First ‘discovered’ and founded by trappers in the 1800’s, modern Steamboat Springs and its downtown area have their genesis in the early 1900’s when the town was first introduced to Nordic Skiing and jumping by Norwegian Carl Howelsen. Now, Downtown Steamboat offers numerous living opportunities for both the local resident and second homeowner. Located 4 miles northwest of the Steamboat Ski area and 160 miles northwest of Denver on highway 40, Downtown Steamboat Springs is the cultural and entertainment center of Northwest Colorado, containing numerous western shops, jewelry stores, art gallery’s and gourmet restaurants. Recent construction and redevelopment has broadened the real estate opportunities of Downtown, with mixed-use luxury condominiums enhancing the local landscape and adding to the areas investment and residence options. These mixed use complexes, with shopping and dining businesses on the ground floor and residence units throughout, are fast becoming the choice for many homeowners who desire stress-free living with plenty of amenities abound.
Located just south of Downtown, on the south side of the Yampa River, is Howelsen Hill and its surrounding park. Founded by Carl Howelsen after he arrived in Steamboat Springs in 1914, Howelsen Hill is the oldest continuous use ski area in Colorado. Home to national as well as international ski jumping and Nordic Skiing competitions, Howelsen hill has been the training ground for 64 Olympians who have competed in over 90 Olympic Games. Steamboat Springs’ world renowned Winter Sports Club uses Howelsen hill as one of their main training sites year round. Summertime brings the pro rodeo series to Howelsen park. Every weekend form mid-June through August crowds pack the stands at Romick arena to see some of the finest Rodeo athletes in the region compete. Attached to Howelsen hill on the south lays Emerald Mountain, a year round recreation area favored by locals. Containing dozens of hiking and mountain biking trails Emerald Mountain also offers some of the most stunning scenery and landscape the Yampa Valley has to offer. Cutting a beautiful swath through downtown Steamboat is the Yampa River. Tree lined and unmatched in its temper and beauty, the Yampa River offers fishing and water recreation activities throughout the 4 distinct seasons of Steamboat Springs. Whether you are a competitive kayaker searching for the ultimate rush, or a die-hard fly fisherman seeking the solitude of a cool fall afternoon amidst the changing colors of the aspens, the Yampa River may become your sanctuary of choice. The Yampa core river trail, which follows the river from west of downtown to past the Steamboat Ski area south and east allows bikers, joggers, walkers and roller-bladers the perfect place for exercise and relaxation. As the area continues to grow and prosper, Downtown Steamboat Springs will be the residence and investment destination choice of many.
