Explore Winter 2012/2013

W i n te r 1 2 - 1 3

Winter events calendar Page 18

Map of the 'Boat

S T E A M B O AT

10

Top

Things toPage do10

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STEAMBOAT

Menus AND MORE

a guide to Steamboat restaurants

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The Finest Collection of...

S L A T S Y R C & S L I S S O F , Y R L E JEW ...in Steamboat Springs

COmE In AS A CuSTOmER... LEAvE AS A FRIEnd TAnzAnITE dIAmOndS IndIAn JEWELRY WORLd CLASS dESIgnERS STEAmbOAT ChARmS And muCh muCh mORE

JEWELRY And FOSSIL ShOp OF STEAmbOAT

COmE vISIT uS AT ThE CORnER OF 8Th STREET & LInCOLn AvEnuE. • OpEn EvERY dAY 10 A.m. TO 6 p.m.

745 LInCOLn AvEnuE • STEAmbOAT SpRIngS, COLORAdO • 970-871-9963 Exploresteamboat.com

Winter 12-13 • explore steamboat 3

Suzanne Schlicht – Chief operating officer Scott Stanford – General manager Brent Boyer – Editor in chief­ Eugene Buchanan – Magazine editor Mike Polucci – Advertising director Laura Tamucci – Creative services manager Steve Balgenorth – Circulation manager

Photographers Matt Stensland, John F. Russell and Joel Reichenberger Advertising representative Christy Woodland Advertising design Rachel Girard, Stephanie Corder, Severiano DeMarco and Todd Wilson For advertising information, call Mike Polucci at 970-871-4215

Inside

❰❰

Welcome...............................................................5 What's new...........................................................7 Birthday milestones.............................................8 Top 10 things to do............................................10 Calendar of events.............................................18 Explore Steamboat............................................21 Art anniversaries................................................22 Nordic skiing......................................................24 Snowshoeing......................................................25 Skiing and snowboarding.................................26 Useful information............................................28 Snowmobiling....................................................30 Winter fishing....................................................31 Steamboat synopsis...........................................32 Indoor activities.................................................33 Timeline.............................................................34 Menus & More....................................................35 Activity guide......................................................63 Map of Steamboat Springs................................80 A powder day for the ages..................................82

On the cover

Local David Lamb enjoying another Steamboat powder day.

Photo by John F. Russell

Bring Your Imagination to Life!

Take a break from the slopes... Drop in art classes for adults and children & Kids after school/after ski classes; summer classes Create a Craft - Open to the public You pick the time and the project • great for kids of all ages Preschool - most Fridays in January and February call for reservations ages 3-5 Birthday parties too!

Or design your own kids class for groups of 4 or more call us and you can pick the day and the project!

Open studio time for teens and adults You use our space and tools and buy supplies in our retail store includes the pottery studio, wheels and slab roller.

You can buy your own clay and work on your own schedule Classes - from 2 hours to six week series.

All classes taught by local or regional artists.

Design your own class for your own group - minimum of 4 people.

Also do parties of all types, bridal, baby, diva, holiday

Retail Store for Your Artist Supplies • Discover All We Have To Offer and Register at

www.steamboatartsandcraftsgym.com 970-870-0384 • 1280 13th street

4 Explore steamboat • winter 12-13

Exploresteamboat.com

Welcome to the Winter 2012-13 issue of Explore Steamboat magazine

I

Photo by John F. Russell

f you’re reading this, you probably want to find out what all there is to do in this beautiful town of ours in the wintertime. The obvious activity, and likely reason you’re here, is skiing and riding. Rising more than 3,500 feet above the valley floor, Mount Werner harbors a worldclass ski resort, serving up 2,965 acres and 3,668 feet of vertical on 165 named trails (and countless more unnamed runs). Due to the resort’s unique topography, all this is blanketed annually with a seemingly limitless amount of Champagne powder, a term coined here in Ski Town USA. But there’s plenty more to do here in this fair hamlet of ours as well, from our equally world-class hot springs — where else can you soak in natural pools after hitting the slopes — to cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, ice skating, sleigh riding and more. It’s our goal to put these ideas and more right at your fingertips so you’ll want to try them all and never want to leave.

There’s also plenty to do here that doesn’t get your heart rate up, from shopping and strolling our new Walk of Olympians downtown to kicking back with a latte in our newly renovated, riverside library. In fact, there’s so much to do that you just might want to reschedule that flight home out of our newly expanded airport in Hayden to hang your hat here a while longer. Just beware the Yampa Valley curse, placed on the valley in 1881

by Ute Indian leader Colorow, in anger over his tribe’s displacement: Those who come here will never be able to leave, and if you ever do, you’ll be forced to return.

— Eugene Buchanan

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Winter 12-13 • explore steamboat 5

Steamboat Veterinary Hospital, P.C. Large & Small Animal Medicine & Surgery

Visit the

Tread of Pioneers Museum

8th & Oak St. Downtown, Steamboat Springs

• Acupuncture

• 24hour On Call Service • Animal Health Store

Open 11:00am to 5:00pm Tuesday - Saturday

• In Business Since 1952

The REAL Steamboat experience!

(970) 879-2214 www.treadofpioneers.org

✁

www.SteamboatVeterinaryHospitalpc.com 6 Explore steamboat • winter 12-13

20791867

Explore

1878 Lincoln Ave, Steamboat Springs, CO 80487 (970) 879-1041

½ PRICE ADMISSION!

Purchase ONE admission, get ONE admission for ½ price with coupon.

Not valid with other discounts or coupons.

Valid for up to 2 discounts with 2 full price admissions.

Expires 12/31/2012

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What’s new at Steamboat Ski Area W

hile last year saw the unveiling of a $10 million renovation revitalizing the resort’s base with the new Gondola Square Plaza, promenade and outdoor stage, this year has plenty of improvements in store as well as Steamboat Ski Area celebrates its 50th anniversary.

Among other things, the resort has added a new Bison groomer to its fleet; expanded and upgraded its snowmaking capabilities; purchased a fleet of new, four-stroke, energy-efficient snowmobiles; added foot rests and restraining bars to the Morningside chairlift; installed new footrest chairs on the Four Points chairlift; continued timber removal efforts across 40 acres on the lower mountain; revamped its rental ski fleet inventory; improved facility enhancements across Thunderhead, Rendezvous and The Steamboat Grand; resurfaced the Meadows parking area and Knoll walkway; and more.

Named one of the world’s best ski towns by National Geographic, the resort also has plenty in store to celebrate its 50th birthday, with events,

promotions and specials all season long. Foremost is its 50th Golden Anniversary Celebration Jan. 11 to 21, with fireworks, a torchlight parade, free concerts and special events culminating with the Bud Light Cowboy Downhill. It also launched a new website (www.steamboat.com) and teamed with Mountain Media to produce its 50th Anniversary magazine, Ski Town USA®, exploring the characters, stories, and images that have made Steamboat distinct over the past 50 years.

While the resort revels in its 50th, its director of skiing, Olympic silver medalist and world champion Billy Kidd, is celebrating his own milestone with his 70th birthday celebration on April 13.

Steamboat Ski Area is also heralding its new Rossignol Experience Center demo rental program, one of only 10 in the U.S., with its Experience skis making the progression easier, faster and more fun. The objective: Give every customer more confidence and control for a better skiing experience.

On the ticket front, its new Boat Launch Pass lets you buy three days of lift tickets for only $129

from Nov. 21 through December 14. Combine it with a night stay and save 20 percent on lodging.

Those with the Boat Launch Pass, a season pass, PURE Pass or Rocky Mountain Super Pass Plus can also save 20 percent on two or more nights of lodging at participating properties. The resort also announces its new Signature Five Program, which guarantees no more than five students per clinic, as well as the opening of the new Grand Cafe in The Steamboat Grand.

Finally, the resort is ensuring that getting to Ski Town USA is as easy as possible, announcing that United Airlines is now operating new weekend nonstop flights from Los Angeles for the 2012-13 winter season (including one-stop connections to and from Australia). The winter flight program offers nonstop jet air service from eight major airports on key U.S. carriers American, Delta and United Airlines, as well as connections from more than 230 airports nationally and worldwide, with all guests arriving into the Steamboat/Hayden Airport, which recently completed a $15 million renovation.

Did You Know?

Steamboat Ski Area opened on Jan. 12, 1963, with a double chairlift and an A-frame warming house. The day's cash receipts were $13.75 and the temperature was -25 °F.

Did You Also Know?

Photo by Larry Pierce

Despite last year’s low snowfall across the country, on Feb. 20, Steamboat Ski Area set a singleday (24-hour: 5 a.m. to 5 p.m.) snowfall record at mid-mountain when 27 inches of powder piled up overnight (The single-day summit record still stands at 29 inches, set on Jan. 25, 1996.)

Exploresteamboat.com

Winter 12-13 • explore steamboat | 7

A Season to Ski resort turn

H

appy birthday to me! That’s what two of the town’s strongest ties to snowsports are singing this season as 2012/13 marks a handful of milestone anniversaries.

Foremost is the 50th birthday for Steamboat Ski Area, which is blowing out its candles with more than $30 million in on-mountain enhancements during the past five years. Home to such Olympians as Buddy Werner, Billy Kidd, Carolyn Lalive, Deb Armstrong and Nelson Carmichael, the resort has grown from its grassroots beginnings in 1963 — when founder John Fetcher drove to California to pick up the bullwheels for the original Bear Claw double chair — into today’s world-class resort with 18

8 | Explore steamboat • winter 12-13

lifts serving 2,965 acres of terrain. Receiving 347 inches of annual snowfall (with eight 400-plusinch seasons), the resort coined the term Champagne powder, and is planning to toast with it this year to ring in its milestone.

The 2013 season also will see the 100th anniversary of the Winter Carnival (Feb. 6 to 10), which has been operated by the Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club every year since 1914, making it the oldest, continuous winter carnival west of the Mississippi. The annual celebration includes a variety of events that embrace Steamboat’s western and winter sport heritage, including ski jumping competitions, a diamond hitch parade, fireworks, street events

(including the popular horse-pulled ski races), the Lighted Man and the world’s only high school marching band on skis. It was rated one of the top 10 winter carnivals in the world

by National Geographic and has appeared on Good Morning America.

The carnival’s host SSWSC, which has ties to more than 88 Olympians, also celebrates its 100th anniversary in 2013, further cementing Steamboat’s long-running snowsports heritage.

“It’s a big year for anything related to snowsports in Steamboat,” says SSWSC executive director Rick DeVos. “It should be a great year to visit Ski Town USA.”

Exploresteamboat.com

ornsCelebrate 50, Winter Carnival 100 Photo by Matt Stensland

derCats Courtesy Steamboat Pow

PowderCats turns 30!

They say that cats have nine lives.

Steamboat Powdercats, a leader in the snowcat skiing industry since its inception in 1983 by Jupiter and Barbara Jones, is topping that this year, celebrating 30 years in existence.

The company guides 36 guests per day into the Buffalo Pass backcountry, home of Colorado’s deepest annual snowpack. Since those early days, tens of thousands of guests have utilized its snowcats and professional guides to access some of the best powder in the country, including such celebrities as Warren Miller, Martina Navratilova, Cindy Nelson, Dr. Richard Steadman, Klaus Obermeyer and Seth Morrison. Warren Miller Films and a handful of other filming and clothing companies also have included Steamboat Powdercats in their ski films and commercials. “It’s a big milestone for us, and we’re expecting another banner year,” says Steamboat Powdercats manager Kent Vertrees.

Exploresteamboat.com

Winter 12-13 • explore steamboat | 9

Top 10 things to do in Steamboat

S

kiing and riding aren’t the only things to do in Ski Town USA. Plenty of other activities will keep your family happy and busy in the Yampa Valley and make you yearn to return year after year. Consider this a set of CliffsNotes on what else to do during your stay.

Hit the hot springs

ety 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; clothing is optional after dark.

Mush Iditarod dogs There’s a reason people drive all the way from Vail to dog sled in Steamboat. The Yampa Valley offers one of the best places to run your own dog team in the country.

Kids love sledding and dogs, so combine the two and you have the perfect family winter

Photo by Matt Stensland

Few resorts let you sooth powder-weary muscles in natural hot springs after the slopes. Steamboat Springs earned its named from early pioneers for the “chug, chug” sound of its springs, and you

can experience them yourself in the area’s natural pools (there are approximately 150 different springs in the region).

Old Town Hot Springs at Third Street and Lincoln Avenue 970-879-1828, www. oldtownhotsprings.org), which recently underwent a $5 million expansion project, provides the most convenient option, complete with waterfalls, a climbing wall that lets you fall into a pool, 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 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 vari-

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Exploresteamboat.com

adventure. The trips are offered through Grizzle-T Kennels on either a 10-mile trip in the Flat Tops national forest, or a 12.5-mile outing west of town near Milner. Many of the dogs you’ll drive — most of them Alaskan huskies, built for distance — have competed in the Iditarod with locals Tom Thurston and Kris Hoffman.

Learn how to drive your own team, settling into the perfect trotting speed of 8 to 10 mph, or sit in the sled and enjoy the ride. Kids can also learn to drive a team, with an adult behind them for safety. Two hints: If a rabbit crosses the trail, hold on like crazy; and prepare to ride the brake a bit more on the return ride home. Grizzle-T runs trips from December through March. Info: 970 870-1782, www.steamboatdogsledding.com.

Brody (donut) with the Bridgestone Winter Driving School Want to learn how to control your car in the winter? Learn from the pros at the Bridgestone Winter Driving School, the only driving school of its kind in North America.

Celebrating its 30th year of operation, the school’s 77-acre facility is purpose-built (not a lake or parking lot) and includes three state-of-the-art ice and snow-covered tracks, each one designed to create challenging winter conditions. The tracks

Interior Design by Finial An Inspired Collection

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Design

Furniture • Home Accessories • Fabric By The Yard Artwork • Bridal Registry • Custom Upholstery 624 Lincoln Avenue | 970-870-2980 www.branchessteamboat.com

Winter 12-13 • explore steamboat 11

are coated with more than 250,000 gallons of water and feature banked and off-cambered corners, elevation changes and more to suit a variety of levels. Clients range from young permit holders to pro racers, all looking to gain an edge. Taught by driving professionals, including former racers, courses begin with classroom instruction and video demonstrations prior to on-track exercises.

As for wheels, choose from a variety of Lexus models, including the all-wheel drive RX 350 and GX 460; and IS 250 ES 350 sedans. Programs include the popular Second Gear full-day course and introductory First Gear half-day class.

Private one-on-one training also is offered, upon completion of a standard course. Regardless, you’ll drive away with better cornering, acceleration, braking, weight transfer, skid control and accident avoidance skills — all on your vacation to Steamboat. Info: 970-879-6104, www.winterdrive.com.

What’s a vacation without a little shopping? Take a break from the slopes to 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 12 Explore steamboat • winter 12-13

Photo by John F. Russell

Shop and explore historic downtown

Exploresteamboat.com

Photo by John F. Russell

horse on Lincoln Avenue), founded in 1905 and now in its fifth generation of family ownership, and All That Jazz as well as newer stores such as Quiksilver and Zirkel Trading Co. They all share that little taste of Steamboat you can take with you to enjoy back 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.

see if he is skiing and meet at the Nelson's sign outside Four Points Hut). For a more organized clinic, sign up for a lesson from two-time Olympian and 1984 GS gold medalist Deb Armstrong, who conducts weekend-long women’s clinics all seasonlong.

While on the mountain, also make sure to check out the memorabilia wall and cabinet on

the second floor of Thunderhead Lodge, complete with a pair of Olympic Nordic jumping skis.

Bonus: Ogle Olympians downtown 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 our athletes competed. Also tour the new Walk of Olympians

While you might stand next to one in the grocery aisle (Steamboat has 88 Olympians and counting), there are other ways to familiarize yourself with Steamboat’s Olympians.

Perhaps the best way is to ski with one. On the mountain, you can ski almost daily down Heavenly Daze with Steamboat's Director of Skiing and 1964 Olympic Silver Medalist and World Champion Billy Kidd. Look for the “Billy Kidd is Skiing Today” sign at the top of the gondola, and meet him at the top of Why Not at 1 p.m.

You also can ski with 1992 Olympic bronze medalist and two-time World Cup mogul champion Nelson Carmichael, who hosts a free mogul clinic on his namesake Nelson's Run at 1 p.m. on select Sundays (check the grooming report to Exploresteamboat.com

Photo by John F. Russell

Ski with an Olympian

Winter 12-13 • explore steamboat 13

Saddle up to a sleigh-ride dinner We dare you not to sing “dashing through the snow...”

It’ll be hard not to when you take a winter sleigh ride with friends and family, either under a twinkling starlight sky or catching snowflakes on your tongue.

Ride a sleigh behind a snowcat at the top of the gondola to dinner at Ragnar’s for a five-

course Scandinavian meal hinting of Steamboat’s early Norwegian culture (Fridays, Saturdays and holidays; 970-871-5150, www.steamboat.com).

There’s plenty of horse-pulled adventure as well. Saddleback Ranch (970-879-3711, www. saddlebackranch.com), an 8,000-acre, fourth-generation family owned cattle ranch a few miles out 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 hot chocolate, a home-cooked meal (try the New York Strip) and old-fashioned entertainment (like

Photo by Tyler Arroyo

(start on the corner of Fifth and Yampa streets), featuring 11 18-inch-by-18-inch bronze plaques inlaid into brick pavers honoring local Olympians with a head shot, action shot and list of the athlete’s Olympic accomplishments. Local Olympians honored so far include Billy Kidd, Todd Wilson, Buddy, Loris and Skeeter Werner, Shannon Dunn, Scott Berry, Jim "Moose" Barrows, Gordy Wren, Nelson Carmichael and Caroline Lalive. “It’s just another sign of how this community embraces athletics and its Olympians,” says Wilson, the Nordic director for the Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club. Info: www.sswsc.org.

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learning how to calf rope). A shorter, hour-long ride circles to and from the ranch’s Longhorn Lodge. Elk River Guest Ranch offers a horsedrawn sleigh 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 (970-8796220, www.elkriverguestranch.com). The Hahn’s Peak Roadhouse (970-879-4404, www. hahnspeakroadhouse.com) offers a similar sleigh ride to and from their lodge on Routt County Road 129, beneath snow-capped Farwell Mountain and Hahn’s Peak.

No matter where you go, clear your throat beforehand. As soon as the sleigh bells start ringing, singing is sure to follow.

Embrace an event While most resorts offer events designed for out-of-towners, Steamboat’s line-up draws locals and guests year after year for their good, old-fashioned fun. If your vacation coincides with one, fit it into your plans.

• New Year’s Eve Torchlight Parade and Fireworks, 7 p.m., Dec. 31, at the base of the ski area.

• Music Fest at Steamboat, Jan. 5 to 10.

• Steamboat Ski Area’s Golden 50th Anniversary Celebration, Jan. 11 to 21, with special birthday concert and fireworks Jan. 12 (www. steamboat.com).

• 39th annual Cowboy Downhill, Jan. 21, at the base of the ski area.

• National Firefighters Hose Race. Need we say more? Jan. 25.

• 100th annual Winter Carnival: A unique Steamboat celebration of winter, with the world’s only marching band on skis, Feb. 6 to 10.

• Bud Light Rocks the Boat concert series: Free concerts at the new stage at the base of the mountain every Saturday starting March 9.

• Cardboard Classic: An end-of-season tradition, locals build cardboard crafts to race down a plowed course at the ski area. This year’s rendition is April 13.

• Splashdown Pond Skim, as part of the Springalicious closing weekend at the base of the ski area (costumes encouraged), April 14.

Hike to (or climb) an icefall

Photo by Brian Ray Exploresteamboat.com

Want to stretch your legs, without skis or snowshoes? Just because it’s winter, doesn’t mean you have to hang up your hiking shoes. For a great, close family stroll, head to 283-foot Fish Creek Falls, located just a three-mile drive from downtown. From Lincoln Avenue, head one block north on Third Street and turn right on Fish Creek Falls Road.

From the parking lot it’s an easy 1/4-mile walk up the rest of the road to the trailhead, and then another 1/4-mile to the bridge at the base of the Winter 12-13 • explore steamboat 15

falls or to an overlook above.

For more of a thrill, consider ice climbing it with an experienced guide. It’s far easier than you think, with top ropes ensuring safety as you live out your Spiderman fantasy. Rocky Mountain Ventures (970-870-8440, www. steamboatclimbing.com) offers halfday trips December through March, and provides all equipment and transportation.

Schuss on a sled or tube

Photo by John F. Russell

Sometimes it’s fun to schuss downhill without the control.

For that, it doesn’t get any better than sledding and tubing, with plenty of places to succumb to gravity.

Rent tubes downtown at Howelsen Hill (970-879-0695, www.sswsc. org), with proceeds benefiting the Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club. Ride up the Magic Carpet and tube to your heart’s content near the base of the Nordic jumps, before retiring to the

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Exploresteamboat.com

Howelsen lodge for hot chocolate and warm cookies.

Fifteen miles out of town, careen down Saddleback Ranch’s Yee-Haw Tubing Hill (970879-3711, www.saddlebackranch.com), complete with a state-of-the-art tube-tow lift system, and warm up in the Longhorn Warming Lodge with a hot drink from the concession stand. They even offer transport to and from the transit center on Mount Werner Circle.

To sled on your own, BYOS to the hill in front of the church just west of town in Steamboat II, or head to Blackmere Drive on Emerald Mountain.

Go Nordic Steamboat’s four Nordic centers offer more than 120 kilometers of groomed trails for classic crosscountry and skate skiing, as well as snow-shoeing, all within 30 minutes of downtown. There are even more trails west of town in Steamboat II, at the Vista Verde Guest Ranch, and across Rabbit Ears (nine trails ranging from 1.6 to 7 miles) and Buffalo passes.

If you’re going non-groomed, carry the proper equipment and let someone know where you’re going. Side note: Please yield to Olympians.

A Steamboat dining tradition for over 40 years.

This historic barn was converted into a restaurant in 1971.

Our steaks are hand cut Certified Angus Beef® and the Prime Rib is slow roasted daily.

Serving jet-fresh seafood, chicken, ribs and lighter fare. Our famous cinnamon rolls and endless salad bar included with every dinner.

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 Exploresteamboat.com

Winter 12-13 • explore steamboat 17

Calendar of events NOVEMBER

Nov. 2 — First Friday Artwalk. Self-guided tour featuring new gallery exhibits and refreshments; 970-879-4744, www.exploresteamboat.com.

Nov. 9-10 — SSWSC Ski and Sport Swap. Free to the Public, Steamboat Springs Middle School, 879-0695, www.sswsc.org.

Nov. 10-19 — 17th annual Festival of Trees, 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily, Tread of Pioneers Museum; 970-879-2214, www.treadofpioneers.org.

Nov. 13 — The Things They Carried theatrical adaptation, 6:30 p.m.; Strings Music Pavilion; www.stringsmusicfestival.com.

Nov. 17 — Warren Miller’s “Flow State” (3, 6 and 9 p.m.), CMC Allbright Family Auditorium, SSWSC, 970-879-0695, www.sswsc.org.

Nov. 21 — Opening/Scholarship Day, Steamboat Ski Area (benefits SSWSC; season passes not valid); www.steamboat.com.

Nov. 22 — Routt County United Way Community Thanksgiving Dinner, 1-5 p.m., Springs Community Center, free; 970-879-5605.

Nov. 23 — “Light Up the Night” Holiday Season Kickoff (lighting of the community tree), 6 p.m., Routt County Courthouse (Santa Claus, carol singing, hot chocolate, cookies, and prizes). www.mainstreetsteamboatsprings.com Nov. 24 — Sweet Treats on Main Street, Downtown Chocolate Tasting. 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; www.mainstreetsteamboatsprings.com.

Nov. 28 — Classical Conversation. Discussion with Maestro Ernest Richardson on the life of Franz Schubert and his Unfinished Symphony, free, 5 p.m., The Depot Art Center; www.steamboatorchestra.org.

Nov. 28 — Moonlight Snowshoe Tour, Emerald Mountain, Yampatika; 970-871-9151.

Nov. 29 — Pajama Story Time: The Polar Express, 6 p.m., Bud Werner Memorial Library, free. www.steamboatorchestra.org.

Nov. 30 — "Polar Express" Movie, Collaborating entities: Steamboat Symphony Orchestra/Steamboat Springs Arts Council/Bud Werner Memorial Library, free, 6 p.m., Bud Werner Library Hall; www.steamboatorchestra.org.

DECEMBER

870-3223, www.steamboatorchestra.org.

Dec. 5 — Winter Activity Mixer, 3-6 p.m., Steamboat Sheraton Resort ballroom; 970-875-7006.

Dec. 7 — First Friday Artwalk. Self-guided tour featuring new gallery exhibits and refreshments; 970-879-4744, www.exploresteamboat.com.

Dec. 8 — Visit with Santa, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Routt County Courthouse Lawn; www.mainstreetsteamboatsprings.com Dec. 8 — Merry Mainstreet Holiday Celebration, 4 p.m., downtown (features parade, Santa Claus, photos, gingerbread house tour, performances and more.

Dec. 8-9 — 10th annual Steamboat Nordic Camp and Festival (features lunches, happy hour beverages, prizes and more); 970-879-0385, www.active.com, www.skihaussteamboat.com.

Dec. 11-12 — 29th annual Women’s Ski Camp, Steamboat Ski Area (hosted by 1984 Olympic gold medalist Deb Armstrong); www.steamboat.com.

Dec. 1 — SSWSC Nordic Combined RMD Winter Start, Howelsen Hill; 970-879-0695; www.sswsc.org.

Dec. 1 — Visit with Santa, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Routt County Courthouse Lawn; www.mainstreetsteamboatsprings.com.

Dec. 1-2 — Steamboat Symphony Orchestra performs Holiday Concert! Performing Franz Schubert's "Unfinished Symphony"; The "Polar Express Suite" with the Steamboat Chamber Singers; other holiday favorites.

Tickets $35 in advance, $45 day of show; children under 12 $1; youth 12 to 15 & students $10. (Dec. 1: 7 p.m.; Dec. 2: 5 p.m.), Strings Music Pavilion; 970-870-3223 www.steamboatorchestra.org.

Dec. 2 — Encounter Dinner with Steamboat Symphony Orchestra. 7:30 p.m. (home location TBD), $100; 970-

Dec. 14-15 — SSWSC “Race to the Cup” Alpine Snowboard Racing, Howelsen Hill; 970-879-0695, www.sswsc.org.

Dec. 15 — Visit with Santa, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Routt County Courthouse Lawn; www.mainstreetsteamboatsprings.com Dec. 15-16 — Steamboat Nordic Camp, 1- and 2-day clinics for all levels, Lake Catamount/Steamboat Touring Centers; www.thenordiclink.com.

Dec. 17-23 — U.S. Freestyle Selections, VooDoo/Steamboat Ski Area; 970-879-0695, www.sswsc.org.

Dec. 20 — Peter and the Wolf holiday puppet performance, Strings Music Pavilion; www.stringsmusicfestival.com.

Dec. 20-22 — SSWSC Alpine Surefoot International FIS Alpine Races “Holiday Classic,” Howelsen Hill/Steamboat Ski Area; 970-879-0695, www.sswsc.org.

Dec. 21 — Michael Kaeshammer piano concert, Strings Music Pavilion; www.stringsmusicfestival.com.

Dec. 22 — Sven Wiik Nordic Cup Challenge No. 1, Howelsen Hill Circuit, 5 p.m.; www.steamboatxcski.org.

Photo by Brian Ray

Dec. 24 — Kids Torchlight Parade, Steamboat Ski Area; www.steamboat.com.

18 Explore steamboat • winter 12-13

Dec. 25 — Steamboat Springs Board of Realtors annual Community Christmas Dinner, Steamboat Springs Community Center, free; www.steamboattoday.com/events.

Dec. 26 — Kids Torchlight Parade, Steamboat Ski Area; www.steamboat.com.

Exploresteamboat.com

FEBRUARY Feb. 1 — First Friday Artwalk. Self-guided tour featuring new gallery exhibits and refreshments; 970-879-4744, www.exploresteamboat.com.

s

Feb. 2-3 — SmartWool Alpine Ski Races, Steamboat Ski Area; SSWSC: 879-0695, www.sswsc.org.

