Sunday, March 4, 2007

Steamboat Haven

A three hour drive west of Denver, depending on the traffic, lives the beautiful mountain town of Steamboat Springs. Ever since I was born, my family has vacationed in or near Steamboat Springs at all times of year. Unlike many ski towns, Steamboat has numerous activities to do besides winter sports.


Since Steamboat lies in the large Yampa Valley, it had room to spread out and become a full functioning city with the benefits of the surrounding Rocky Mountains. Yes, you can go skiing, sledding, snowshoeing, etc..., but it has beautiful hiking and biking trails around the Flat Tops, the back country, and practically in their backyard. Still Water is one of the specific spots my family has frequented. In the summer, the red paintbrush and other flowers in all colors of the rainbow splash the hillsides along the trails. A roaring crystal clear stream dodges through pine trees and over massive boulders spraying my pant legs. Every so often, actually about every minute, I needed to swat away swarms of mosquitoes. We would finish a day with fishing at the reservoir, and if we were lucky, have caught a few Brooke Trout to fry for dinner back at the cabin. But the best thing was feeling close to God through his creation and the peace it brought.

The other place in Steamboat that sticks in my mind is the Strawberry Park Hot Springs. After driving past Strawberry Park and a steep drive up a mountain, we parked and made the small journey down toward the natural wonder. A natural spa, the spring provides three pools from 104 degrees F to 150 degrees F in an intimate and secluded area. The experience is definitely worth the $10.00 entry fee.

Though the Hot Spring is a luxury, so many other activities can be enjoyed for free. These were just a couple activities I've enjoyed and continue to enjoy in Steamboat Springs and I recommend a trip up there for to anyone. It's truly a beautiful place to visit.

No comments: