Old Town Steamboat Springs, located just north of Downtown, is steeped in local history and perfectly located for families and homeowners alike. Just 160 miles northwest of Denver, Steamboat Springs was first settled by Trappers drawn to the natural hot springs and bountiful hunting and fishing opportunities of the Yampa Valley in the early 1800’s. Local lore states that French Trappers mistakenly heard what they thought were the sounds of a chugging Steamboat – which were instead the sounds of the hot springs churning from the ground. The late 1800’s saw a mining boom in the Hahn’s peak region north of Steamboat Springs and the town began its slow and deliberate growth, eventually transforming itself into what is now a year round winter and summer resort paradise and vacation spot of travelers worldwide. Old Town Steamboat Springs now contains an eclectic mix of the new and old. A 1920’s Victorian design set next to a contemporary alpine luxury home is not unusual in these neighborhoods, creating a unique scope and feel to the area. Being a location near to many of Steamboat Springs’ finest public and private schools, it is not unusual to see dozens of children and teenagers walking the neighborhoods throughout the afternoons. Also home to many of the town’s religious congregations, Old Town can also be bustling on the weekends. Many neighborhoods in Old Town are within easy walking distance of Downtown Steamboat Springs, offering a myriad of shopping and fine dining opportunities for the resident or tourist. At the north end of Old Town, just past Steamboat Springs High School, is Spring Creek trail, a multi-use seven plus mile long maintained dirt trail which winds its way through aspen groves along Spring Creek and ends over 1,200 vertical feet later at Dry Lake campground. Spring Creek trail is perhaps Steamboats most popular recreational trail, offering biking, hiking, snowshoeing and x-country skiing opportunities year-round. The top of the Spring Creek trail also provides access to Buffalo Pass, another camping and recreation area high above Steamboat Springs. At the east end of Old Town, just as highway 40 heads south to the Steamboat Ski area is the Old Town Hot Springs Pool and recreation center. This year round fitness and center offers 2 water slides and numerous natural hot spring pools in addition to complete workout facilities and fitness classes. Newly remodeled in 2007, this center is filled with local residents and tourists alike seeking health, recreation and fitness. Popular with local families new and old, Old Town Steamboat is the heart of Steamboat Springs, with historic charm interlaced with the living environment of a world-class alpine ski resort town.