Feb. 3 — Sven Wiik Nordic Cup Challenge No. 4 (Ski Haus Classic), Lake Catamount; www.steamboatxcski.org.

Feb. 6-10 — 100th Anniversary Steamboat Winter Carnival. Ski jumping, biathlon, street events, fireworks, Lighted Man, parade and more; SSWSC; 970-879-0695, www.sswsc.org.

Photo by Joel Reichenberger

Feb. 8 — Soda Pop Slalom/Vintage Ski Race, Steamboat Ski Area; www.steamboat.com.

Dec. 28 — SSWSC Stars at Night Fundraiser; 970-879-0695, www.sswscfoundation.org.

Ski Area (hosted by 1984 Olympic gold medalist Deb Armstrong); www.steamboat.com.

Feb. 8-12 — Bud Light Mardi Gras Celebration, Steamboat Ski Area; www.steamboat.com.

Feb. 9 — Winter Carnival 100-meter Sprint; www.steamboatxcski.org.

Feb. 10 — Steamboat Celebration Concert, Copland's "Suite from Billy the Kid" and "Olympic Fanfare and Theme."

5:30 p.m., Strings Music Pavilion, 970-870-3223, www.steamboatorchestra.org.

Feb. 10 — Encounter Dinner with Steamboat Symphony Orchestra, 8 p.m., www.steamboatorchestra.org.

Dec. 28 — Moonlight Snowshoe Tour, Emerald Mountain, Yampatika; 970-871-9151.

Jan. 11-12 — SSWSC Ski Jumping & Nordic Combined Junior National Qualifier, Howelsen Hill; 970-879-0695, www.sswsc.org.

Dec. 29 — New Year’s Relay, Steamboat Springs Touring Center; www.steamboatxcski.org.

Jan. 11-13 — SSWSC Collegiate XC Ski Races, Howelsen Hill; 970-879-0695, www.sswsc.org.

Feb. 12-14 — 29th annual Women’s Ski Camp, Steamboat Ski Area (hosted by 1984 Olympic gold medalist Deb Armstrong); www.steamboat.com.

Dec. 31 — Sprint New Year’s Eve Torchlight Parade & Fireworks, 7 p.m., Steamboat Ski Area; www.steamboat.com.

Jan. 11-21 — Golden 50th Anniversary Celebration, Steamboat Ski Area; www.steamboat.com.

Feb. 14 — Valentine’s Day Concert, 7:30 p.m., Strings Music Pavilion; www.stringsmusicfestival.com.

Jan. 12 — Steamboat 50th Birthday Celebration Concert & Fireworks, Steamboat Ski Area; www.steamboat.com.

Feb. 14 — Valentine’s Day Torchlight Parade and Fireworks, 7 p.m., Steamboat Ski Area; www.steamboat.com.

Jan. 13 — Steamboat Cup, Steamboat Ski Area; www.steamboat.com.

Feb. 16 — Steamboat Ski Marathon, 9 a.m., Lake Catamount Touring Center; www.steamboatxcski.org.

Jan. 13 — Steamboat Stampede, Steamboat Ski Touring Center; www.steamboatxcski.org.

Feb. 17 — Steamboat Park & Cup Challenge, Steamboat Ski Area; www.steamboat.com.

Jan. 13-18 — 24th annual Steamboat Weather Summit, Steamboat Ski Area; www.steamboat.com.

Feb. 20 — Kids Torchlight Parade, Steamboat Ski Area; www.steamboat.com.

Jan. 18 — Colorado High School Alpine Racing, Howelsen Hill; 970-879-0695, www.sswsc.org.

Feb. 21-24 — Rocky Mountain Freestyle Event, Steamboat Ski Area; SSWSC; 970-879-0695, www.sswsc.org.

Jan. 21 — 39th annual Bud Light Cowboy Downhill, Steamboat Ski Area; www.steamboat.com.

Feb. 22-27 — US Telemark National Championships/ World Cup, Howelsen Hill/Steamboat Ski Area; SSWSC: 879-0695, www.sswsc.org.

JANUARY Jan. 1 — New Year’s Relay, Steamboat Ski Touring Center; 970-879-8180, www.nordicski.net.

Jan. 1-TBD — 8th annual All-Mountain Adaptive Camp, Steamboat Ski Area; www.steamboat.com.

Jan. 4 — First Friday Artwalk. Self-guided tour featuring new gallery exhibits and refreshments; 970-879-4744, www.exploresteamboat.com.

Jan. 4-6 — SSWSC Rocky Mountain Freestyle Moguls, Steamboat Ski Area; 970-879-0695, www.sswsc.org.

Jan. 5-10 — 14th annual MusicFest at Steamboat. Texas/ Americana bands, free après-ski concerts, evening concerts and special engagements; www.themusicfest.com.

Jan. 25 — National Firefighters Hose Race, Steamboat Ski Area; www.steamboat.com.

Jan. 5 — Sven Wiik Nordic Cup Challenge No. 2, Steamboat Lake; www.steamboatxcski.org.

Jan. 25 — Meet the Orchestra, 6 p.m., Library Hall, www. steamboatorchestra.org.

Jan. 6 — Sven Wiik Nordic Cup Challenge No. 3 (Steamboat Stampede), 9 a.m., Steamboat Ski Touring Center; www.steamboatxcski.org.

Jan. 26 — Wedding Expo, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Steamboat Sheraton Resort Ballroom, 970-879-0880.

Jan. 8-10 — 29th annual Women’s Ski Camp, Steamboat Exploresteamboat.com

Jan. 26 — Colorado Ski for Women, Steamboat Springs Touring Center; www.steamboatxcski.org.

Feb. 23 — Hazie Werner Award Reception, Steamboat Ski Area; www.steamboat.com.

Feb. 23 — Big Shooter Bonk, Latigo Ranch, 10 a.m. start; www.steamboatxcski.org.

Feb. 24 — Vertical Express for MS (fundraiser for Jimmie Heuga Center), Steamboat Ski Area; www.verticalexpress.org.

Winter 12-13 • explore steamboat 19

MARCH March 1 — First Friday Artwalk. Self-guided tour featuring new gallery exhibits and refreshments; 970-879-4744, www.exploresteamboat.com.

March 5-7 — 29th annual Women’s Ski Camp, Steamboat Ski Area (hosted by 1984 Olympic gold medalist Deb Armstrong); www.steamboat.com.

March 9 — Bud Light Rocks the Boat Golden Anniversary, free concert, 3 p.m., Gondola Square; www.steamboat.com.

March 9 — 22nd annual Steamboat Pentathlon, Howelsen Hill. Skiing/snowboarding, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, mountain biking and running; www.steamboatpentathlon.com.

March 13-16 — U14 National Championships, Howelsen Hill/Steamboat Ski Area, 879-0695, www.sswsc.org.

March 14-16 — Steamboat Dance Theatre’s 41st annual Concert, Steamboat Springs High School, www.steamboatdancetheatre.org.

March 16 — Bud Light Rocks the Boat, free concert, 3 p.m., Gondola Square; www.steamboat.com.

March 16 — Symphony Soiree Fundraiser, 6 p.m., Larson Barn; www.steamboatorchestra.org.

March 17 — St. Patrick’s Day Torchlight and Fireworks, 7:30 p.m., Steamboat Ski Area; www.steamboat.com.

March 22-24 — SmartWool Alpine Championships, Howelsen Hill/Steamboat Ski Area; SSWSC; 970-879-0695, www.sswsc.org.

March 23 — Bud Light Rocks the ‘Boat, free concert, 3 p.m., Gondola Square; www.steamboat.com.

March 23 — 5th annual Cody Challenge Randonee Race, Steamboat Ski Area; www.steamboat.com.

March 23 — Nordic Fest, Steamboat Springs Touring Center; www.steamboatxcski.org.

March 23 — Hakan Memorial Nordic Fest, music, food and games, Steamboat Ski Touring Center; www.sswsc.org.

March 30 — 3rd annual Ski 4 Yellow Fundraiser, Steamboat Ski Area; www.ski4yellow.com.

March 15-16 — SSWSC Jumping & Nordic Combined Western Regional Championships, Howelsen Hill, 970879-0695, www.sswsc.org.

March 30 — Bud Light Rocks the Boat, free concert, 3 p.m., Gondola Square; www.steamboat.com.

March 16 — Glide the Divide, North Routt; www.steamboatxcski.org.

March 30-TBD — 8th annual All-Mountain Adaptive Camp, Steamboat Ski Area; www.steamboat.com.

Ongoing Events

November – April

First Friday Art Walk, every month on the first Friday, 5-8 p.m., various galleries and other venues in the downtown area, www.steamboatspringsartwalk.com

Curtis Zabel Sculptor and Jean Perry Oil Painting Retrospective, Steamboat Art Museum, 11 a.m.-6 p.m., Tuesday-Saturday (Dec. 21-April 14), www.steamboatartmuseum.org

Depot Art Center, 11 a.m.-6 p.m., Tuesday-Friday; noon-4 p.m., Saturdays; Steamboat Springs Arts Council, www.steamboatspringsarts.com

Guided Gourmet Snowshoe Tours, 10 a.m., MondayFriday at the Steamboat Ski Area, 970-879-0740

Howelsen Ice Arena Public Skate Sessions, 285 Howelsen Pkwy., 970-879-0341 Moots Bicycle Factory Tours, 10 a.m.; Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays; 970-879-1676 Steamboat Art Museum, 11 a.m.-6 p.m., TuesdaySaturday, www.steamboatartmuseum.org Steamboat Writers’ Group, noon-2 p.m., Thursdays, The Depot, www.steamboatwriters.com Tread of Pioneers Museum, 11 a.m.-5 p.m., TuesdaySaturday, www.treadofpioneers.org

20 Explore steamboat • winter 12-13

Ski/Ride Tours of the Steamboat Ski Area with an Ambassador, 10:30 a.m. daily at the top of Vagabond, Steamboat Ski Area, 970-879-6111 Ski with Billy Kidd, 1 p.m., most days at the top of Heavenly Daze, scheduled ski days listed at Steamboat Ski Area Information Center, 970-879-6111 Ski with Nelson, select Sundays, scheduled ski days listed at Steamboat Ski Area Information Center, 970-879-6111 Snowshoe Tour with an Ambassador, 1 p.m., daily at the Steamboat Ski Area Information Center, 970-871-5444

December – March Family Friendly Snowshoe Hike, Saturdays (Dec. 18-March 22), 10 a.m.-noon, Yampatika’s Environmental Learning Center at Legacy Ranch, educational snowshoe hike for ages 5 and up, free but registration

APRIL April 1-14 — Springalicious Celebration, Steamboat Ski Area; www.steamboat.com.

April 4 — Together in Concert Community Concert Education Ensembles, Library Hall at Bud Werner Memorial Library, 970-870-3223, www.steamboatorchestra.org.

April 5 — First Friday Artwalk. Self-guided tour featuring new gallery exhibits and refreshments; 970-879-4744, www.exploresteamboat.com.

April 6 — Ninth annual Steamboat Coureur, 45K and 90K ski race; www.steamboatxcski.org.

April 6 — Bud Light Rocks the Boat, free concert, 3 p.m., Gondola Square; www.steamboat.com.

April 13 — Billy Kidd’s 70th Birthday Bash, Steamboat Ski Area; www.steamboat.com.

April 13 — 33rd annual Cardboard Classic, Steamboat Ski Area; www.steamboat.com.

April 14 — 6th annual Splashdown Pond Skim, Bud Light Rocks the Boat free concert (3 p.m., Gondola Square).

Closing Day; Ski Area; www.steamboat.com .

required, Yampatika, www.yampatika.org Free Heel Fridays, Steamboat Ski Area, www.steamboat.com Mavericks Park & Pipe Clinics, Tuesdays and Thursdays starting Dec. 18, Steamboat Ski Area, www.steamboat. com NASTAR Ski Racing, daily (Dec. 1-March 31), 10:30 a.m.12:30 p.m., Steamboat Ski Area, www.steamboat.com Over the Hill Gang, Sunday through Friday, 9 a.m., Steamboat Ski Area, www.steamboat.com Ski with a Naturalist, Tuesdays and Thursdays (Dec. 18-March 22), 1:30-2:30 p.m., meet at the Why Not trailhead at the top of the gondola, Yampatika, www.yampatika.org Uranium Mine Snowshoe Tour, Fridays (Dec. 18-March 22), 10 a.m.-1 p.m., moderately strenuous tour along Fish Creek Canyon, ages 12 & up, free but registration required, Yampatika, www.yampatika.org Women’s Club Clinics, Wednesdays (Dec. 12-March 27), Steamboat Ski Area, www.steamboat.com.

Exploresteamboat.com

Embracing

the multimedia world

P

eople want their information today far differently than they did when the local Steamboat Pilot newspaper was founded in the Yampa Valley in 1885. Instead of relying on news via (in order) horse carriage, telegraph and telephone, more than 125 years later people want it at their fingertips, literally — whether it’s accessed from SmartTouch gloves on the chairlift, surfing the Web back in the condo, flipping channels on the TV or in a (gasp!) print edition like what you’re holding in your hands.

That’s exactly what we’re offering with the new Explore Steamboat package — news, insights and information about town when you want it, where you want it, how you want it.

Explore Steamboat is a multimedia service geared toward locals and visitors alike. Guests typically have many questions, ranging from food, entertainment and activity options to transportation and services needs. They’re also interested in where they can find the best bargains, anytime and anywhere. Thanks to our new platforms, they can now search for this

information on a smartphone, tablet, laptop, in print and on television. Explore Steamboat is the only service that has you covered on all of these fronts.

Explore Steamboat is a brand that allows business owners a way to connect with visitors on a variety of levels, from print and Web offerings to TV and apps. The brand is promoted as soon as visitors deplane at YVRA, in their hotel rooms, on newsstands and more. In short, it’s a platform that lets you reach guests whenever they want information on Steamboat, making the process far easier than it was in the covered wagon days.

In print Explore Steamboat magazine is distributed in more than 2,500 hotel rooms and condominiums and mailed to nearly 6,000 secondhome owners and destination visitors. It’s also stacked in more than 300 rack and vendor locations in Routt County, making it one of the best resources around for information on the Yampa Valley. Additionally, the Explore

Steamboat Friday section in the Steamboat Today newspaper serves up a week’s worth of all arts and entertainment news and happenings produced by the newspaper’s arts and entertainment department. “It’s all-inclusive and lists everything there is to do throughout the week,” says ExploreSteamboat.com Editor Nicole Inglis. "It's the most comprehensive local entertainment guide in the valley."

On television Explore Steamboat Television is Steamboat's only locally produced tourist television station only on Comcast channel 18, offering an inside look at businesses, events and personalities that make our town what it is. It also provides the region’s only live local television morning show, Steamboat Today, reporting snow and weather conditions from the base of the Steamboat ski resort.

Online ExploreSteamboat.com is a dynamic website that includes a business directory, business hours, maps, business reviews, website links, business videos and photos, editor picks, Best of the Boat picks, event calendar, arts/entertainment/food news and other information. It’s at your fingertips 24 hours a day with everything you need to know about Ski Town USA. Use it to get the information you need when you need it, and see what others are saying about it as well.

Photo by Matt Stensland

Smartphone app

Exploresteamboat.com

All the great information from ExploreSteamboat.com is now available in an easy-to-use application for smartphones.

Whether you’re a local business owner or visitor, information needs to be made available whenever you want it, and in the format you want, whether you’re on a chair at the resort or in a bar. Our new smartphone app does just that, letting you book that pizza delivery and find that happy hour deal right from the chairlift.

Winter 12-13 • explore steamboat 21

Artanniversaries abound T

he arts are alive and well in Steamboat Springs, as evidenced by three marquee anniversaries for local performance organizations.

Strings in the Mountains turns 25

It’s been 10 decades since Charlotte Perry and Portia Mansfield fulfilled their dreams of creating a theater and dance camp in the mountains. A hundred years after their founding of the school in 1913 in Strawberry Park, Perry-Mansfield is recognized as the oldest, continuously operating performing arts school and camp in the nation.

Throughout the years, a number of distinguished alumni, faculty and guest artists have passed through its doors, including the likes of Dustin Hoffman, Julie Harris and Lee Remick. With alumni performing with Ballet Hispanico, Battleworks Dance Company, Munich Ballet, the Paul Taylor Dance Company on Broadway and more, the camp continues to offer courses taught by internationally renowned faculty to students from all over the world. Highlighting this year’s milestone, the organization hosted “The Marriage of Figaro” at its 76-acre facility’s Julie Harris Theater.

and the program has been thriving ever since.

“There are a lot of opera lovers here,” she says.

ECO continues to host workshops for local singers, including its three-week Opera Artist Institute; awards scholarships to students to continue vocal study; and charms area audiences with its touring opera troupe, which this year performed “The Marriage of Figaro.”

“The singers we get love coming to Steamboat to perform,” says Rusthoi. “This year’s cast was the best I’ve ever put together.”

Emerald City Opera turns 10 Emerald City Opera was founded in Steamboat Springs in 2002 by opera singer Keri Rusthoi, who was tired of traveling Europe for performances. So she brought “The Magic Flute” performance to the Yampa Valley

Photo by Joel Reichenberger

From its humble beginnings on the deck of an athletic club to its current award-winning Strings Music Pavilion between town and the mountain, Strings in the Mountains celebrates its 25th anniversary in 2012/13.

“We’ve reached this mark through hard work, great music and an unbelievably supportive community,” says Strings marketing director Cristin Frey.

From its 1988 beginnings on the deck of the Steamboat Athletic Club to its current 9,000-square-foot Strings Music Pavilion on a sixacre site at the corner of Mount Werner and Pine Grove roads, the organization continues to bring top acts to Steamboat every year, from Grammy Award-winning musicians to New York Metropolitan Opera singers and world-class orchestra performers.

“This year was extra special because we had a lot of great programs and performances to help us celebrate,” says Frey. “We owe our success to the support of the Steamboat community as well as the visitors and locals who continue to come to our shows.”

Perry-Mansfield Performing Arts School and Camp turns 100

22 Explore steamboat • winter 12-13

Exploresteamboat.com

Steamboat’s ith a burgeoning art community, Steamboat has become one of the state’s premier arts destinations.

Visitors can take in a broad range of local art — from paintings and photos of local wildlife and landscapes to bronzes, jewelry, ceramics, furniture and more — in an ever-growing array of venues. Visitors can also browse more acclaimed international work, from tribal hand-woven rugs to etchings from master printers.

“There’s really a strong artist community here, from established artists to younger artists fostering their talent here,” says Steamboat Springs Arts Council artistic director Park Myers.

For finding this wealth of talent, the options are as boundless as the resort’s terrain. “It’s easy for visitors to tap into,” Myers adds. “We have great events every month, from gallery tours and exhibits to foreign films, and a lot of it is interactive, with dinners and wine tastings.”

One of the best venues is the First Friday Artwalk, a tour organized by local gallery owners from 5 to 8 p.m. on the first Friday of every month. Nearly 20 galleries, businesses and other

Exploresteamboat.com

venues participate in the monthly event, showcasing local art with drinks, appetizers and even live music. “It’s turned into a great community event,” says local artist Ken Lee. “The art scene here has grown exponentially.”

First Friday Artwalk 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 (970879-9008, www.steamboatspringsarts.com) for more information.

Photo by Matt Stensland

W

arts scene

Winter 12-13 • explore steamboat 23

Nordicskiing in Steamboat I

Howelsen Hill You’ll likely share the trail with an Olympian at Howelsen Hill. Located in the heart of downtown, its 21 kilometers of trails are maintained by the city and Steamboat Springs Nordic Council, and are part of the Nordic Combined World Cup cross-country circuit (trail manager Jeff Nelsen was chief of course for the 2002 Salt Lake Olympics).

From late December through March, the trails (20 percent beginner, 20 percent expert, 60 percent intermediate) are groomed three times weekly. In general they’re a bit steeper than other trails in the area. Note: The Howelsen complex is not a full-service touring center; skiers must have their own equipment. Cost: $8/day. Info: www. steamboatsprings.net, 970-879-4300.

Lake Catamount Part of a private development, the Catamount Nordic Center off Colorado Highway 131 offers 30 kilometers of groomed trails, characterized by flat, easy-rolling terrain and wide open views

of Lake Catamount, Mount Baldy and Pleasant Valley. The owners have extended a welcome to the community so respect private property. For dog lovers, the area also offers 10 kilometers of dog-friendly trails (cost: $2/dog, maximum two dogs/person). All dogs must be on a leash and no dogs are allowed Friday through Sunday.

The trails are open daily, with the Club House restaurant open Wednesday through Sunday. The center also offers lessons, including a new fourweek clinic on Fridays. Rentals $17/day. Cost: $18/day. Info: www.catamountranchclub.com, 970-871-6667.

Steamboat Ski Touring Center At the Steamboat Ski Touring Center, nearly 14 kilometers of groomed Nordic trails wind through aspen groves along Fish Creek, offering some of the most scenic and accessible Nordic skiing in the valley. The trails are rated novice to advanced and are groomed for both classic and skate skiing. The center also offers 10 kilometers of forested snowshoe trails, as well as a full-service

Photo by Brian Ray

f you’d rather have your legs and lungs carry you along Steamboat’s trails, countless Nordic skiing options exist in the valley as well.

Nordic skiers with ties to Steamboat brought home seven Olympic medals from the last Winter Olympics, which should say something about the area’s Nordic facilities. The valley is home to four Nordic centers offering more than 120 kilometers of groomed trails, all within 30 minutes of downtown and offering plenty of solitude and serenity. Add to these a set of free groomed trails in Steamboat II, trails at the Vista Verde Guest Ranch and marked trails on both Rabbit Ears Pass (nine trails ranging from 1.6 to 7 miles) and Buffalo Pass, and the area’s Nordic options are as plentiful as its snowfall. (Maps for Forest Service trails can be picked up at the U.S. Forest Service office, across U.S. Highway 40 from the Holiday Inn.) Just make sure that if you’re heading out on a wilderness trail, carry a backpack with topographic maps, a compass, emergency supplies, food, water and extra clothing, and let someone know where you’re going.

24 Explore steamboat • winter 12-13

Exploresteamboat.com

Steamboat Lake

Photo by Joel Reichenberger

Open for the past eight years, the Steamboat Lake State Park Touring Center is just 25 miles north of Steamboat Springs on Routt County Road 129. The area usually opens by Christmas, with trails groomed by the Steamboat Lake Snow Club. Dogs are allowed but must be on a 6-foot leash. The center features 15 kilometers of groomed beginner and intermediate trails, with grooming twice per week. There are no services available, so bring your own gear; meals are available at the Clark Store Deli, Glen Eden, Hahn’s Peak Cafe and Hahn’s Peak Roadhouse nearby. You can also rent trailside cabins from the marina (970-879-7019). Cost: $7 per vehicle (passes available at the park visitor center or selfservice station). Info: 970-879-3922, http://parks. state.co.us/parks/steamboatlake.

Snowshoeing Whether it’s a walk at Steamboat Lake State Park or a run on Rabbit Ears Pass, snowshoeing is also picking up steam in Steamboat. Well-marked and groomed trails exist at all the area’s Nordic centers, with additional options on Rabbit Ears Passand Buffalo Pass. Another great option is the lower portion of Spring Creek across from the high school.

What you need: a pair of semiwaterproof hiking boots, warm socks, winter clothing and a pair of snowshoes (available to buy or rent from most area sporting goods stores).

Photo by Matt Stensland

t

rental and retail store carrying the latest in crosscountry ski and snowshoe equipment. It also offers daily lessons taught by area experts. Refuel at the “Picnic Basket” with hearty homemade soups, breads, hot drinks and more. Cost: $18/day ($16 late arrival after 1 p.m.); rentals $13. Info: www. steamboatnordiccenter.com, 970-879-8180.

Exploresteamboat.com

Winter 12-13 • explore steamboat | 25

Steamboat Where Champagne powder meets world-class terrain T

hree things have always made Steamboat stand out from the crowd: its hospitality, tree skiing and world-class snow. All three just keep getting better.

Its friendliness owes itself to the town’s ranching heritage. It was a ranching town way before it ever became a world-class resort, meaning everyone treats you like a neighbor. Pretentiousness dissolves like the sulfur in its many hot springs — yet another characteristic separating it from most other ski towns.

The resort’s ski host program ensures visitors get a friendly reception, pine beetle mitigation efforts continue to open up even more glades for skiing and riding and even in off years it still serves up heaps of bottomless Champagne powder (on Feb. 20 last year, it set a single-day midmountain snowfall record of 27 inches).

26 | Explore steamboat • winter 12-13

It’s the region’s snowfall that truly separates Steamboat from most other resorts. Snowfall totals have surpassed 400 inches during four of the past seven winters, including 433 in 2011 year, jump-started by a record-setting 90 inches in November.

The record winter of 2007-08 saw 489 inches of snow, including three consecutive months of 100-plus inches (the total would have eclipsed 500 had the resort stayed open a day longer).

This meant 58 powder days of 4-plus inches of snow.

“It’s truly what distinguishes Steamboat from other resorts,” says local Olympian Nelson Carmichael. “There’s no buts about it — Steamboat gets some of the best snow in the country.”

It’s also there for the tracking longer than it is at other resorts. Its 2,965 skiable acres make it

one of the largest ski areas in Colorado, and its world-class tree skiing in places like Closets and Shadows maintain powder stashes for days after a storm.

Add 3,668 feet of vertical and 165 named trails (not to mention the countless routes through its trees) and you get a resort for skiers of all abilities, with 14 percent of its runs for beginners, 42 percent for intermediates and 44 percent for advanced. The mountain’s four terrain parks, highlighted by Mavericks Superpipe — a 500-foot-long halfpipe with 18-foot walls and 22-foot transitions — as well as a new skier and boarder cross course provide fun for the whole freeride family.

To maximize your visit, arrive early. Lifts open between 8:30 and 9 a.m., with the gondola taking its first passengers at 8:30 a.m. (if it’s a powder Exploresteamboat.com

Photo by Matt Stensland

day, take advantage of the resort’s First Tracks program, which gets you up ahead of the pack).

The ski area also has made great uphill capacity strides, with the addition of the base area’s Christie Peak Express.

For lessons, Steamboat’s award-winning ski and snowboard school includes six Olympian instructors, as well as the new FLAIK GPS system, which lets you monitor your kids’ whereabouts on the mountain (and relive it on the computer back home). The Kids’ Vacation Center offers a variety of kids programs as well, and is just one reason Steamboat has been named the No. 1 Family Resort in the West by SKI magazine.

When your legs need a deserved rest, onmountain facilities include the newly renovated Thunderhead Lodge at the top of the gondola (offering commanding views of the Yampa Valley far below), Rendezvous Saddle and the Four Points Hut, perfect for that quick warm-up stop off the top of the mountain. Fine dining can be found at Hazie’s and Ragnar’s.

For celebrating afterward, a variety of bars and restaurants line the slopes at the resort’s base, including the newly renovated outside deck and Umbrella Bar at the Bear River Grill, the famous ice bar at Slopeside and the locals hang-out of the T-Bar. The ski area also hosts the Bud Light Rocks the ‘Boat concert series, featuring free music in gondola square, as well as the Steamboat MusicFest and Ski Jam. Other special events take place throughout the season.

So enjoy your stay — chances are you won’t find friendlier people or more Champagne snowflakes anywhere.

Photo by Larry Pierce

Steamboat gets some of the best snow in the country.” ­ — Local Olympian, Nelson Carmichael

Exploresteamboat.com

Winter 12-13 • explore steamboat | 27

Round, Round, W

Get Around...

ith apologies to the Beach Boys, getting around in Steamboat is as simple as their songs. Steamboat has two main areas — Old Town downtown and the mountain village at the base of Steamboat Ski Area (including the surrounding developments).

It’s easy to navigate for newcomers and locals alike, with buses, taxis and even a bike path for stretching your legs after a day on the slopes.

Here are some CliffsNotes for making the process easier.

City bus system With extended service in winter, Steamboat Springs’ free bus system runs all year 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 include exterior ski carriers.

Schedule and map: www. steamboatsprings. net, 970-879-3717.

