Steamboat Springs, CO

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Steamboat Springs, located in the upper valley of the Yampa River just west of the Continental Divide and Rabbit Ears Pass, is an outdoor recreation mecca. Famous for skiing in winter, Steamboat in summer & fall attracts enthusiasts for its mountain & river scenery, town vibe, mountain wildflowers, and sparkling aspens. Popular activities include hiking, trail running, mountain biking, and fishing. There are great options for running in Steamboat Springs, from the 6-mile multi-use path along the Yampa River to scenic trail running options for all abilities.

The best place to run in Steamboat is the 6-mile Yampa River Core Trail, easily accessible from town. For some easier trail running, head to the Spring Creek Trail or some of the ‘green circle’ trails at Emerald Mountain. Trail runners will find great variety on the 55 miles of trails maintained by the town, with even more options a short drive away.

Runner Notes: Be aware the elevation of Steamboat Springs is 6,800 feet! Also, winters are cold with tons of snow, so most trails are not accessible for running. Use caution during ‘mud season’. It can be warm in summer, though nights cool off.

Editor's Picks

Some of our favorite runs in Steamboat Springs, CO

Yampa River Core Trail

This 6-mile paved multi-use path is the heart of running in Steamboat Springs. Views of the river... more...

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Yampa River Core Trail

Steamboat Springs, CO

Along the Water | Iconic | Multi-Use Trails

This 6-mile paved multi-use path is the heart of running in Steamboat Springs. Views of the river and surrounding mountains as the path passes through several parks. Good access from downtown and other main spots in Steamboat Springs.

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Spring Creek Trail — Steamboat Springs

Steamboat Springs, CO

Hilly | Trail Running

A good bet for some climbing on a fairly easy surface. The multi-use trail is popular for running, hiking, and cycling in Steamboat Springs. Overall, the trail is nearly 6 miles if accessed from downtown. The upper 3 miles are more rugged. Wooded and open terrain.

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Emerald Mountain/Howelsen Hill — Trail Running

Steamboat Springs, CO

Hilly | Trail Running | Running Track

There are 24 miles of trails in the 4,000-acre Emerald Mountain area, whose base is at Howelsen Hill. Options from easy to challenging, on terrain featuring scrub oak, aspen trees, and wildflowers. Mainly, singletrack with some dirt road options.

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Steamboat Springs Trail Running Options

Steamboat Springs, CO

Hilly | Trail Running

There's a wonderful variety of trail running options in Steamboat Springs. This post has links to a few recommendations on the best places for trail running in Steamboat Springs.

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Steamboat Springs Downtown Run

Steamboat Springs, CO

Historic | Running Track

Running some of the main streets of downtown Steamboat Springs is a decent option -- especially at winter or if running at night. The main east-west streets are ~1 mile in length and are flat. There are stores, historic buildings, nice lighting, and a festive scene.

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Yampa River Core Trail

Steamboat Springs, CO

Along the Water | Iconic | Multi-Use Trails

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Steamboat has cold, snowy winters and warm, sunny summers. In summer, daytime temperatures average in the mid-80sF (28C), but nights cool off into the mid-40s, owing to the altitude and mountain air. Autumn is delightful and scenic with the glowing aspens. Winters are cold, with average highs in the high 20s and lows that dip into the single digits. Snow in town averages 185 inches annually. Winter temps and snowfall are more extreme in the surrounding mountains.

This is a major resort area with plentiful accommodation options. For out the door access to the two most popular running options in Steamboat Springs — the Yampa River Core Trail and the Spring Creek Trail — try to stay right in town.

There’s a plethora of outdoor gear stores that sell what one needs for running and trail running.

Steamboat Marathon, Half Marathon, 10k, & 5k. June. One of the most scenic road races in the country, according to our friends at Halfmarathons.net