Time to taste 19" inches of Steamboat's famous Champagne!

Are you dreaming of a white Christmas? Well in Steamboat Springs, "it's beginning to look a lot like Christmas!" It's time to ski our winter wonderland.

The Steamboat Ski Resort reported an epic 19 inches of new snow in 24 hours! Yee haw!! It is officially the best powder day of the 08/09 ski season so far. The conditions are idyllic and will imprint themselves in your memories for everafter.

If you haven't booked your Steamboat Ski Vacation yet --- what more encouragement do you need! 19 inches of fresh powder; 100+ inches so far; and up to 50% off Steamboat lodging. Seriously, it doesn't get better than this!!!

Photos of the Day courtesy of Larry Pierce, Steamboat Ski Resort

Snow predicted at Steamboat Ski Area throughout week

The Steamboat Pilot Newspaper declares on the front page today "The snow isn’t going to stop any time soon." Weather forecasts across the web show animated snow flake weather icons alongside each day of the week in Steamboat Springs! Bring on the powder!

The National Weather Ser­vice predicts snow will continue to fall in Steamboat Springs tonight through Tuesday afternoon, dropping another 6 to 12 inches.

The weather service also predicts more storms for the remainder of the week, with cold temperatures dropping be­-low zero in the higher valleys. Whiteout conditions are expected in the upper mountains.

Don't forget! This is the last day to book the 'Free Steamboat Lift Ticket' package for stays opening day to Christmas day. Can't make it for Christmas? Save 50% off December, or up to 30% off the rest of the Steamboat ski season.

3" new snow, new terrain and no lift lines at the Steamboat Ski Resort

SNOW: 3" (24 hrs); 3"(48 hrs); Base: 29"; Total: 69"
CONDITIONS: Powder/Packed Powder
LIFTS: 9/18
TRAILS: 100/165
TEMP: 36/0

We had great expectations from this last storm, but it only produced about 3 inches. But who's complaining? This is the perfect time of year to get out and ski hard to build up those muscles so when it REALLY snows, we can last more than an hour.

And, as Tom Ross shows us in his Steamboat Pilot photo (above), there are no lift lines at the Steamboat Ski Resort. Truth be told, there are hardly any lift lines at any time of year in Steamboat Springs. In early December, there really is no waiting in line. So, what are you waiting for?

Don't forget, this is the last weekend for Free Steamboat Lift Tickets.

(Snow is expected for the next several days... See Steamboat Weather Forecast)

Storm to bring significant snow to Steamoat Ski Area

A foot or more of snow is expected on the slopes of Mount Werner and at high elevations in Steamboat Springs this weekend.
This is perfect timing since the Steamboat Ski Resort is doubling the amount of terrain open for this weekend so that nearly 2,000 acres, almost 65% of the mountain will be open. That means there will be 3,668 vertical feet of skiing and riding!
This is the last weekend to take advantage or ResortQuest Steamboat's unbeatable lodging package - SKI FREE IN STEAMBOAT OPENING DAY TO CHRISTMAS DAY - Get FREE Steamboat Lift Tickets.
Tomorrow, the resort expects 104 trails offering 1,896 acres of terrain with 9 of 18 lifts spinning for skiers and boarders. The majority of new terrain opening is in the Sunshine and Priest Creek areas including Tomahawk, Flintlock, Quickdraw, Rendezvous Way, Sunshine Liftline, Rolex, Westside, Broadway, Daybreak and more. In addition, East Face, North St. Pats and Last Chance will open on the north side of the Ski Area on Saturday. However, Moonlight, Lights Out, lower Shadows and lower Priest Creek, Sundown Express liftlines as well as Christmas Tree Bowl and the Chutes will remain closed. The hugely popular mini-terrain park on Lil’ Rodeo will continue to feature rails for those looking for a park play.
In addition to the 5 chairlifts already operating, South Peak, Sundown Express, Elkhead and Sunshine Express will begin spinning on Saturday.
A strong storm system will begin moving through the area today, though the wind, cold and snowfall expected to intensify Saturday, with most of the storm’s accumulation to take place Saturday evening and early Sunday, said meteorologist Norv Larson, of the National Weather Service’s Grand Junction Fore­cast Office.
Overnight lows are poised to dip as low as 12 degrees Saturday night, with wind gusts up to 25 mph.
The Steamboat Ski Area reported a 26-inch base at mid-mountain Thursday and has recorded 66 inches of total snowfall so far this season.

Adventure Trip Magazine ranks Steamboat Ski Area No. 3 Ski Resort in the World

SNOW: 0" (24 hrs); 0"(48 hrs); Base: 28"; Total: 62"
CONDITIONS: Packed Powder
LIFTS: 6/18
TRAILS: 67/165
TEMP: 40/21

Adventure Trip Magazine, which bills itself as catering to people “who seek out travel destinations beyond the routine,” aggregated the results of top ski resort listings and placed the Steamboat Ski Area at No. 3 overall!

The article describes their decision making process: "The science behind this is simple. We took all the big “top ski resort” lists across the web and in print and found the resorts that made all or most of these lists. Each resort got 1 point for each time it was mentioned. Resorts got 2 points each time they got a #1 spot. We took the top 10 point earners got our own Top 10 Ski Resorts... Major sources for this article were - Orbitz, Sunset Magazine, Outside Magazine, AskMen.com, Forbes, Epinions."

The results:
#10 Alta, UT USA
#9 Lake Taho, CA USA
#8 Cortina, Italy
#7 Aspen/Snowmass, CO USA
#6 Big Sky, MT USA
#5 Chamonix-Mont Blanc, France
#4 Banff, AB Canada
#3 Steamboat Springs, CO USA
#2 Vail, CO USA
#1 Whistler, BC Canada

Skiing Magazine readers chose Steamboat as the No. 1 spot for tree skiing and ranked it in the top five for powder, top 10 for après scene and top 10 for best resorts in North America. Ski Magazine ranked the Steamboat ski area as the No. 1 family resort in the West and the No. 8 resort in North America.

Steamboat’s No. 8 ranking is a slight improvement compared with the previous two years, when it ranked ninth. This is the third year in a row Steamboat has garnered a top-10 ranking. It was ranked 11th by SKI readers in 2005. Steamboat was sandwiched between Aspen Mountain in seventh and Breckenridge in ninth. Longstanding programs such as “Kids Ski Free” and “Kids Fly Free” made Steamboat SKI’s No. 1 family resort in the West.

SKI typically polls about 6,000 readers each year to get their perceptions of ski areas in 18 categories. They include overall satisfaction, access, après ski, dining, family programs, grooming, lifts, lodging, off-hill activities, on-mountain food, scenery, service, snow terrain/challenge, terrain variety, terrain parks, value and weather.

11 inches of new snow at Steamboat Ski Area in last 48 hours

SNOW: 0" (24 hrs); 11"(48 hrs); Base: 29"; Total: 62"
CONDITIONS: Packed Powder
LIFTS: 6/18
TRAILS: 67/165
TEMP: 37/19

The snow that powdered the valley’s nose Thursday - over 16 inches of the famous Champagne Powder Snow - ensured that skiers and riders would enjoy fresh fluff when the Steamboat Ski Area gondola opened yesterday morning, and Storm Peak Express today.

This latest dump ensured soft snow conditions for intermediates cruising on Rudi’s Run and Lower Rainbow. Ag­gres­sive skiers can begin building moguls on Burgess Creek Liftline and White Out.

The next chance for snow is expected Sunday evening.

Steamboat Ski Resort Opens Gondola This Weekend

After a few inches of snow this past weekend in Steamboat Springs, and more expected in the next 24 hours, the Steamboat Ski Resort will open the Gondola and 20 more runs for this weekend.

The Steamboat Ski Area will catapult to nearly 800 acres of open terrain including top-to-bottom skiing and riding on Saturday, December 6th. The gondola and Burgess Creek lift are scheduled to open Friday, followed by the Storm Peak Express lift on Saturday.

Final terrain decisions will be made day by day and are weather-dependent, Steamboat Ski and Resort Corp. spokesman Mike Lane said Tuesday, but the ski area is poised to open access to more than 20 additional runs this weekend.

Priest Creek terrain off High Noon to Duster will be accessible from the Storm Peak lift.

Terrain and runs expected to open this weekend include: Buddy’s Run; High Noon; Duster; upper Shadows; upper Closet; One O’Clock; Two O’Clock; Three O’Clock; Twilight; lower Rainbow; White Out; Rudi’s Run; Lightning; Blizzard; Ego; Norther; BC Liftline; Arc; So What; Flat Out; Tower; and Skyline.

Forecasts are calling for additional snow and colder temperatures this week.

Experience Steamboat Springs this season with a variety of winter vacation deals like Ski Free at Steamboat, which offers free Steamboat Lift Tickets from Opening Day to Christmas Day when powderhounds book a minimum 3 nights lodging through ResortQuest Steamboat Vacation Rentals. Pick your perfect Steamboat lodging - the exact condo! Our website represents each and every one of our rentals with photos, maps and detailed descriptions. Take the guessing game out of vacation planning!

