | EXPLORE SUMMEr 2015

Paddleboard Adventures and began guiding and doing lessons on local rivers and lakes. I’ve now obtained my Level 2 ACA certification and am working on my Level 3, and have obtained my Swiftwater Rescue and Wilderness First Responder certifications as well.

Explore: What do you like about standup paddleboarding?

Tebbenkamp: I love being out on water and out in nature. Paddleboarding the river is my favorite. It is powerful and to be respected, requires a certain skill set. It gets the juices flowing.

Explore: Why is Steamboat such a great place to do it?

Tebbenkamp: The Yampa River is a great beginner river. At high levels, it can be a little more challenging with its Class II+ water. Between the slowmoving upper stretch where you can get your bearings to charging through the town section with its great play waves, there’s a little bit of everything. There are also a lot of great lakes in the area, so the places to explore on a paddleboard are everywhere.

Explore: Is it easy to learn?

Tebbenkamp: Obviously, you want

to start on flatwater first and get a handle on your balance and basic strokes. When you start getting into moving water, take a lesson to learn river safety, river navigation and strokes.

Explore: Any other tips?

Tebbenkamp: For rivers, start on your knees on small, slow-moving whitewater.

As you get more comfortable, stand up, always looking down river. Run bigger wave trains as you get more comfortable, but always know the stretch of river you’re running. The biggest keys: know how to safely navigate and self-rescue.

Make sure you have the proper gear and equipment — never wear a leash attached to your ankle; use a quick release system attached to your vest.

Explore: What do you need to know how to do beforehand?

Tebbenkamp: It helps to know how to swim and to be comfortable in the water. Also, paddleboards aren’t “one size fits all.” Depending on whether you’re lake touring, river running, surfing or fishing, certain boards are better than others. Your size and weight are also key factors in being successful on the water.

— Eugene Buchanan Exploresteamboat.com

Kayaking instructor

Barry Smith Longtime local Barry Smith, 64, moved to town in 1975 after spending nearly 15 years guiding on the Grand Canyon. In 1980, he started Mountain Sports Kayak School on the banks of the Yampa River, where he’s been teaching people to kayak ever since.

Loving snow as much as water, this spring Smith, also a PSIA-certified Telemark ski instructor, traveled to Iceland for a boat-accessed ski trip, marking his first return to the country since a National Geographic-sponsored first descent kayak expedition in 1984. Info: www.mountainsportskayak.com.

Photo by John F. Russell

“A bunch of college friends moved

here from Flagstaff and said I had to move up here,” he says. “The town’s great — you can ski and kayak right out your back door.”

Explore: What do you like about teaching kayaking?

Smith: It’s super rewarding to watch people’s faces once they get the hang of it. It’s an incredibly fun sport, and I love geting more people involved. I’ve run into people all the time over the years who have come up and said, “Hey, you taught me how to kayak. Thanks.”

Some people I’ve taught have gone on to kayak all over the world.

Explore: Why is Steamboat such a great place to do it?

Smith: It’s hard to script a better place to learn. We start out on a pond that goes right into the river and take out at another one on the far end. It’s a great river for learning. It starts off super gentle and then progresses as you go.

It’s easy and isn’t scary at all. It’s about as good of a place to learn as you’ll ever find.

Explore: Is it easy to learn?

Smith: It’s relatively easy, but it does take some time and commitment. But for the casual person who wants to try it, they can get in and have a great time right away. It’s very unusual to be able to go out on a three-hour kayaking lesson right in town.

Explore: Any particular tricks to master?

Smith: If you learn the basic strokes, it gives you the ability to go out back home on your own, or anywhere else for that matter. The roll takes some time, but you don’t really need it to go out and have a good time. But when you do get your roll, it opens up way more opportunities and allows you to push yourself a little more. If you’re really going to pursue it, you’ll want to learn it.

Explore: Anything you need to know how to do beforehand?

Smith: It helps to be comfortable in water, be athletic and love the outdoors.

Approach it with the right attitude and you’ll have a blast right off the bat.

— Eugene Buchanan

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summer 2015 explore | 39

Valid through August 31, 2015

40 | EXPLORE SUMMEr 2015

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Photo by John F. Russell

Hot air balloon guide

Bud Whitehead On a crisp, clear morning, it’s common to see a couple of bright, billowing hot air balloons cruising through the sky near Mount Werner. Chances are the pilot at the controls is Bud Whitehead, 36, a balloon navigator as at home in the air as he is on the ground. While Whitehead and his passengers usually take off in the same field by Bald Eagle Lake each morning, where they land each time is up in the air. Info: www. wildwestballooning.com.

Explore: What brought you to Steamboat?

Whitehead: I was attending college at Arizona State University and looking to get out of the heat when I first visited Steamboat in 1999. Then, working on a degree in recreation management and tourism, I came back to Steamboat for my final semester to intern at Thunderhead Lodge. After that, I moved here full time.

Exploresteamboat.com

Explore: How did you get into ballooning?

Explore: Is ballooning difficult to master?

Whitehead: I was working at hotels using my degree and decided I didn’t really want to go down that route. So I got a part-time job working on the balloon crew with Wild West. Then I decided I wanted to become a pilot myself. Altogether I’ve been flying about five years, three commercially.

Whitehead: It took me three years to get my commercial pilot’s license, and it was tricky at first. Every maneuver you make has a lag time of about six seconds, which can be difficult to feel out. Some passengers can be a little nervous at first, but most enjoy themselves shortly after takeoff when they realize how peaceful it is. It can be a little chilly in the morning, so you may need to bundle up, but otherwise just prepare to have an amazing time with incredible views.

Explore: What do you like about it?

Whitehead: I absolutely love it. I enjoy the actual flying and meeting the guests and showing them the views of Steamboat — a town I love living in. It’s a true adventure and something they may never do again. I also love the crew and the owners. Everything about it is just a fun experience.

Explore: Why is Steamboat such a great place for ballooning?

