Steamboat Springs and the surrounding Routt County are often celebrated for “Champagne Powder” in the winter, but for hikers and backpackers, the region is a high-altitude playground of lush aspen groves, jagged volcanic peaks, and hidden alpine lakes.

The terrain ranges from the accessible, family-friendly trails of the Yampa Valley to the rugged, remote solitude of the Mount Zirkel and Flat Tops Wilderness areas.

 Popular Hiking Destinations

1. The Iconic & Accessible (Close to Town)

• Fish Creek Falls: The quintessential Steamboat hike. A 0.25-mile paved walk leads to the base of a 283-foot waterfall. For a more moderate challenge, continue 2.5 miles up to the Upper Falls.

   

• Emerald Mountain (Blackmer Trail): Located right in town, this 4-mile round trip offers the best “postcard” view of downtown Steamboat and the ski resort.

   

• Spring Creek Trail: A local favorite for families and dog owners. This shaded 10-mile (out-and-back) trail follows a bubbling creek through a canyon, with a reservoir about half a mile in where dogs can swim.

   

2. High-Alpine Adventures

• Rabbit Ears Peak: Visible from almost anywhere in the valley, this 6-mile trek takes you to the base of the unique “ears” rock formation. The final scramble is steep but offers 360-degree views of the Continental Divide.

   

• Hahns Peak: Located north of town near Clark, this is a short but strenuous 3.6-mile hike to a historic fire lookout at 10,839 feet. It provides arguably the best views in the county.

   

3. The “Thrilling” Choice

• Devil’s Causeway: Located in the Flat Tops Wilderness (approx. 1.5 hours south of town). This legendary 10-mile loop features a narrow land bridge just 4 feet wide with 1,000-foot drops on both sides. Not for those with a fear of heights!

 Backpacking & Wilderness Loops

For those looking to disappear for a few days, Routt County offers some of the most pristine wilderness in Colorado.

⚠️ Pro-Tips for the Trail

• Moose Safety: Routt County has one of the highest moose populations in Colorado. Give them plenty of space; they are much more aggressive than elk or deer.

• The Afternoon Storm: In the summer, “monsoon” thunderstorms typically roll in around 2:00 PM. If you are hiking above the treeline (like Hahns Peak or Rabbit Ears), plan to be heading back down by noon.

• Bear Awareness: Black bears are active here. Bear-resistant food canisters or proper hangs are required for overnight stays in the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest.

   

• Permits: Most hiking in the area is free, though some trailheads (like Fish Creek Falls) require a small day-use fee ($5). No advance permits are currently required for most backcountry camping, but always check the Forest Service website for seasonal fire restrictions.