10 inches of new snow in Steamboat Springs

SNOW: 5" (24 hrs); 10"(48 hrs); Base: 22"; Total: 45"
CONDITIONS: Packed Powder
LIFTS: 2/18
TRAILS: 7/165
TEMP: 34/20

Unfortunately I have been out of town over the Thanksgiving break and it appears that the Steamboat Ski Resort has received 10inches of new snow. Oh, I missed the first powder day.
Check-out the great photo gallery at the SteamboatPilot.com.
There is a break in Steamboat's weather today, but snow is predicted at least through Wednesday this week.
With all this powdery snow around, it is officially time to come to Steamboat Springs. Plus, the 'Ski Free in Steamboat' package has been extended. Book a 3+ night stay with ResortQuest Steamboat by 12/15/2008, and stay by 12/26/2008 and you'll get FREE STEAMBOAT LIFT TICKETS...!

Steamboat Ski Resort Opening Day, 11/26/08

The Steamboat Ski Resort opens for the 2008/2009 ski season this Wednesday, November 26, 2008. The first day of the season is known as Scholarship Day on which skiers and riders can purchase specially priced $20 lift tickets which goes to the Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club’s (SSWSC) Scholarship Fund. No season passes or value passes will be valid that day. Scholarship Day tickets may be purchased at the Main Steamboat Ticket Office, open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and are available in advance beginning Monday, November 24th.
For the past 95 years, the SSWSC has been providing opportunities for young athletes to become successful competitors and to achieve their personal goals through participation in winter sports. The Club’s success is one reason Steamboat Springs enjoys the moniker Ski Town, U.S.A.® The SSWSC is one of the oldest and most recognized ski clubs in the United States and was named the United States Ski & Snowboard Association’s Club of the Year three times in the past decade.
Since the 1991, Scholarship Day has raised more than $525,000 for children participating in SSWSC programs. So, come out and take a few turns in Steamboat and help our future Olympians.
(Don't forget about the "Ski Free in Steamboat Lodging & Lift package...")
Although a final decision about open terrain will not be made until tomorrow due to conditions, the resort anticipates the following trails for Wednesday: Preview, Stampede, See Ya, Sitz, Jess’ Cut-Off and Upper Boulevard to name a few. For those looking to get their jib on, a few rails and features are expected to be available on Lil’ Rodeo. The Christie Peak Express and Preview lifts will operate on Scholarship Day. Please note: no beginner or intermediate terrain will be available above the Christie Peak Express mid-station.
Steamboat will celebrate the start of the 2008/09 season with the new Winter White Wednesday Celebration, which includes specials across the resort’s food & beverage, retail and Ski & Snowboard School outlets. In addition, free Steamboat Opening Day lanyards will be handed out to the first 500 people on Christie Peak Express.

As part of Winter White Wednesday, the Bear River Bar & Grill will feature 2-for-1 White Pizzas, $2 Bud & Bud Light 20oz. drafts and $3 White Out drink specials. Worried Men will perform live in concert from 1-4pm at the Bear. Purchase a snowboard or pair of skis on opening day from RideSports or Steamboat Ski & Sport and receive a free one-hour private lesson. In addition, when you spend $300 or $500, receive $100 and $200 respectively off your purchase. In need of a quick tune-up on your technique, the Ski & Snowboard School is offering season pass holders a special buy one ½-day group ski or snowboard clinic and get one free. Gondola Joe’s will kick-off the season with $3 Thanks-A-Latte White Chocolate Lattes on Wednesday. Finally for the cowboys and cowgirls at heart, $5 mechanical bull rides will run throughout the day in the Coca-Cola Gondola Square Adventure Zone. Additional restrictions may apply to the above programs and specials.

Starting Wednesday, November 26th, free parking will be provided in the Knoll Lot (within walking distance) or Meadows Lot (with shuttle service). From Dec. 1-5, the Meadows lot will be closed with free parking available in the Knoll lot. Otherwise, paid parking will be available starting Nov. 26th in both the Gondola Square and Ski Time Square Parking Garages for $15/day. Guests may drop-off and pick-up family & friends at the “Passenger Unloading Zone” on the right at the entrance to Gondola Transit Center or utilize the Ski Time Square drop-off location. However, no unattended vehicles will be permitted in either location. Additionally, the resort will provide a limited number of free 30-minute spaces reserved on the lower level of the Gondola Square Parking Garage for drop-off/pick-up of children in KVC and Ski School programs.
The Meadows parking lot and shuttle service has been redesigned to improve the overall experience, including a new and expanded vehicle parking orientation and designed shuttle stops. Due to expansion permit conditions, shuttles will now go to the light at Pine Grove and make a left, then enter at the main entrance. To improve shuttle access and turn-around times, designated shuttle waiting areas have been established for loading and unloading

FREE Steamboat Lift Tickets from Opening Day to Christmas Day

ResortQuest Steamboat is unveiling its warmest welcome to the Steamboat Ski Resort yet--FREE lift tickets for the from Opening Day (November 26) through Christmas Day.