Whitehead: The weather and wind here is usually calm in the morning, which is ideal. Plus, the sights are incredible. Ballooning is something a lot of people want to try at least once, if only to cross it off their bucket list.

Explore: Any particularly memorable rides?

Whitehead: I’ve piloted special occasions, including birthdays, engagements and even weddings. One time it was just the bride and groom and I, and I was the ring bearer; I flew the balloon with the rings in my pocket. It’s a special occasion for many passengers to book a balloon flight, which makes it special for me to share those moments.

— Teresa Ristow summer 2015 explore | 41

Fly-fishing guide

roB BurDEn In the spring of 2007, Rob Burden, 26, moved to Steamboat Springs to mogul ski on the U.S. Development Freestyle Team. But the move also allowed him to pursue his love of fly-fishing whenever he wasn’t freestyle skiing.

During his first summer he began guiding for Steamboat Flyfisher, and today, he co-owns the shop with business partner and former Nordic combined Olympian Johnny Spillane. Together, they’ve carried on a long-running tradition of providing professional guiding services on the Yampa and Elk rivers, as well as other top fishing spots in the valley and beyond.

“There’s nothing else that I’d rather be doing,” sums up Burden. “I just love to fish and be out on the river.” Info: www.steamboatflyfisher.com.

Explore: What do you like about teaching fly-fishing?

Burden: It’s fun just getting people into the sport I love.

Fly-fishing is truly my all-time favorite thing to do, and so is getting people out on the river — not just catching fish, but having a good time.

Explore: Why is Steamboat such a great place to fly-fish?

Burden: The size of the fish is the best reason to fish here, but the location of town to both the Yampa and the Elk rivers is also amazing. There are tons of great rivers, streams and lakes surrounding Steamboat. You don’t have to go far to find a really good spot.

Explore: Who is your typical guest?

Burden: It’s about half and half when it comes to experience. A lot of return clients bring friends who have never fly-fished before, so oftentimes we’re guiding experienced return guests and also their friends who are beginners.

There are times when we’re teaching the basics and others when we’re teaching more advanced techniques.

Explore: How long is a typical outing?

Burden: We do a lot of half-day trips in the summer when the weather gets warm— typically about four hours of fishing. Our full-day trips usually last about eight hours.

Explore: Where do you take your guests?

Burden: Mostly we take people to the Yampa and Elk rivers where we have private ranches. But we also have leases on different rivers and creeks, including Savory Creek in Wyoming.

Explore: Anything guests need to bring?

Burden: You don’t really need to bring anything. But you do need to wear appropriate clothing and have a hat and sunglasses. We supply all the gear — the reels, rods and waders. We also bring drinks and food.

Explore: Is it easy to learn?

Photo by John F. Russell 42 | EXPLORE SUMMEr 2015

Burden: It can be as easy or as hard as you want to make it. We make it pretty simple at first, so we can keep people’s interest. But we can make it as complicated as the guest wants. We do what we can to help any level of angler reach their goals.

— John F. Russell

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Horseback outfitter

Ray Heid

Photo by John F. Russell

A horseback ride at Del’s Triangle 3 Ranch in North Routt County may be the closest thing a city slicker can get to experiencing what it was like to be a cowboy in the West 100 years ago. After getting fitted with a worn cowboy hat

and a pair of chaps and leaving the stables at the base of Sand Mountain, you’ll lose all sight of civilization as you trot on trails overlooking the Zirkel mountains. The only traffic you’ll encounter is the horse in front of you or a giant herd of elk. A former ski racer and jumper, ranch owner Ray Heid, 77, takes pride in leading the horseback rides as much today as when he began more than 50 years ago, and you’re guaranteed to hear

some of his tales on the trail. Info: www. steamboathorses.com.

Explore: I’ve never ridden a horse before, and I’m a city slicker. Can I still come ride?

Heid: Yes. We give a little orientation on how to sit in the saddle and how to control the horse, and then we’re off. It’s pretty easy. Anyone can do it. We even have a little booster stool to help people get on and off.

Explore: Who comes to your ranch to ride?

Heid: We get everyone from first-time beginners to hardcore horse people.

The rides are perfect for everyone, even the whole family. On some rides, we’ll even stop and fish for cutthroat trout in the high country, which people love.

Explore: Why is North Routt such a great place to ride?

Heid: You completely leave all signs of civilization behind. It’s just like it was here 100 years ago. Our trails go through beautiful aspen groves and offer great views all around. It’s pretty peaceful.

Explore: How long have you been at it?

Heid: We’ve been guiding horseback riding trips up here at our ranch since 1962. We offer hour-long rides, half-day rides and all-day rides, and even overnight pack trips into the Zirkel Wilderness where we go for anywhere from three to five days at a time.

— Scott Franz

Exploresteamboat.com

summer 2015 explore | 43

Photo by John F. Russell

Hiking guide

Karen Vail Born and raised in Steamboat Springs, Karen Vail, 54, is passionate about all aspects of the outdoors, from the smallest of insects to the array of plants and animals found in the Yampa Valley. She knows the best places here to view wildflowers in full bloom and how important the natural world is in everyday life. Since the early 1990s, Vail has been involved in Yampatika, a nonprofit offering outdoor educational services to children and adults of all ages. She helped start the organization because she felt there was a need to get people back into the natural world, and environmental education was a great way to do that. Info: www. yampatika.org.

Explore: How long have you been a naturalist?

Vail: My whole life. I’ve always studied the natural world and how we live in and interact with it. After getting my undergrad degree in botany, I became an environmental educator when I went to grad school in New Hampshire and received an M.S. in environmental education. I wanted to return to Steamboat, but there was nothing in my field, so I helped start Yampatika as a “friends” group assisting various government organizations. But I think the most important education to have for being an environmental educator is learning from nature. Reading books is all good and fine, but seeing the real thing and taking the time to examine and explore and ask questions is best.

Explore: What does it take?

Vail: A passion for the natural world, constant curiosity, the ability to provide factual and unbiased information in a fun way that people will remember and want to pursue, and the ability to say, “I don’t know, but I can find out.”

