RAFTING NEAR STEAMBOAT SPRINGS
50 minutes south on Hwy 131 — world-class whitewater is right down the road.
Steamboat Springs is one of Colorado's most beloved mountain towns — famous for its hot springs, its cowboy culture, and one of the best ski mountains in the Rockies. But most visitors never realize that world-class whitewater rafting is just 50 minutes south on Highway 131.
The Colorado River near Kremmling is Steamboat's closest rafting destination. The Upper Colorado offers a mellow, wildlife-rich float through stunning red rock canyon country — perfect for families or anyone who wants to add a river day without committing to big rapids. If you're after serious whitewater, Gore Canyon is one of the most technical commercial runs in North America.
Combine a morning on the river with an afternoon soak at Strawberry Hot Springs and you've got one of the best days Colorado has to offer. The river is wide open from May through Labor Day — don't sleep on it.
Want More Options?
Clear Creek in Idaho Springs is about 2 hours south on I-70 — Class II–IV trips for all levels. Worth the drive if you want beginner to advanced canyon whitewater.
Which Trip Is Right For You
Explore Steamboat Springs
Everything you need to build the perfect Steamboat day around your time on the water.
Strawberry Hot Springs
One of the best hot springs in the entire state — natural pools in a stunning mountain setting. Reservations required, especially on weekends.
Old Town Hot Springs
Right in town — geothermal pools, water slides, and fitness facilities. Great for families and a quick soak after the river.
Steamboat Resort Biking
World-class lift-accessed mountain biking and hiking on Steamboat Mountain — some of the best trails in Colorado all summer long.
Steamboat Pro Rodeo
Every Friday and Saturday night in summer — one of Colorado's great Western traditions, right in downtown Steamboat.
Howler Alpine Slide
A fast, winding alpine slide down the mountain — great fun for all ages and a classic summer resort activity.
Cafe Diva
Steamboat's most celebrated fine dining destination — inventive contemporary cuisine with locally sourced ingredients and an outstanding wine list.
Laundry
A stylish gastropub in a converted laundromat — creative cocktails, small plates, and one of the best atmospheres in town.
Aurum
Upscale American cuisine with a focus on Colorado ingredients — beautiful space, great cocktails, and a seasonally driven menu.
Mazzola's
A Steamboat Italian classic — casual, family-friendly, and consistently excellent pasta and pizza right in downtown.
Creekside Cafe & Grill
A beloved local breakfast and lunch spot — hearty portions, friendly service, and a great post-raft refuel stop.
Salt and Lime
Fresh Mexican street food in a lively setting — great tacos, margaritas, and the perfect casual lunch spot.
Harwig's Fine Dining
Classic technique, modern cuisine — French-inspired fine dining with seasonal menus, locally sourced ingredients, and an extensive wine collection in Steamboat Springs.
Strings Music Festival
One of Colorado's premier summer music festivals — world-class classical, jazz, and folk performances in a gorgeous outdoor pavilion.
Old Town Pub
Steamboat's go-to live music bar — local and touring acts most nights, cold beer, and a true mountain-town atmosphere.
Schmiggity's
A lively downtown venue with live music, DJs, and late-night energy — the pulse of Steamboat's nightlife scene.
The Press
A newer downtown spot with a great craft beer selection and regular live music — solid choice for a relaxed evening out.
Opera Steamboat
A beloved regional opera company bringing world-class productions to the mountains — a surprisingly rich cultural gem in Steamboat.
Tread of Pioneers Museum
A fascinating look at Steamboat's history — from Ute heritage to mining boom, ski history, and the town's Western roots.
Steamboat Symphony
The regional symphony orchestra performing classical and pops concerts throughout the year in Steamboat and surrounding communities.
Steamboat Grand
The premier ski-in/ski-out hotel at the base of Steamboat Resort — full service, spa, and all the mountain amenities.
Gravity Haus Steamboat
An adventure-focused boutique hotel and members club — the natural home base for a trip that includes rafting, biking, and hot springs.
Legacy Vacation Resort
Spacious condo-style accommodations — great value for families and groups wanting full kitchen and living space.
Nordic Lodge
A charming, affordable slopeside property with a warm mountain atmosphere and great ski-season value.
Rabbit Ears Motel
A Steamboat classic since 1952 — affordable, central, and full of the quirky character that makes Steamboat Springs special.
Make a Day of It
Your Steamboat day, start to finish — with the river as the centerpiece.
Hit the Water
50 min south on Hwy 131 to Kremmling for the Upper Colorado float or Gore Canyon. Book your trip →
Lunch in Steamboat
Back in town for lunch at Creekside Cafe or Salt and Lime — both easy, casual, and great post-river spots.
Strawberry Hot Springs
Soak in the natural geothermal pools just outside of town — the perfect recovery after a morning on the river.
Wind Down
Dinner at Cafe Diva or Aurum, then a performance at the Strings Music Festival or live music at Old Town Pub.
How Far Is the River?
Click any city to see how far it is from our two locations. Most of Colorado is closer than you think.