Simply book a minimum 3-nights lodging between Opening Day, Wednesday, November 26th, and Thursday, December 25th to secure your FREE Steamboat lift tickets. Tickets are per person, limit 2 people per bedroom and are valid one day less than nights stayed. Lift tickets range from $76 to $91 per day. With 2 tickets per room, per night, you can save big! (Restrictions apply)

ResortQuest's reservationists in Steamboat Springs can also book your entire ski vacation, including Steamboat flights, shuttle transfers, ski rentals and all of your Steamboat Springs activities.

Plus! Have you heard about the flights to Steamboat from $99?

Steamboat Ski Resort Opens in 10 days

The final countdown to the Steamboat Ski Resort opening day is on! 8 days to go until the unofficial opening day - Winter Sports Club Scholarship Day, Wednesday November 26; and 9 days until the official opening day on Thanksgiving, Thursday November 27.
The town of Steamboat Springs emerged this weekend from a week of drizzle and snow. Although has not stuck to the ground in the valley, people venturing above 9,000 feet are encountering winter-like conditions.
The November snow is in contrast to November 2007, when the Yampa Valley and surrounding mountains remained mild and dry right up to an early Thanksgiving. Of course, Steamboat powderhounds know what happened last winter, when the ski area recorded a record 489 inches of snow.
As of November 20 last year, Steamboat Springs had only recorded a trace of snow. Last week, on Thursday November 13, 2008, U.S. Forest Service personnel had observed an accumulated snow depth of 23 inches on Buffalo Pass, above the town of Steamboat.
The Steamboat Ski Area is reporting a 14-inch base on 27 inches of seasonal snowfall as of last Friday morning. The trend suggests the ski area won’t have to postpone its opening as it did last year.
Nordic skiers have been kicking and gliding for a week on the groomed trails maintained by the Steamboat Springs Nordic Council at Bruce’s Trail on Rabbit Ears Pass. The trails are maintained for early-season skiing only in cooperation with the U.S. Forest Service and Birgitta Lindgren, of the Steamboat Ski Touring Center.
PHOTO CREDIT: The Steamboat Ski Area reported a 14-inch base and 27 inches of total snowfall as of Friday morning. The winter conditions are in stark contrast to the dry, mild November of 2007. Enlarge photo Larry Pierce/Courtesy

It's Dumping Powder Snow on the Steamboat Ski Resort!

SNOW: 7" (24 hrs); 7"(48 hrs); Base: n/a"; Total: 11.7"
CONDITIONS: (Steamboat Ski Resort Opens November 27)
LIFTS: 0/18
TRAILS: 0/165
TEMP: 36/11
Let It Snow! Let it Snow! Let it Snow! On the day after America went to the polls to vote Red or Blue, in Steamboat Springs we're focused on our favorite color - White. Today we're seeing our summer-long campaigning start to pay-off (with a little help from Mother Nature) in the form of powder snow falling across the Steamboat Ski Resort. Opening day for Steamboat is just 20 days away. Keep your eye on the snow totals today as we begin piling up the powder!
This snow is just the optimism we needed! It's just one more thing piling on top of all our unbeatable Steamboat Springs travel deals - you can't afford to miss out:

• ResortQuest Steamboat's lodging discounts up to 30% off (in addition to reduced rates over select dates, including the Holiday Season 12/19-12/26/08)
• Steamboat lift ticket discounts + Kids Ski Free!
• ski/snowboard rental deals + Kids Rent Free!
• Steamboat Flight Specials from our Flight Desk + Kids Fly Free
• and special coupons to ship your luggage or get your groceries delivered...

You deserve a Steamboat Springs vacation!!!

It's Snowing at the Steamboat Ski Resort!

Today, Steamboat Springs' residents woke up to a winter, white, snow-covered landscape. As I type this afternoon, the flakes gently fall outside my window. Winter has arrived to the Steamboat Ski Resort!

Steamboat Springs has already had three snowfalls this year. I have not posted photos or comments since I felt none were significant enough to 'write home about.' So what makes today different? I have a new Golden Retriever, Matilda. "Tilly" is 5 months old and today was her first experience with snow, ever! So, by my judgement, today is really Steamboat's first official snow fall for the 2008/2009 ski season!