Explore: What have you learned as a

44 | EXPLORE SUMMEr 2015

naturalist?

Vail: Every day constantly impresses me how important our natural world is; sometimes we take it for granted and think it will always be there. It’s fun to get outside and just play, no matter what age you are — to actually play in a stream or roll down a hill with your kids. We don’t do that as much anymore because we are all so go, go, go all the time.

Explore: What do you love most about it?

Vail: Those times when someone in

one of our hiking programs comes up to me and says, “I look at nature differently now.” Or when we’re out on a trip and I watch someone’s face light up when they taste or smell a plant, watch a hummingbird dive bomb or all the other miracles that we so often pass by. Opening up people’s eyes to what is around them brings them closer to the natural world and gives them ownership; hopefully this will help them be more proactive about protecting what they love.

— Audrey Dwyer

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SakE2u lobster mashed potatoes, With one of the best locations on Yampa Street, a nightly Surf & Turf multiple Best of the Boat special and a smorgasbord winner Sake2U serves of vegetarian and glutenthe only jet-fresh sushi in free options. town, all in a warm and welcoming family-friendly “We’re far more than a great sushi restaurant,” setting on the banks of says Kier, adding that the Yampa River. Owned the restaurant can by brothers Kier and accommodate large Eric Delaney, who have parties and even private a combined 50 years in groups.

“It’s excellent food the restaurant business, in a casual environment, in it offers seasonal a setting that’s welcome nightly specials as well to everyone.” as American fare to accommodate all palates.

All this can be enjoyed overlooking the river on Its sushi offerings are the second floor patio and inspired by 28-year-sushi in the outside seating area master Koji Maesato, downstairs, with libations as well as chef Chad poured from a friendly, fullWhitaker from Vail’s Yama service bar. Visit during one and Frisco’s Kemosabe. of town’s best happy hours Together, they churn out from 3 to 6 p.m. daily with such favorites as the Bula two-for-one drink specials Roll, Tree Hugger, Miles including well drinks, of Smiles and Steamboat house wine, hot sake and Crunch Rolls. Other Asiandomestic drafts. Also check influenced fare includes the schedule for live music, curry and teriyaki dishes, blackberry-glazed short rib which blends in perfectly with the lapping of the river and a fresh catch of the outside. day. Also try the filet with

609 yampa St. 970.870.1019

SUMMEr 2015 EXPLORE | 49

Carl’S TaVErn One of Steamboat’s most popular summertime restaurants and bars, Carl’s Tavern is named after Carl Howelsen, the Norwegian who brought skiing to Steamboat.

Its fare flies out of the kitchen just as Howelsen did off the ski jumps he built a stone’s throw away.

Owned and operated

by Collin and Noella Kelley, the focus is on fresh, every step of the way. A graduate of Johnson and Wales University’s culinary arts school in Denver, Collin’s background includes chef stints at Denver’s Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse and Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steakhouse. It all shows in mouth-watering meals designed to replenish those lost carbs from the day’s adventure.

The atmosphere keeps visitors coming back as well. Voted best bar in town for several years running, its large, circular bar lets patrons socialize and watch the day’s games on nine HD TVs, with beer and food specials served all day.

Large windows keep the atmosphere open and airy, as does the The Antler Room, a game room including booths, pool tables, a shuffleboard table, Touch Tones jukebox and twelve HD TVs. Throw in a great daily happy hour from 4 to 6 p.m., featuring $2 oysters, 50-cent wings, $2 draft beers, $3 domestic bottles and $5 premium well drinks, as well as over 160 types of whiskey and a full array of draft beers, and you have a place Carl himself would be happy to call home.

“It’s all about creating really good food,” he says, touting everything from homemade wing batter to pot roast marinated for two days. “We make everything from scratch.”

Seventh & yampa streets 970.761.2060 Carlstavern.com 50 | EXPLORE SUMMEr 2015

Photos by Chris McGaw

Collin Kelley Owner

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Photo by Chris McGaw

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John Gamradt Owner & Chef

CugIno’S Located at 41 Eighth St. just off Yampa Street, Cugino’s Pizzeria & Italian Restaurant prides itself on being “not the only pizza and Italian restaurant in town — just the best.”

Serving Steamboat for nearly 30 years and one of the most welcoming and energetic restaurants in town, Cugino’s focuses on affordable, Italian cuisine and pizza in a family-friendly atmosphere void of pretension. With meals prepared by new owner and 26-year-chef John Gamradt, who has trained under some of the best chefs in New York City, its sauces and pastas are all made from scratch, with its pizzas, strombolis and calzones baked in a bricklined oven.

sauced Cugino’s Ultimate or meat-topped Capone.

For midday meals, try a variety of sandwiches and wraps, (like the Philly steak Cugino’s Special, Meatball, Eggplant Parmesan or Cugino’s Wrap, as well as an array of antipasti, wings and salads — favorites include the caprese and yellowfin tuna.

Enjoy it all in a familyfriendly atmosphere inside or out, with two patios offering fresh air with your fare. It’s also a great place for a casual drink, with a full selection of beer, wines and specialty drinks — try its mojito or Italian margarita.

Cugino’s also has two great happy hours, from 2:30 to 6 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. until close.

Choose from such pastas as the seafood-filled Godfather, Eggplant Florentine or homemade lasagna. For pizzas, try such favorites as the pepperoni, mushroom and olive Howler, white-

41 eighth St. 970.879.5805 Cuginosrestaurant.com SUMMEr 2015 EXPLORE | 53

The Egg & I With more than a decadelong history as one of Steamboat’s favorite breakfast spots, the Egg & I is conveniently located in Sundance at Fish Creek halfway between downtown and the mountain. The eatery was established in 2004 by locals Bradley and Courtney Moline, and its winning formula has made it a local favorite ever since.

Its Southwestern fare is also popular, including such favorites as Huevos Rancheros, Sunrise Chile Rellenos and Santa Fe Huevos. Non-egg dishes and specials like the Mediterranean Frittata and Egg Byte omelette cater to the weight-watcher crowd.