Taxi and limousine service Go Alpine is Steamboat’s taxi and limousine service, offering transportation all day and night. The standard rate is $3 per person plus $2 per mile (children under 2 ride 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

Yampa River Core Trail The Yampa River Core Trail is the city’s concrete path that parallels the river. The trail is cleared of snow throughout the winter, and it’s a great place to stretch your legs and enjoy a peaceful walk or snowshoe.

28 Explore steamboat • winter 12-13

Photo by John F. Russell

Staying in a local lodge? 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.

Exploresteamboat.com

Useful numbers and websites Event information and business directory: www.exploresteamboat.com Includes Steamboat’s most complete events calendar and online business directory. Looking for pizza delivery? Simply type “pizza” into the search box and let Explore do the work for you.

Local news, sports and weather www.steamboatToday.com Steamboat’s daily source of news, sports, weather and event information. Pick up a copy of Steamboat Today at local newsstands, or log on to SteamboatToday.com to keep up with what’s happening when and where.

Ski resort information:

mary resource if you or a friend or family member are injured or lost while on the mountain.

Ski conditions: 970-879-7300

Medical information:

Call this number whenever a storm rolls through. The Steamboat Ski Area’s official snow and ski conditions update line is updated several times throughout the day.

Photo by John F. Russell

F

or pertinent information on the fly, keep these numbers and websites plugged into your smartphone:

Ski area information: 970-879-6111 Call the ski area’s main line for information on lift tickets, ski school programs, 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).

Transportation: Taxi service: 970-879-2800

Ski patrol: 970-871-5911 The Steamboat Ski Area ski patrol is the pri-

Go Alpine is Steamboat’s only local taxi service. Call them if you’ve had one too many.

Bamboo Market Health Foods Featuring Steamboat’s Favorite Organic Deli Deli / Juice Bar Fresh Baked Goods Local Organic Produce Gluten Free Items Bulk Foods Locally Produced Items Private Label Supplements

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970-879-1222

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Winter 12-13 • explore steamboat 29

Snowmobiling Vast network of trails available S

trapping on skis or a snowboard isn’t the only way to enjoy Steamboat’s trademark Champagne powder. A growing number of snowmobilers also take the region’s meadows and hills to get their winter thrill in the outdoors.

Thanks to rolling terrain, vast tracts of public land and world-class snowfall, Steamboat offers some of the best snowmobiling in the country, drawing sledders from across the nation. While some people come here to glide on the slopes of Mount Werner, others come to ride.

“It’s truly world-class,” says Jason Stanhope, manager of snowmobile retailer Steamboat Powersports. “It has everything snowmobilers look for in a great destination ­— abundant snowfall and wide open terrain.”

The snowy mountains of the Park Range attract thousands of snowmobilers each winter, from novices taking part on commercial tours to some of the sport’s most elite and dedicated riders (pro snowmobiler Chris Brown, of Slednecks fame, calls the area home). In fact, don’t be surprised to share Rabbit Ears Pass with Winter X Games athletes stocking footage for their next film segment.

Maps of the trail systems, highlighting winter range game closures and motorized boundaries, are available at the U.S. Forest Service office (925 Weiss Drive, 970-870-2299), as are free season pass permits for the Buffalo Pass Backcountry Winter Recreation Area (day-use permits also are available at the Dry Lake Campground trailhead).

Snowmobiles operating on public lands in Colorado must be registered or permitted by Colorado State Parks. Out-of-state residents must purchase a $25 Colorado Non-Resident OHV permit. Resident registration is required annually (available from OHV dealers and Colorado State Parks locations). Non-resident permits are available online, at State Parks offices or anywhere Colorado hunting and fishing licenses are sold.

30 | Explore steamboat • winter 12-13

For rookies, outfitters across the valley offer the chance to experience everything from open meadows and diverse down-valley terrain west of Steamboat to the timbered, alpine terrain of the high country near Steamboat.

Various snowmobile organizations also have banded together in recent years to groom a vast network of trails in the region. Routt Powder Riders (www.routtpowderriders.com) grooms more than 100 miles of trails on Rabbit Ears and Buffalo passes; Steamboat Lake Snow Club grooms the area around Steamboat Lake, north of Columbine to the Wyoming border; the Northwest Colorado Snowmobile Club maintains more than 100 miles of groomed trails in the Black Mountain and California Park areas of the Elkhead Mountain Range north of Craig; and the White River Snowmobile Club marks, grooms and maintains nearly 200 miles of snowmobile trails in eastern Rio Blanco County.

The only caveat: Respect key non-motorized areas such as the west summit of Rabbit Ears Pass and the Soda Creek drainage north of Dry Lake Campground on Buffalo Pass. Snowmobiles also are prohibited in all wilderness areas.

Snowmobile Outfitters • Elkhorn Outfitters: 970-824-7392, www.elkhornoutfitters.com • Rocky Mountain Rentals: 970-627-9673, www. snowmobile-central.com • Saddleback Ranch: 970-879-3711, www.saddlebackranch.net • Hahns Peak Roadhouse: 970-879-4404. www.hahnspeakroadhouse.com • Steamboat Snowmobile Tours/ High Mountain Tours: 980-879-6500, www.steamboatsnowmobile.com

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J

ust because snow is blanketing Mount Werner, it doesn’t mean you have to trade your fishing rod for ski poles. Some local anglers say winter fishing is one of their favorite times of year to cast a line in the Yampa River and other local water bodies.

“If I could guide every day in the winter, I would,” says Mike Morton, of Steamboat Flyfisher, which is coming off its best winter guiding season ever. “A lot of people have more fun during winter then they do going on summer trips.”

High on the list are snowmobile trips to the tailwaters of Stagecoach Reservoir and other locales. “When the town stretch is frozen there are still about five miles of fishable water nearby,” says Morton, adding that nymphs work best but that anglers also can get blue wing olive hatches when it’s sunny outside. “It’s great because you have the place to yourself and it’s absolutely gorgeous. There’s nothing like catching a nice brown and watching fresh snowflakes dissolve on it as release it back into the water.”

For those looking to fly fish, finding open, moving water is the main challenge. Luckily, the

Yampa tailwaters have consistent enough water temperatures to yield open water and bug life throughout the winter. While the vehicle access gate through Stagecoach State Park remains closed until April 1, you can access the area via skis, snowshoes or snowmobiles on Routt County Road 18 off Colorado Highway 131. And the limited accessibility keeps angler pressure down.

Other tailwaters sections include the Upper Colorado River beneath the Williams Fork Reservoir dam (east of Kremmling), the Blue River below the Dillon Reservoir (Silverthorne) and the Green River beneath the Flaming Gorge Dam (northeast Utah).

Ice fishing provides another great angling option in Routt County (the state record pike was pulled out of Stagecoach Reservoir in the winter). Although area outfitters offer guided ice fishing trips, most practitioners are left to their

Photo by Steamboat Flyfisher

fishing Winter own auger-drilling. Top local options include Steamboat Lake, Stagecoach Reservoir and Elkhead Reservoir. “There’s great ice fishing here as well,” Morton says. “Between that and the fly fishing options, there’s no reason to hang up your rod come winter.”

Fishing Facts

Photo by Joel Reichenberger

Contact local state parks offices (Steamboat Lake and Pearl Lake state parks, 970-879-3922; Stagecoach State Park, 970-736-2436) for ice condition reports and information on live bait restrictions. Check www.wildlife.state.co.us/fishing for fishing reports, ice conditions and licensing agents. Colorado Division of Parks and Wildlife 2012 Fees: Fishing (annual, 16 and older): $26 resident, $56 nonresident; five-day: $21; one-day $9. $5 Habitat Stamp required on every license. For information on outfitters, see the Activities Guide on page 63.

Exploresteamboat.com

Winter 12-13 • explore steamboat | 31

Steamboat: a quick synopsis A

crash course in all things Steamboat boils down to three things: Western heritage, Olympians and Ski Town USA. First off, forget any notions of finding steamships around town. The town’s name originates from a natural spring that settlers thought sounded like a steamboat. While the area’s hot springs are indeed a big draw — not many world-class ski resorts also have world-class hot springs — the town’s authenticity and friendliness are even bigger attractions.

While Steamboat’s Pro Rodeo Series and cattle drives down Lincoln Avenue showcase our Western heritage, in the winter it manifests itself in such things as the annual Cowboy Downhill, founded by longtime local and former world bareback champion J.C. Trujillo, and the annual Winter Carnival, now in its 100th year, which has skiers racing behind horses down Lincoln Avenue.

Western heritage

You’ll likely hear the term “Ski Town USA” thrown about during your stay. The nickname was coined by a Chicago newspaper writer after watching the high school marching band perform on skis during the Winter Carnival.

The ski band tradition continues to this day, as does the well-deserved nickname. The band’s annual performance comes in early February every year during Winter Carnival, a perfect blend of Steamboat’s Western roots and ski town lifestyle.

Organized by Carl Howelsen, a Norwegian who settled in Steamboat and introduced its residents to skiing and ski jumping, the Carnival started in 1914 as a mid-winter celebration to help locals break up the monotony of winter. It

Olympic pedigree As well as introducing early residents to recreational skiing, Howelsen also planted the seeds for the Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club, a nonprofit program that trains hundreds of children and teens each year in competitive skiing and snowboarding. To date, the Winter Sports Club has helped 88 athletes make 129 Winter Olympics appearances. Many of those athletes grew up in Steamboat; others came to train with the club. Steamboat has produced more winter Olympians than any other town in North America, giving further credence to its Ski Town USA nickname.

At the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver, skiers with ties to Steamboat, including Steamboat natives Johnny Spillane and Todd Lodwick, brought seven medals back home in Nordic combined, marking the first-ever U.S. Olympic medals in the tradition-rich sport.

Photo by John F. Russell

Steamboat’s Western heritage isn’t just a marketing gimmick. Routt County is home to dozens of working ranches, some of which have been in local families for more than 100 years.

It’s not unusual to bump into longtime ranchers like the Stankos or the Mongers while walking downtown.

The area’s agriculture is also important to residents and visitors. Routt County voters have twice passed property tax increases that pay agricultural landowners for their development rights, helping landowners continue ranching while preserving their land.

Ski Town USA

continues to be one of the town’s most popular events for locals and visitors. If you’re here Feb. 6 to 10 this year, head down to Lincoln Avenue for the parade and street events, and to Howelsen Hill for more festivities.

32 | Explore steamboat • winter 12-13

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InsideAttractions S

ure, Steamboat Springs is known for its outdoor recreation. But sometimes it’s nice to settle inside somewhere and take a break from the slopes. For that, here are a few things you can do in Routt County with a roof over your head (for more information, flip to our Activities Guide on page 63).

Look back Utes, pioneers, a flying Norwegian who brought ski jumping to town and even a wacky skier called the Lighted Man. All that and more awaits you at the Tread of Pioneers Museum (970-879-2214, www.treadofpioneers.org) on the northwest corner of Eighth and Oak streets, which will have you feeling like a fourth-generation local. See the museum’s directory listing on page 66 for more information.

Enjoy the arts

Sink into a comfy chair and let the entertainment come to you at the six-screen Metropolitan Wildhorse Stadium Cinemas in Wildhorse Marketplace (visit ExploreSteamboat.com for movie times and listings).

For books and a relaxing, educational area for the kids, visit the recently renovated Bud Werner Memorial Library at 13th Street and Lincoln Avenue. The $11 million expansion has produced a beautiful and state-of-the-art library facility.

Skate the night away Channel your inner Dorothy Hamill by heading to the Howelsen Ice Arena downtown for a public skate session with the family. The rink also offers stick-and-puck, family drop-in and regular drop-in hockey sessions, a new bumper car program that’s perfect for families, and Rock On Ice, where kids can skate to music under a disco ball. Plus, if you’re lucky, your visit might coincide with a local figure skating performance or Steamboat Sailors varsity hockey game (970879-0341).

Strike and serve Shoulders loose from ski-poling? That just might spell more spares at Snow Bowl (970-8799840), Steamboat’s bowling facility on the west end of town. Theme nights and daily specials

are commonplace, making it a great place for the entire family. For work on your backhand, the Tennis Center at Steamboat Springs (970879-8400) offers six, indoor and cushioned hard courts near the base of the ski area, adjacent to the Meadows Parking Lot.

Stretch and spa To soothe those aches and pains from the slopes, Steamboat offers a variety of yoga and Pilates studios, as well as spas and massage parlors to work out any kinks that may have surfaced on the mountain. At last count, there are more than 20 spas and massage studios in town, more than enough to pamper you in style. And you can top it all off with a soak in one of the area’s natural hot springs. Flip to the Activities Directory on page 54 for complete listings.

House of Bounce Kids bouncing off the walls? Take them someplace designed specifically for that. Steamboat House of Bounce (www.steamboathouseofbounce.com) offers 4,500 square feet of inflatable fun, including slides, obstacle courses, magic castle bouncers and jumpers. It also offers a private party room and toddlers’ area with tables and chairs. Get treats from an on-site snack bar, or bring your own. Parents accompanying children are free and kids may come and go all day.

Photo by Brian Ray

Steamboat’s stores and art galleries reflect the town’s Western heritage as much as the town’s annual cattle drive down Lincoln Avenue. The historic downtown shopping district boasts an art museum and a dozen galleries, where you’ll find everything from world-class landscape photography to breathtaking sculptures, painting and mixed-media works. To unleash your own inner artist, visit the Steamboat Arts & Crafts Gym or The Potter’s Wheel, where you and your kids can create your own artwork to take home.

Relax with a movie or book

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Winter 12-13 • explore steamboat | 33

Steamboat

Timeline

1776 Spanish explorers Francisco Atanasio Dominguez and Silvestre Velez de Escalante explore northwestern Colorado, camping on the White River 65 miles southwest of Steamboat Springs.

1875 Region’s first permanent settler, James Crawford, brings his family to the area, living among the Ute Indians.

Builds first “bath house” at hot springs.

1879

Last Native American uprising in U.S. history occurs at White River Indian Agency, spawning two-year-long confrontation.

1881 Northwestern Colorado Utes relocated to Utah reservation. Ute leader reportedly places a curse on Yampa Valley, saying those who come will never be able to leave.

1947 Associated Press calls Steamboat Springs “Ski Town USA.” 1958 Storm Mountain ski area founder James Temple gets permission to use phrase “Champagne Powder,” coined

by Kremmling rancher Joe McElroy.

1961 First Poma lift opens at Storm Mountain Ski Area.

1820s Steamboat Springs name origi-

nates when three French Trappers, traveling along Yampa River, hear a “chug chug” sound..

1843

John C. Fremont expeditions travel through current-day Routt County.

1862 Gold discovered at Hahn’s Peak.

1866 First settlement established at Hahn’s Peak.

1884 Crawford organizes Steamboat Springs Townsite Company.

1885 James Hoyle brings printing press to town; Steamboat Pilot begins publication (has appeared weekly ever since).

Late 1800s Legendary cowboys and outlaws pass through town, including Butch Cassidy, Kit Carson and Jeff Bridger.

1964 Ski area renamed Mount Werner after death of local Olympic skier Buddy Werner.

1965 Local Sherman Poppen invents snowboard predecessor by joining two 36-inch skis and calling it the “Snurfer.”

1970 Billy Kidd, first U.S. men’s skier

to win an Olympic medal in skiing, moves to town.

1980

34 Explore steamboat • winter 12-13

1900 Town of Steamboat Springs officially incorporates.

1908 Namesake springs cease to “chug” when railroad bed gets laid above it.

1909 Official rodeo grounds built (in earlier days, spectators formed a circle).

1913 Perry Mansfield Camp established in Strawberry Park, still continuing as the oldest performing arts center in the nation.

1914 Winter Carnival established.

1915 Howelsen Hill opens (oldest continuously running ski area in Colorado).

1932 Steamboat Springs sends first skier to the Olympics.

Ski area installs snowmaking

system.

1987 Ski area allows snowboarding.

1992 Local Nelson Carmichael wins Olympic bronze medal in moguls.

Steamboat For a real-life glimpse of Steamboat’s colorful past, visit the newly renovated Tread of Pioneers Museum at 800 Oak St. downtown, 970-879-2214, www.treadofpioneers.org.

1855 Sir George Gore forges wagon road over Gore Pass; ventures near Steamboat Springs.

Springs

Colorado

2010 Local Nordic combined skiers Johnny Spillane, Todd Lodwick and Billy DeMong bring home six Olympic medals from Vancouver Games.

Sources: coloradoskihistory.com; yampavalley.info; familytravelcolorado.com; ehow.com; steamboatsprings-realestate.com; rockiesguide.com; mtn-resorts.com.

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T A O B M STEA

s u n MeMORE AND

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

Winter 12-13 • explore steamboat 35

A Unique and Fun Dining Experience for the Whole Family!

Looking for a unique dining experience?

It doesn’t get any more fun for the whole family than cooking your own steak just how you like it at the 8th Street Steakhouse. That’s right, with the help and guidance of their experienced staff, you will have your steak cooked to perfection every time and seasoned just how you like it.

This family-oriented restaurant is the perfect place to bring your group, no matter the size. From a romantic dinner for two to a group of skiing buddies or the entire family, Steamboat’s most fun-filled restaurant offers something for everyone.

As your steak sizzles on the grill, add some homemade teriyaki sauce or a dash or two of a complete spice array to make 36 Explore steamboat • winter 12-13

your steak exactly how you like it. And don¹t forget your Texas toast!

8th Street Steakhouse prides itself in serving up the best steaks and seafood around. Cook one of their prime-grade new york strips, bacon-wrapped filet mignons, juicy bone-in ribeyes, buffalo ribeyes or Kobe strips over one of the two 20-foot lava rock grills. Or, simply sit back and relax as their chef perfects your baby-back ribs, Alaskan king crab legs or Australian lobster tails.

You can also choose from numerous mouth-watering side dishes, all cooked to perfection. Start your night off with the award-winning stuffed mushrooms, or augment your steak with a choice of fresh

steamed asparagus or a roasted twicebaked potato. Finish it all off with one of their famous ‘8th Street Taters’ for dessert.

To wash it all down, enjoy your favorite beer or cocktail, or choose from its awardwinning wine list, featuring the finest vintages from the world’s greatest wineries, by the bottle or by the glass. At 8th Street Steakhouse, your meal will always have the perfect accompaniment. Hint: Don’t miss its Mussel & Martini Madness special every Thursday, where mussels are just $5 per pound and more than 20 flavors of martinis run just $3.

On top of fantastic food and fun, 8th Street Steakhouse provides a magnificent Western ambience, down to the last deExploresteamboat.com

MENU

Featured Menu Items Handcrafted Steaks & Fresh Seafood Starting at $16.95 All entrees include all-you-can-eat salad bar & Texas toast: Filet Mignon USDA Prime New York Strip Angus Bone-In Ribeye Beek Kabob Buffalo Ribeye

Wild Sockeye Salmon Shrimp Skewers Alaskan King Crab Legs Australian Lobster Tail Baby Back Ribs

Angus Ribeye Kobe Filet Teriyaki Chicken Lemon Chicken

Side Dishes (a la carte) Baked Potato Garlic Mashed Potatoes Beer Battered Onion Rings Home Fries

tail. With cozy booths and candlelight, you’ll feel like you’re in your own mountain retreat.

A recent addition makes the lay-out even more user-friendly, with a second grill, butcher shop, and salad bar on the upstairs balcony. For the kids, there’s also authentic saddle seats and free s’mores for dessert.

“We pride ourselves in having the best steaks around, and that philosophy extends from the kitchen to the wine cellar to the bar,” says owner Tim Pahula.

If you’re planning a party or group gathering, 8th Street Steakhouse is the perfect place. The grill-your-own-steak aspect lends itself to socializing before, during and after the preparing of your meal. And whether old friends or complete strangers gather around the grill, the stories come out as naturally as the beef.

Sports fans can enjoy one of five flat-screen TVs in the bar while selecting one of many microbrews on tap, and guests can take advantage of daily happy hour specials and nightly chef specials.

So put the Steakhouse on your list of mustdo’s while in Steamboat — it may be the only thing that creates more memories than the snow on the slopes.

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Steamed Broccoli Creamed Spinach Twice-Baked Potatoes Sweet Potato Fries

Steamed Asparagus Sauteed Veggie Plate French Fries Shrimp Skewer

• CHILDREN’S MENU AVAILABLE • • EXTENSIVE WINE LIST •

8th Street Steakhouse is located on 8th Street between Lincoln Avenue and Yampa Street

970.879.3131 www.8thstreetsteakhouse.com 50 8th St., Downtown Open 5 p.m. Monday-Sunday • Bar opens at• 3explore p.m. steamboat Winter 12-13

37

Yampa Valley Regional Airport 38 Explore steamboat • winter 12-13

5

CR 51A, Hayden, Colorado 81639

5

970.276.5070 Exploresteamboat.com

Visitors and locals traveling to and from Steamboat through the recently expanded Yampa Valley Regional Airport now have a great reason to arrive early or leave late. The airport’s new 3 Wire Bar & Grill restaurant delivers mouth-watering meals just like the nearby jets deliver passengers.

The restaurant’s name was born from a local competition. Out of more than 150 entries, the name 3 Wire won, referring to a winter when snow piles up to the third string of a barbed-wire fence. Praise for the restaurant is piling up just as high.

“We serve a diverse menu with a Colorado flare,” says general manager Tami Fricault, adding that 3 Wire isn’t your typical airport restaurant. “We use as many locally produced ingredients for our menu as we can.”

Examples include everything from its elk bratwursts and locally raised ground beef hamburgers to locally

sourced chicken and even coffee. No matter the meal, it’s far from the fare you get on a plane. “A majority of our menu dishes are made from scratch,” says Fricault, who’s been in the food industry for more than 25 years, from fine dining to fast-paced restaurants.

“It’s great food for a restaurant anywhere.”

Some of its most popular dishes include its hand-rubbed BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich (slow roasted for 12 hours); The Cowboy Burger, an 8-oz Colorado Beef burger topped with melted aged white cheddar, bacon, onion rings and its own blend of barbecue sauce; the Pork Green Chili, a Southwestern-style green chili made with onions, tomatoes, roasted mild and hot green chilis topped with melted cheddar cheese and sour cream; and its Asian Chicken Salad, featuring romaine lettuce, grilled marinated chicken, carrots, red bell peppers, toasted almonds, green onion, water chestnuts

Yampa Valley Regional Airport Exploresteamboat.com

5

and topped with crispy rice noodles.

These meals and more are all served in an ambiance that’s open and as free flowing as the guests who arrive and depart daily.

The restaurant also has conference rooms available for private parties or meetings, and offers both on- or offsite catering as well as grab and go options for those on the run. Displaying and selling local artwork on its walls, 3 Wire is also involved in several local fundraising organizations and practices sustainability by recycling everything down to its frying oil.

“We serve great food at great prices,” says Fricault, adding that people can sit down and enjoy their meal in the restaurant or pick something up from The Way Station snack bar located on the gate side of security.

CR 51A, Hayden, Colorado 81639

5

970.276.5070

Winter 12-13 • explore steamboat 39

There’s plenty to entice healthy eaters into Anne Halloran’s Bamboo Market at 11th and Yampa Street – now more so than ever.

In addition to organic foods, the market sells locally produced bath products, herbal remedies, elk and bison meat, and more, while a full-service deli offers smoothies, coffee, sandwiches, baked goods and daily specials. There are also several new offerings in the store that will keep you coming back for healthy food all winter.

For one, it’s planning different themed deli meals every day of the week, including Mediterranean Monday, Thai Tuesday, Indian Wednesday, Barbecue Thursday, and Favorite Friday. “We’ll have several different items people can choose from each day,” says owner Halloran, listing off such delicacies as hummus, tabouli, eggplant spreads and

40 Explore steamboat • winter 12-13

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Greek salad on Mondays.

It’s also offering “to-go” meals that people can pick up on their way home for dinner, including such items as roast chicken, lasagna, meatloaf and casseroles.

Also look for an expanded line-up of wintertime soups, rotating such favorites as veggie chili, roasted garlic tomato and coconut chicken.

All this comes on top of even more options for locally grown, organic food. This summer they started offering produce from Elk Stone Farm, and added to its supply of pork and chicken from Yampa Valley Farms and beef from Rocking J Cattle. It’s also expanding its deli with more locally sourced products; enhancing its bakery offerings, including a wider variety of breads and muffins; and augmenting its wintertime drinks, including locally sourced Steamboat Roasters coffee as well as Purple Owl Botanical teas by Jessica Striker.

“We’ve always sourced our food locally as much as possible, but now it’s much

more readily available,” Halloran says. “People are drawn here for the outdoor recreation and tend to have healthy lifestyles. Having access to healthy, homemade and local food is an important part of that lifestyle.”

For raw food aficionados (those avoiding foods heated over certain temperatures to retain nutrients and enzymes), it’s also expanding its raw food section, offering everything from raw chocolate bars and cookies to energy bars, cheesecakes, crackers and more. The store is also continuing to court the glutenfree crowd with a greater variety as well.

All these options and improvements don’t have to break the bank. Locals cards let you buy nine and get the tenth free for such deli items as smoothies, juices, lunches, coffee and more, and the store’s loyalty program lets you get a $10 coupon emailed for every $300 spent.

“People want healthier food options,” she says. “It’s a great feeling to be able to help people live healthier lives.”

Waterside Village 11th and Yampa · 879-9992 Mon-Fri 8am-7pm, Sat-Sun 9am-6pm

www.bamboomkt.com Like us!

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Winter 12-13 • explore steamboat 41

RESERVATIONS: 970.671.2060 WWW.CARLSTAVERN.COM 7TH & YAMPA

Seats around the large round circular bar allow patrons to easily socialize or watch the day’s games on nine, large high-definition television, especially on NFL Sunday’s when it offers $2 drafts and 50 cent wings all day. The Kelleys know what people want when it comes to watching sports: good food, great atmosphere and high-end TVs everywhere you look. “You can see them from any table as well as the bar,” says server Beth Hadrys, adding that volumes can be adjusted individually or permeate the entire restaurant on the same channel for the one big game. The bar also hosts Bluegrass Wednesday’s with live local bluegrass bands on Wednesdays, as well as featured bands or DJs on Fridays and Saturdays, as well as a great daily happy hour from 4 to 6pm with $2 oysters, 50 cent wings, $1 PBRs and $2 draft beers, $3 Domestic bottles and $5 Premium Well Drinks. Carl’s also offers more than 80 types of whiskey and introduced Steamboat’s bar scene to beers from Denver’s Great Divide Brewing and Boulder’s Avery Brewing Company.

42 Explore steamboat • winter 12-13

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Carl’s Tavern, located at the corner of Yampa and Seventh Streets in the Howelsen Place building, is named after Carl Howelsen, the man who brought skiing to Steamboat. Decorated with a motif celebrating the local Nordic jumping pioneer, and with large windows throughout to keep the atmosphere open and airy, the tavern has brought a top-notch eatery and bar to town as well.

Barely over a year old, Carl’s Tavern, owned and operated by Collin and Noella Kelley, has already made a name for itself among locals and visitors alike, being voted second place for Best Bar, Best Happy Hour off The Mountain and Best Place to Watch the Game in town’s annual Best of the Boat contest.

On the food front, the focus is on fresh, every step of the way. A graduate of Johnson and Wales University’s culinary arts school in Denver, Collin has been cooking his whole life, including chef stints at such fine dining restaurants in Denver as Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse and Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steakhouse. All this shows in his offerings at Carl’s, where he blends mouth-watering taste with ample, carbo-replenishing portions. “Cooking isn’t so much about presentation as it is about creating really good food,” he maintains.

Fresh is a buzzword, no matter the dish. The batter for the Tavern’s chicken wings is homemade, and when patrons ask for a pickle, they’re handed a whole jar. Several of Carl’s most popular dishes, such as the pot roast, are started two days before they are plated because they need time to marinate. “We make everything from scratch,” Collin says, adding that he simply likes to make and serve the food he grew up eating.

From the restaurant’s rounded, horseshoe-shaped bar to its emphasis on fresh ingredients every step of the way, you won’t find any corners cut at Carl’s.

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Winter 12-13 • explore steamboat 43

Outstanding Dining in an Exceptional Atmosphere

The accolades keep piling up for The Creekside Café. For the second year running, the quaint downtown eatery located on the banks of Soda Creek won Best Sit-down Breakfast and Best Bloody Mary in Steamboat’s annual Best of the Boat contest, with second-place finishes for Best Lunch and Salad.