Steamboat has a few weeks to go until opening day, November 27, 2008. But, die-hard skiers and snowboarders are already carving up the Rocky Mountains. Just last week I posted an article to our general blog, http://steamboatvacationrentals.blogspot.com/ about the opening of Loveland and A-Basin ski resorts in Colorado, "The Ski Season is Upon US"

Yesterday, ResortQuest's 72-hour deals newsletter went out to the world. Here is a nice re-cap of the best deals from a few of ResortQuest's ski destinations at WeJustGotBack.com's blog:

Shop ResortQuest's 72-hour blowout and ski the West
Those early-bird ski deals keep rolling in fast and furious. The latest: Ubiquitous vacation rental resource ResortQuest has just announced one of its twice-monthly 72-hour sales and it's a doozy, with half a dozen terrific deals on the table at some of the West's most wishlist-worthy ski resorts. Here's a trio of deals that look especially good for families ...read blog.

Steamboat Ski Resort Opens November 27, 2008 & The Farmers Almanac Predicts Snow!!!

Old Man Winter is certainly making his presence felt in Steamboat Springs. It has been raining all week; the Aspen leaves are tinged yellow; the bars are home to football fans again; and snow is even falling at the higher elevations.

To be honest, I have so enjoyed the summer, that I have not been excited by the fact that we will be skiing the Steamboat Ski Resort in less than 100 days. But, before posting today, I perused last season's posts and the photos of our big grins in knee-deep powder brought a smile to my face; my feet even ached for my snug ski boots. How could I not be excited? Last season was epic! I can't tell you how many times I woke up to the Steamboat ski reporters shouting "It's another powder day in the 'boat!" I thought I would never ever get to sleep-in again. 500+ inches, the 2007/2008 Steamboat ski season was the snowiest season on record!

So what is the outlook for the 2008/2009 ski season. Each fall, skiers and snowboarders eagerly await The Old Farmer's Almanac predictions for the upcoming winter. The oldest continuously published periodical in the U.S., the Almanac has been using a combination of local folklore and a "super-secret" scientific formula to produce long-range forecasts since 1792.

"Numb's the word," says the 192-year-old Farmers' Almanac, which claims an accuracy rate of 80 to 85 percent for its forecasts that are prepared two years in advance. The almanac's 2009 edition says at least two-thirds of the country can expect colder-than-average temperatures this winter, with only the Far West and Southeast in line for near-normal readings.

Steamboat Springs falls into the Almanac's Intermountain Region: "Winter will be much colder and drier than normal, on average, with snowfall above normal in the north. The coldest temperatures will occur in late December; early, mid-, and late January; and early February. The snowiest periods will be in mid-November, early and mid-December, mid- and late January, and late February. April and May will be cooler than normal, with slightly above-normal precipitation.

A Coloradoan writes on the Almanac website: "I completely agree with your prediction about a colder winter approaching. We have seen the migration of birds much earlier this year here in Denver, Colorado. Eastern blue jays, which normally come through in later September, are here now. Pelicans flying south overhead. My husband and I commented on the unusual migration pattern last week thinking it indicated a colder winter. What plans can we make in Colorado other than to break out the snowboards and skis and get them ready for some great winter fun? Vikki."

Whatever you believe, winter is on its way, and as far as my experience goes, every season I have spend in Steamboat has been amazing. Check-out ResortQuest Steamboat's winter lodging deals - save up to 30% off lodging and get discounted Steamboat lift tickets.

Steamboat Ski Resort 2008 Capital Improvements

Winter feels like a long way off. I am relishing every opportunity to enjoy everything that Steamboat Springs has to offer in the summer - mountain biking, tubing, the Steamboat Wine Festival (only 1.5 weeks away!), the Brewers Festival (Sept. 22)... just for starters.

Winter feels like a long way, away. But, it's only 3.5 months till the Steamboat Ski Resort's Opening Day on November 27, 2008 to be precise!

Today, The Steamboat Ski Resort today distributed their press release about 2008 resort improvements. "Over the past three seasons, $27+ million in on-mountain improvements have been made to the Steamboat Ski Area, including more than $4 million invested specifically for the upcoming 2008/09 winter season. Steamboat’s on-mountain momentum augments nearly $8 million in completed and planned public revitalization projects sweeping the mountain village (Steamboat Unbridled).

Building upon last year’s record on-mountain capital expenditures, the majority of the 2008/2009 season improvements target continued base area re-grading, enhanced snowmaking, grooming, parking expansion, additional retail outlets, new rental equipment, automated external defibrillators, IT upgrades and master planning.

The truth is, Steamboat is still relishing in the benefits of the new Christie Peak Express high-speed quad that opened last December, as well as the excellent re-grade of the base of the ski area. If I may, let's hark back to Billy Kid's comments about the new lift: “It goes at a thousand feet per minute — you can almost get a speeding ticket it’s so fast, and you probably need goggles going up,” said Billy Kidd, the ski area’s Director of Skiing and a silver medalist at the 1964 Winter Olympics in Innsbruck, Austria.