Cappuccinos, lattes and other specialty coffee drinks wash it all down, as do flavored hot chocolates for the kids and pure squeezed orange juice.

For lunch, comes creative sandwiches, salads and homemade soups.

While its menu accommodates every taste under the sun, its awardwinning Eggs Benedict top the list, coming in an array of themes, from the portobella mushroom Its large capacity also and asparagus-filled Hiker makes it perfect for family to the portobella, ham, gatherings, business Swiss cheese layered meetings and more, croissant of the Parisian complete with a free or the crab cake. Other private meeting room with favorites include a variety Wi-Fi and customizable of omelettes, specialty menus. Patio Seating waffles and whole wheat Available pancakes, as well as Skillets, from the ham, “It’s our large menu served bacon and hollandaisein a relaxed environment filled Cambridge to the with friendly service that seasoned steak strips, sets us apart,” says Bradley. roasted peppers, onions and cheese Texas Skillet.

325 Anglers Drive 970.871.4633 TheEggandIRestaurants.com 54 | EXPLORE SUMMEr 2015

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Photos by Chris McGaw

SaddlES Summertime dining doesn’t get any better than Saddles at the Sheraton, located slopeside at the base of Mount Werner.

The restaurant offers something for everyone in an atmosphere overlooking the green, grass-covered slopes of Mount Werner and Burgess Creek coursing through the Promenade.

“We incorporate seasonal fare into a variety of our dishes throughout the year,” says Przymus, touting everything from Palisade peaches to local artisan cheeses.

Offering great mountain views and an expansive deck, Saddles is a hot spot for lunch and late night lounging. It’s also a great social space to meet for specialty drinks, beer and wine after a day hiking, biking or golfing.

For the kids, it also offers a game room with shuffleboard, billiards and foosball.

“We utilize a lot of great Colorado products in our dishes,” he says.

When it comes to dining, Saddles relies on the expertise of executive chef Scott Przymus, who brings a Colorado-based theme to his concoctions, from succulent appetizers to scrumptious entrees.

Przymus also works with local farm co-ops for sourcing, as well as local ranches for such meats as beef, elk, buffalo and venison.

Lunch starts daily at 11 a.m. with happy hour following from 4 to 6 p.m. and dinner going late until 11 p.m., all menus serving an array of shared plates, small plates, sandwiches, salads and entrees.

“It’s a great spot, with a great location, staff and ambiance,” Przymus says.

“And the food is even better.”

2200 village inn Court 970.879.2220 SheratonSteamboatresort.com SUMMEr 2015 EXPLORE | 57

Slopeside There’s a reason Slopeside, located at the base of the mountain, has been voted best on-mountain après for four years running in Steamboat’s Best of the Boat contest.

and tables in the main dining area.

Wherever you sit, get ready for great-tasting food. For appetizers, try the Nacho Platter, Grilled Artichoke, Fried Ravioli or Cheese Fries. Hint: Add the pork green chili and bacon.

Where else can you walk or bike up to live music, order beer or other summer drinks from a new outside, granite-countered bar, munch down a Mount Werner-sized plate of nachos and then relax in the sun to celebrate your day in Steamboat? Throw in chillin’ at the “beach,” the restaurant’s popular pint pass, homemade pizzas and crackling firepits, and you won’t want to leave until well after the late-night happy hour which serves up $8 pizzas and $3 beers.

From the pizza oven, comes more than a dozen homemade pies featuring such mountainthemed names as the ACL (pepperoni and mushroom); Vagabond (roaster garlic, olive oil, spinach, sundried tomatoes, feta and mozzarella); White Out (four cheeses and white garlic sauce) and the Chutes (Italian sausage, tomatoes, red onions and mushrooms).

There’s plenty to do inside as well, where you can watch your favorite ballgame on nine regular and one jumbo 64-inch HD TV — all with every Direct TV sports package under the sun. Looking for a more conventional dining experience? Choose from a multitude of cozy booths

For entrees, try the Rocky Mountain Ruby Red Trout; the Boca Shrimp, featuring tender Gulf shrimp sauteed in olive oil and garli;, the Grilled New York Strip with a 12-ounce cut, aged 21 days, hand-carved and grilled to your liking or the Baby Rack Ribs, with cowboy barbecue sauce.

Torian Plum Plaza 970.879.2916 SlopesideGrill.com 58 | EXPLORE SUMMEr 2015

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Photos by Chris McGaw

la fIESTa The home of great, authentic Mexican “comida,” La Fiesta Grill and Cantina is a classicstyle Mexican restaurant offering true family dining and Mexican culture through a fresh spin on traditional Mexican fare.

Chef Edgar Ruiz combines such old-world flavors as chipotle, cilantro and distinct cheeses, with beautiful presentations and fresh ingredients in a restaurant that’s “para la familia,” following the most valued of Mexican traditions.

Inspired by his grandmother’s cooking and traditional dishes of old Mexico, his recipes retain an authenticity everyone will enjoy.

Choose from a variety of fajitas — including skirt steak, grilled chicken, jumbo shrimp and chipotle chicken — as well as taco platters, including the ever-popular $2 tacos. La Fiesta also offers a full line of salads and a Healthy Choice

menu, including the Spinach Enchiladas with pico de gallo smothered in tomato sauce. It also offers a full line of vegan, vegetarian and glutenand dairy-free options.

Other popular dishes include the Shrimp Cabo Wabo (jumbo shrimp, sautéed onion, celery and mushrooms simmered in chipotle and cabo wabo tequila sauce); Chicken Mole (grilled chicken topped with sweet red chili sauce); and Chile Rellenos (large poblano pepper stuffed with cheese, egg-battered and pan-fried with black beans, corn pico and ranchero sauce).

On the cantina side, choose from a variety of flavored margaritas, including cucumber, spicy mango, avocado, grapefruit and jalapeno infused. La Fiesta also stocks more than 50 varieties of tequilas to bring even more fiesta to your dining experience.

