Trails

The trails program is responsible for the maintenance and management of approximately 55 miles of trails in the Steamboat Springs area. For information on trail conditions, trail open/closed status, and distances see the Steamboat Springs Interactive Trails Map

There are three major trail systems in and around the city:

  1. Jenny Carey

    Open Space and Trails Supervisor

Howelsen HillLane Emerald 2016

Emerald Mountain serves as the backdrop and the site on which the EMERALD MOUNTAIN TRAILS SYSTEM (PDF) is located. The City of Steamboat Springs owns this land that offers over 24 miles of non-motorized multi-use recreational TRAILS (PDF)

These trails have been planned and constructed for the public to enjoy and allow two-way traffic for pedestrians, bicyclists, and equestrians.

Spring CreekNWETZEL_5711_Noah Wetzel (1)

The SPRING CREEK TRAIL (PDF) is a 5.2 mile, multi-use trail, that is very popular for hiking and biking with residents and visitors of Steamboat Springs. 

Parking is located at the intersection of East Maple Street and Amethyst Street. The signed multi-use trail is adjacent to RCR #34 for the first half mile up to the Spring Creek Park. People choosing to use RCR #34 should follow the rules of the road and expect vehicles and bicycle traffic. The trail continues through a gate past the park, and continues on two track up the canyon for approximately another mile. Trail users should stay on the right side of the two track trail and expect vehicles and bicycle traffic. The trail becomes classic single track on City of Steamboat Springs property for the next 1.5 miles, climbing gently along the creek. The last 1.4 miles of the trail continues to climb in the Routt National Forest to the end of the trail at Dry Lake Campground, off of RCR #38, Buffalo Pass Road. 

Trail users should expect bicycle traffic and all users are required to follow the rules of the trail, travel at safe speeds, and respect other users. Dogs are required to be on leash on the entire trail, and pet waste is to be disposed of properly.

Yampa River Core TrailCore Trail1_Larry Pierce

The YAMPA RIVER CORE TRAIL (PDF) is a seven mile, non-motorized multi-use trail that follows the meandering YAMPA RIVER from Dougherty Road through downtown Steamboat Springs to Bear River Park. 

Groves of cottonwood trees, excellent fishing, scenic overlook benches, and lovely picnic spots make this trail a great place for a leisurely stroll or a commuter route through town. Additionally, there are many PARKS AND PLAYGROUNDS (PDF) and more miles of trail that can be accessed off of the Core Trail.

Dogs

Dogs must be on a 6 foot handheld leash unless in an OFF LEASH ZONE.

Trail Condition Reporting

Do you frequently hike or ride city trails? You can help out by reporting downed trees or other unfavorable trail conditions that you encounter along the way.

Volunteer Work Days (Summer 2021)


More details on Summer 2021 Volunteer Work Days coming soon!

Bike Town USA

For additional information on cycling in Routt County including events, races, trails and maps, and bike rentals see the BIKE TOWN USA website.