“This lift is unique because it services beginner, intermediate, expert and even Olympian training,” he said. “The fact you can go up and race in the NASTAR finals, you can compete in the World Cup aerials and moguls, you can go up and get in the halfpipe — there is just a variety of skiing you can do on this lift, and you may be riding with some of Steamboat’s Olympians on the way up.”

...so, it's not too early to start thinking about winter. Check-out ResortQuest Steamboat's ski season lodging deals. Don't forget to check-out our Snow Guarantee...

Steamboat Ski Resort Ski Trails Become Mountain Bikers Paradise

Steamboat locals, and diehard mountain bikers have been pedalling the mountain biking trails in Steamboat Springs for a little while now. Howelsen hill and Emerald Mountain have had several trails open for a few weeks; other routes to explore have included Red Dirt at Mad Creek and the Hot Springs Trail.
For more mountain bike trail guides check-out:

• Trails.com
• RouttCountyRides.com

Today, the summer mountain biking terrain just got a lot larger with the opening of the Steamboat Ski Resort trails. Below is an except from the press release and a link to the resort's mountain biking trail map:

• http://steamboat.com/images/bikeHikeTrailMapLarge.jpg
  

MOUNTAIN BIKE & HIKING TRAILS OPEN FROM THUNDERHEAD TO BASE AREA
STEAMBOAT SPRINGS, CO-June 20, 2008
Rubber hits the dirt this weekend as the Steamboat Ski & Resort Corporation opens nearly all of its mountain bike and hiking trails from Thunderhead, top of the gondola, down to the base area today, Friday, June 20, 2008.
“Continued snowy/wet spring conditions including snow as recent as last week and construction on Headwall in the base area may have lead to confusion as to the timing of our opening for bikes and hiking,” said Doug Allen, vice president of mountain operations for the Steamboat Ski & Resort Corporation. “Our crews have been working diligently to complete the grading on Lower Right-O-Way and to provide a dedicated route through the Headwall construction zone connecting the trail head at the base with the mountain trail system.”Zig Zag, Valley View, Short Cut, Huffman’s, Sitz, Spur Run and Yoo Hoo mountain bike trails as well as the Thunderhead and Vista Nature hiking trails are open. Moonlight and Creekside bike trails on the lower mountain along with all upper mountain trails will remain closed until conditions permit.
The resort will maintain a marked route through the Headwall construction zone and requests that all guests stay on the trails and follow signage in this area. Be aware that temporary trail closure and re-routes may occur due to construction or other mountain work. Please adhere to all closures, re-routes, signage and check with the Information Center for updates throughout the summer.
When in full operation, the resort will offer 50 miles of professionally designed and maintained mountain bike trails that offer plenty of variety for adventure seekers of all abilities. Mountain Bike rentals, lessons and Diggler All-Mountain Scooter rentals are available at RideSports in Gondola Square.
Yampatika offers guided interpretive tours on the Vista Nature Trail, or do a self-guided tour on the Thunderhead Hiking Trail, roughly 3.8 miles from the base to top of the gondola, a 2,180-foot vertical gain/loss.
Again this summer, extreme high-speed downhill riding as well as riding and/or hiking on renegade trails are prohibited. This policy will be strictly enforced; and violation will result in the loss of year-round (summer & winter) mountain/lift privileges.

The Steamboat Ski Season is Officially Over...

This Steamboat Ski Bums blog entry is a little belated because I had slipped out of town to Vail, Colorado, for a week. I left Steamboat at lunchtime on closing day, sadly missing the new Pond Skimming Event. I left in the midst of a snowstorm which did not stop until this past Saturday.

Regretfully, The Steamboat Ski Resort does not record snowfall after the ski area closes. We ended this epic season with a record breaking 40 feets of snow, 489 inches, but that does not count the several feet that fell after the last chair came to a halt on Sunday April 6th. Jon Wade alluded to the possibility of over 550 inches total snow this season (Steamboat-Spring.blogspot), "A friend told me that as of this morning there is 4 ft of fresh light stuff on top. So much so that the snowmobiles can't get close without a cut from the snow cats."

Whatever the total, as the Steamboat Ski Resort posted in it's final news alert: "This is one for the record books; a season that will no doubt live on in our memories through stories told year after year. It’s the story of the ultimate four-wire winter where over 500 inches of the light fluff fell at the summit and over 40 feet cascaded down at mid-mountain"

Diehard skiers and riders are still seeking those fresh track up on Buffalo Pass, located north of Steamboat up Routt County Road 36, then a few miles east on C.R. 38. It’s about as well kept a secret as the location of Old Town Pub & Restaurant. Neither appears on Google Maps, but everyone in town knows how to get there.