Central Park Plaza 970.879.6393 lafiestaColorado.com SUMMEr 2015 EXPLORE | 61

E3 ChophouSE Created by the LaRoche family, E3 Chophouse is one of Steamboat’s premier dining experiences. With immaculate landscaping and over-sized doors opening to the banks of the Yampa, E3 is a beautiful place to enjoy meals created from the best seasonal, all-natural ingredients. Everything is made from scratch in house including sauces and dressings, freshly baked breads and desserts.

starts with cattle that are humanely raised in an all-natural environment free of hormones, steroids and antibiotics. As a result E3 is able to offer top quality and delicious tasting beef, all the while being conscious of their environmental footprint.

The meat is processed locally and aged 21 days before arriving in Steamboat to provide the best, most tender, Angus in the valley.

For lighter fare, enjoy lunch on the river or E3’s ever popular Happy E3 strives to source fresh Hour. Favorites include ingredients locally and lobster mac and cheese, offers a jet fresh catch of the day, wild game, and, of sliders and Truffle Fries. course, E3 certified steaks For great Mexican cuisine, be sure to visit and chops, all cut daily E3’s sister Restaurant, in-house and cooked to Cantina, at 818 Lincoln St., perfection on our top-fire, 970.879.0826, char-broiler.

SteamboatCantina.com.

All of the beef offered Reservations can be at E3 comes exclusively made online. from E3 Certified cattle.

The sixth-generation family-owned E3 Ranch in Fort Scott, Kansas gives their cattle room to roam and to grow naturally because E3’s ranch-to-table concept

701 yampa St. 970.879.7167 e3Chophouse.com 62 | EXPLORE SUMMEr 2015

Brandon PFAFF Executive Chef

Photos by Chris McGaw

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Sumatera Don’t let its small, intimate pan-fried pancake with space fool you. Located beef, eggs, scallions, on 11th Street and Lincoln garlic and shallots. It Avenue, downtown also offers a variety of behind Riggio’s, some of soups and salads, from Steamboat’s best AsianPho, Ramen and Bakso influenced fare can be (a metaball soup with found at Sumatera, which cilantro) to Seaweed and offers authentic “Ring of Yakisoba (wheat noodles Fire” Pacific Rim cuisine with ahi tuna, wasabi, highlighting flavors ranging greens and seaweed). from the Indonesian For entrees, choose from Islands and Singapore curries, Pad Thais, noodle to Thailand and Japan. dishes, sushi rolls and Every summer owner more, as well as skewered Lia Blarecoats travels to Satay and Nasi Goreng, Indonesia to experiment a fried jasmine rice with with and bring new vegetables. For a special recipes to Steamboat. The treat (you have to order it result is a mouth-watering two days before), try the menu offering a sizzling Rendang, a slow-roasted assortment of Asian beef with coconut milk. fare that would shine All dishes come in in large cities, let alone traditional spicy levels Steamboat. of 1 to 5, letting you get For appetizers, try such as hot as you want. It favorites as Lia’s Famous offers take-out as well as Spring Rolls with rice reservation-only dining, paper, vermicelli, avocado, along with catering and cucumber, basil, carrots sushi chefs for private and creamy peanut sauce, parties. with shrimp, tofu or chicken; Momo steamed dumplings with beef or turkey; or Martabak, a

1106 S. Lincoln Ave. 970.879.2929

summer 2015 explore | 65

old ToWn puB With an emphasis on fresh, the historic Old Town Pub is Steamboat’s longest-running eating and drinking establishment.

Making everything from scratch with a seasonally rotating menu, it offers something for everyone, from families to foodies.

An approachable yet creative menu offers such mouth-watering favorites as the Kentucky Hot Brown with house-brined turkey, grilled tomato, béchamel and a poached egg. Also try any variety of its scrumptious Mac & Cheese,

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baked with that same four-cheese béchamel. For the night owls, latenight, stone-baked pizza — some of the best pizza in the ‘Boat — is served until 1 a.m. every evening to stave off the hungriest of appetites.

A full lineup of music ensues every week, with an open mic night on Mondays and live music every weekend, your invitation to take a spin on the dance floor. Or simply kick back and enjoy a cocktail, glass of wine on micro brew straight from the tap.

Old Town Pub’s dinning room is

great for groups and families and its award-winning bar is popular with locals and tourists alike. All this can be found on the corner of Sixth Street and Lincoln Avenue downtown in a historic building that housed the town’s first post office and hospital, letting you take in Steamboat’s heritage while placating your hunger or kicking up your heels.

600 lincoln ave.

970.879.2101 theoldtownPub.com

Photos by Chris McGaw

Photos by Chris McGaw

Tap houSE Perfect for everyone from families to sports fans, the Tap House offers Colorado craft beers, food and fun in the heart of downtown. It has 21 draft beers, all from Colorado, complete with beer towers that let you tap at your table. It also hosts “tap room takeovers” focusing on a specific brewery.

With a “more-the-merrier” ambiance, the Tap House is able to accommodate groups of up to 100 people, perfect for bringing your team in after the big game, and offers 50 HD TVs with complete

sports programming. It also offers NTN Network, free sports trivia and poker games, a game arcade and the best collection of sports memorabilia in town.

Traditional sports grill food includes burgers, battered chicken fingers, onion rings and heaping piles of nachos, as well as ribs, halfroasted chicken, sirloins, ribeyes and more. Burger favorites include the Fire Burger with fresh jalapenos, cream cheese and hot barbecue sauce; the three-cheese

Hat Trick; and the Rodeo, with barbecue sauce, cheddar cheese and onion rings. Its award-winning wings are braised in such sauces as oriental barbecue, buttery garlic parmesan and dry-rubbed Jamaican jerk — get them half price on Tuesday Wing Day.

729 lincoln ave.

970.879.2431 thetaphouse.com SUMMEr 2015 EXPLORE | 67

laundrY Owned by chef and restaurateur Rex Brice, Laundry is a conceptspecific restaurant located in the historic Soda Creek building downtown. It offers casual elegant dining, blending rustic charm and a contemporary urban, at-home atmosphere.