Located in the historic Soda Creek building, this longtime locals’ breakfast establishment lets you take in Steamboat’s past as you ready for the day ahead. Carl Howelsen, the father of skiing in Steamboat, is said to have laid the bricks for

the building himself. Offering more ambiance, the ceiling is painted like a Colorado sky and the brick walls are adorned with Colorado wildflowers.

What you’ll enjoy most of all, however, is homemade goodness, from fresh baked bread & granola to handcrafted salad dressings & sauces.

Owners Jason and Kelly Landers fell in love in Steamboat two decades ago and have been building the Creekside together for the last 10 years.

Their success is founded on their belief in providing the utmost in service and using high-quality, local ingredients Inside you’ll find unique and traditional breakfast items served all day, including shredded corned beef hash, gigantic breakfast burritos, French toast with cinnamon cream cheese, oatmeal pancakes, croissant breakfast sandwiches and more.

All of these can be perfectly complimented with Naked Brand orange juice, Italian coffee, mimosas or award-winning bloody mary’s.

For eggs benedict connoisseurs, The Creekside serves 13 different types, guaranteed to fuel your day on the slopes. All are served with perfectly poached eggs over toasted English muffins and smothered in fresh,

44 Explore steamboat • winter 12-13

homemade Hollandaise sauce. Try the New Yorker with capers, smoked salmon and grilled tomatoes, the Arnold with chorizo, sausage and ham, or the Crab Cake. Whatever you choose, you won’t find a better benedict in town.

And while you’re out West, you might as well try a little Southwest flair. The Creekside offers many Southwest specialties to choose from, including huevos rancheros, chili rellenos, huevos eggs benedict and the gigantic breakfast burrito to name a few. All are topped with their famous secret green chili.

When it’s time for lunch, the Creekside serves only grass-fed, hormone-free, all-natural Yampa Valley beef. You’ll be able to taste the difference in everything from the chicken fried steak and Creeksteak sandwich to a variety of gourmet burgers. All of the hamburgers are ground fresh daily. Try the bacon burger — house ground with 40 percent smoked bacon and topped with melted Tillamook sharp cheddar cheese on a homemade sesame bun.

Whether you come for benedicts, burritos, sandwiches or more, Kelly, Jason and the entire Creekside staff work hard to provide you with the best dining experience possible, all in the heart of downtown Steamboat Springs.

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Eggs Benedict

Two perfectly poached eggs served over toasted English muffins smothered in homemade hollandaise. A Sampling

California Sliced avocado, grilled tomatoes and local alfalfa sprouts.

Slalom Steamed baby spinach, button mushrooms and Swiss cheese.

Huevos Black beans, cheddar-jack cheese, salsa and sour cream.

Locals’ Favorites Burrito

A giant chipotle tortilla filled with scrambled eggs, potatoes, black beans and shredded cheddar and jack cheeses; smothered in our famous green chili. Topped off with tomatoes, green onions and sour cream.

Corned Beef Hash Shredded corned beef grilled crisp with mixed peppers, onions & our seasoned house potatoes, topped with two eggs any way & served with choice of toast.

Wafflelaughagus A homemade Belgian waffle topped with sausage gravy and melted jack cheese, your choice of meat and two eggs any.

Served with breakfast potatoes.

r

Pancakes, Granola, Omelets and more

Lunch Gyro

Grilled Gyro meat in flat bread with a creamy tzatziki sauce, Kalamata olives, onions, fresh spinach, tomatoes and feta cheese.

Reuben Sliced corned beef, sauerkraut, melted Swiss and Thousand Island dressing served on bakery fresh rye bread.

Steamboat Sandwich Hot turkey and melted Swiss with tomato, avocado and sprouts, served on a warm croissant.

Burgers, Wraps, Vegetarian Options, Salads, Soups

n Warmly Welcoming Children n

970-879-4925

131 11th St. Downtown Steamboat 6AM-2PM Daily ¬ creekside-cafe.com

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Winter 12-13 • explore steamboat 45

Mother always told you to eat a good breakfast

46 Explore steamboat • winter 12-13

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Looking for the perfect place to have a great cup of coffee with friends or a hearty breakfast, brunch or lunch made just the way you want it? Conveniently located in Sundance at Fish Creek halfway between town and the mountain, The Egg & I is the place to be in the ‘Boat.

Created in 1987 in Fort Collins, Colo., The Egg & I has expanded across the nation based on the simple premise that friendly people serving delicious food matters.

In 2004, locals Bradley and Courtney Moline, along with their family, opened the Steamboat Springs franchise.

Its large capacity makes it perfect for family gatherings, friend get-togethers and business meetings, complete with a free private meeting room with Wi-Fi and customizable menus.

Of course, it’s the restaurant’s large menu accommodating every taste under the sun that keeps people coming back time and time again.

Favorites include a wide array of benedicts like the Hiker’s with diced ham and asparagus, tomatoes, portabella mushrooms and bacon; the Parisian, a soft croissant layered with shaved ham, sautéed portabella mushrooms, green onions and melted Swiss cheese; or the Philly Steak; as well as a variety

of omelettes, specialty waffles and whole wheat pancakes. The Egg & I also offers a variety of Skillets, from the ham, bacon and hollandaisefilled Cambridge to the chicken, ham and swiss Cordon Bleu and the ham, onion, green pepper and tomato Colorado Jack, topped with melted pepper jack cheese. If your appetite is hankering for something south of the border, Southwestern favorites include the popular Huevos Rancheros, Breakfast Burrito, Sunrise Chile Rellenos and Santa Fe Huevos.

The Egg & I serves an assortment of non-egg dishes, as well as lighter-fare specialties like the Mediterranean Frittata and Egg Byte Omelet. On the drink side, The Egg & I offers cappuccinos, lattes and other specialty coffee drinks, flavored hot chocolates and 100 percent pure-squeezed orange juice. For lunch, you’ll find creative sandwiches, entree salads and hearty, homemade soups -- as well as the entire breakfast menu.

“Our menu and capacity to handle larger groups is what set us apart,” says General Manager Brad Moline, whose personal favorites include the Raspberry Granola Pancake and Arizona Turkey Sandwich. “Nothing beats a cold winter day then sitting near our fireplace sipping on a cup of our seasonal coffee and having a hot bowl of oatmeal topped with fresh berries.”

The Egg & I is located at 325 Anglers Drive in Sundance Plaza, 970-871-4633.

Hours: Mon.-Fri. 6:30am-2pm; Sat.: 6:30am-2:30pm; Sun. 7am-2:30pm.

“Of course, it’s the restaurant’s large menu accommodating every taste under the sun that keeps people coming back time and time again...”

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Winter 12-13 • explore steamboat 47

SWEETWATER GRILL 48 Explore steamboat • winter 12-13

Modern, casual elegance. That sums up Sweetwater Grill at 811 Yampa Ave, and what continues to win over locals and tourists alike. It is the combination of creative drinks, amazing dinners with astonishing service and live music that creates the “Sweetwater Experience” that you just have to come and check out.

From a year-round, crystal-filled outdoor fireplace — where you can watch jumpers at Howelsen Hill — to a bar that would make Norm from Cheers feel at home, expect great times, great food and great music. “The whole concept is to have people come for dinner and then stay for music afterward,” says owner Kim Haggarty. That’s why we say “It’s more than just dining...it’s the whole Sweetwater experience.”

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The formula works. Sweetwater earned town’s Best New Restaurant award in 2011’s Best of the Boat contest, as well as Best Cocktails and Outside Dining in 2012. It also won second best Music Venue, View and Off-mountain Happy Hour.

Sweetwater prides itself on its all-natural fare, catering to a variety of tastes, from gluten-free menu options to such local favorites as fish tacos, all natural steaks, family recipe meatball sub, haystack salad and more. “We have a modern and natural take on American-style cuisine,” says executive chef Fawn Racoma. “We use organic, local, natural, fresh foods cooked from scratch, specializing in gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan options.”

Sweetwater Grill, as one of Steamboat Spring’s larger restaurants, can accommodate groups of any size. In addition to the main dining room and lounge, there is an upper room overlooking the Yampa River and Howelsen Hill ski area which can hold up to 50 people. This room is perfect for groups, rehearsal dinners, any type of private parties, and company conventions at no additional charge.

Sweetwater also encourages its guests to join in on the fun.

They organize such family friendly activities as igloo and snowman building contests throughout the winter, and host a variety of interactive music options. Mondays is open Blues and Brews with local musicians Steve Boynton Blues Band and $1 off all tap beers. Tuesdays is the popular Fireside Jam with Trevor G. Potter. Listen, sing along or play our percussion instruments along with our local musicians. Sweetwater Grill also offers acoustic music on Wednesday, $5 Martini night on Thursday, local bands on Friday nights and Jazz in the lounge every Saturday night with drink specials. “We’re all about bringing a new vibe to the Yampa River,” says Haggarty.

Happy Hour is every day from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. with all drinks half price and $2 food specials.

• 811 Yampa St. on the river 970-879-9500 • www.TheSweetwaterGrill.com Exploresteamboat.com

Winter 12-13 • explore steamboat 49

WE ARE HOME.

Cé a d M í l e Fá i l t e (a Hundred Thousand Welcomes).

Our menus reinforce our Irish Heritage. From our signature Fish & Chips and Bangers & Mash, to Shepard’s Pie, Rashers and Corn Beef and Cabbage, we provide a truly authentic Irish experience.

From the well-appointed bar, we are proud to provide the largest selection of Irish whiskeys and beers in Steamboat, including Jameson, Bushmills, Powers, Paddys, Michael Collins, Tullamore Dew, Midletons, Guinness, Harp, Kilkenny and Smithwicks. We also offer a wide array of ciders and Meads for a full complement of Irish spirits.

Our great kid’s menu and welcoming family atmosphere reinforce elements that are synonymous with Irish Pubs found back on the Emerald Isle. And an Irish Pub wouldn’t be an Irish Pub without music. We provide free live music from talented local and regionally acclaimed musicians that the whole family can enjoy.

There’s plenty more fun to be had as well. McKnights’ Loft is the home to the best game room in Steamboat. With three pool tables, darts, cornhole and ping pong, all in front of five, 50-inch HD TVs broadcasting all the latest sports, we provide a truly unique recreational atmosphere in a warm and comforting setting. The Loft is also the perfect setting for private functions. From rehearsal dinners and birthday parties to corporate retreats, banquets and fundraisers, the Loft is your new home for big events.

Conveniently located in the Wildhorse Marketplace, we are on the free bus route and at an ideal location for Steamboat’s many shuttle services. We also offer plenty of parking.

So we’ll see you at our, and your new home:

McKnights Irish Pub & Loft.

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Doors Open at 11am daily (970) 879-7881 685 Market Place Plaza Next to Sports Authority

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Winter 12-13 • explore steamboat 51

RIggIo’S RISToRanTE

Traditional Italian Cuisine

Exceptional Italian fare Great wine Relaxed atmosphere There is something unique about traditional Italian cuisine that separates it from the culinary styles of other countries.

Welcome to Riggio’s Ristorante.

Located on the west end of downtown, Riggio’s is a local’s favorite and an award-winning restaurant that blends the styles of northern and southern Italy with creative revisions of classic Italian dishes. Perfect for a romantic dinner for two or a traditional family meal, Riggio’s offers something for everyone.

For Richard Most, owner and executive chef at Riggio’s, passion is the defining characteristic of Italians and their food.

That passion for family and friends,

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great wine and perfectly prepared meals is always what to expect at Riggio’s.

Richard and his wife, Stacy, are entering their tenth winter as Riggio’s owners.

They bring a family-first philosophy to every aspect of the restaurant. nowhere is that more evident than their interaction with staff and guests. It’s one of the reasons Riggio’s has been among Steamboat’s most successful restaurants for more than 20 years.

That success begins in the kitchen, where the professional staff uses only the freshest and local ingredients. The aromas of sauteed garlic and fresh lemons, rosemary and sage float from the kitchen into the main dining room, invoking thoughts of the Mediterranean that are brought to life in this renovated, warm, Tuscan atmosphere.

Large, full-color Jim Steinberg landscape photographs of old-world Italy and the rugged Rocky Mountains

of Colorado adorn the restaurant’s walls. a large upstairs seating area is ideal for private parties, large gatherings and other special occasions.

Riggio’s menu has been carefully crafted throughout the years to offer the perfect balance and variety of dishes.

Many of these dishes have become local favorites.

Riggio’s offers nightly specials and chef Most likes to get creative and incorporate fresh ingredients into such concoctions as seafood risotto with truffle oil and Taleggio cheese or Colorado lamb topped with an arugula hazelnut pesto. The restaurant’s wine list is constantly revised to offer patrons top selections from Italy and around the world. “The wine is as important to the restaurant as the food is,” Most says.

Saving room for dessert is also a must, with Riggio’s offering a variety of homemade Italian desserts. The desserts

are made fresh daily and served in small portions for just $3 each, tempting patrons to sample more than one. a full selection of after-dinner drinks, including espresso, cappuccino and latte from Steamboat Roasters, is a perfect complement to a great meal.

Most adds that an experienced, professional staff is one of the keys to Riggio’s success. Customers recognize the staff year after year, which reflects the restaurant’s family feeling. In fact, don’t be surprised if Lida Most, the owners’ 10 year-old daughter, visits your table to ask about your meal and your dining experience. But a visit from Lida should come as no surprise at a restaurant whose motto is “Let our family feed yours.”

Bon Appetito!

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E

Featured Menu Items

e

Riggio’s House Salad

Served family style dressed with our homemade gorgonzola vinaigrette and warm Ciabatta bread Served and dressed tableside

Caprese

DAILY HAPPY HOUR 5 to 6 p.m. ½ price appetizers, ½ price wine & martinis ½ price bottled beers

Slices of roma tomatoes and fresh mozzarella drizzled with extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar topped with fresh basil and served with Tuscan toast points

Calamari

Sauteed with garlic, tomatoes, kalamata olives and capers

Mussels

Riggio’s famous fresh Prince Edward Isle mussels steamed in white wine with garlic, finished with your choice of fra diavolo or garlic cream sauce

Riggio’s Ravioli

Portobello mushroom ravioli sautéed with mixed wild mushrooms in a mouth-watering brown butter sage sauce topped with fresh pecorino romano cheese

Capo

Large scallops and prawns sauteed in olive oil with garlic and prosciutto, finished in a tomato cream sauce, tossed with penne

Lobster and Shrimp Gnocci

Medallions of fresh Maine lobster tail and sauteed shrimp with potato pasta tossed in a basil pesto cream, diced tomatoes and artichokes

Vitello Piccata

Scaloppine of veal sauteed in olive oil with capers finished in a lemon butter sauce and served with angel hair pasta and sauteed spinach

Filetto Capriciosa

Filet Mignon of beef seasoned and grilled, topped with goat cheese and a grilled plum tomato and finished in a bardolino demi glaze

g

Pollo Saltimboca

Chicken scaloppini sauteed and rubbed with sage, grilled and topped with prosciutto and fontina cheese, finished with a mushroom Marsala sauce

Children’s menu available 970.879.9010 1106 Lincoln Ave., downtown Reservations appreciated Serving dinner nightly at 5 p.m.

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Winter 12-13 • explore steamboat 53

54 Explore steamboat • winter 12-13

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Winter 12-13 • explore steamboat 55

SLOPESIDE GRILL

There’s a reason Slopeside, located at the base of the mountain, has been voted Best On-mountain Apres for two years running in Steamboat’s Best of the Boat contest.

Where else can you ski up to live music, get a beer from an ice-bar made out of 70, 300-lb. blocks of ice, order a massive. Mt. Werner-sized plate of nachos, and then relax in the sun to celebrate your day on the slopes?

Throw in the “beach,” pint pass, homemade pizzas and firepits and you won’t want to leave until after the late night happy hour that serves up $7 pizzas and $3 beers.

“We pride ourselves on our outdoor atmosphere and live music, seven days a week,” says general manager Chad Gagliano, adding that this year’s newly opened promenade area should make it even more hopping. “It’s a great place to be after a day of skiing or riding.”

There’s plenty to do inside as well, where you can click out of your bindings and be watching your favorite game seconds later.

Patrons can sit around a horseshoe-shaped bar and sample homemade pizza and as many as nine fresh draft beers while watching their favorite game on nine regular and one jumbo 64-inch HD TV — all with every Direct TV sports pack56 Explore steamboat • winter 12-13

age under the sun. Those looking for a more conventional dining experience can choose from a multitude of cozy booths and tables in the main dining area.

Wherever you sit, great-tasting, filling food comes with the territory. For appetizers, try the Bruschetta (sliced baguette brushed with roasted garlic olive oil and topped with onions, basil, feta cheese, tomatoes and parmesan); Poutine (French fries covered in beef gravy with melted mozzarella; Frito Pie (beef chili poured over corn chips, with sour cream, cheese and scallions); and locally made Sausage & Peppers.

From the pizza oven come more than 20 homemade pies featuring such mountainthemed names as the ACL (pepperoni and mushroom); Vagabond (spinach, sundried tomatoes, feta and mozzarella); White Out (four cheeses and white garlic sauce); and the barbecue chicken Wally World.

For entrees choose from such favorites as the Skirt Steak Giardiniera, marinated with homemade giardiniera with sharp provolone and orzo pasta salad; the Slopeside Special Boca Shrimp, featuring tender Gulf shrimp sauteed in olive oil and garlic, spiced with a kick and tossed

with fettuccine; and the Tataki Salad, featuring sesame-crusted ahi tuna on mixed greens with crispy wonton strips, scallions, water chestnuts and red pepper, served with wasabi and ginger vinaigrette on the side.

You can also choose from a variety of homemade calzones, burgers, fresh salads and more — enough of a variety that you’ll likely find yourself wanting to ski by again after your next day on the slopes.

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MENU ITEMS APPETIZERS

Western Dip: A warm creamy blend of artichokes, parmesan & sour cream. Served with our fresh tortilla chips. $6.95

Lettuce Wraps: Sesame seasoned chicken mixed with water chestnuts, mushrooms, onions & garlic topped with a delicious oriental sauce. Served with broccoli slaw & lettuce cups.

SALADS

Tataki Salad: Sesame crusted seared Ahi Tuna on mixed greens with crispy rice noodles, scallions, water chestnuts & red peppers. Drizzled with a light creamy wasabi sauce & served with a ginger vinaigrette.

SANDWICHES

Philly Cheese Steak: Choice of classic Philly cheese steak, chicken or veggie burger patty sautéed with onions, mixed peppers & cheese on a hoagie roll.

PIZZAS

Wake Up Call: Vegetarian pizza. Marinara topped with roasted garlic, spinach, red & green peppers, zucchini, tomatoes & mushrooms with mozzarella.

PASTAS

Boca Shrimp: Spicy hot tender gulf shrimp sautéed in olive oil & garlic, spiced with a kick & tossed with fettuccine.

ENTREES

Lemon-Basil Halibut: Fresh grilled Halibut topped with lemon-basil butter.

Full Rack: Our “award-winning” baby back barbequed pork ribs slow roasted to tender perfection with wood smoked flavor. Served with potato & sautéed vegetables.

Try our new gluten-free menu this winter!

970 879-2916

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1855 Ski Time Square Drive Open Daily from 11 a.m. to midnight Late Night Happy Hour from 9 to 11 p.m. with $7 pizzas and $3 draught beer www.slopesidegrill.com Winter 12-13 • explore steamboat 57

Voted Best Place to Watch the Game and Best Located in the heart of downtown between Seventh Wings for two years running in town’s annual Best of and Eighth streets, the Tap House has always been the place to go to watch the game, grab a drink and sample the Boat contest, the sports bar and grill also offers out-of-this-world wings. Now there’s even more reason more than 50 high-definition TVs and full satellite capability, providing sports programming that rivals to go. that of any big-city sports bar.

Recently purchased by longthe popular NTN time co-owner Melissa Baker, the “Our philosophy is to Featuring Network, a free sports, trivia Tap House has stepped-up its sportsand poker interactive game, it’s get any sports available” viewing offerings by purchasing 25 often been referred to as the (four more than its tap beer offerings) Cheers of Steamboat — “the wireless, tabletop, eight-channel speakers, letting you place where everybody knows your name.” listen to — and watch — the game of your choice. “We “Our philosophy is to get any sports available believe sports were meant to be seen and heard,” says by cable, Direct TV or satellite,” Baker says.

Baker. “Now you can do both.”

The Tap House has also upped its beer offerings, showcasing new, two-pitcher-capacity “beer towers” that let you tap your beer at your own table, keeping it colder and fresher longer. Add to this an emphasis on using more locally grown and fresher food and you won’t want to leave. “What keeps our customers coming back is our quality food at very affordable prices,” Baker says.

Still offering all of its classic favorites, the Tap House is also unveiling eight new burgers this year, 58 Explore steamboat • winter 12-13

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proud of their entrees such as ribs, half roasted chicken, including the Fire Burger with fresh jalapenos, cream sirloins, New York strips and Ribeye Steaks. All entrees cheese and hot barbecue sauce; the three-cheese Hat are served with your choice of soup or salad, french fries, Trick; the Rodeo, with barbecue sauce, cheddar cheese and onion rings; and the Pizza, with homemade marinara mashed potatoes and gravy or rice. To wash it all down, Tap House offers more beers on tap and fresh buffalo mozzarella.

— 21 — than any other restaurant in Voted Best Place to It’s also debuting seven new town, from domestics and imports to wing flavors, including spicy oriental Watch the Game and microbrews. barbecue, buttery garlic parmesan An avid supporter of local and and dry rubs of cajun and Jamaican Best Wings in Best of Colorado sports teams, the Tap Jerk. People have been flooding in the Boat 2011 & 2012. House also displays an impressive from all over the nation to try their collection of sports memorabilia, original peanut butter & jelly wings including that from the 88 Olympians who have called and their extreme heat challenge wing. Perhaps none Ski Town USA home. are more popular that the spicy garlic parmesan or the house-made oriental barbecue.

Tuesday is Wing Day, when wings are offered half price from 11 a.m. to midnight. It’s so popular that Baker tracks sales by weight, selling up to three tons of wings a month. “It’s become a weekly social event,” Baker says.

Understanding the need for a place where the entire family can enjoy a meal in a laid-back atmosphere, Baker says the Tap House offers all the traditional sports grill food — burgers and fries, battered chicken fingers, onion rings and heaping piles of nachos. They are equally

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Winter 12-13 • explore steamboat 59

Everyone is sure to lea

Looking for a scrumptious way to fuel up for your day on the slopes? There’s no better place to gear up for a hard day of skiing or riding than Winona’s, located on Lincoln Avenue in the heart of downtown.

In business for more than 25 years, Winona’s has become a local’s favorite for fabulous breakfasts and lunches. Winona’s offers daily breakfast and lunch specials, and serves five to six fresh soups each day in the winter. No matter the meal, the focus is on fresh ingredients, from its homemade granola and corned beef hash to its fresh soups, salads, sandwiches and locally sourced beef for lunch. It’s no wonder Winona’s has been featured in such publications as Bon Appetit, Sunset, Gourmet, Southern Living, and Outside magazines.

60 Explore steamboat • winter 12-13

For the breakfast crowd, customer favorites include the many varieties of Egg Benedicts (try the Eggs Benedict Omelet), the indulgent Cinnamon Roll French Toast, the mountain-sized Blueberry-Granola Pancakes and the Western Omelet. New this year, the California Huevos are also a big hit, with black beans, two eggs, avocado, white cheddar cheese and a smothering sauce, as well as the Apple Pandora, featuring rustic sourdough French Toast with lemon cream and warmed apples. “It’s pretty rich,” says owner Jamie McQuade, who’s on hand daily to ensure everything is served to perfection. And don’t forget its world-famous cinnamon rolls, which have lured people to Steamboat from across the Continental Divide.

news Garlic Chicken Wrap, featuring fresh spinach, garlic, roasted red peppers, fried onions and a maple balsamic; as well as its popular Cowboy Salad, with corn, roasted red peppers, white cheddar, barbecue chicken and chipotle ranch.

It also features an in-house bakery serving everything from fresh scones and muffins to cookies and croissants. And if you want to enjoy its mouth-watering concoctions at home or a party, its catering department specializes in everything from complete meals for your whole group to a complete line of speciality cakes for every occasion, from weddings and bachelorette parties to birthdays and more.

For lunch, select from a wide array of sandwich and salad offerings, including its

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leave happy!

Featured

MENU Items Breakfast

Eggs Benedict

Poached eggs and hollandaise sauce served with home fried potatoes (single or double)

Eggs-travaganza

Two eggs any style — add bacon, ham, sausage patties or turkey sausage

Greek Goddess Omelette

spinach, feta, artichokes, tomatoes and parmesan

From the Griddle Apple Pan Dore

sourdough baguette french toast with warm apples and a lemon butter creme

Cinnamon Roll French Toast

Scramblers

Veggie Scramble

spinach, mushrooms, onions, peppers, topped with pepperjack

Tofu Scramble

sautéed veggies scrambled with seasoned tofu and garlic

Short and Sweet

Homemade Cinnamon Bun

as featured in Gourmet and Bon Appetite magazines

Assorted Muffins

ask your server for today’s selections

Lunch

Hamburger

(1/3 lb cooked to order) Choice of lettuce, tomato, onion, cucumbers, sprouts, cheese, mayo, mustard, guacamole

Grilled Turkey Jack

Turkey, green Chili, tomatoes, pepper jack cheese, served on grilled sourdough

Salads

Cowboy Salad

Barbeque chicken, roasted reds, roasted corn, black beans, red onions, white cheddar & Chipolte dressing

Filet & Goat Cheese Salad

Fried onions, craisins, goat cheese and medium rare filet served with balsamic vinaigrette

Soups

Homemade Soup du Jour in a cup or bowl

Winona’s is located on Lincoln Avenue between 6th & 7th Streets

970.879.2483

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617 Lincoln Ave., downtown Open 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday to Saturday • 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday Serving dinner 4 p.m. to 9 p.m . in the12-13 winter & summer • explore Winter steamboat 61

Hungry Dog Go biG

or

It’s wintertime in Steamboat and there’s nothing better than a warm meal on a cold day.

Hungry Dog, Winner of the Best of Steamboat, is proud to announce another year at their second location in Gondola Square.

The Gondola Square location, next to Christy Sports, will be open every day during the winter season from 10am-5pm. Hungry Dog will be serving some of their most popular items up at the mountain including specialty sandwiches, snacks and more. “It’s a great grab and go affordable option up at the mountain and downtown” says Brad Somers, who has lived here for eight years and is now entering his third year running Hungry Dog. “We sell Vienna Beef hot dogs, which come straight from Chicago. The key is that they’re 100% all beef, so they taste great and are good for refueling those lost carbs from the day’s activity. Hungry Dog’s main location is on 7th and Lincoln, open year round to satisfy your Hungry Dog fix.”

(970) 819-2224 hunGrydoGofsteamboat.com

The very popular downtown location is open daily for the lunch crowd, happy hour passersby, or those looking for late-night munchies, including late night hours Wed-Sat until 2am.

Go home!

Hungry Dog’s best seller is the Chicago dog, which comes on a poppy seed bun with mustard, green relish, onion, tomato, sport peppers, a pickle and celery salt. The signature Hungry Dog — featuring two foot-long hot dogs in one bun with chili, cheese, sour cream and onions — is also a top-seller, as is the New York dog, which comes with sauerkraut, mustard and onions. In all, Somers slings 15 different styles of hot dogs from around the world, including local elk sausages, veggie dogs, corn dogs and turkey dogs, enough options to satisfy every hot dog connoisseur under the sun. Hungry Dog Downtown also serves chili, pretzels, nachos, ice cream, drinks and more. Hungry Dog is always adding new toppings to the mix so you just never know what great items they might be serving.

To show their customer appreciation, Hungry Dog hosts an annual hot dog eating competition. This year’s competition drew a couple hundred members of the Steamboat community to watch twenty one contestants battle it out for Top Dog Honors. This year’s winner Dick “Gooch” Shine managed to wolf down 8 Vienna Beef Dogs in five minutes.

corner of 7th and LincoLn steamboat sprinGs, co 62 Explore steamboat • winter 12-13

hunGry doG wishes everyone a Great 2012-2013 winter season, and hopes to see you around town or up on the sLopes!