"The pass, the jumping off point for some of the best backcountry skiing in Northern Colorado, is a secret, at least according to its biggest fans."

Today, the sun is blazing over Steamboat Springs, helping speed up the spring meltdown, making way for wildflowers, luminous Aspen Groves and an abundance of summer activities and events. Record snowfall certainly makes way for epic wrafting, kaying and even tubing this summer. More events April - July, 2008

Stay tuned for more Summer in Steamboat information...

Last days to ski the Daze

SNOW: 2" (24 hrs); 4"(48 hrs); Base: 82"; Total: 82"
CONDITIONS: Powder/Packed Powder!
LIFTS: 16/18
TRAILS: 165/165
TEMP: 41/28

This morning I stepped outside in my little spring flats and had to turn around and pull on the winter boots again. A dusting of snow covered Steamboat Springs last night. Winter is certainly making a slow exit from Steamboat!

This weekend is closing weekend at the ski area. The Springalicious festival is Saturday and Sunday and includes a pond-skimming competition, the annual Cardboard Classic and live concerts by American Relay, The Radiators and Susan Tedeschi. Steamboat Ski Resort officials plan to hold the event annually.

The Cardboard Classic is especially near and dear to the ResortQuest Steamboat staff. Our very own maintenance employees, Jim and Carl, have been holed up in a the Timberline Lodge at Trappeur's Crossing Resort parking garage with a 10-foot ceiling almost every night for a couple of weeks now, preparing Steamboat Springs best ever Cardboard Classic craft!

For his sixth year participating in Steamboat’s most bizarre rite of spring, Fletcher is trying to include as many moving parts as possible in a craft that has been preceded by a “Talladega Nights” racecar, a Hummer, a gondola car and a tank.

...to read more about Fletcher's amazing talents for cardboard craft construction, check-out the Steamboat Pilot Article, Cardboard King Under Construction. Or better yet, check-out the Steamboat Cardboard Classic video:

Steamboat Cardboard Classic Preparation, Video by Steamboat Pilot

SPRINGALICIOUS FESTIVAL EVENT SCHEDULE:

• 
  
  The 28th annual Cardboard Classic begins at 10 a.m. Saturday at the base of the ski area.
  
  
  
• 
  
  American Relay performs in Gondola Square at 3 p.m. Saturday.
  
  
  
• 
  
  The Radiators perform in Gondola Square at 2 p.m. Sunday.
  
  
  
• 
  
  The Splashdown pond-skimming competition begins at 3 p.m. Sunday on the Lil’ Rodeo ski trail near the base of the mountain.
  
  
  
• 
  
  A children’s Jib Jam is at 3:15 p.m. Sunday on the Stampede trail.
  
  
  
• 
  
  Susan Tedeschi performs at 4 p.m. Sunday in Gondola Square.
  
  
  

Saturday and Sunday are expected to be sunny, with high temperatures in the low to mid-50s, according to the National Weather Service.

...and it just keeps on snowing in Steamboat!

SNOW: 10" (24 hrs); 16"(48 hrs); Base: 82"; Total: 478"
CONDITIONS: Snow, Snow, and more Snow!
LIFTS: 16/18
TRAILS: 165/165
TEMP: 32/13

Just when Steamboat locals were getting used to the idea of Spring, old man winter lodged himself over Steamboat in the form of yet another winter storm. The Steamboat Ski Resort received another 10 inches of snow overnight, and so far this Monday, it has been snowing all day!

Get up early to enjoy this snow. Not just because Fresh Tracks are abundant. But also because, it's not the light, dry and fluffy snow for which Steamboat has become the Champagne Powder Snow capital. The snow is a little heavier and denser and by lunch time you will be more than ready for the a Yard Sale wood fired pizza at Slopeside Bar and Grille. As Riley Polumbus from the Steamboat Ski Resort Straight Talk Report so eloquently explains, "Soft and slow, it's thick enough to keep your speed in check but light enough to feel like you are soaring...."

"Cascading along in my own little world and before I knew it I was just left of Sunset, above Duster. Today's powder seemed more like a day in January, not so much because of its water content (it's 11% at mid-mountain), or because of its depth, more so because this is another fresh start. Tabla Rasa, a clean slate."

After exerting every last little bit of your energy on the mountain, head home to one of ResortQuest's hot tubs, or to the **new** Old Town Hot Springs, or best of, the Strawberry Park Hot Springs.

Not here to find your own powder stash?? There's still time. Along with an incredible 82" base, activities and entertainment this weekend in Steamboat Springs are infinite. Check out the Steamboat Ski Resort Springalicious Festival....

• STEAMBOAT PILOT & TODAY ARTICLE: Steamboat Springs — Spring officially began March 20, but Mother Nature has other ideas.
  
