Steamboat CO, Feb. 13-19, 2016

CMR and I originally hadn't planned on a ski trip this year, but by December, we knew we had to try something, as it wasn't looking good for the east.  We had taken the kids to Steamboat in 2008 for our first big family ski trip, and we remembered that it was a lot of fun.  Then, we spent most of our time on the Sunshine lift, doing the long blue groomers that are perfect for little kids learning to ski.  This time was different - after 7 years in the Mountain Adventure Program, the kids are the other end of the spectrum.  We were lucky if they stuck with us for a run or two before heading off for steeper terrain.

Steamboat had received a lot of snow this season, but none in the week before we arrived.  Luckily, 5-6 inches fell over the first two days we were there, and made for really nice, soft conditions. The weather was pretty warm the whole time, and we saw some sun in our last 3 days there.

We lucked out and had a condo right on the slopes. It was fun to watch the little kids in their beginner lessons from our window:


We spent most of our week doing runs off of the Storm Peak Express and Morningside lifts.  The kids wanted to ski the chutes the whole time, which requires riding both lifts, but CMR and I found plenty to occupy ourselves in those areas.  There are tree runs everywhere.  




We did a few runs off of the Pony Express lift each day, but the snow was a little crustier down there so we decided to stay up higher on the mountain. One of my favorite areas was off of the Sundown lift, in the tree runs called Shadows and Closets.  The snow was beautiful and the trees were really nicely spaced.


We enjoyed going into town on most days after skiing.  There are lots of nice shops and restaurants.  We had some really good meals at Low Country Kitchen (twice) and another at Truffle Pig, which is by the base area.


It was a really great trip. I have to say that Steamboat is now one of my favorite ski areas. The layout spreads people out, and it never felt crowded, even though it was a holiday week.  The on and off-mountain food was great, and everyone was really friendly. We made a lot of nice acquaintances on the lifts, and even met another Gore family who were also escaping the poor conditions at home.  It's not the easiest place to get to, but we made all of our connections, and the drive from the local airport to Steamboat is a breeze. I'm looking forward to going back again.

Brings back memories of my own trip.  Want to go back ASAP.  What's that really steep trail you're on in the picture?

Sounds like a perfect trip!  Nice shots

snoloco wrote

What's that really steep trail you're on in the picture?

That's my son somewhere in the chutes.  CMR and I didn't venture in there.  My kids said they were great. I asked how steep and they said "headwall of Rumor but with better snow".

That aspen glade picture is really beautiful.

Steamboat is a great town. I spent two years there and after that time I have to admit that I enjoyed the summers more than the winters. If you ever get the chance check it out then. Between the hiking, biking, climbing, summer music events, floating the Yampa, fishing, and hot spring-ing there is a ton of cool stuff to do.

Excellent shots. Looks like you made a good choice.

Great shots - makes me want to go back!

Looks great PD!  Yeah, Shadows & Closets are awesome.  Love Steamboat.

Looks like a great trip. Some of those pics are good enough to be framed.

poindexter wrote

The snow was beautiful and the trees were really nicely spaced.

Oh my yes.