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what to do

Artists’ Gallery of Steamboat Artist-owned gallery and classroom facility representing local talents working in a broad diversity of mediums.

1009 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-4744 www.steamboatgallery.com Blue Sky Pottery One-of-a-kind pottery designed and made by Steamboat local, Deb Babcock.

1475 Pine Grove Road, Suite 105, 970846-9349 www.blueskypotterycolorado.com Mangelsen’s Images of Nature One of the world’s premier nature, wildlife and landscape photographers, with limitededition photographs from Steamboat and across the globe.

730 Lincoln Ave., 970-871-1822 www.mangelsen.com Red Contemporary Gallery Artwork by regional, national and international artists. Featuring paintings, sculpture, ceramic vessels and paintings.

Sheraton Steamboat Resort, 2200 Village Inn Court, 970-846-879.970-846-0791 www.redcontemporarygallery.com Sleeping Giant Gallery Displays the artwork of Don Tudor, including local landscapes, nature, sports and architectural work.

601 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-7143 www.dontudorphotography.com Steamboat Art Museum Housed in the historic First National bank building, the free downtown museum features two galleries and a gift shop. Rod Hanna “A 50 Year Photography Retrospective” June 1 to October 14, 2012.

807 Lincoln Ave., 970-870-1755 www.steamboatartmuseum.org Steamboat Springs Arts Council at the Depot Local artist gallery housed in the historic train depot building.

1001 13th St., 970-879-9008 www.steamboatspringsarts.com Steamboat Springs Center for Visual Arts Nonprofit local and regional artists’ gallery — paintings, photography, mixed media, sculpture 837 Lincoln Ave., 970-846-5970 www.steamboatartcenter.com Wild Horse Gallery Fine contemporary realism by local, regional

and nationally known artists, including original oil paintings, pastels, watercolors, drawings, bronze sculptures and blown glass.

802 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-5515 www.wildhorsegallery.com

Off the Beaten Path Local bookstore with monthly exhibitions of work by local artists 68 9th St., 970-879-6830 www.steamboatbooks.com

White Hart Gallery Seven distinct rooms at the White Hart Gallery showcase furniture, rugs, upholstered goods, lamps and other interior furnishings.

843 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-1015

❱❱ Alternative Art Venues

Rocky Mountain Peddler Features local and regional artist originals, from fine handcrafted goods and one-ofa-kind finds, to jewelry and home décor accessories.

1875 Ski Time Square Dr (Torian Creekside building), Unit C, 970871-1569 www.rockymountainpeddler.com

Zing Features an array of functional and decorative handmade arts, handcrafted furniture and unique home décor.

345 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-2524 www.steamboatzing.com

Artisans’ Market of Steamboat Best Founded in 1982, featurBet ing a large inventory of work from 150 established and new Colorado artists, including dozens of locals.

626 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-7512 www.steamboatartisansmarket.com artWorks Steamboat’s wood workers, iron workers, fabric artists, ceramicists, faux and real painters, concrete workers and the creative people that abound in Routt County The Victoria Building, 941 Lincoln Ave. 970-879-7596 www.steamboatartworks.com Colorado Group Realty Real estate office with monthly exhibitions of work by local artists.

509 Lincoln Ave., 970-875-2917 Comb Goddess Hair salon with monthly exhibitions of work by local artists 1104 S. Lincoln Ave., Suite 102, 970-8710606 Cowboys and Indians Offers quality Native American art and jewelry.

617 Lincoln Ave., 970-870-8481 www.cowboysandindiansonline.com

Best

Romicks Into the West Bet Prints by regional artists and photographers, fine furniture, home accessories, lighting and interior design.

402 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-8366 www.romicksintothewest.com Steamboat Art Co. Since 1975, Steamboat Art Co. has offered art, gifts, jewelry, home accessories and furnishings.

903 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-3383 www.steamboat-art.com

❱❱ Bowling alleys Snow Bowl Features 12 bowling lanes with automatic scoring, a small arcade, snack bar and fullservice bar. Adults shouldn’t miss the Sunday and Tuesday night PBR Dollar Night ($1 for games, $1 cans of Pabst Blue Ribbon) @ 9pm.

2090 Snow Bowl Plaza, Steamboat Springs, 970-879-9840. Call for lane reservations.

Thunder Rolls Bowling Center Throw down that 10th-frame turkey at one of Thunder Rolls’ 16 lanes or check out the billiards, darts and golf simulator or playroom for kids. Also includes full-service lounge.

990 Industrial Ave., Craig, 970-824-2695.

Steaming Bean Coffee Shop Monthly exhibitions of work by local artists 635 South Lincoln Ave., 970-879-3393 www.steamingbeansteamboat.com

❱❱ Cross-country skiing

Urbane This clothing store and skate shop keeps a large amount of art on its walls year-round, rotating to new artists each month.

703 Lincoln Ave., Suite B101, 970-8799169 www.urbanesteamboat.com

Elkhorn Snowmobile Adventures Best Surround yourself amidst Bet thousands of acres of lush mixed forest. Elkhorn Snowmobile Adventures is the perfect place for a get-away to find the peace

Creekside Cafe Local restaurant with monthly exhibitions of work by local artists 131 11th St., 970-879-4925 www.creekside-cafe.com Harwigs/LaPogee Local restaurant with monthly exhibitions of work by local artists 911 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-1919 www.lapogee.com Mountain Traditions Art gallery and gift shop specializing in contemporary Western, Native American and wildlife artworks.

833 Lincoln Ave., 970-870-7976 or 888588-1808 www.mountaintraditions.com

Photo by John F. Russell

❱❱ Fine Art Galleries and Museums

We put Steamboat At your Fingertips

Activity Guide

For hours, reviews, products, menus and more, visit ExploreSteamboat.com Exploresteamboat.com

Winter 12-13 • explore steamboat 63

Photo by Tom Ross

We Put Steamboat at your fingertips

what to do

and tranquility you are looking for.

524 East Washington, Hayden. 970-4850318 www.elkhornsnowmobileadventures.com

snack bar. Full-day backcountry ski tours offered Wed.-Sat. 1230 Steamboat Blvd., Steamboat, 970879-8180, www.nordicski.net

Howelsen Hill Nordic Center Features 21K of groomed trails on Howelsen Hill that have played host to FIS World Cup events. No rentals available.

835 Howelsen Parkway, 970-879-8499 or 970-879-8552 x739, www.steamboatsprings.net

Yampa River State Park Groomed 1.5-mile cross-country ski track (skate or classic) great for beginners or families through forested terrain and along the Yampa River. Need State Parks pass, $6 a day/vehicle or $60 annually. Pond ice skating and a new, outdoor hockey rink available at your own risk, no rentals.

6185 W. U.S. Highway 40, Hayden, 970276-2061, www.parks.state.co.us

Lake Catamount Touring Center Has 75K of mostly beginner and moderate terrain, limited skate and classic-style ski rentals. $175 season pass, $16 for day pass.

No dogs Fri.-Sun., private and semi-private lessons by appointment, 970-846-9206.

30065 Waters Edge Trail, 970-871-6667, www.catamountranchclub.com Rocky Mountain Ventures See description under rock/ice climbing.

Routt National Forest Nine cross-country skiing and snowshoe trails on the west summit of Rabbit Ears Pass, from 1.6 to 7 miles. Informal maps available at Hahn’s Peak-Bears Ears Ranger District Steamboat office on E. U.S. Highway 40, across from the Holiday Inn. No dogs on the groomed trails.

925 Weiss Dr., Steamboat Springs, 970870-2299, www.fs.fed.us/r2/mbr/about/ districts/hahnspeak.shtml Steamboat Lake State Park 15K of mostly beginner and intermediate trails, 1.5-mile snowshoe trail, dogs on leash only. State Parks pass required of trail users, $6 a day/vehicle or $60 annually, available from visitors center or self-service station.

61105 Routt County Road 129, Clark, 970879-3922, http://parks.state.co.us/parks/ steamboatlake Steamboat Ski Touring Center 15K of some beginner and mostly intermediate trails with full-service ski shop with classic and skate rentals (seasonal and daily) as well as snowshoe rentals, accessories, clothing and The Picnic Basket lunch and

❱❱ Dog sled tours Grizzle-T Dog & Sled Works Offers guests the opportunity to drive their own team of sled dogs on day trips both west (12.5 miles) and south (10 miles) of Steamboat. Half-day trips twice a day, at 8 am and 1 pm. Routt County Road 205 (11 miles west of Steamboat). Offers pickup transportation.

970-870-1782, www.steamboatdogsledding.com

❱❱ Skiing and Snowboarding Howelsen Hill Ski Area Also see description under Cross-country skiing.

The oldest ski area in continuous use in Colorado has sent more skiers to international competition than any in North America and is home to the continent’s largest ski jumping complex. Four lifts, 15 trails and 21K of crosscountry trails.

845 Howelsen Parkway, 970-879-8499, Dec. 4-March 27 (conditions permitting), $17 day lift tickets for adults, http://steamboatsprings.net/departments/parks_recreation/facilities/howelsen_ hill_ski_area/ Steamboat Powdercats Longtime outfitter offers guided backcountry snowcat skiing and snowboarding tours on 10,000 permitted acres on Buffalo Pass, just north of Steamboat Springs. All-inclusive trips

tailored to ability levels includes lunch and image disk from day. Mid-December through March, $400 per guest per day.

1724 Ski Time Square Drive, 970-8795188, www.steamboatpowdercats.com

(private & group classes), personal training, physical therapy, nutrition counseling, and acupuncture.

702 Oak Street, www.alignsteamboat.com, 970-870-0100

Steamboat Ski Area Featuring 18 chairlifts, one gondola, 165 trails, a 3,668 vertical-foot drop and 2,965 acres of skiable terrain for skiers and riders of varying ages and abilities.

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

Anytime Fitness The fitness center that fits your on-the-go lifestyle (24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year via your own security- access key).

Offering personal training, tanning, classes, cardio TV’s, Private Restrooms/Showers, wellness programs, Zumba & bootcamps.

1875 Central Park Drive. 970-875-1130

❱❱ Fishing Bucking Rainbow Outfitters Best Orvis-endorsed outfitter Bet with full-service fly shop, specializing in guided fishing trips to private waters.

Fishing equipment available for rent.

Reservations recommended.

730 Lincoln Ave., Steamboat, 970-8798747 or 888-810-8747, www.buckingrainbow.com Steamboat Flyfisher Steamboat Flyfisher has Best everything you need to Bet get you on the river, from entry-level equipment and rod and reel rentals to a comprehensive selection of fly-tying equipment and materials for the experienced angler.

Year-round guided trips to exclusive and private waters. Guided trips available.

35 Fifth St., Unit 102 Steamboat, 970879-6552, www.steamboatflyfisher.com Steamboat Lake State Park Features 14 electrical camping hookups available in the marina parking lot on a first-come, first-served basis, as well as 10 small camper cabins (sparsely furnished with electric heaters and beds), $80 a night, max occupancy four to six people. Information, maps and state parks snowmobile registration available at the visitors center.

61105 Routt County Road 129, Clark, 970879-3922 (visitors center) or 970-879-7019 (marina), http://parks.state.co.us/Parks/ SteamboatLake Straightline Sports The oldest fly-fishing Best guide service and shop in Bet Steamboat books winter fly-fishing trips. Offers primarily half-day walk/wade trips to the Stagecoach Reservoir tailwaters with snowmobile access. Equipment rentals available.

744 Lincoln Ave., Steamboat, 970-8797568 or 800-354-5463, www.straightlinesports.com

❱❱ Fitness Align Offers a caring, supportive environment for clients to achieve improved overall health and an enhanced quality of life. Offering pilates

Excel Gymnastics Local gymnastics studio catering to everything from parent-teacher classes helping 12- to 42-month-old children develop motor skills to dedicated USAG gymnasts looking to perfect routines and skills. Day-care and cheerleading classes available.

1955 Bridge Lane, Steamboat, 970-8793467, www.879-egos.com Family Fitness Center In the basement of Solandt Medical Clinic, Hayden’s Family Fitness Center features hydraulic and other cardio and strength circuit training equipment to help promote full-body health.

150 W. Jackson Ave., Hayden, 970-2763610 Forever Fit of Steamboat Springs Best Offers personal training, Bet physical therapy, rehab Pilates, yoga and massage with personally designed training and rehabilitation programs.

345 S. Lincoln Ave., Steamboat, 970870-3484 Fusion Fit Individual personal training and intimate group fitness classes, yoga/Pilates, spinning and massage. Now specializing in CrossFit. No membership required.

1625 Mid Valley Dr. No. 1, Steamboat, 970870-1444, www.steamboatcrossfit.com Gymstar Fun N Fit Gymnastics Full-size gymnastic space offers preschool classes and a variety of recreation and children’s classes, as well as private instruction and private-party rentals. Call for scheduling and prices.

400 Mack Lane, Craig, 970-824-2282 Old Town Hot Springs See description under hot springs and pools.

Best Bet

Peak Fitness Center Friendly workout facility with weight machines, free weights and cardio equipment as well as UV and UV-free tanning, personal training and fitness testing.

11th Street and Lincoln Avenue, Steamboat, 970-879-4943, www.peakfitnesssteamboat.com Steamboat Pilates, Yoga & Fitness Studio Offers a variety of mat, yoga, cardio and reformer

For hours, reviews, products, menus and more, visit ExploreSteamboat.com 64 Explore steamboat • winter 12-13

Exploresteamboat.com

machine classes as well as combinations of each for a full range of abilities. Private, semi-private and trio instruction options also available.

1004 Lincoln Ave., No. 103, Steamboat, 970879-6788, www.steamboatpilatesandfitness.com The Yoga Center of Steamboat A Sangha created to provide a sacred place for education and practices that promote a life in balance: a healthy body, peaceful mind and joyful heart, for its students and teachers.

Located downtown overlooking the Yampa River and Emerald Mountain. Yoga, pilates, tai chi and qigong with experienced, certified teachers in a beautiful, supportive setting.

701 Yampa St., Steamboat, 970-870-1522, www.yogacenterofsteamboat.com Trapper Health Club The public can access plenty of workout options from free weights, to a cardio room with elliptical machines, stationary bikes and treadmills, as well as a racquetball and a short basketball court. Tanning booth also available and various classes offered.

261 Commerce St., Craig, 970-824-6932

❱❱ Guest ranches Elk River Guest Ranch Immerse yourself in views Best of the Zirkels with sleighBet ride dinners in a unique tepee dining area set in an aspen grove. Pickup transportation, $95 adult, $45 for children.

29840 Routt County Road 64, Clark (18 miles north of downtown Steamboat), 970-879-6220 or 800-750-6220, www.elkriverguestranch.com Pack Country Outfitters at Fish & Cross Ranch Historic 20,000-acre working cattle ranch with a remodeled seven-bed lodge and cabin stays at a private, secluded cabin provides sleigh rides to the public in the winter as well as cross-country ski/snowshoe hut trips and day touring trips. One hut and two backcountry cabins for rent on private land with a third, remote cabin in the national forest, accessible by marked, groomed trails.

Open year-round.

24300 Routt County Road 11, Yampa (45 minutes south of Steamboat), 970-6381064, www.fishandcrossranch.com and www.packcountryoutfitters.com Midnight Ranch High mountain ranch that’s the perfect getaway, with two log and timber frame cabins that create authentic Rocky Mountain ambiance.

67810 Routt County Road 129, Clark, CO. 80428, (970) 870-3456, www.midnightranch.com The Home Ranch Private guest ranch offers limited dates at the beginning of December and in mid April for public cross-country ski days on their 25Ktrail system, includes lunch, skiing, rentals and tax/gratuity. Reservations required.

54880 Routt County Road 129, Clark, 970-

879-1780, www.homeranch.com

❱❱ Hot air ballooning

❱❱ Ice skating

❱❱ Helicopter rides

Pegasus Balloon Tours/Wild West Balloon Adventures Hot air heats up the daily morning flights in the Yampa Valley around Steamboat Springs. Courtesy van pickup and continental breakfast included.

42415 Deerfoot Lane, Steamboat, 970-8799191 or 800-748-2487, www.wildwestballooning.com

Howelsen Ice Arena Olympic-size sheet of ice hosting an array of activities and programs. Daily public skate times and the drop-in hockey schedule are subject to change, call to confirm times.

Public skating free for 5 and under, $6 for youths, $7 for adults and $4 for seniors 50 and over, drop-in hockey is $9 for youths and $10 for adults, hourly ice rentals and skate sharpening available, skate rentals $4.

285 Howelsen Parkway, Steamboat, 970879-4300 ext. 333, automated info line 970-879-0341, www.steamboatsprings.net

Zephyr Helicopter Co. Based at Steamboat Springs Airport. Offers aerial photography flights, custom sightseeing tours, charter services, search and rescue and flight instruction.

1540 Meadow Lane, Steamboat, 970-8790494 or 970-846-4677, www.zephyrhelicopter.com

❱❱ Horseback & sleigh rides Bar Lazy L Ranch Offers dinner sleigh rides up the Elk River Valley. The three-hour experience features a sleigh ride from Percheron draft horses to a country dinner and live traditional Western music courtesy of the Yampa Valley Boys.

Accommodates private parties. Transportation available. Reservations required.

26480 Routt County Road 52-E, Steamboat (8 miles northwest of Steamboat), 970-8790095, www.bar lazylranch.com Del’s Triangle 3 Ranch In operation isince 1962, offering two-hour horseback rides in a wilderness environment with a free winter shuttle available from the Gondola Transit Center with 9 am and 1 pm pickups.

55675 Routt County Road 62, Clark (18 miles north of Steamboat), 970-879-3495, www.steamboathorses.com Elk River Guest Ranch See description under guest ranches.

Best Bet

Hahns Peak Roadhouse Horse and sleigh rides all winter long, all from a quaint mountain lodge in North Routt County.

60880 Routt County Road 129, Clark, 970879-4404 or 800-342-1889, www.hahnspeakroadhouse.com Ragnar’s Offers a snowcat-drawn sleigh ride from the top of the Steamboat Ski Area gondola to a five-course, Scandinavian-style continental cuisine dinner.

2305 Mount Werner Circle (top of the gondola), 970-871-5150, www.steamboat.com Saddleback Ranch Escape for the day to this family-owned, 8,000-acre working cattle ranch. Winter activities include two-hour, half-day and evening dinner snowmobile tours, a pair of daily winter horseback rides, dinner sleigh rides to the Double Dollar Lodge and snow tubing on Yee-Haw Hill with a new warming lodge.

37350 RCR 179 (15 miles west of Steamboat), 970-879-3711, www.saddlebackranch.net

❱❱ Hot springs & pools Old Town Hot Springs Steamboat’s historic hot Best springs pools have been reBet modeled with a pair of new 230-foot water slides, three renovated outdoor hot spring mineral pools, 25-yard lap pool with adjoining fitness center and child care center. Exercise, Pilates and yoga classes, Hot Springs Bodyworks Massage therapy options, performance sports medicine and swim lessons available.

136 Lincoln Ave., Steamboat, 970-8791828, www.oldtownhotsprings.org Strawberry Park Hot Springs (plus Lodging & Massage) Nestled between Rocky Peak and Copper Ridge, a series of steaming springs spew from the hillside into Hot Springs Creek, partitioned off into a series of natural stone pools. Massages, camping and cabin rental options available by reservation. Four-wheel drive or chains mandatory Nov. 1-May 1.

Shuttles: Hot Springs Adventures (970-8791873) and Sweet Pea Tours (970-879-5820). $10 for adults, $5 for teens (13-17), $3 for kids (3-12), no credit cards.

44200 Routt County Road 36 (seven miles north of Steamboat), 970-879-0342, www.strawberryhotsprings.com

❱❱ Hut trips Pack Country Outfitters See description under Guest ranches.

Pearl Lake State Park Pair of rustic yurts available year-round for rent less than a half mile from park gate.

Cooking bench outside. Beds but no bedding. $60 a night.

61105 RCR 129, Clark, 970-879-3922 or reservations, http://parks.state.co.us/Parks/ SteamboatLake Never Summer Nordic System of nine secluded backcountry cabins, huts and yurts in the State Forest State Park.

Yurts set up with beds, wood-burning stoves, outhouses and basic cooking facilities. Reservations necessary. Eight-mile, out-and-back around cross-country ski/snowshoe loop as well as a 10K loop at the State Forest State Park Moose Visitor Center, on Colo. Hwy 14 near Gould, call beforehand. Last week of Nov., to last week of April.

247 Jackson County Road 41, Walden, 970723-4070, www.neversummernordic.com

Yampa River State Park See description under cross-country skiing.

❱❱ Libraries Bud Werner Memorial Library Steamboat’s public library features a newly expanded 25,000-square-foot addition to accommodate public spaces, additional parking, 28 computers, a coffee shop, archive room, expanded collections, children’s interactive Storytime Room and group study rooms.

1289 Lincoln Ave., Steamboat, 970-8790240, www.steamboatlibrary.org

We put Steamboat At your Fingertips

what to do

Colorado Mountain College Alpine Campus Library A college library housing about 22,000 volumes of books with a varied selection of movies, documentary DVDs and CDs, maps of western Colorado, periodicals and state documents. Free and open to public.

1330 Bob Adams Drive (third floor of Bristol Hall), Steamboat, 970-870-4445, www.coloradomtn.edu/library

❱❱ Movie theaters Metropolitan Wildhorse Stadium Cinemas Digital sound and 35-by-35-foot screens in the six auditoriums with full or partial stadium seating located in the Wildhorse Marketplace.

655 Marketplace Plaza, Steamboat, 970870-8222, www.metrotheatres.com

❱❱ Museums Hayden Heritage Center Experience the history of the Old West and the Yampa Valley. Set in the 90-year-old Denver and Rio Grande Western Depot building, the center exhibits artifacts including historic saddles, the Sullivan Rock and Fossil Collection and a collection of photographs.

300 W. Pearl St., Hayden, 970-276-4380, www.yampavalley.info/history0085.asp Museum of Northwest Colorado Located in the historic former Colorado State Armory building, housing the Cowboy and Gunfighter Museum; exhibits celebrating Craig’s centennial and the work of Alexander Phimister Proctor; and a collection of nearly 1,000 cowboy artifacts and railroad memorabilia. Free.

For hours, reviews, products, menus and more, visit ExploreSteamboat.com Exploresteamboat.com

Winter 12-13 • explore steamboat 65

what to do

We Put Steamboat at your fingertips

590 Yampa Ave., Craig, 970-824-6360, www.museumnwco.org Steamboat Art Museum Housed in the historic First National Bank building, the free downtown museum features two galleries and a gift shop and hosts events such as lecture series, workshops and educational outreach programs.

807 Lincoln Ave., Steamboat, 970-8701755, www.steamboatartmuseum.org Tracks & Trails Museum Located in the old Oak Creek Town Hall, the museum offers nine permanent exhibits and one rotating exhibit about the industry and identity of diverse immigrants to the area coal mines and mills. Also features the Artist’s/ Collector’s Wall to help visitors experience the history of Oak Creek, Phippsburg and the surrounding area. Free.

129 E. Main St., Oak Creek, 970-736-8245, www.yampavalley.info/tracksandtrails.asp Tread of Pioneers Museum Best Newly renovated 1908 Bet Queen Anne-style Zimmerman House is the heart of this downtown Steamboat museum where a turn-of-the-century kitchen, dining room, parlor and bedroom bring you back in time to imagine life as the pioneers lived it. Rotating exhibits highlight the historic people and places that embody Steamboat’s colorful heritage. Permanent displays explore skiing, Native American arts, children’s toys, and a Wild West room with a firearms collection featuring outlaw tales and relating the area’s ranching heritage.

800 Oak St., Steamboat, 970-879-2214, www.treadofpioneers.org World Footbag Association Work-in-progress museum enshrining the world champions and pioneers of the sport along with a footbag gift store.

2673 Jacob Circle, Suite 400 (off Downhill Dr.), 970-870-9898, www.worldfootbag.com Wyman Museum Showcases 100 years of American life, ingenuity and advancement, including license plate and chainsaw collections, a working blacksmith shop and a new trophy room for rent. The Pagoda Store houses local arts and crafts from around the valley. Wyman’s fourth annual Winter Festival is Feb. 14 and 15. Onemile cross-country ski/snowshoe track next to the Yampa River. Free.

94350 E U.S. Hwy 40, Craig, 970-824-6346, www.wymanmuseum.com Yampa-Egeria Museum Housed in the historic Bank of the Yampa Building built in 1903, this grassroots museum displays the rich history of the Upper Egeria region. Open by appointment only during the winter.

100 Main St., Yampa, 970-638-4511, http:// yampa valley.org/history0141.asp

❱❱ Music Strings Music Festival A year-round music Best festival bringing classical, Bet blues, Americana, world, country and family music to Steamboat Springs. Showtimes vary.

970-879-5056, www.stringsmusicfestival.com

❱❱ Other indoor activities Sew Steamboat Carries fashion and quilting fabric, notions and yarn, and teaches basic through advanced sewing and yarn crafts.

929 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-3222 Steamboat Arts & Crafts Gym Studio space and locker system, as well as workshops, seminars and classes.

1280 13th St., Steamboat, 970-870-0384, www.steamboatartsandcraftsgym.com The Potter’s Wheel Paint-your-own pottery studio accepting walk-ins, reservations (for groups of six or more), and private parties. Fee covers glazing, firing and facility use with a broad selection of ready-made ceramics.

1136 Yampa St., 970-879-4944, www.potterswheelsteamboat.com Steamboat House of Bounce Indoor fun room with slides, bouncy castles and more. Open seven days a week; also available for private parties.

970-846-2068, www.steamboathouseofbounce.com Yampatika Nonprofit environmental education organization hosting a range of summer activities. The Nature Store sells guidebooks and maps.

925 Weiss Drive, Steamboat, 970-871-9151, www.yampatika.org

❱❱ Other outdoor activities Bridgestone Winter Driving School Offers a full range of winter driving programs for all abilities on premier ice- and snowcovered courses just west of Steamboat.

1850 Ski Time Square Drive, Steamboat, 970-879-6104 or 1-800-WHY-SKID, www.winterdrive.com Routt County Rifle Club Facilities include clubhouse and trap, skeet, sporting clays, heated indoor .22, outdoor pistol, 25-, 50-, 75-, 100- and 200-yard rifle ranges. Annual membership dues cost $100 with one-time, new-member application fee of $25.

P.O. Box 773116, Steamboat (two miles west of town on U.S. Hwy 40), 970-870-0298, www.routtcountyrifleclub.com Yampatika This local nonprofit environmental education

organization hosts a winter schedule of activities that range anywhere from snowshoe excursions (free-$12 depending on location), backcountry tours, Ski with a Naturalist programs (free) and more. The Nature Store sells guidebooks and maps and rents snowshoes.

925 Weiss Drive, Steamboat, 970-871-9151, www.yampatika.org

❱❱ Psychic readings Steamboat Tarot Private intuitive readings with Life Coach and Tarot Reader, Susan de Wardt. Tarot readings are available by appointment at a time and location convenient to you. Customized workshops on creativity and personal development also available.

Steamboat, 970-846-6562, www.steamboattarot.com

❱❱ Rock/ice climbing Rocky Mountain Ventures Experience Routt County’s vertical offerings with a pair of half-day ice climbing trips (Dec-March) up Fish Creek Falls. Equipment and transportation provided. Also offers guided snowshoe tours on Rabbit Ears Pass and in Pleasant Valley with half- and full-day trips and full moon tours as well as half-, full-day and private guided backcountry cross-country ski tours.

435 Lincoln Ave. (southeast corner of Fifth St., and Lincoln), Steamboat, 970-8708440, www.steamboatclimbing.com

❱❱ Salons & spas 10th Street Barber Shop Family owned and operated in the new Victoria building downtown. Offering hot-towel shaves, face and scalp massages, haircuts and more.

941 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-9809 Acqua Salon Kassandra Collins, Stylist.

Best Styling that makes a stateBet ment or subtly suggests the real you.

414 Oak Street, 970-761-2048, www.acquasteamboat.com Advanced Massage and Healing Arts Incredible massage and body work clients will absolutely love.

