For most of us, there are things we remember about most all of our trips, after all, no one wants to go to someplace that isn’t memorable right? And memories, well, they are subjective right? It is complete human nature to want to remember the best things about the best places. We are certainly not unique in that and we remember different trips for different reasons. Multiple trips to Louisiana and another to northeast Arkansas, Sonoma, California and a week long cruise to Alaska were fabulous trips for my spouse and I as we enjoyed our early years of being married. As life has transitioned, so have some of our more memorable trips. First trips to Disney, coast to see the oceans, several trips involved our kids.
One that stands out for me now as much as any, was my first visit to Steamboat Springs, Colorado and my first ever snow skiing trip. So yes, full disclosure, now, after multiple trips, I absolutely love snow skiing. First tracks first thing in the morning, cutting the lines down the mountain, watching the sun start to set as you are coming down the mountain, I could sit here and rave about all the outdoor elements that are a part of any good snow ski trip, but I think that’s just one part. It’s that revelation that has led me to appreciate it even more than i think I ever have. Let me share a few things about it.
Hospitality
Steamboat is widely know in the skiing world for its hospitality and its humility in a lot of ways. I don’t remember any problems, challenges, or any issues with anyone or anything who was local. They pride themselves in who they are, what they offer, and the opportunities.
Food options
Wow, great restaurants ranging from mountain local to mexican, brewpubs, and a “cook your own” butcher shop style restaurant. I don’t think we ever doubted where we would eat in town, nor if it would be good. I think it goes without reason, but as we got there and get settled in, we made a trip to the grocery store. We would eat breakfast in the condos and pack lunch that we could cary in our jackets or a backpack. This way, we could stop when we want and we weren’t obligated to eat on the mountains. A sense of freedom a bit to work around crowds and not get caught up in the mid-mountain break are tremendous.
Wonderful instruction
I always took a day or so on every ski trip and went to ski school, just to get the sea legs back you know? The instruction at the Steamboat Ski School was second too none. They made it ridiculously easy for a first timer to learn and feel comfortable in the span of one week to go from green circles (easy) to easy black diamonds (hard) but the end of one week.
Options beyond the mountain
There was a great deal available also beyond the mountain. From horseback options, cross country, historical pieces and shopping to name just a few, there are a lot of different options that you can pursue in addition or in lieu of being on the mountain.
This is not even accounting for all the special events hosted by the community and the mountain, as well as the historical pieces. My point being, there are a bunch of options and a lot of things you can do in Steamboat, not just a mountain.
The downside? Well, it can be challenging to get too. The Yampa Valley Regional Airport is the best airport to get to it through and it may take you a link or two to get there. I would encourage you though to not let it discourage you, it is worth the trip and I’d definitely head that way again during any season. Spring and Summer are just as much fun as the winter is.
So here’s my question for you, what is your favorite trip you have ever made? What stands out about the adventures you have had? I look forward to hearing from you.
