Snowy Fun Beyond the Slopes

Julia Hebard
Dec 16, 2025
4 min read

Make the Holidays Magical Off the Mountain

Christmas in the Rockies is truly magical. Snow blankets the landscape while twinkling holiday lights and festive cheer fill the air. For many, it’s the perfect time to hit the slopes—but if skiing isn’t your thing, there’s no need to worry. The region offers plenty of winter activities that don’t require a ski pass. Whether you’re seeking adventure or simply want to soak up the holiday spirit, Christmas week here is brimming with options for everyone!

Jolly Good Times

Looking to sprinkle a little extra holiday cheer into your day? We’ve got just the thing! Hop aboard the historic Polar Caboose at the Art Depot on December 20th from 10 a.m.–2 p.m. and soak in all the magic—twinkling decorations, cozy seasonal charm, and plenty of festive vibes. Get creative with a DIY holiday ornament, warm up with a delicious hot chocolate, and don’t forget to snap a photo in front of the larger-than-life train backdrop! Space is limited, so be sure to grab your tickets in advance here.

If catching Santa is on your wishlist, head down to the base of the mountain for Saddle Up Santa at the Steamboat Ski Resort on December 20th from 1 p.m.–3 p.m. Watch as Santa rides down the slopes straight into the heart of Steamboat Square, then stop by the Steamboat Stage for a visit and some unforgettable photos. Plus—complimentary hot chocolate and cupcakes! For more details, visit their website.

Festive Finds & Local Vibes

Still hunting for those last-minute gifts? You’re in luck—Steamboat has some fantastic local markets you won’t want to miss! Stop by the 2nd Annual Holiday Market at Yampa Valley Foods on December 19–20 from 11 a.m.–4 p.m. It’s the perfect spot to discover meaningful gifts, support local makers, and soak up the holiday spirit with friends, family, and neighbors. Find more info here.

Then, make your way to Holidays in the Rockies, Steamboat’s favorite festive market, on December 20th from 10 a.m.–4 p.m. at the Art Depot. Enjoy cheerful drinks, homemade baked goodies, kids’ activities, prize giveaways, and plenty of affordable local art. Holiday shopping made fun! Visit their website to find out more.

Soak Up the Season

If you’re ready for a breather from the holiday hustle and bustle, treat yourself to a blissful soak in the hot springs. For a true adventure, head out to Strawberry Park Hot Springs, where serene, natural surroundings create the perfect escape—just remember to bring cash and a 4-wheel-drive vehicle. Prefer to stay closer to town? Old Town Hot Springs in downtown Steamboat offers multiple pools and fun waterslides for the whole family to enjoy. Relaxation guaranteed!

Winter Wonderland Adventures

When the outdoors start calling and you’re ready to swap indoor activities for fresh winter air, Steamboat has plenty of adventures waiting. Kick off the holiday with Mountainside Snowshoe Tours at Steamboat Ski Resort on December 22nd from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Enjoy gentle rolling hills, beautiful views, and chances to spot local wildlife—an ideal way to start your winter day. Can’t make the first one? These tours run every Monday through March. Book your tour here.

If snowshoeing isn’t your style, let your playful side shine with some classic snow tubing! Choose historic Howelsen Hill in downtown Steamboat, offering daily one-hour tubing sessions from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. with tube rental and lift access included - check out the details here. Or head out to Saddleback Ranch, where multiple groomed runs, a cozy lodge, and a convenient shuttle await. Tubing operations run daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., so you can ride, slide, warm up, and repeat to your heart’s content. Find more info here.

Ice skating is another classic winter adventure in Steamboat Springs, with options both near downtown and at the ski resort base. Lace up your skates at Howelsen Ice Arena (285 Howelsen Pkwy), an Olympic-sized indoor rink offering public skate sessions, drop-in hockey, and fun extras like bumper cars on ice. Or after a day on or off the slopes, head to Skeeter's Ice Rink (2305 Mt Werner Cir) at Steamboat Square at the base of Steamboat Ski Resort, where a seasonal outdoor rink invites skaters of all abilities to enjoy fresh mountain air and festive winter vibes.

New Year’s Magic

Wrap up the holiday season in true Steamboat style with festive celebrations all around town! Kick off your New Year’s Eve at the Light Up Snow Cat Parade and Fireworks at Steamboat Ski Resort, a crowd favorite for good reason. From 4:30–6 p.m. on December 31st, head to the base area to enjoy lively music, glowing snow cats making their way down the mountain, a dazzling torchlight parade, and a sparkling fireworks finale. It’s a popular event, so arrive early to snag the perfect viewing spot. Find more info here.

If you’re looking for something new and magical this year, don’t miss the first-ever Winter Wonderland New Year’s Eve on Ice Show at Howelsen Ice Arena. From 5:30–7:30 p.m., enjoy an enchanting performance set to your holiday favorites, followed by public skating with the performers themselves! Delicious food and sweet treats will be available, and all proceeds support the Steamboat Skating Club’s scholarship program. For tickets and details, visit their event page here.