2955 Village Drive No. 2, 970-879-2444 Aesthetica Medical Spa Facials, thermage, glycolic peels, botox, photofacial, laser hair removal and microdermabrasion are among the offered services.

940 Central Park Drive, Suite 210, 970879-2256, www.sandieivinsmd.com A Calming Touch Spa at Eagle Ridge Lodge A boutique spa on the mountain in the beautiful EagleRidge Lodge.

970-879-7612, www.acalmingtouch.com

A-Head in Style by Dawn Zulian A hair salon with a fantastic personal touch and more than 20 years in business.

1317 Dream Island Plaza No. 17, 970879-7513 All Season Wellness Day Spa A contemporary Asian infuenced day spa where the Far East meets the Wild West.

970-846-5907, www.allseasonwellness.com Bee Bop Hair Salon Complete hair services for men, women and children. Walk-ins welcome.

635 Lincoln Ave. Suite M, 970-879-9671 Bellezza

By Joan Peters. European Facials, microcurrent facial toning & brow shaping. Located Downtown.

For appointments call, 970-871-1740 Bella Salon Bella Salon offers Apothecari products and all hair and beauty services.

625 S. Lincoln Ave., 970-879-5503 Bella Sol Spa Haircuts, colors and styles as well as skin care and massages that will rejuvenate any client.

405 S. Lincoln, 970-876-9997, www.bellasolspa.com Body Boutique 810 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-6945 Brio Salon & Spa At Brio Salon and Spa, design and professionalism have merged to create a warm, inviting atmosphere where each individual is treated with the utmost care and personal attention.

825 Oak St., 970-870-6541, www.briosalonandspa.com Comb Goddess Comb Goddess specializes in cuts, color and highlights. Featuring Bumble & Bumble products.

1104 Lincoln Ave., Suite 102, 970-8710606, available by appointment The Cut Above Superior service with superior style is what you will get at The Cut Above.

837 Lincoln Ave., 970- 879-7141 Cutting Room High-quality hair care in a high-quality atmosphere.

800 Weiss Drive Unit C, 970-871-7861, available by appointment Dragonfly Hair Studio For a great style and a warm conversation, turn to Kathy at Dragonfly Hair Studio.

702 Oak St., 970-879-6543 Exclusive Nails & Tanning At Exclusive Nails & Tanning, the name says it all!

1815 Central Park Plaza, 970-870-7870 The Grand Spa Pamper yourself with a relaxing massage, facial or body treatment. Located lobby level

For hours, reviews, products, menus and more, visit ExploreSteamboat.com 66 Explore steamboat • winter 12-13

Exploresteamboat.com

of The Steamboat Grand.

2300 Mount Werner Circle, 970-871-5514, available by appointment Hair on Earth Salon Enjoy a fabulous spa-like salon and quality hair care with superior Aveda products.

437 Oak St., 970-879-2662 Jenet’s Salon Trends Unique and personal salon services in a comfortable atmosphere.

100 Park Ave., 970-871-9478 Life Essentials Day Spa Steamboat’s legendary downtown Day Spa for over 10 years.

345 Lincoln Ave., 970-871-9543, www.massagesteamboat.com Mountain Hair Studio Your spot for hair, nails and massage therapy, in a convenient downtown location.

675 S. Lincoln Ave., 970-870-1586, available by appointment Nail Wizard Amazing nails are just a whiz away. Step in to see the magic.

440 S. Lincoln Ave., 970-879-6204 Prime Kuts Haircuts at a convenient Central Park Plaza location.

1835 Central Park Drive, 970-879-3368 Professional Electrology Electrolysis in a comfortable atmosphere with a personal touch.

200 Caribou Lane, 970-879-5211, available by appointment Runs with Scissors Salon Cool, neat, hip Steamboat Hair Salon. We are the color correction specialists!

970-846-3030, available by appointment Rocky Mountain Spa and Salon Best Your Steamboat Springs Bet day spa, offering the total experience including massage, body wraps, body exfoliation, body waxing, facials and aromatherapy.

Fifth Street and Lincoln Avenue, 970-870-9860, www.steamboatspringsdayspa.com Roots Hair Salon 209 River Rd., 970-879-9699 Serenity Massage Offering massage and body treatments in an intimate Old Town setting.

419 Oak St. in the Solstice Building. 970879-3381/970-819-2700, by appointment Sharon Flanagan Hair color specialist, located in Tribeca Hair Studio. $20 off first color visit and free eyebrow wax.

970-846-2210

Shear Passion at Tribeca Hair Studio Best Shear Passion offers a range of hair cuts, colors Bet and fun extensions. Call to book or schedule online.

1915 Alpine Plaza, 970-870-8282 www.shearpassion.com Shear Performance Professional hair care with superior service.

Come to receive the best quality in town.

842 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-6127, available by appointment Steamboat Hair Co. Get your hair cut or colored in their new trendy location in Curve Plaza next to Ace Hardware.

2179 Curve Plaza Unit B101, 970-8798001 Steamboat Spa Nails Excellent quality nail care for ladies and gentlemen.

Also offering massage.

Mon.-Sun. 9am-7:30pm.

601 Lincoln Ave., 970871-7920

Best Bet

Styling in Steamboat You’ll leave Styling in Steamboat in style.

440 Lincoln Ave., 970-871-1885, available by appointment The Spa Salon Owners Kim Johnson & Marcia Cobb offer excellent quality spa and salon services.

24 Fifth St., 970-871-0202, available by appointment Waterside Day Spa & Salon Best A full service spa and saBet lon located on the Yampa River.

1110 Yampa St., 970-875-0271, www.watersidedayspa.com Wildhorse Salon Between downtown and Best the mountain, “on the way” from anywhere in Bet Steamboat. Call to book today.

690 Marketplace Plaza No. 4, 970-879-1222

❱❱ Ski & snowboard rentals Backdoor Sports Full telemark and cross-country ski touring packages available for rent, discounts available for multiple days. Also covers your backcountry needs — maps, climbing and backpacking gear, tents, backpacks, snowshoes, rock-climbing harnesses and shoes.

841 Yampa St., 970-879-6249, www.backdoorsports.com Black Tie Ski Rentals Ski rental delivery service offers full line of premium, performance, development and

junior ski and snowboard rental options.

1625 Mid Valley Drive, No. 2, Steamboat, 970-870-3172 or 800-821-4757, www.blacktieskis.com Christy Sports Offers seasonal rental packages (basic, sport and performance and demos) for adults and kids, skis and snowboards, helmets, cross-country skis, snowshoes and some Snowblades, in two locations. Precision hand tuning shops on site.

1835 Central Park Plaza, Steamboat, 970879-1250, www.christysports.com Door 2 Door by Christy Sports 1625 Mid Valley Drive, No. 1, Suite 158, Steamboat, 970-879-9170, www.d2dskis.com Fleischer Sport Steamboat’s newest ski and snowboard shop in the new One Steamboat Place development at the gondola, as well as Fleischer Sport Ride, a new snowboard shop downtown.

Owned and operated by former U.S. Olympic skier Chad Fleischer. Read 'A powder day for the ages' by Fleischer on page 82.

2550 Après Ski Way (One Steamboat Place)/635 Lincoln Ave., Suite O, Steamboat, 970-870-0900/970-761-2256, www.fleischersport.com One Stop Ski Shop Junior, adult sport, Best premier and demo Alpine ski rental packages (skis, Bet boots and poles), junior and adult all-mountain freestyle snowboard rental packages (boards, boots and bindings) as well as helmets, cross-country skis, snowshoes and skiboards. Bootfitting experts. Online reservations available (discounted).

35 11th St., Steamboat, 970-879-4754 or 877-754-7474, www.onestopskishop.net Powder Pursuits The best service for all your snow sports needs in Steamboat Springs. Independent since 1986 and determined to keep snow sports fun, we pride ourselves on the wide range of products and services we offer. Rentals, Retail and Lifestyle.

2300 Mt Werner Circle, Steamboat Springs, CO 80487, 970-879-9086

ski (classic touring and Nordic skate) rental packages. Also rents snowshoes, outerwear, helmets and accessories (gaiters, climbing skins, shovels and sleds).

Call or check online for pricing.

1457 Pine Grove Road, Steamboat, 970879-0385 or 800-932-3019, www.skihaussteamboat.com Sports Authority Ski and snowboard rental packages and junior and adult season lease program as well as ski and snowboard repair shop and snowshoe rentals. Call for winter hours.

705 Marketplace Plaza, 970-871-4570, www.sportsauthority.com SportStalker Offers four Alpine ski rental packages (basic, sport, performance and demo) helmet rentals and some Snowblades, in two locations.

2305 Mount Werner Circle (Gondola Square), Steamboat, 970-879-0371; 2304 Après Ski Way (Best Western Ptarmigan Inn), Steamboat, 970-879-3465, www.christysports.com

We put Steamboat At your Fingertips

what to do

Steamboat Ski & Bike Kare Downtown location offers adult intro-, midand high-performance Alpine ski packages (skis, boots and poles), two levels of kids ski packages, adult and kid snowboard rental packages, telemark and cross-country ski packages, snowshoe rentals as wells as ski, snowboard and telemark boot demo packages. Online reservations must be placed at least four days in advance.

442 Lincoln Ave., Steamboat, 970-8799144, www.steamboatskiandbike.com Steamboat Ski & Sport Junior and beginner to high performance ski, snowboard equipment packages and helmet rentals. Seven convenient locations, including Steamboat Sheraton Resort (970-871-5348) and NewStix Ski Technology and Sales Center, our on-mountain yurt location atop the gondola with half- and full-day demos available with on-site repair shop. Also, Ski Delivery Express of Steamboat — personalized, in-room equipment fitting for junior and beginner to high performance and telemark ski equipment packages, snowboard equipment packages and helmet rentals (970-879-6111 or 800-859-9959). Open daily 8am-6pm.

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

Powder Tools Across the bridge from the transit center, this snowboard shop with a demo fleet of the latest boards has some performance packages (boots, boards, bindings) and junior rentals including helmets. Discounts available online.

2305 Mount Werner Circle (Gondola Square), Steamboat, 970-879-1645 or reservation line 877-754-7627, www.powdertools.com Ski Haus International Rents various junior, adult Best sport, high-performance Bet and demo Alpine ski rental packages as well as various snowboard, telemark and cross-country

For hours, reviews, products, menus and more, visit ExploreSteamboat.com Exploresteamboat.com

Winter 12-13 • explore steamboat 67

We Put Steamboat at your fingertips

what to do Steamboat Ski Touring Center See description under cross-country skiing.

❱❱ Snow tubing

Straightline Sports See description under fishing.

Elkhorn Snowmobile Adventures See description under Snowmobile tours.

Best Bet

Straight-To-You/ Snow Sport Equipment Rentals Condo/hotel room delivery of sport, high performance, demo and kid, telemark and cross-country ski rental packages (skis, boots, poles), kid, adult and high performance snowboard packages as well as Snowblade, snowshoe and clothing rental options.

970-870-3053 or 866-787-8286, www.straight-to-you.net Terry Sports Offers sport, intermediate, Best performance and demo Bet Alpine ski rental packages as well as performance and demo snowboard rental packages, helmets, snowshoes and kids basic and performance ski rental packages. Online reservation available, free on-mountain ski storage and shuttle drop-off available.

1855 Ski Time Square Drive, 970-8798414 (Torian Plum Plaza) or 2500 Village Dr., 970-879-3237 (Village Center), www.terrysports.com

2305 Mount Werner Circle, Steamboat, 879-0740, www.steamboat.com

Best Bet

Howelsen Hill The Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club operates this three-lane tubing hill at the base of Howelsen Hill. One-hour sessions begin at 4:30pm. Reservations recommended.

845 Howelsen Parkway, 970-819-8010 or 800-922--2722, www.tubingsteamboat.com Saddleback Ranch See description under horseback & sleigh rides.

❱❱ Snowshoeing Rocky Mountain Ventures See description under rock/ice climbing.

Steamboat Lake State Park See description under cross-country skiing.

Steamboat Ski and Resort Corp.

Ambassadors offer free, guided beginner snowshoe tours at daily on a one-mile loop from the top of the gondola. Reservations necessary. Rentals not included with tour, but available from the Information Center in Gondola Square, where the tours depart.

Tours available daily. Reservations required.

871-5444.

Steamboat Ski Touring Center See description under cross-country skiing.

Yampatika See description under other outdoor activities.

❱❱ Snowmobiling Elkhorn Snowmobile Adventures Best Elkhorn Snowmobile Bet Adventures is located just outside Steamboat Springs in Hayden Colorado. They offer the ultimate snowmobiling experience with full and half day excursions.

Tour's include endless miles of open meadows and spectacular 360 degree views and panoramas with over 100 miles of groomed trails and 100 thousand acres of riding. Tubing is FREE for all guests. Lodging is available from Mid December through March at our rustic historic lodge located at the Elkhead Historic Ranch. The lodge can accommodate corporate and family groups of up to 10 adults.

524 East Washington, Hayden. 970485-0318 www.elkhornsnowmobileadventures.com Hahns Peak Roadhouse Snowmobile tours and

Best Bet

rentals 25 minutes north of town near Steamboat Lake. Plus: lodge and restaurant facilities, sleigh ride dinners, and more.

60880 Routt County Road 129, Clark, 970-879-4404 or 800-342-1889, www.hahnspeakroadhouse.com Rocky Mountain Rentals Local mobile rental service offers snowmobile pick-up and delivery. Helmet, boots and bibs provided on request.

970-627-9673 or 877-527-9673, www.snowmobile-central.com Routt Powder Riders Promoting, protecting and preserving snowmobiling in Northwest Colorado since 1984. www.RouttPowderRiders.com Saddleback Ranch See description under horseback & sleigh rides.

Steamboat Lake Outfitters See description under fishing.

Steamboat Snowmobile Tours /High Mountain Tours Offers two-hour, half- and full-day and sunset dinner tours on Rabbit Ears Pass as well as a full-day Flat Tops Scenic Byway trip on Dunckley Pass while High Mountain Tours offers full-day, two- and four-hour trips in North Routt County outside of Clark.

970-879-6500 or 877-879-6500 (SST), 970879-9073 (HMT), www.steamboatsnowmobile.com

Serving historic breakfast & lunch to hungry skiers!

Lyon Drug Store and Soda Fountain ...

Where memories are made for both big and little buckaroos!

Friendly pharmacy - Great gifts Old-fashioned Soda Fountain Downtown corner of 9th & Lincoln

879-9975 740 Lincoln Avenue

970-879-1114

Hours: 6am-2pm Weekdays, 6:30am-2pm Weekends

68 Explore steamboat • winter 12-13

Exploresteamboat.com

Where to Eat

5th Street Market & Deli • • $ Serving everything from gourmet coffee & take out pastries to specialty deli items.

435 Lincoln Avenue, 970-871-1318 www.5thstreetmarketanddeli.com Amante • $ Casual, trendy and hip, Amante is an Italian espresso bar. It’s a fantastic spot for coffee, cocktails and beer. Relax with a latte in the comfortable wi-fi lounge. Enjoy an assortment of pastries, gelato, panini sandwiches or Italian sodas.

685 Marketplace Plaza Suite C8, 970-8718999, www.amantecoffee.com

Bear River Bar & Grill • • • $ In Gondola Square, the “Bear” is the place to grab a burger and frosty beverage while enjoying a day at the mountain. Outside, enjoy the Bear River Terrace and Umbrella Bar. 2305 Mount Werner Circle, 970-871-5165, www.steamboat.com, call for hours Beau Jo’s Mountain Bistro • • $ Proudly offering Colorado’s favorite pizza for over 30 years. Casual Italian dining including pizza, pasta, sandwiches and salads. Try one of their favorite recipes or create your own.

Dine-in, take-out or delivery.

7th & Lincoln Ave., 970-870-6401

Azteca Taqueria • • $ Fresh, fast and tasty, Best Azteca is guaranteed to fill Bet you up in a hurry. Dine-in or take-out, their fresh Mexican menu includes diverse options to accommodate any taste for breakfast, lunch or dinner.

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

Big House Burgers & Bottlecap Bar • • $-$$ This restaurant, on Steamboat’s west end, offers a creative build-your-own burger menu (all local beef) plenty of salad options as well as a wide selection of bottled beer, soda and an old-fashioned soda and ice cream fountain.

2093 Curve Plaza, Steamboat, 970-8708500, www.bighouseburgers.com

Backcountry Provisions ••$ Best Fresh bread, fine meats Bet and the best cheeses are standard at this top-notch sandwich shop. Tasty sandwiches for a healthy meal on the go, a picnic on the trails or right in their convenient downtown location.

635 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-3617, www.backcountry provisions.com

bistro c.v. • • $$$ bistro c.v. offers Rocky Best Mountain cuisine at its Bet finest, accompanied by an exceptional wine list and incredible atmosphere.

Elegant dining that includes local, sustainable and organic produce.

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

The Bakery • • $ Featuring local Colorado products and ingredients and farm to table cuisine, including fresh breads, cakes, pastries, lunch, appetizers and evening entrees. Open 7 a.m. - dinner.

1117 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-7735 Bambook Cafe • • $ Located inside Bud Werner Best Memorial Library, serving Bet coffees, teas, baked goods and grab-and-go lunches.

1289 Lincoln Ave., 970-367-4920 Bamboo Market Health Foods • $ Best Along the beautiful Yampa Bet River, our deli offers freshly baked goods, sandwiches and wraps, as well as an espresso, juice and smoothie bar.

All-new: — Dinners to Go! Yampa & 11th streets, 970-879-9992, www.bamboomkt.com For more on Bamboo Market Health Foods, see page 40.

Blue Sage Pizza • $$ Authentic Chicago deep-dish pizza, freshly prepared dough and homemade sauce guarantee this pie will please any crowd. Blue Sage Pizza is in Central Park Plaza, and is available for delivery, carry-out or by the slice. 11 am-10 pm Sun.-Th, 11 am-midnight F-Sat. Central Park Plaza (next to Blockbuster), 970-870-8600 Boathouse Pub • • • $-$$ Primarily American pub Best fare is offered at this Bet downtown, riverside establishment.

609 Yampa St., Steamboat, 970-879-4797, www.boathousepubsteamboat.com Brooklyn’s Brick Oven Pizzeria • $ New York-style pizza offered affordably by the slice or whole pie. Brooklyn’s is open late for a great midnight meal in the heart of downtown.

57 Lincoln Ave., 970-871-1000 Burrito Babes $ Get your burritos delivered to your home or

• Casual | • Romantic | • Family Friendly | • Reservations | • Great Views

workplace. Breakfast, lunch and dinner. Made fresh daily.

970-819-1989 The Cabin Restaurant & Lounge • • • • $$-$$$ Visit The Cabin and enjoy edibles for every taste and occasion, from burgers to filet mignon with lots in between. The Cabin offers a full bar with daily happy hour specials in a relaxed western atmosphere located in The Steamboat Grand. Open daily 7 am-9 pm.

2300 Mount Werner Circle, 970-871-5550 Cafe Diva • • $$$ Seasonal menu created with fresh organic produce, naturally raised meats and wild seafood. Extensive wine cellar and staff of three certified Sommeliers. Open nightly 5:30-10 pm.

Torian Plum Plaza in Ski Time Square, 970-871-0508, www.cafediva.com Cantina Mexican Restaurant • • $-$$ Best Colorful, festive and Bet tasty, Cantina brings you so south of the border you’ll need a sombrero. Sip a margarita and take in the charm of downtown Steamboat.

818 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-0826, www.steamboatcantina.com Canton Chinese Restaurant • • $ A true locals favorite, Canton offers a variety of fine Cantonese, Mandarin and Szechwan Cuisine. Located in the heart of downtown Steamboat dining in or take-out is available.

Open 11:30 am – 2:30 pm M-F, Open nightly 5-9:30 pm.

720 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-4480 Carl's Tavern • • • $ $ A place for the hungry, the Best thirsty and the legendary.

Bet 7th & Yampa in Howelsen Place, 970-761-2060. www.carlstavern.com For more on Carl's Tavern, see page 42.

Catamount Ranch Golf Course & Restaurant • • • $$ Enjoy fine cuisine while experiencing the magnificent views of Catamount Golf Course.

33400 A Catamount Drive, 970-871-9300, www.catamountranchclub.com Catamount Ranch Lakehouse & Restaurant • • • • $$ A fantastic place to enjoy a variety of lunch options, the Catamount Ranch Lakehouse restaurant offers great food and great views of Catamount Lake.

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

Ciao Gelato • • • $ There is no better place to go for a taste of Italy than Ciao Gelato. The shop’s warm family environment, along with its delicious pizza, paninis, coffee and gelato, will be a highlight of your day.

700 Yampa St., 970-870-7979 Clark Store • • $ Offers a delicious variety Best of breakfast menu items, Bet lunch and dinners to go from their deli. They also offer fresh coffee and espresso. www.clarkstore.com Colorado Bagel Co. & Deli • • $ Proudly serving Boar’s Head deli meats, the Colorado Bagel Co. offers freshly baked bagel sandwiches available for breakfast and lunch, or try a piping hot latte or cappuccino.

Central Park Plaza, 970-870-9657

We put Steamboat At your Fingertips

Dining Guide

Coldstone Creamery • • $ Coldstone Creamery allows you to create your own scrumptious ice cream concoction. Fresh ice-cream and mix-ins hand churned right in front of your eyes on a frozen stone slab.

2032 Curve Plaza, 970-879-0707; 1815 Central Park Plaza, 970-879-0202 Cottonwood Grill • • • $$-$$$ Located along the Yampa River, Cottonwood Grill serves vibrant Pacific Rim Cuisine. The union of American and Asian tastes is offered in a tranquil setting. Enjoy predinner drinks in the comfortable lounge.

701 Yampa St., 970-879-2229, www.cottonwoodgrill.com Creekside Cafe • • $ A fabulous choice for breakfast or lunch, Creekside is located on picturesque Soda Creek. Satisfaction is assured by offering many tasty options, outstanding service and an exceptional atmosphere.

131 11th St., 970-879-4925. www.creekside-cafe.com For more on Creekside Cafe, see page 44.

Cruisers Sub Shop • • $ Simple, laid-back, goodness. Conveniently located between town and the mountain in the Wildhorse Marketplace, Cruisers is your new favorite sandwich shop providing fresh toasted subs, toasties and more for those on the go. Stop in today.

685 Marketplace Plaza, Suite C4, 970-8791747, www.cruiserssubshop.com Cugino’s Pizzeria and Italian Restaurant • • $-$$ Cugino’s has a wide variety of delicious Italian dishes, with large portions and a full bar.

41 8th St., 970-879-5805, www.cuginosrestaurant.com

| $ Average entrée under $15 | $$ Average entrée $15 to $25 | $$$ Average entrée over $25

For hours, reviews, products, menus and more, visit ExploreSteamboat.com Exploresteamboat.com

Winter 12-13 • explore steamboat 69

Where to Eat

We Put Steamboat at your fingertips

Daddio's • • $ 10 miles west of Steamboat on Hwy. 40 in downtown Milner.

970-871-1415

Best Bet

Dairy Queen • • $ Serving soft serve ice cream, smoothies, and sandwiches.

1755 Central Park Plaza, 970-871-1800, www.dairyqueen.com Domino’s Pizza • • $ Take-out or delivery, this classic pizza will feed a hungry crowd in a hurry.

1250 Lincoln Ave. Sundance Plaza, 970879-4811 Double Z Bar & BBQ • • $ Located on the bike path and near Little Toots park, Double Z is a great carry-out option.

However, don’t be afraid to join the locals and dine in for some serious barbecue! Delivery available.

1124 Yampa St., 970-879-0849 Dreamboat Cafe • • $ Located inside the Old Town Hot Springs, the Dreamboat Café is a great spot to grab a quick bite to eat after working out or enjoying a massage. 8 am-5 pm M-F. 136 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-1828 The Drunken Onion • • $ The Drunken Onion specializes in wholesome and delicious meals with their trademark slow-roasted, bourbon caramelized onion.

Fabulous lunch and dinner specials are available for take-and-bake for a truly remarkable dining experience.

685 Marketplace Drive #5 Wildhorse Marketplace, 970-879-8423, www.drunkenonion.com The Egg & I • • $ Serving breakfast and lunch all day, The Egg and I is a great option for anyone seeking variety. Daily specials, homemade soups, and a large menu make this restaurant a favorite.

325 Anglers Drive Sundance Plaza, 970871-4633, www.theeggandirestaurants.com For more on The Egg & I, see page 46.

8th Street Steakhouse • • • $$-$$$ A unique dining experience with fresh meat and seafood, you are the master of your own meal. Cook it yourself on the Lava Rock Grill.

50 Eighth St. Downtown, 970-879-3131 For more on 8th Street Steakhouse, see page 36.

Enzo’s Pizzeria/Chocolate Soup Pastry Café • • • $ A delightful café offering homemade pastries, croissants, chocolates, artisan breads, cakes, soups, paninis, pizza and more. Pop in for a tasty lunch, espresso, or fine international beer or wine.

2300 Mount Werner Circle Unit C-1, 970870-0224, 737 Lincoln Ave., 970-870-0225 Fiesta Jalisco • • • $ Authentic Mexican food and atmosphere at Fiesta Jalisco is a winner every time. Sit

back relax and take in a true Mexican dining experience.

Sundance Plaza in, 970-871-6999, www.fiestajalisco.net Fireside Catering • • $ Fireside Catering is a fullBest service catering business.

Bet We specialize in working with intimate groups, but can do anything from drop-off platters to wedding service 970-879-9922,37735 RCR 179, open by appointment www.fireside-catering.com

Harwigs • • $$-$$$ In a fabulous downtown setting, Harwig’s offers exquisite service, incredible cuisine and a wine list to be admired. Intimate setting perfect for special occasions. Open nightly 5 – 11 pm.

911 Lincoln Ave., Downtown, 970-8791919

Freshies • • $ A favorite among locals, Best Freshies serves up delicious Bet breakfast and lunch plates.

Famous for their gigantic, freshly baked cinnamon rolls, Freshies lives up to its name.

595 S. Lincoln Ave., 970-879-8099 Fro-yo • • $ Self-serve frozen yogurt with an assortment of toppings.

534 Lincoln Ave. (corner of Lincoln and Fifth Street), 970-846-1749 Geno’s Caffe Bar • • $ Organic coffee, pastries, pizza and more...

2305 Mt. Werner Cir. (Gondola Square) The Ghost Ranch Saloon • $-$$ Steamboat’s newest restau- Best rant and live entertainBet ment venue features a kitchen serving everything from pan-dipped corndogs to high-end appetizer samplers, sandwiches and burgers. Group platters available. 4 pm-2 am daily.

56 Seventh St., 970-879-9898, www.ghostranchsaloon.com Gondola Joe’s • • $ This base area coffee bar offers pipin’ hot cappuccino, hot cocoa, coffee, frozen yogurt, baked goods, soup, chili and more.

2305 Mount Werner Circle, Located in Gondola Square

Grand Café • • • $ The Grand Café & Gift Shop, Steamboat Ski & Resort Corp’s newest restaurant in the Steamboat Grand, is a cozy western coffee house complete with a country store, offering a full coffee bar, breakfast, lunch, select grocery items, sundries, and delicious take and bake meals for the family.

2300 Mount Werner Circle, 970-871-5500

(home of the Steamboat Laundry from 19101977), featuring meals from award-winning executive chef Vicki Connachers. Western charm and contemporary urban atmosphere complemented by an eclectic beer and wine selection.

127 Eleventh St., 970-870-0681, www.thelaundryrestaurant.com Lil’ House Country Biscuits & Coffee • • $ Located in a small space next to Big House Burgers, Lil’ House serves up country biscuits, quick lunches and hot coffee at unbeatable prices.

2093 Curve Plaza, Steamboat, 970-870-8500 Lyons Soda Fountain • • $ Enjoy a local favorite at Lyon’s Corner Drug, an old-time soda fountain offering hot sandwiches and the best malts in town. Confections in a hometown, family atmosphere.

840 Lincoln Ave. Downtown, 970-879-1114

Hazie’s • • • $$ Enjoy breathtaking views of the Yampa Valley while dining at the top of the Steamboat Ski Area gondola at Hazie’s. A globally inspired menu of New American cuisine served in an elegant setting.