Using local products and slow cooking and smoking, it encourages plate sharing, with 95 percent of its offerings priced less than $15. Specialties include the Best Ribs Ever, brined in whey, smoked for four hours and braised 68 | EXPLORE SUMMEr 2015

KITCHEN & COCKTAILS

in molasses and beer; and Frenchcured, locally-sourced charcuterie meats, including pork and lamb.

Shared plates include the cocoacoffee-smoked bison short ribs with aged Manchego cheese, apple- and hickory-smoked brisket philly, brussels sprout hash and spicy shrimp pow-pow.

All this is complemented by a diverse beer and wine selection, a full line of whiskeys and tequilas and special house-infused spirits, complete with homemade tinctures and bitters. Favorites

include Satan’s Whiskers (gin, sweet and dry vermouth, orange juice and Grand Marnier), the Fiery Margarita (spicy, pepper-infused tequila) and the Smoke & Thyme, made with pear-infused vodka. Hit it at happy hour from 4:30 to 6 p.m. for drink and food specials.

“We’re trying to bring something new to this community,” says Brice.

127 11th St. 970.870.0681 thelaundryrestaurant.com

The Ristretto Coffee Lounge With a downtown location familiar to many, The Ristretto Coffee Lounge (aka The Ristretto) in Old Town Square delivers more than just your ordinary brew. A relentless focus on quality and coffee craftsmanship means sourcing from nationally awardwinning roasters, and providing expert guidance to help customers navigate a diverse coffee portfolio.

Its “rotating roaster” program highlights recently harvested, freshly roasted, direct trade coffee from six companies, and will soon add in-house roasted selections. Highly

Photos by Chris McGaw

skilled baristas mean flavorful extractions and perfect milk texture for your latte, attentive pour over service via V60 or Chemex, and flawless Hario syphon immersions on industry-leading halogen beam heaters.

Thinking summer? Consider cold brew over ice, nitro-infused or a convenient 12 ounce to-go bottle. Try an affogato, espresso over a scoop of vanilla gelato as a warm weather diversion. Complement any drink with liqueurs like Baileys, Kahlua or Amaretto. How about a snack? Two

Le Cordon Bleu culinary graduates bake fresh pastries daily.

The Ristretto is particular about its service, discerning in its offerings and meticulous about crafting your drink. It’s a relaxed environment where people can congregate, talk, write, read, entertain or pass the time.

Open daily from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.

635 Lincoln Ave. 970.879.3393 TheRistretto.com

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Back Door Grill For some of the best burgers — choose from such classics as and handcut fries and onion rings — the double bacon cheeseburger in the ‘Boat, head to Back Door Grill and Make Mine a Triple to such at 825 Oak St. new school options as the Teryaki Mahalo with pineapple and Swiss Serving up mouth-watering, allcheese and the Twilight Zone with natural Colorado beef burgers cheddar, bacon, creamy Sriracha for dine-in or to go, Steamboat’s and peanut butter (yes, peanut newest hamburger emporium butter). It also offers a new special is the work of Brandi and David every week that keeps patrons Eliason, who bring years of guessing and coming back for expertise to every succulent bite. more. Cheeseburger on a glazed Its edgy burgers are what set it doughnut, anyone? apart, as well as its classic burgers For sides, it serves up a full array of for those with a hankering for a hand-cut fries (try the Philly Cheese more traditional taste. For burgers,

Photos by Chris McGaw 70

or Lucky Spuds) as well as salads, soups, vegetarian offerings and adventure-fueling breakfast items like its Burgerito Burrito or Happy Hangover sandwich.

It all boils down to a passion for fresh, natural ingredients and a love of old-fashioned, all-natural Colorado beef burgers and brews, manifested in everything that comes out of the kitchen.

825 Oak St. 970.871.7888 BackDoorBurgerGrill.com

Photos by Chris McGaw

Eureka Eureka means “to exalt with joy,” and that’s what you’ll do when you dine at this Mediterranean-style restaurant inspired by European street venders.

Opened by Carl’s Tavern owners Collin and Noella Kelley and specializing in comfort foods from Spain, Italy, Israel, Greece, Lebanon, Morocco and France, all dishes are served family-feast style. Lunch can be ordered from the walk-up counter with full service dining available for dinner. Wall-mounted TV screens display what’s available daily, with

the offerings changing depending on seasonality and availability.

Eureka also offers quick and easy food for those on the go. For libations, Eureka maintains a fully stocked bar for cocktails, wine or beer.

Features include a pizza oven imported from Naples and two large, vertical rotisseries for shawarma, a Middle Eastern meat preparation “It fills a great niche in town, and is a great way for us to experiment,” (all beef, pork and lamb is sourced Collin says. “And it fits in perfectly locally). Spanish influences include with everything going on along seafood dishes and hand-ground Yampa Street.” sausages, with plenty of Greek offerings as well, from classic Greek salads to lamb schwarma. There are 700 Yampa St. also several gluten-free options. It can all be enjoyed inside or out on a 970.761.2061 European-style, street-side patio. summer 2015 explore | 71

WE pUt StEaMboat at YoUr FINGErtIpS

dInIng dIrECTorY

8th Street Steakhouse

Brooklynn’s Pizzeria

Aurum Food & Wine

Butcherknife Brewing Co.

50 Eighth St. 970-879-3131 www.8thstreetsteakhouse.com STEAKHOUSE 811 Yampa St., 970-879-9500 www.aurumsteamboat.com AMERICAN CONTEMPORARY

Azteca Taqueria

116 Ninth St., 970-870-9980 www.aztecataqueria.com MEXICAN

Backcountry Delicatessen 635 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-3617 www.backcountry-deli.com DELI

Back Door Grill

825 Oak St., 970-871-7888 www.backdoorburgergrill.com AMERICAN

Bamboo Market Health Foods

1110 Yampa St., 970-879-9992 www.bamboomkt.com HEALTH FOOD

The BARley

635 Lincoln Ave., 970-761-2195 www.thebarleycolorado.com PUB

Bear River Bar & Grill 2305 Mount Werner Circle, 970-871-5165 www.steamboat.com AMERICAN

Beau Jo’s Mountain Bistro 704 Lincoln Ave., 970-870-6401 www.beaujos.com PIZZA

Big House Burgers & Bottlecap Bar

2093 Curve Plaza, 970-870-8500 www.bighouseburgers.com AMERICAN

bistro c.v.