2305 Mt. Werner Circle (top of the gondola), 970-871-5150

Mahogany Ridge Brewery & Grill • • • $$ Steamboat’s best happy hour is daily at Mahogany Ridge. Come in to enjoy $1 tapas and half-price drinks. Fabulous menu options, drinks and atmosphere cannot be missed.

Live music on Fridays and Saturdays.

Fifth Street and Lincoln Ave., 970-879-3773

Hungry Dog • • $ New walk-up food stand serving hot dogs, nachos, chili and more in downtown Steamboat.

Kiosk at Seventh Street and Lincoln Avenue, 970-819-2224 For more on Hungry Dog, see page 62.

Mambo Italiano • • • • $$ Best Offering fabulous downBet town dining, Mambo’s is a great place for happy hour and dinner. With a fantastic bar, wine list and dinner menu, you will not be disappointed with this fine Italian cuisine.

Now serving lunch.

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

Johnny B Good’s Diner • • $ A 1950s-themed diner, Johnny B’s serves up tasty meals in a patriotic fashioned locale.

Offering unique variations for eggs benedict, awesome burger specials and the best milkshakes in town.

738 Lincoln Ave., Downtown, 970-8708400, www.johnnybgoodsdiner.com KFC • • $ Everyone loves the Colonel and his fried chicken.

2015 Central Park Drive, 970-879-7618

Gondola Pub & Grill • • • $ Breakfast, lunch and apres all served in a casual mountain atmosphere. Bring the whole family to the Gondola Pub & Grill for a hearty meal.

2305 Mount Werner Circle No. 1, 970-8794448.

• Casual | • Romantic | • Family Friendly | • Reservations | • Great Views

Hahns Peak Roadhouse ••••$ Best From old-fashioned BBQ Bet picnics and wagon ride dinners to sit-down dinners inside a quaint lodge, the spot to fill your belly after exploring North Routt. Bonus: new menu from renowned chef Jerry Eisenberg (try the apple brandy-glazed pork chops).

60880 Routt County Road 129, Clark, 970-879-4404 or 800-342-1889, www.hahnspeakroadhouse.com

La Fiesta Grill Best & Cantina • • • $-$$ Modern Mexican cuisine, Bet offering the freshest, most authentic Mexican dishes in Steamboat (try the guacamole made right at your table).

1775 Central Park Dr., 970-879-6393 La Montaña Mexican Best Restaurant • • • $$-$$$ Fresh roasted chilies, Bet grilled fajitas and warm tortillas awaken the senses at La Montaña. Nationally recognized dishes and 20 margarita options await.

2500 Village Drive, 970-879-5800, www.la-montanasteamboat.com The Laundry • • • $$-$$$ Steamboat’s newest fine dining establishment located in the historic Soda Creek building

Market on the Mountain • • $ Deli fresh sandwiches offered in this mountain market. Pop in for a tasty snack or meal on the go.

2500 Village Drive, 970-879-2965 Mazzola’s Majestic Italian Diner • • • $$ Mazzola’s offers homemade Italian cooking in downtown Steamboat. Fantastic menu, fabulous service and a comfortable atmosphere make for a winner every time. Dine-in, take-out and full bar available.

917 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-2405, www.mazzolas.com McDonald’s • • $ Fast, fresh and tasty. Steamboat’s McD’s features a great Play Land.

1150 S. Lincoln Ave., 970-879-0247 McKnight’s Irish Pub & Loft • • • $$ Steamboat’s only Irish pub and restaurant, serving classic Irish fare and home of the 20oz. Guinness Imperial pint. Plus, Steamboat’s best billiards.

685 Marketplace Plaza (Wildhorse Market), 970-879-7881 For more on McKnight's Irish Pub & Loft, see page 50.

| $ Average entrée under $15 | $$ Average entrée $15 to $25 | $$$ Average entrée over $25

For hours, reviews, products, menus and more, visit ExploreSteamboat.com 70 Explore steamboat • winter 12-13

Exploresteamboat.com

Where to Eat

MountainBrew • • $ Wake up with MountainBest Brew. If you find yourself Bet downtown on Oak stop in for a hot cup O’Joe and a homemade muffin or scone. For lunch grab a Panini to eat on the deck or enjoy on the go. Catering and pastry orders available. Free WiFi. 427 Oak Street, Steamboat. 970-8797846, www.catchalocalbuzz.com Murphy’s Tavern • • • • $ $ North Routt’s oldest dining establishment at the Glen Eden Resort, now with new owners taking its cuisine to an all new level with mouth-watering lunch and dinner options.

54737 CR 129, Clark, 970-879-6046, www.murphystavern.com Noodles and More Saigon Cafe • • $ Best An authentic Vietnamese Bet restaurant in downtown Steamboat Springs that offers fresh, high-quality ingredients in delicious meals. Daily happy hour at 3 to 5 pm, dine-in or takeout available. Open daily 11 am-10 pm.

Lower Level of 635 Lincoln Ave., 970870-1544 Off the Beaten Path Bookstore • • $ Enjoy an afternoon with a good book, good coffee and a good friend. Enjoy browsing the wide collection of books while sipping a hot coffee, and grab a tasty treat from the coffee bar.

68 Ninth Street, 970-879-6830, www.steamboatbooks.com Old Town Pub & Restaurant • • $-$$ Best Old Town Pub serves lunch Bet and dinner in a historic, 105-year-old Western setting in downtown Steamboat Springs. Not your usual pub grub!

Offering free WiFi, live music, a fine wine selection, 10 beers on tap and children’s menu.

Sixth Street & Lincoln Avenue, Downtown, 970-879-2101, www.theoldtownpub.com Ore House at the Pine Grove Restaurant • • • • $$-$$$ This historic barn was converted to a restaurant in 1971 and has been delighting customers ever since. Hand-cut steaks, slowroasted prime rib, and jet-fresh seafood are the specialties.

1465 Pine Grove Road, 970-879-1190, www.orehouseatthepinegrove.com Panda Garden & Sushi Bar • • • $-$$ Enjoy authentic Chinese food and a Japanese sushi

Best Bet

bar. Every piece of sushi created by Manhattan sushi chef Ichiban. Extra hungry? Try the all-you-can-eat lunch buffet from 11:30 am-2:30 pm.

1835 Central Park Drive, 970-8792622 Pisa’s Pizza & Pasta • • $ Pizza, stromboli, pasta, salad, Italian entrées and much more! Located on the west side of town.

2851 Riverside Plaza, 970-871-0123, www.pisas.org Qdoba Mexican Grill • • $ Fast, fresh and tasty, Qdoba Mexican Grill offers up great meals from south of the border.

1755 Central Park Drive, 970-879-7610, www.qdoba.com Ragnar’s • • • $$ Fine dining. Open daily for lunch with Scandinavian house made soups and specialties.

Five-course sleigh ride evening dinners Friday, Saturday and holidays.

On the mountain. 970-871-5150, www.steamboat.com Rex’s American Grill & Bar • • $$ Rex’s serves up casual dining, exceptional food and friendly and attentive service. Try the fresh burgers, homemade soups and hand-tossed pizzas.

3190 S. Lincoln Ave., 970-870-0438. www.rexsgrill.com Riggio’s Ristorante • • • $$ Exceptional Italian fare and great wine in a relaxed atmosphere at Riggio’s will make for a fantastic evening. Nightly chef specials and homemade desserts. Open nightly 5:30 – 10 pm.

1106 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-9010, www.riggiosfineitalian.com For more on Riggio's Ristorante, see page 52.

Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant Best • • • $-$$ We provide sanctuary from Bet the problems of the world while serving the best dang mexican food and margaritas this side of the Rio Grande.

628 Lincoln Ave., 970-871-6277, www.riograndemexican.com The Rusted Porch • • $ Conveniently located between town & the mountain in the Wildhorse Marketplace, The Rusted Porch specializes in American comfort food. From signature burgers and bacon delights to salads and a great kids' menu, this is the Western Socialhouse with it all.

690 Marketplace Plaza, Suite B7, 970-8791455, www.therustedporch.com Saddleback Ranch Horseback Dinner • • • • $$ Take a horseback ride to the new Double Dollar Lodge. After dinner, enjoy the ride home and the beautiful Colorado sunset.

37350 Routt County Road 179, 970-8793711, www.saddlebackranch.net

• Casual | • Romantic | • Family Friendly | • Reservations | • Great Views

Saddles Bar & Grill • • • • $ Located in the Steamboat Sheraton Resort, just a few steps from the gondola, you’ll enjoy delicious fare while taking in the amazing views of the Steamboat Ski Area.

2200 Village Inn Court, 970-879-2220, www.sheraton.com/steamboat For more on Saddles Bar & Grill, see page 54.

Saketumi • • • • $-$$ Jet fresh sushi everyday. Steamboat’s best selection of sake also has a substantial wine list, specialty cocktails and martinis.

1875 Ski Time Square Drive, 970-8701019, www.saketumi.net Sambi • • • $$ Thai food and sushi bar. One of Steamboat’s newest restaurants. Happy Hour specials.

Lunch Mon.-Fri. 11 am-2 pm. Dinner nightly 4:30-9:30 pm.

941 Lincoln Ave in the Victoria at 10th and Lincoln. 970-870-9988 Sevens Mountain Grill • • • $-$$ A delightful restaurant in the Sheraton hotel, Sevens is a great place to feed the family before heading out on your adventure. The casual family atmosphere is fantastic for all.

2200 Village Inn Court, 970-879-2220, www.sheraton.com/steamboat The Shack Cafe • • $ A local’s favorite since 1969, you’ll be welcomed as an old friend and treated the same.

Hot and delicious meals served fresh daily.

The pancakes can’t be beat.

740 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-9975 Sharon’s at Pisa’s • • $ New daily breakfast spot inside Pisa’s Pizza and Pasta restaurant in Riverside Plaza in west Steamboat. Local prices for local people; delivery available.

2851 Riverside Plaza, 970-871-0123 or 970-846-7882, www.pisas.org Slopeside Grill • • • • $ As the name suggests, Best you’ll enjoy majestic views Bet of Mount Werner while dining slopeside. Slopeside serves up a wide variety of menu items and an impressive bar. A popular après-ski destination.

1855 Ski Time Square Drive, 970879-2916 For more on Slopeside Grill, see page 56.

Snowbird Restaurant • • • $ Located in the Ptarmigan Inn, the Snowbird Restaurant serves up a fantastic variety of menu items as well as a casual and cozy atmosphere.

2304 Après Ski Way, 970-879-1730, www.steamboat-lodging.com Soda Creek Pizza • • $$ The pizza artists at Soda Best Creek have crafted unusual Bet concoctions that thrill the tastes buds. Like white pizza? Try Snow in Texas.

1585 Mid Valley Drive, 970-871-1111

Sposta’s • • $$ Affordable sushi for lunch and dinner, with a great happy hour and sushi specials daily. Try the NorCal or New York Strip rolls.

825 Oak St., 970-879-4343, www.spostas.com Starbucks • $ You’ll find many locations in Steamboat to get your Starbucks fix. Visit Safeway, City Market, the Steamboat Grand or just off U.S. Highway 40 by Wendy’s.

255 Angler’s Drive B, 970-871-1303, www.starbucks.com Steamboat Smokehouse •••$ Best A Texas BBQ joint in the Bet Rocky Mountains, the Smokehouse relies on solid hickory logs from Oklahoma as the source of heat to cook everything “low and slow.”

912 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-7427, www.steamboatsmokehouse.com Steamboat Meat & Seafood Co. • • $-$$ Best Steamboat Meat & Seafood Bet Co. serves lunch and offers fresh and frozen seafood, meats, gourmet sausages, homemade pastas and a wide variety of other items.

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

We put Steamboat At your Fingertips

Milk Run • • $ Fresh donuts daily (try the maple bacon), in the heart of downtown.

941 Lincoln Ave., 970-761-2023

Steaming Bean Coffee • $ A friendly downtown coffeehouse offering comfortable seating, great coffee, and baked goods, warm soup and more. Come in to relax or grab n’ go.

635 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-3393 Stoker Bar & Restaurant • • • $ Open daily for breakfast and lunch for casual dining located at the top of the gondola.

On the mountain. 970-879-6111 Subway Sandwiches & Salads • • $ You know what to expect here: Tasty and healthy subs served quickly and just the way you like ’em. Two locations in Steamboat.

2032 Curve Plaza, 1815 Central Park Plaza, 970-879-0707 (Curve Plaza), 970879-0202 (Central Park Plaza) Sunpie’s Bistro • • • $ You’ll love Sunpies’ typical Nawlins Bar and sandwiches. Carry out one of their fabulous sandwiches or stay and enjoy hush puppies.

735 Yampa Ave., 970-870-3360, www.sunpies.com Sweet Pea Café/Sweet Pea Market • $ Featuring items raised or grown in their native environment, for exceptional, freshly harvested produce. Serving lunch and dinner.

729 Yampa Street, 970-879-1221 Sweetwater Grill • • • • $ $ Located on the Yampa River with gorgeous views and amazing food and atmosphere, including a cozy deck around a fireplace outside. Come enjoy the Sweetwater experience.

| $ Average entrée under $15 | $$ Average entrée $15 to $25 | $$$ Average entrée over $25

For hours, reviews, products, menus and more, visit ExploreSteamboat.com Exploresteamboat.com

Winter 12-13 • explore steamboat 71

Where to Eat

We Put Steamboat at your fingertips

811 Yampa St., 970-879-9500, www.sweetwatersteamboat.com For more on Sweetwater Grill, see page 48.

Taco Bell • • $ On a budget and short on time? Steamboat’s combination Taco Bell and KFC will suit your style.

2015 Central Park Drive, 970-879-7618 Tacos del Barco • • $ Fresh, quick, affordable tacos and burritos make to order in the heart of downtown.

644 Lincoln Ave., 970-871-7930 Taco Cabo • • $ Gourmet South of the Border fare made daily with the freshest Ingredients.

2120 Downhill Drive, 970-846-2307 The Lift • $ Authentic cafe located in the breezeway of the Sheraton Steamboat Resort Hotel.

2200 Village Inn Court, 970-871-6518, www.theliftsteamboat.com The Tap House Sports Grill • • $-$$ With 21 beers on tap and more than 40 televisions, this is the place for sports fans. Tap House also offers

Best Bet

hot wings, foosball and live music in its downtown and downstairs location.

729 Lincoln Ave., Downtown, 970-8792431, www.thetaphouse.com For more on The Tap House Sports Grill, see page 58.

Three Peaks Grill • • • $$-$$$ A contemporary steak and seafood restaurant nestled at the foot of Steamboat’s majestic Mount Werner. Enjoy a fantastic meal in an incredible atmosphere. Enjoy live jazz on Friday nights in “Jimmy’s Lounge.”

2165 Pine Grove Road, 970-879-3399, www.threepeaksgrill.com 3 Wire Bar & Grill • • $ Yampa Valley Regional Airport’s new 3 Wire Bar & Grill serves a diverse, locally sourced menu with a Colorado flare. It also offers conference rooms for private parties or meetings, as well as on- and offsite catering. In a hurry? Pick something up from The Way Station snack bar located on the gate side of security.

Yampa Valley Regional Airport, CR 51A, Hayden, 970-276-5070 For more on 3Wire Bar & Grill, see page 38.

• Casual | • Romantic | • Family Friendly | • Reservations | • Great Views

Truffle Pig • • • • $-$$ Dine slopeside at One Best Steamboat Place. Fresh, Bet local, original — just like Steamboat itself. Next door is MARKET, the definitive provisioner for delectable artisan creations. Come on over and kick up our hooves! Slopeside lunch and dinner every day.

One Steamboat Place. 970-879-7470. www.trufflepigrestaurant.com Tugboat Grill & Pub • • $ A Steamboat staple, the Tugboat offers awesome food, a full bar, and live entertainment.

Challenge a friend to pool, foosball or Ms. Pacman.

1860 Mount Werner Road, 970-879-7070 VFW – Post 4264 Lounge & Restaurant • $ A casual, friendly lounge in the heart of downtown Steamboat, everyone is welcome at the VFW. Pick out a tune on the jukebox and pick up a pool cue. The “V” also boasts the only shuffleboard table in Steamboat.

924 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-9959

prime rib and live western music. Evening dinners Friday, Saturday, Sunday and holidays.

On the mountain. 970-871-5150, www.steamboat.com Wendy’s • • $ Eat on a budget and get a Frosty for dessert.

Open daily 11 am-10 pm.

320 Angler’s Drive, 970-879-5513, www.wendys.com Winona’s • • $ Home of world-famous Best cinnamon rolls! Be sure to Bet stop in to see where cookies, muffins and desserts come to life. Always popular for breakfast and lunch, Winona’s recently expanded its hours to include dinner Monday through Saturday.

617 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-2483 For more on Winona's, see page 60.

Western BBQ • • • • $$ All-you-can-eat buffet featuring slow roasted

| $ Average entrée under $15 | $$ Average entrée $15 to $25 | $$$ Average entrée over $25

For hours, reviews, products, menus and more, visit ExploreSteamboat.com

Hudson • Paige • dL 1961 • LeveL 99 • BeLLa daHL

APRIL 2013 72 Explore steamboat • winter 12-13

Exploresteamboat.com

Where to Worship

Anchor Way Baptist Church — SBC Bible study and Sunday school are at 9:15 a.m. Worship is at 10:15 a.m.

40650 Anchor Way, Steamboat II, 970-879-7062, www.anchorway.com

Christ Covenant Reformed Presbyterian Church Sunday worship at 10 a.m. at the Steamboat Springs Community Center in the summer and at the Perry-Mansfield Pavilion in the winter.

Call Del at 970-879-5729

Baha’i Faith Call Sandy at 970-846-9994 for information

Christian Science Society Services are at 10:30 am Sundays and at 5:30 pm the first and third Wednesdays of the month.

Seventh and Oak streets

Buddhist Center of Steamboat Springs Meditation and Dharma talk are at 6:30 p.m.

Mondays. Call 970-879-5425 for a recorded schedule.

2550 Copper Frontage Road, No. 201, off of Elk River Road in Copper Ridge Business Park.

Church of Christ Sunday Bible Class is at 9:30 am, and worship is at 10:30 am Sundays.

1698 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-6670, www.steamboat church.org

Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses English-speaking congregation — Public meeting and Watchtower Study at 10 am Sunday. Bible study, ministry school and service meeting at 7:30 pm Thursday. Spanishspeaking congregation — Public meeting and Watchtower Study at 1 pm Sunday. Bible study, ministry school and service meeting at 7 pm Wednesday.

3000 Elk River Road, 970-879-4075 Eckankar, Religion of the Light and Sound of God Worship service is at 11 a.m. the first Sunday of the month at the Steamboat Springs Community Center.

1605 Lincoln Ave. 970-736-0202

First Baptist Church of Steamboat Springs Sunday School and adult Bible study is at 10 am (all ages welcome). Worship service is at 11 am and 1 p.m. Sundays.

3200 Divine Way, one mile north of U.S. Highway 40 on Elk River Road west of Steamboat, 970-879-1446 or 970-870-9583, http://hstrial-mclark234.homestead.com Har Mishpacha “The Mountain Family” Jewish Community Group. Call or go online for more information.

P.O. Box 776108, 970-457-4270, www.harmishpacha.org Holy Name Catholic Church Saturday Mass is at 5:30 pm and 7 pm (in Spanish). Sunday Mass is at 8 am (8:30 am during ski season) and 4:30 pm. Weekday Mass is at 7 am Monday, Wednesday, Friday; and 5:30 pm Tuesdays and Thursday. On Holy days, Mass is at 5:30 pm.

524 Oak St., 970-879-0671, www.holynamecc.org

Pentecostal Church of Philadelphia Opens its doors for the entire Latin community of Steamboat Springs at 7 pm Wednesdays and 6:30 pm Sundays.

1698 Lincoln Ave., one stop after Dream Island on the bus route, 702-445-9736.

Seventh-Day Adventist Church Saturday services is from 10 am-noon with worship at 11 am.

347 12th St., 970-871-4927, www.steamboatsprings22.adventistchurchconnect.org Steamboat Christian Center Sunday services are at 10 am and 5 pm.

Spanish service is at 7 pm Sundays.

821 Doughtery Road, the log church across from the Fairfield Inn on Hwy 40.

970-879-0063, www.steamboatchristian.com St. Paul’s Episcopal Church Worship at 8 a.m. Sundays with Holy Eucharist (no music) and 10:30 a.m. with Holy Eucharist, music and child care. Sunday School for all ages is at 9:15 a.m.

Ninth and Oak streets, P.O. Box 770722, 970-879-0925, steamboatstpauls.org United Methodist Church of Steamboat Springs A traditional Sunday worship service is at 9 am, and “Elevate,” a contemporary service, is at 10:45 am.

736 Oak St., 970-879-1290, www.umcsteamboat.org

Photo by John F. Russell

Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints Sunday meetings at 9 a.m. (Sacrament Meeting), 10:20 a.m. (Sunday School and Primary), 11:10 a.m. (Priesthood, Relief Society, Young Men and Young Women).

1155 Central Park Drive, 970-879-0220, 970-879-0224

Concordia Lutheran Church Sunday worship is at 8 and 10:30 a.m.

755 Concordia Lane at the corner of Maple Street and Amethyst Drive above the high school football field, 879-0175, steamboatlutheran.org

Euzoa Bible Church Worship is at 10 am and 5 pm Sundays. Child care provided at both services.

32305 R.C.R. 38 in Strawberry Park, 970-879-0123, www.euzoa.com

We put Steamboat At your Fingertips

Worship Guide

Exploresteamboat.com

Winter 12-13 • explore steamboat 73

Where to Shop

We Put Steamboat at your fingertips

Shopping Guide 8th Street West Carrying the latest fashions, designer jeans as well as shoes and accessories.

827 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-9898 All That Jazz Steamboat’s premier music store also offers a variety of other gift items.

601 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-4422, 10 am-9 pm daily Allen's Allen's prides itself in a Best diverse inventory, includBet ing men's and ladies' sportswear, ski and snowboard apparel and men's premier dress clothing. Voted Best in the Boat.

828 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-0351 Alpine Floral & Atrium Alpine Floral & Atrium takes a personal interest in capturing your concept, wedding, party, or interior floral design. Offering floral settings in Steamboat Springs for more than 30 years.

1475 Pine Grove Road, 970-879-2682, www.steamboatspringsflowers.com Annie’s Home Consignments Best Steamboat’s home conBet signment store offering quality furniture, art and antiques. Also performs estate sales. “It’s never the same store twice.”

Two locations: Central Park Plaza and 405 Anglers Drive in Sundance at Fish Creek, 970-870-1300, www.steamboatannies.com Artisans Market of Steamboat A unique art and fine craft Best gallery featuring work Bet from 150 Colorado artists. Ski, Western, Native American and wildlife antiques and collectables are a large part of the diverse and colorful inventory.

626 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-7512, www.steamboat artisansmarket.com Awesome Shirtworks Offering a wide selection of Steamboat Tshirts and gifts.

635 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-2323, www.steamboatshirts.com Backdoor Sports All your backcountry ski needs for the winter season, including apparel, skis, boots, bindings and more. Backdoor Sports has all the equipment for the outdoor enthusiast.

811 Yampa St., 970-879-6249, www.backdoorsports.com

BAP Inc. A local manufacturer of high-quality outdoor goods including clothing, camping gear, hiking gear and more. In the center of downtown, look for the little red house on Oak Street.

735 Oak St, 970-879-7507, www.wearbap.com Bargain Barn Steamboat’s best thrift store.

2780 Acre Lane, 970-871-6264 Bear Valley Saddlery You’ll find the spirit of the West at Bear Valley Saddlery. Specializing in saddles and tack, chaps and chinks.

116 1⁄2 Eighth St., 970-879-3573, www.bearvalley saddlery.com Blades Your location for everything related to ice hockey.

2101 Snow Bowl Plaza, 970-879-3286 Blossom Blossom sells clothes, jewelry and other items imported from India, Nepal and Tibet.

813 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-7612 Blue Sky Pottery One-of-a-kind pottery designed and made by Steamboat local Deb Babcock.

1475 Pine Grove Road, Suite 105, 970-846-9349, www.etsy.com Boomerang Sports Exchange Buying and selling the best used sports equipment in Steamboat.

1125 Lincoln Ave., 970-870-3050 Branches Unique home furnishings Best and interior design.

Bet 624 Lincoln Ave., 970870-2980, www.branchessteamboat.com Brown Barn Bath Company Best With over a century of Bet family farming heritage, we’ve applied our combined knowledge of horticulture, aromatherapy, education, biology and chemistry to create Brown Barn’s spa quality hand-made bath and body luxuries.

734 Lincoln Ave., 970-871-7888, www.brownbarnbath.com Bucking Rainbow Outfitters Best Steamboat’s only OrvisBet endorsed outfitter, with gear for all your winter fishing needs. Specializing in fishing private waters and more than 40 miles of river and numerous still-water op-

portunities.

730 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-8747, www.buckingrainbow.com Bushwackers Clothing & Cosmetics Quality clothing for men and women is what you’ll find at Bushwackers, also Steamboat’s only carrier of Estee Lauder cosmetics.

810 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-2970 Cabin Collections/Steamboat Interiors Everything you need to personalize your home — a distinctive selection of furniture, home decor and unique accessories, including mirrors, artwork, candles, lamps, silk flowers and wine racks.

1585 Mid Valley Drive, 970-875-1035, www.cabincollectionsonline.com Chez Nous A fabulous clothier carrying all of the latest and greatest fashions right here in Steamboat.

635 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-6995 Christy Sports Christy Sports is committed to providing its customers with the best ski and snowboard products at great values.

1835 Central Park Plaza, 970-879-1250, www.christysports.com Colorado Embroidery Company Best Full service custom Bet embroidery, branding for companies, events and personalized gifts.

2750 Downhill Plaza, Unit 203 970-879-8342 or toll free 1-888-6111287, www.sewkool.com The Creek Company Ltd. The Creek Company manufactures pontoon boats, float tubes, tackle bags, fly fishing accessories and hunting and camping accessories.

1280 13th St., 970-879-5221, www.creekcompany.com David Chase Rugs and Furniture Steamboat’s premier source of fine-woven area rugs and textiles, with an ever-changing inventory.

970-879-5667, www.davidchaserugsandfurniture.com DC in Steamboat Trendy styles for active and fashionably keen men and women.

635 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-9244 Dejá Vu Boutique Featuring upscale consignment clothing.

Prices on each clothing item decrease 25 percent after 30 days and 50 percent after 60 days.

624 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-9056

Elk River Pet & Ranch Supply Best Offers a variety of pet supBet plies and treats as well as ranch and farm supplies.

2680 S. Copper Ridge Circle, 970-879-5383 www.elkriverfarmandfeed.com Embellishments At Embellishments you’ll find extraordinary home furnishings, accessories and gifts. Most of the store’s unique, one-of-a-kind items are imported from central Mexico.

903 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-3383, www.steamboatart.com Extreme Power Sports Extreme Power Sports has been a full line Arctic Cat dealer since 1994. Snowmobile sales, service and repair.

300 River Road, 970-879-9175, www.extremepowersports.net First String Music Steamboat Spring’s first and only full-service music store. Instrument sales and repairs as well as music lessons.

1880 Loggers Lane No. 1, 970-871-4661, www.steamboatspringsmusic.com Fleischer Sport Steamboat’s newest ski and snowboard shop in the new One Steamboat Place development at the gondola. Plus Fleischer Sport Ride, a new snowboard shop downtown. Owned and operated by former U.S. Olympic skier Chad Fleischer.

2550 Après Ski Way (One Steamboat Place)/635 Lincoln Ave., Suite O, Steamboat, 970-870-0900/970-761-2256, www.fleischersport.com F.M. Light & Sons Established in 1905, F.M. Light & Sons is more than 105 years old and still kickin’. A wide array of Western apparel including boots, hats, jeans and more.

830 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-1822, www.fmlight.com Fuzziwig’s Candy Factory A candy-lover’s dream with too many sweet treats from which to choose.

845 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-6194 Hofmeister Personal Jewelers Diamonds in downtown Steamboat.

729 Lincoln Ave., 970-870-9400 Home on the Range Home furnishing showBest room specializing in the Bet creation of warm & inviting spaces.

1880 Loggers Lane Suite E. 970-870-6777, www.homeontherangeinteriors.com

For hours, reviews, products, menus and more, visit ExploreSteamboat.com 74 Explore steamboat • winter 12-13

Exploresteamboat.com

Where to Shop Mona’s Art to Go/Toffee Company Mona’s is your place for beautiful prints of the area as well as mounting and framing of any masterpiece.

2619 Copperridge Circle, Unit 2, 970-870-3400, www.monas arttogo.com

Indian Art of Steamboat A showroom of Native American jewelry, weaponry and headdresses.

635 Lincoln Ave., 970-870-8481

Moose Mountain Trading Co. Specializing in sweaters, apparel and accessories for the active, classy woman of the Baby Boomer generation and her fashionable daughters.

822 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-1400, www.moosemtntradingco.com

Into The West & Romick’s Home Best Collection Bet A large downtown showroom featuring an incredible collection of fine Western furniture and décor.

402 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-8377 The Jeweler’s Mine Custom jewelry, diamonds, bridal specialists, elk ivory, appraisals, watch repair and more.

117 Ninth St., 970-871-1413, www.thejewelersmine.com Kali’s Boutique Best Steamboat’s best clothier, Kali’s offers designer Bet apparel in downtown Steamboat.

525 Lincoln Ave., 970-870-6658 Kent Eriksen Cycles Local manufacturer of titanium bikes in every shape and form. Stop by the shop and talk about bikes.

1136 Yampa St., 970-879-8484, www.kenteriksen.com KVC Mercantile Children’s hats, goggles, gloves, sunscreen, seasonal gifts and even some goodies for mom and dad as well as a Steamboat Signature Collection for the little ones.

2305 Mount Werner Circle, 970-879-6111, www.steamboat.com Le Bateau Boutique Affordable fine clothing for men and women.

635 Old Town Square, 970-631-7605, www.lebateauboutique.com Light Works of Steamboat Offering lighting sales and design in Steamboat Springs and the Yampa Valley.

1890 Loggers Lane, 970-879-3905, www.lightworksofsteamboat.com Little Moon Essentials Locally made bath salts, oils, salves and other natural body products. Come see the new location in west Steamboat.

2475 West U.S. Highway 40, Steamboat, 970-879-6711, www.littlemoonessentials.com Lyons Corner Drug Far more than a pharBest macy, you could spend all Bet afternoon browsing its selection of gifts, cards and other goodies. Or grab a shake from the old-fashioned soda counter.

840 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-1114

Mountain High Appliance More brands than any store in Colorado.

445 Anglers Drive, Sundance at Fishcreek Steamboat Springs, CO 80488, 970-879-8316 Mountain Mattress & Furniture Tempurpedic, Serta, Simmons, Feather Beds, Memory Foam Toppers, Pillows & Sheets, Heated Blankets, Comforters & Protectors.

1880 Loggers Lane, Unit B, 970-879-8116, www.mountainmattress.com Mountain Outfitters Mountain Outfitters in the Sheraton Hotel is Marmot clothing central, featuring Marmot’s best and most beautiful men and women’s outerwear and accessories. You’ll also find goggles, helmets, one-of -a-kind logo items, gifts and clothing.

Located in the lobby of the Sheraton Hotel, 970-871-5365, www.steamboat.com Mountain Traditions Mountain home décor and accessories in the heart of Steamboat Springs. Take home a bit of the mountains.

833 Lincoln Ave., 970-870-7976, www.mountaintraditions.com Moxie Home design and consign Best has beautiful home furnishings and accessories at Bet amazing prices. Now carrying Maxtrix bed systems.

1855 Shield Dr., 970-879-9866, www.steamboatmoxie.com Off the Beaten Path Bookstore This is the place to enjoy an afternoon with a good book, good coffee and a good friend.

Enjoy browsing the wide collection of books while sipping a hot coffee and munching on a treat from the snack bar.

68 Ninth St., 970-879-6830, www.steamboatbooks.com One Stop Ski Shop The name says it all. Rentals, purchases, repairs, bootfitting and tunes at this full-service downtown shop.

35 11th St., 970-879-4954, www.onestopskishop.com

Best Bet

Overland Fine Sheepskin & Leather Overland has offered quality shearling coats, cozy sheepskin slippers and hats, leather bags, belts and gloves, and beautiful sheepskin rugs

and car seat covers for more than 30 years.

612 Lincoln Ave., 970-870-9770, www.overland.com Paws ‘N Claws ‘N Things Don’t forget your four-legged family members. Paws ‘N Claws offers everything you need for your favorite canine or feline.

345 Anglers Drive, 970-879-6092 Plan B Steamboat’s only store Best where you can buy, sell, Bet trade and consign unique, quality items. Plan B has something for everyone, so come check out our great variety (also now accepting gold year round).

2400 Lincoln Avenue, 970-879-7176, www.planbsteamboat.com The Potter’s Wheel Contemporary paint-your-own pottery studio located just a few minutes from downtown.

1136 Yampa St., 970-879-4944, www.potterswheelsteamboat.com Pupcake Pet Salon A delicatessen for your four-legged friends.

They work hard and deserve a little pampering.

1878 Lincoln Ave. (inside Steamboat Veterinarian Hospital), 970-870-7931 Quicksilver Boardriders Co. Trendy styles for the active and fashionably keen person.

703 Lincoln Ave., 970-870-6348, www.quicksilver.com River Blue Your downtown location for a great Steamboat souvenir.

737 Lincoln Ave., 970-870-1510 Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory A great spot for a sweet treat while wandering downtown.

624 Lincoln Ave., 970-870-3048, www.rmcf.com Rocky Mountain Peddler Fun and unique gifts and home accessories with a Rocky Mountain theme. Delight in the selection of one-of-a-kind finds.

1875 Ski Time Square, 970-871-1569, www.rockymountainpeddler.com Rumor Design & re-design.

345 Lincoln Ave., 970-404-0442, www.rumordesigns.com Sew Steamboat Carries fashion and quilting fabric, notions and yarn, and teaches basic through advanced sewing and yarn crafts.

929 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-3222 Silver Lining Jewelry, Beads and Charms A fine selection of beautiful jewelry for that special someone in your life.

1855 Ski Time Square Drive, 970-879-7474,

www.silverliningsteamboat.com Silver Spur Jewelry Silver Spur specializes in custom jewelry design, offering original pieces in a variety of metals and stones.

117 Ninth St., 970-879-3880 Ski Haus With a fantastic selection of all gear for the outdoors, you’ll find whatever you’re looking for at Ski Haus.

1457 Pine Grove Road, 970-879-0385, www.skihaussteamboat.com Ski Town Shoes Hiking, biking or walking, be sure to take care of your feet while doing it. Get the right pair of kicks at Ski Town Shoes.

833 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-7915, www.skitownshoes.com Sports Authority A wide selection of gear and apparel for all outdoor activities and sports.

705 Marketplace Plaza, 970-871-4570, www.sportsauthority.com

We put Steamboat At your Fingertips

Homesteader An incredible selection of housewares will surely please any chef. Homesteader carries everything that belongs in your kitchen.

817 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-5880, www.thehomesteader.net

Staples One-stop shopping for all your office supplies, Staples offers a wide variety at affordable prices.

1600 Mid Valley Drive, 970-879-5428, www.staples.com Steamboat Art Co. Located in the heart of downtown Steamboat, Steamboat Art Co. offers a variety of jewelry, art, housewares and décor.

903 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-3383, www.steamboat-art.com Steamboat Floral & Gifts A quick stop downtown to Best pick up a beautiful bouBet quet for that very special someone.

435 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-1424 Steamboat Flyfisher Fly fishing is the focus, Best with personal and profesBet sional service and a wide selection of fishing-related gear and supplies.

35 Fifth St., 970-879-6552, www.steamboatflyfisher.com Steamboat Home Consignments 1025 Lincoln Ave., 970-870-8555 Steamboat Jewelers Authentic Indian jewelry crafted with gold, silver, fossils and crystals.

906 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-6332 Steamboat Powersports Top-of-the-line selection of ATVs, snowmobiles and motorcycles.

2989 Riverside Plaza, 970-879-5138, www.steamboatpowersports.com Steamboat Shade & Shutter Window covering consulting & sales for your home, office, or condo! Available by appointment.

For hours, reviews, products, menus and more, visit ExploreSteamboat.com Exploresteamboat.com

Winter 12-13 • explore steamboat 75

Where to Shop

We Put Steamboat at your fingertips

970-879-5253 Steamboat Shoe Market Steamboat Shoe Market and SteamboatShoes. com are owned and operated by people who take a real interest in your footwear purchase and want to make sure that you and your feet are completely comfortable.

907 Lincoln Ave., 970-871-8566, www.steamboatshoes.com Steamboat Ski & Bike Kare Its downtown location offers everything to keep you active in the summer. From bike rentals to apparel, it’s a one-stop shop for outdoor enthusiasts.

442 Lincoln Ave., Steamboat, 970-8799144, www.steamboatskiandbike.com Steamboat Ski & Sport Steamboat Ski & Sport is the premier rental/ retail location in Steamboat Springs, with seven convenient locations including the closest rental location to the slopes, just steps from the gondola. We’ll even deliver your skis or boards right to your door. We’ve got the best gear in the ‘Boat. Nobody does rentals better.

970-871-5346, www.steamboat.com Steamboat Soap Co. The perfect gift for holiday season and all occasions! Available in town or online.

970-846-7944, www.steamboatsoap.com

Steamboat Treasures & Tees Sweatshirts, long sleeves, T-shirts and more.

Find the perfect Steamboat memento.

743 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-1107

logo gifts. You can even make your own teeshirt with our Tee Shirt spinner. A fun shop for the whole family.

970-871-5366, www.steamboat.com

Stephen’s Furs Outerwear Find a fabulous fur coat to keep warm on those chilly Steamboat nights.

1855 Ski Time Square, 970-879-3877, www.stephensofcolorado.com

Talulla A women’s accessories boutique offering feminine gifts, luxurious sweaters, fragrant home diffusers, jewelry, handbags and cosmetics.

601 Lincoln Ave., 970-870-1480

Straightline Outdoor Sports Best Fishing is always in season at Straightline.

Bet Family owned and operated, and one of Steamboat’s best-known fishing guides.

Also offers low rates on various Alpine ski rental packages (kids, basic, sport, hi-pro and demos) as well as snowboard, cross-country ski, snowshoe, boot and helmet rentals.

744 Lincoln Ave., Steamboat, 970-8797568 or 800-354-5463, www.straightlinesports.com

Terry Sports Offers sport, intermediate, Best performance and demo Bet Alpine ski rental packages as well as performance and demo snowboard rental packages, helmets, snowshoes and kids basic and performance ski rental packages. Online reservation available, free on-mountain ski storage and shuttle drop-off available.

1855 Ski Time Square Drive, 970-8798414 (Torian Plum Plaza) or 2500 Village Dr., 970-879-3237 (Village Center), www.terrysports.com Twice as Nice Shoppe Go treasure hunting through this secondhand store. You’ll be impressed by the quality of the items.

1306 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-7409

Sweetwood Cattle Co. Steaks, sausage, jerky, cattle shares, gift packs, ranch wear. No added hormones, no antibiotics, humanely raised, slow aged.

877-71-SWEET, 970-879-7456, www.sweetwoodcc.com Sweet Mountain Tees Sweet Mountain Tees carries all your essential

Urbane Music and art provide the backdrop for this clothing shop for the young, active lifestyle.

703 Lincoln Ave., Suite B101, 970-879-

9169, www.urbanesteamboat.com Vertical Inc. Mountain fashions for mountain people and great outerwear for all seasons.

2300 Mount Werner Circle, 970-871-1770 Walgreens Steamboat’s newest multi-purpose pharmacy and store, located between town and the mountain.

1440 Pine Grove Rd, 970-879-1968, www.walgreens.com White Pepper Unique name brand Best fashions for a busy mounBet tain lifestyle. Men's and women's clothing.

601 Lincoln Ave. #1, 970-871-7799 Zing/Atmosphere Eclectic and interesting home décor including furniture, functional art, kitchen items and gifts. Stop in to see our ever-changing selections.

345 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-2524, www.steamboatzing.com Zirkel Trading Quality men’s apparel and mountain lifestyle accessories are offered in this new Howelsen Place retail space.

703 Lincoln Ave., Unit B-102 (in Howelsen Place), 970-871-1137

Photo by John F. Russell

For hours, reviews, products, menus and more, visit ExploreSteamboat.com

76 Explore steamboat • winter 12-13

Exploresteamboat.com

Where to Socialize

Amante Coffee • • • • This Italian espresso bar also serves beer and wine with a full bar. Daily happy hour from 4 to 7 pm.

685 Marketplace Plaza #C8, 970-871-8999, www.amantecoffee.com Big House Burgers and Bottle Cap Bar • • Happy Hour all day Sunday, Margarita Monday $5 Margs/$15 Pitchers, Tin Can Tuesday $1 off all can Beers, Wednesday $3 hump Day Shots. Ten Big Flat Screen HDTV’s! Catch all the action!

2903 Curve Plaza next to Ace, 970-8708500, www.bighouseburgers.com bistro c.v. • • • Bistro c.v. serves up a late- Best night happy hour with a Bet separate bar menu as well as half-price beer, wine and well drinks from 9 pm to midnight. This full-service bar with six wines by the glass and two beers on tap

also has a regular happy hour from 5 to 6:30 pm weekdays.

345 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-4197, www.bistrocv.com The Boathouse Pub ••••• Best Nightly drink specials Bet offered at this downtown, riverside pub with two levels, each featuring a bar and an outdoor seating area with daily happy hour drink and food specials from 3 to 6 pm.

609 Yampa St., Steamboat, 970-8794797 Cantina Fresh Mexican Bar & Grill • • • Best Features a daily happy Bet hour from 4 to 6 pm and $1 off pints from 10 pm to close. Occasional live music from Steve Boynton.

818 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-082.

www.steamboatcantina.com

Hahns Peak Roadhouse

Carl’s Tavern • • • A place for the hungry, the thirsty and the legendary.

7th & Yampa in Howelsen Place, 970-761-2060, www.carlstavern.com

Best Bet

•••• Best Live music on weekends, Bet great food and a great bar.

60880 Routt County Road 129, Clark, 970-879-4404 or 800-3421889, www.hahnspeakroadhouse.com

Daddio's • 10 miles west of Steamboat on Hwy. 40 in downtown Milner, 970-871-1415

Best Bet

Ghost Ranch Saloon • • • Best Live music all week long with food, appetizers and a Bet walk-up/take-out window serving food late. VIP rooms on mezzanine level and table and couch seating available.

56 Seventh St., 970-879-9898, www.ghostranchsaloon.com

Harwigs • • • This locals favorite for more than 25 years sits in a historic Lincoln Avenue building once used as a saddlery store. There’s live piano on Fridays, a kitchen open until midnight and a wine-bar menu with small plates, 30 vintage wines by the glass and Pilsner Urquell, Harp and Guinness on tap.

911 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-1919, www.lapogee.com, www.harwigs.com

We put Steamboat At your Fingertips

Nightlife Guide

Mahogany Ridge Brewery & Grill • • • • The only brewery in town, featuring a selection of eight craft-brewed ales on tap, has a

• Daily Happy Hour | • Outdoor Seating | • Live Music | • Dance Floor | • Gaming Tables | • Late-night Menu

GILAEN3GL Offering scenic horseback rides in a TR SN E ’A I L wilderness type environment.

ER Reservations requested.

33 3

3

DEL’S D T

For hours, reviews, products, menus and more, visit ExploreSteamboat.com

RANch RANch Exploresteamboat.com

970-879-3495

info@steamboathorses.com www.steamboathorses.com Hourly horseback rides available 2 miles West of The Clark Store

Winter 12-13 • explore steamboat 77

Where to Socialize

We Put Steamboat at your fingertips

daily happy hour from 4 to 6 pm and hosts live music every Friday and Saturday.

435 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-3773, www.myspace.com/mahogany-steamboat

685 Marketplace Plaza (Wildhorse Market), 970-879-7881 Murphy’s Tavern • • • • North Routt’s oldest dining establishment at the Glen Eden Resort, now with new owners, new cuisine and a great bar...

54737 CR 129, Clark, 970-879-6046, www.murphystavern.com

Mambo Italiano • • • Ladies Night may be gone, Best but Mambo occasionally hosts live music on Fridays Bet and Saturdays, with a daily happy hour from 5 to 6 pm (half-price appetizers and $2 Colorado draft beers).

521 Lincoln Ave., 970-870-0500

Old Town Pub & Restaurant • • • • Best The classic 100-year-old Bet bar at OTP has helped establish the downtown Steamboat pub as a mainstay of local nightlife.

Happy hour from 4 to 6 pm weekdays.

Live music every Friday and Saturday.

Includes pool table, 10 beers on tap and a 60-inch, flat-screen TV. 600 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-2101

Mazzola’s Italian Restaurant • • • Although the restaurant’s full menu stops at 10 pm, Mazzola’s keeps cooking with its full pizza and calzone menu until midnight with pizza by the slice and Sicilian Sliders mini-burgers until 2 am. Full-service bar with six beers on tap and a daily happy hour from 5 to 6 pm.

917 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-2405, www.mazzolas.com McKnight’s Irish Pub & Loft • • • • Steamboat’s only Irish pub and restaurant, serving classic Irish fare and home of the 20oz. Guinness Imperial pint. Plus, Steamboat’s best billiards.

Rex’s American Grill & Bar • • • • Indoor bar has eight Hi-Def TVs, six beers on tap, 25 in bottles. Daily happy hour from 4:20 to 6 pm.

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

Saddles Bar & Grill • • • Fireside dining atmosphere in Sheraton Steamboat Resort.

2200 Village Inn Court, 970-879-2220, www.sheraton.com/steamboat Saketumi • • • Steamboat’s best selection of sake also has a substantial wine list, specialty cocktails and martinis.

1875 Ski Time Square Drive, 970-8701019, www.saketumi.net Slopeside Grill • • • • Best Slopeside’s famous latenight happy hour from 10 Bet pm to midnight features $2 pints and $6 pizzas made in an authentic Italian brick-oven pizza. The bar offers an extensive list of micro-brews and eight types of martinis. The outdoor seating offers broad views of Mount Werner if you can pull yourself away from the games on the TVs inside.

1855 Ski Time Square Drive, 970-8792916, www.slopesidegrill.com Snow Bowl • • The full-service bar at the Snow Bowl’s greatest feature is the snack bar serving burgers, hot dogs, chicken strips, wraps and bottled

beers as long as the 12-lane alley’s open.

Sunday and Tuesday is PBR Dollar Night.

2090 Snow Bowl Plaza, 970-879-9840 Sunpie’s Bistro • • • This New Orleans bar and sandwich shop has become one of Steamboat’s most popular spots for locals of all ages.

735 Yampa St., 970-870-3360, www.sunpies.com Sweetwater Grill • • • Happy Hour everyday, 3 p.m.-5:30 p.m. Half price drinks, appetizer and food specials.

811 Yampa St. on the river, 970-879-9500, www.sweetwatersteamboat.com Tap House Sports Grill Best ••••• Bet There’s no better place in town to catch the game. With 40-plus TVs, food served until 11 pm, live music on Fridays and Ladies Night on Saturdays.

Happy hour from 3 to 6 pm M-F, Tuesday night Wing Night, Wednesday night live team trivia. Also features 21 beers on tap, six arcade games, electronic darts and a foosball table.

729 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-2431, www.thetaphouse.com

• Daily Happy Hour | • Outdoor Seating | • Live Music | • Dance Floor | • Gaming Tables | • Late-night Menu For hours, reviews, products, menus and more, visit ExploreSteamboat.com

L i v e . W o r k . P l ay.

Come and live where you love to play!

Steamboat’s Newest Bed & Breakfast!

The Victorian

Yampa Valley Medical Center offers a variety of career opportunities.

Call us to set you on your career path.

Clinical and non-clinical positions are available.

Please visit our website at www.yvmc.org for more information and career opportunities.

Please call 970-870-1118 for more information | careers@yvmc.org | 78 Explore steamboat • winter 12-13

Featuring luxury bedroom suites combining Victorian charm with modern comforts and amenities.

Easy access to ski hill Gourmet breakfasts Complimentary après ski appetizers & wine Free wi-fi & Hot tub

For reservations call 970.879.7781

TheVictorian-BedandBreakfast.com Exploresteamboat.com

Tugboat Grill & Pub • • • • • Since New Year’s Eve 1972, the Tugboat has been a Steamboat live music stonghold. Daily happy hour from 3 to 5 pm and featuring nine beers on tap, video games, pool and foosball tables.

1860 Mount Werner Road, 970-879-7070

Photo by Matt Stensland

Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 4264 • • The VFW boasts four pool tables, shuffleboard, touch-screen games, a jukebox, two domestic beers on tap and a daily happy hour from 4 to 6 pm (50 cents off all drinks).

924 Lincoln Ave., 970-879-9959

We put Steamboat At your Fingertips

Where to Socialize

• Daily Happy Hour | • Outdoor Seating | • Live Music | • Dance Floor | • Gaming Tables | • Late-night Menu For hours, reviews, products, menus and more, visit ExploreSteamboat.com

Promotional

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Jo Lockhart, Cai, CeS Certified Estate Specialist Benefit Auction Specialist 970.846.9026

Winter 12-13 • explore steamboat 79

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Winter 12-13 • explore steamboat 81

Parting Thoughts

A powder day for the ages

By Chad Fleischer

F

with my manager Torre Saterstrom and director of retail sales Gladys Weidt, letting the remaining staff get first tracks. We hadn’t experienced a storm even close to this since 1996, and when it happens, you have to adjust for what matters most to those around you. By living first tracks vicariously through my staff I knew it would make the best day in history that much better. (Of course, I’m not a total martyr; I knew a few secret lines I could still get later.)

As the staff rolled in covered with snow and smiles, it was exhilarating to hear their tales and know the power of deep powder still runs deep. They had just made the best turns of their lives, and I

Photo by Corey Kopischke

or powder hounds, the 2011-12 season wasn’t one to remember. Storm systems tracked north, had their bounty blown away to the eastern plains or simply petered out altogether.

That all changed the night of Feb. 19 when the three-inch forecast became the largest single 24-hour snowfall tally in the resort’s history. The 5 a.m. report on Monday., Feb. 20, listed 27 inches — the deepest day ever recorded — with snow still falling (Aspen and Vail got four inches). By the time revelers reached Storm Peak they were laying tracks in 30-plus inches of Steamboat’s trademarked

Champagne. The screaming and smiles in the lift lines told the story all too well. It was hard to believe a town so hard on its luck for snowfall could become an instant sensation on every social media outlet under the sun.

I had just returned from a trip to Whistler, B.C., for my own powder fix. While I had a week of fresh, locals here were despondent.

Steamboat was officially down and out, and there was no good news on the horizon. While guests didn’t mind the groomers and sunshine, locals wanted and deserved powder.

Because I knew what a storm like this meant to people, I took the high ground and worked, along

82 Explore steamboat • winter 12-13

was likely happier for them than even they were. Now it was my turn.

Blue skies arrived as I neared the top of Storm Peak. It’s one thing to hit the best powder day on the books, but with blue skies to boot? With the hot spots wiped clean, we headed straight for the Canyon. Near the top I checked the snow depth with my pole: an Oh-my-God 42 inches.

The snow piled up to my chest as I floated through the trees, so light and airy that it barely impeded progress. Snow billowed over my head with every turn, forcing me to time my breathing to keep from choking. Head poking up like a periscope, I saw our destination, Birds Beak, glistening in the sunshine. I yelled back to my buddies to let them know it was now go time. I tucked my Yowie neck gator under my goggles so I could breathe and prepared to ski it top to bottom without any visual clues. There were no trees, just cliff bands; you had to know the drops and trust your instincts.

I was blinded after my first turn.

After my second, I was blinded in the air. After the third turn I knew I could ski off anything and not feel the landing. I was flying blind, laughing, yelling and loving the deepest run of my life, in the middle of the “white room” dropping pillow after pillow. At the bottom I turned up to watch my partners hit their lines. It’s not often you see two hands and nothing else barreling down a ski slope.

I imagine everyone that day has a story to tell for life and that every powder day from now on will be held to this new Steamboat standard. While for me it was laying first tracks down Birds Beak, for others it might be a single faceshot in Shadows. The important thing is that it came and saved a season — which is exactly why we live in Ski Town USA. — Chad Fleischer is the founder/ owner of Fleischer Sport, with locations at the base of the mountain in One Steamboat Place and the Steamboat Sheraton, and downtown.

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Part-time Steamboat Springs resident Bella Hudson, 13, will perform at 6 p.m. today at Sweetwater Grill.

“Our philosophy is that it doesn’t matter how old you are,” Peter Hudson said. “Everybody should be creative and do exactly what they want to and do it the best they can.

“I want (Bella) to work really hard and be really good something, and if it ends up being something, great. But if it

doesn’t, you have all that experience.”

Bella said she practices after school as much as she can even though “homework kind of gets in the way of practicing sometimes.” She loves playing covers as well as her original songs. She idolizes country singer Miranda Lambert (“Over You” is her

favorite cover to play) and Sheryl Crow. And she has lofty goals for her musical future, which include someday playing on the stage at the base of Steamboat Ski Area.

“I hope to play for everybody I possibly can and share my music with the world so they can connect to my songs the way I can,” she said.

Valley. Me and Ed’s Music Machine will take the stage at 9 p.m.

Bella was 8 when she started playing guitar, and the songwriting came soon after.

“I wrote about this one kid in third grade I liked,” Bella said about her first tune. “It was called ‘The World.’ I just really love songs. It expresses your feelings, and no one ever knows what you’re writing about except you.”

In 2010, Peter Hudson took his daughter to the Telluride Bluegrass Festival, where she entered a kids talent show. The person running the kids tent texted Hudson while he was fishing to tell him Bella had a spot to perform — on the main stage.

“Before I knew it, I was holding my iPhone up, and my daughter was playing for 10,000 people,” he said. “I knew it was a big deal for her, but she just took it in stride. She just completely nailed it.”

“I don’t really get nervous,” Bella said. “I just kind of get anxious, and I want to make the best of my performances, and I want to make everyone happy.”

Hudson, a physician who co-founded the health care app iTriage, joked about his daughter being asked to participate in a TED talk — a nonprofit lecture and performance series — before he was. But he and his wife, an artist, aim to foster a passion for innovation and creativity of any kind in their daughters. Bella’s sister, Addie, 11, already has a mind for fashion and sewing.

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Watch Bella Hudson cover Miranda Lambert’s “Over You” in a video with this story at ExploreSteamboat.com/news.

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In her Evergreen middle school where she just started eighth grade, sandy-haired Bella Hudson, 13, loves science and P.E. classes. So it makes sense her family’s weekend escape If you go is in SteamWhat: Bella boat Springs, Hudson and where she can E.B. and revel in the Friends outdoor enviWhen: 6 p.m. ronment and today recreational Where: activities.

Sweetwater Grill, 811 “I love Yampa Ave. how a lot of Cost: Free; for people Tele all ages. there. Teleing is awesome,” she said about Steamboat. “A bunch of my friends from Evergreen also come up for the weekends, so I hang with them.

And in the summer, I bike, and I tube.”

But Steamboat is more than an outdoor playground for Bella. Every chance she gets, she appears at the local open mic nights Mondays, where she shares her original songs, her guitar musicianship and a bluestinged voice well beyond her years.

Local songwriter and musician Jay Roemer, who hosts the Monday open mic nights, brings Bella root beer after her performances because it will be eight years before Bella can have the customary free beer.

“The first thing I noticed that was for how young she was, she had no fear of being in front of a crowd,” Roemer said. “She writes her own songs, and she goes up there and captivates a crowd no problem. She acts like she’s been doing it for 20 years.”

Bella, whose family has been visiting Steamboat on the weekends and through the holidays for about five years, will perform with guitarist Sam Leslie, 15, and fiddle player Jens Hybertson, 17, at 6 p.m. today at Sweetwater Grill, her first official performance in the Yampa

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13-year-old Bella Hudson, part-time Steamboat resident, wants to share her music with the world

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