345 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-4197 www.bistrocv.com AMERICAN CONTEMPORARY

Blue Sage Pizza

685 Marketplace Plaza, 970-870-8600 www.bluesagepizza.com PIZZA

Breezeway Cafe

2200 Village Inn Court, 970-879-2220 www.sheratonsteamboat.com CAFE

72 | EXPLORE SUMMEr 2015

Cruisers Sub Shop

Gondola Pub & Grill

Cugino’s Pizzeria & Italian Restaurant

Grand Café

41 Eighth St., 970-879-5805 www.cuginosrestaurant.com ITALIAN

2300 Mount Werner Circle, 970-871-5500 www.steamboatgrand.com CAFE

2300 Mount Werner Circle, 970-871-5550 www.steamboatgrand.com/thecabin AMERICAN

Daddio’s Bar & Grill

Hahn's Peak Roadhouse

Cafe Diva

2306 Mount Werner Circle, 970-761-2662 www.doublediamondsbar.com BAR AND GRILL

Harwigs

Double Z Bar & Bar BQ

Haymaker Patio Grill

Carl’s Tavern

The Drunken Onion Get & Go Kitchen

Hazie’s

Catamount Ranch Lakehouse Grille

685 Marketplace Plaza, 970-879-8423 www.drunkenonion.com TAKE-OUT, CATERING, CAFE

2305 Mount Werner Circle, 970871-5150 www.steamboat.com AMERICAN

E3 Chophouse

Hungry Dog

701 Yampa St., 970-879-7167 www.e3chophouse.com STEAKHOUSE

635 Lincoln Ave., 970-819-2224 www.hungrydogofsteamboat.com AMERICAN

The Egg & I

Johnny B. Good’s Diner

325 Anglers Drive, 970-871-4633 www.theeggandirestaurants.com AMERICAN

738 Lincoln Ave., 970-870-8400 www.johnnybgoodsdiner.com AMERICAN

Eureka - Mediterranean Street Food

JOOSE

700 Yampa St., 970-761-2061 www.eurekasteamboat.com MEDITERRANEAN

2754 Downhill Drive, Unit C, 970-846-5063 www.jbjoose.com HEALTH FOOD AND DELI

54175 Routt County Road 129, Clark, 970-879-3849 www.clarkstore.com DELI

Fiesta Jalisco

Karma Bar and Lounge

455 Anglers Drive,970-871-6999 www.fiestajalisco.net MEXICAN

737 Lincoln Ave., 970-846-0206 www.karmabarandlounge.com BAR AND LOUNGE

Colorado Bagel Co. & Deli

Freshies

La Fiesta Grill & Cantina

57 10th Ave., 970-871-1000 www.brooklynnspizzeria.com PIZZA 2875 Elk River Road, 970-879-BEER www.butcherknifebrewing.com BREWERY

The Cabin Restaurant & Lounge

1855 Ski Time Square Drive, 970-871-0508 www.cafediva.com AMERICAN CONTEMPORARY

Cantina of Steamboat

818 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-0826 www.steamboatcantina.com MEXICAN 700 Yampa St., 970-761-2060 www.carlstavern.com AMERICAN

30215 Waters Edge Trail, 970-871-9229 www.catamountranchclub.com BAR AND GRILL

Chelsea’s White Dragon 2300 Mount Werner Circle, 970-879-7211 ASIAN

Ciao Gelato

912 Lincoln Ave. GELATO AND PIZZA

Clark Store

1815 Central Park Plaza, 970-870-9657 DELI

Colorado High 5

635 Lincoln Ave., 970-871-0005 www.coloradohigh5.com PIZZA

Creekside Cafe

131 11th St., 970-879-4925 www.creekside-cafe.com AMERICAN

685 Marketplace Plaza, 970-879-1747 www.cruiserssubshop.com DELI

21495 U.S. Highway 40, Milner, 970-871-1415 BAR AND GRILL

Double Diamonds Bar

1124 Yampa St., 970-879-0849 www.doublezbbq.com BARBECUE

595 S. Lincoln Ave., 970-879-8099 freshiessteamboat.com AMERICAN

Geano’s Caffe

2305 Mount Werner Circle, 970-871-5150 www.steamboat.com CAFE

2305 Mount Werner Circle, 970-879-4448 www.gondolapubandgrill.com PUB

60880 Routt County Road 129, Clark, 970-879-4404 www.hahnspeakroadhouse.com BAR AND GRILL 911 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-1919 www.harwigs.com AMERICAN CONTEMPORARY 34855 E. U.S. Highway 40, 970-879-1265 www.steamboat.com AMERICAN

1755 Central Park Plaza, 970-879-6393 www.lafiestagrillandcantina.com MEXICAN

La Mex

425 Lincoln Ave., 970-871-4806 MEXICAN

La Montaña

2500 Village Drive, 970-879-5800 www.lamontanasteamboat.com MEXICAN ExplorEStEaMboat.coM

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SUMMEr 2015 EXPLORE | 73

Laundry Kitchen & Cocktails

Off the Beaten Path Bookstore

Saddles

68 Ninth St., 970-879-6830 www.steamboatbooks.com CAFE

2200 Village Inn Court, 970-879-2220 www.sheratonsteamboatresort.com AMERICAN

Lil’ House Country Biscuits & Coffee

Old Town Pub & Restaurant

Sake2U

WE pUt StEaMboat at YoUr FINGErtIpS

127 11th St., 970-870-0681 www.thelaundryrestaurant.com AMERICAN CONTEMPORARY

2093 Curve Plaza, 970-870-8507 www.lilhousebiscuits.com AMERICAN

Low Country Kitchen

435 Lincoln Ave., 970-761-2693 www.lowrestaurant.com AMERICAN

Lyons Soda Fountain

840 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-1114 www.lyonsofsteamboat.com SODA FOUNTAIN

Mahogany Ridge Brewery & Grill

435 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-3773 www.mahoganyridgesteamboat.com PUB

Mambo Italiano

521 Lincoln Ave., 970-870-0500 www.mambos.com ITALIAN

Mazzola’s Italian Diner

917 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-2405 www.mazzolas.com ITALIAN

McKnights Irish Pub & Loft

690 Marketplace Plaza, 970-879-7881 www.mcknightsirishpub.com PUB

Milk Run Donut Cafe

941 Lincoln Ave., 970-761-2023 www.milkrundonutcafe.com CAFE

Moe’s Original Bar B Que

1898 Kamar Plaza, 970-879-1615 www.moesoriginalbbq.com BARBECUE

MountainBrew

427 Oak St., 970-879-7846 www.mountainbrewsteamboat.com CAFE AND BAKERY

Murphy’s Tavern

54737 Routt County Road 129, Clark, 970-879-6046 www.murphystavern.com PUB

Noodle’s and More Saigon Cafe

600 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-2101 www.theoldtownpub.com PUB

Ore House at the Pine Grove

1465 Pine Grove Road, 970-879-1190 www.orehouse.com STEAKHOUSE

PaddleWheel Coffee & Tea Co.

720 Lincoln Ave., 970-761-2592 www.paddlewheel.com CAFE

The Paramount

1855 Ski Time Square, 970-879-1170 www.theparamountcolorado.com AMERICAN

Phenomenal Falafel

2120 Downhill Drive, 970-823-5011 www.phenomenalfalafel.com MEDITERRANEAN

Red Bowl World Curry Haus 1117 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-7169 www.redbowlsteamboat.com ASIAN

Rex’s American Grill & Bar

3190 S. Lincoln Ave., 970-870-0438 www.rexsgrill.com AMERICAN

Riggio’s Ristorante

1106 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-9010 www.riggiosfineitalian.com ITALIAN

Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant

628 Lincoln Ave., 970-871-6277 www.riograndemexican.com MEXICAN

The Ristretto Coffee Lounge 635 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-3393 www.theristretto.com CAFE

ROOTZ Cafe

737 Lincoln Ave., 970-871-4510 www.rootzcafe.com HEALTH FOOD

The Rusted Porch

635 Lincoln Ave., 970-870-1544 ASIAN

690 Marketplace Plaza, 970-879-1455 www.therustedporch.com AMERICAN

Oasis Sundeck at Thunderhead

Saddleback Ranch Sleighride Dinner

2305 Mount Werner Circle, 970-879-6111 www.steamboat.com BAR AND GRILL

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37350 Routt County Road 179, 970879-3711 www.saddlebackranch.net AMERICAN

609 Yampa St., 970-870-1019 SUSHI, ASIAN AND AMERICAN

Sambi Canton

941 Lincoln Ave., 970-870-9988 www.sambicanton.com ASIAN

Schmiggity’s

821 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-4100 www.schmiggitys.com LIVE MUSIC AND DANCE BAR

Sevens Mountain Grill

2200 Village Inn Court, 970-879-2220 www.sheratonsteamboatresort.com AMERICAN

The Shack Cafe

740 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-9975 AMERICAN

Sharon’s

2851 Riverside Plaza, 970-761-2467 AMERICAN

Skull Creek Greek

635 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-1339 www.skullcreekgreek.com MEDITERRANEAN

Slopeside Grill

1855 Ski Time Square Drive, 970-879-2916 www.slopesidegrill.com PUB

Snowbird Restaurant and Lounge

2304 Après Ski Way, 970-879-1730 www.theptarmigan.com AMERICAN

Soda Creek Pizza

1585 Mid Valley Drive, 970-871-1111 www.sodacreekpizza.com PIZZA

Steamboat Coffee Roasters

2851 Riverside Plaza, 970-879-3100 www.steamboatcoffee.com CAFE

Steamboat Meat & Seafood Co.

1030 Yampa St., 970-879-3504 www.steamboatseafood.com DELI

Steamboat Smokehouse

912 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-7427 www.steamboatsmokehouse.com BARBECUE

Storm Peak Brewing Co.

1744 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-1999 www.stormpeakbrewing.com BREWERY

Sumatera

1106 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-2929 ASIAN

Sunpie’s Bistro

735 Yampa St., 970-870-3360 CAJUN AMERICAN

Sweet Pea Restaurant

729 Yampa St., 970-879-1221 www.sweetpeamarketand restaurant.com AMERICAN

Tacos del Barco

644 Lincoln Ave., 970-871-7930 MEXICAN

Taco Cabo

1755 Lincoln Ave., 970-846-2307 MEXICAN

The Tap House Sports Grill 729 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-2431 www.thetaphouse.com PUB

Three Peaks Grill

2165 Pine Grove Road, 970-879-3399 www.threepeaksgrill.com AMERICAN CONTEMPORARY

Truffle Pig

2250 Après Ski Way, 970-879-7470 www.trufflepigrestaurant.com AMERICAN CONTEMPORARY

Umbrella Bar

2305 Mount Werner Circle, 970-879-6111 www.steamboat.com BAR

Vaqueros Mexican Restaurant & Taqueria

730 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-7570 www.vaquerosmexican.net MEXICAN

VFW – Post 4264

924 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-9959 www.vfw.org BAR

Wild Plum Market

2525 Village Drive, 970-879-1981 www.wildplumgrocer.com DELI

Winona’s

617 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-2483 www.winonassteamboat.com AMERICAN

Yama

1875 Ski Time Square Drive, 970-761-2087 www.yamasteamboat.com ASIAN

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SUMMEr 2015 EXPLORE | 75

76 | EXPLORE SUMMEr 2015

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