  The city of Steamboat Springs and vicinity are under a snow and blowing snow advisory until 6 p.m. this afternoon, with the National Weather Service predicting between 5 and 10 inches of snow in town before the storm system leaves the area. Gusty winds up to 40 mph are expected to cause areas of blowing and drifting snow. ...Read complete Steamboat Weather Article.

SNOW: 0" (24 hrs); 0"(48 hrs); Base: 72"; Total: 52"
CONDITIONS: Packed Powder
LIFTS: 16/18
TRAILS: 165/165
TEMP: 49/20.

Snow finally fell on Steamboat last Thursday to ensure the 2007/2008 ski season is in fact the snowiest ski season on record. This past weekend, the Steamboat Pilot and today was knee-deep in articles (and photos) about the history of Steamboat Springs weather patterns.

Perhaps the most talked about article was the Pilot's "Steamboat Hits 450 Inch Mark" which presented all kinds of graphs, statistics, quotes and photos of Steamboat's record snowfall. Here is a taste:

The numbers

• 8,400,000
  Pounds of scoria spread on local roadways by city snowplows
• $106,000
  Money spent on truck rentals for hauling snow
• 1,300
  Overtime hours logged by city snowplow drivers
• 75,000
  Cubic yards of snow hauled out of town
• 450
  Inches of snow to fall on Mount Werner since October, a new record
• 23
  Snow removals, by dump truck, in Ski Time Square and along Lincoln Avenue
• 0
  Days of school cancelled because of snow by the Steamboat Springs School District

Top Steamboat winters

• 2007-08: 450 inches and counting
• 1996-97: 447.75 inches
• 1983-84: 447.5 inches
• 1995-96: 441.25 inches
• 2005-06: 432 inches
• 1992-93: 423.5 inches
• The ski area surpassed the 300-inch mark for the season Feb. 1; six days later, it surpassed the 350-inch mark on Feb. 7; and on March 2, it surpassed the 400-inch mark. These three key milestones were reached within a month’s time.

Tom Ross from the Steamboat Pilot and Today was perhaps unimpresed by the storm last Thursday that was supposed to deliver 14 inches of powder snow and only coughed up 4 inches. But, he was impressed by Jim Fain's passion for Colorado weather: "He’s so engrossed with snowfall statistics that he compiled an 11-page bound booklet this month. It is crammed with every statistic he could find about seasonal snowfall and ski area visitation — not just for Steamboat, but for the entire state of Colorado."

Fain's book raises some very interesting questions about Steamboat's record snowfall. Read complete "Winter of Powder Eating Grins."

Statistics, opinions and facts aside, Tom Ross is correct when he notes "The winter of 2007-08, with back-to-back-to-back 100-inch months, will always be remembered as the season of constant powder-eating grins..."

Snowiest Season on Record! Officially!!

It is official!!! After weeks of talking about being x-inches away from the snowiest season on record, the Steamboat Ski Resort finally reached the record-breaking milestone on Friday March 21, 2008.
If you weren't up on the ski resort on Friday, you missed out on Hershey Kisses in the gondola line and entertainment from the Worried Men. You also missed grins from ear to ear on every local and Steamboat guest alike. There was a feeling that we were all living and skiing history.
The Steamboat Ski Resort Official Press Release reports: "With more than 37 feet of Champagne Powder® snow this winter, the Steamboat Ski Resort will finish the 2007/2008 season in record fashion, breaking its previous season snow record of 447.75 inches set in 1996/1997.
“Despite early forecasts calling for a warmer and drier winter, big snows, often the norm in Steamboat, were a common occurrence and provided a season full of epic powder days,” said Chris Diamond, president & chief operating officer for Steamboat Ski & Resort Corporation. “Powderhounds will have plenty of powder tales to tell for years or at the very least until the cycle begins again with the opening of the 2008/2009 season on November 26th.”
On Thursday, a storm blanketed the resort with 4 inches at mid-mountain and the summit resulting in a 74-inch base at mid-mountain and 97-inch base at the summit, moving the season snowfall total to 450 inches, 2.25 inches more than the previous record-breaking season. Currently, the top-three season snow totals for Steamboat include this year’s 450 (& counting); 447.75 in 1996/97; and 447.5 in 1983/84.
In addition to establishing a new all-time snowfall record and registering a “four-wire winter”, the resort hit three key milestones within just a month of each other: surpassing 300-inch mark on 2/1/08; six days later surpassing 350-inch mark on 2/7/08; and on March 2nd surpassing the 400-inch mark. Furthermore, Steamboat-Ski Town, U.S.A. received more than 100 inches of snow for three months (December, January & February) for the first time in resort history.
Since November 21st, snow has fallen 91 out of 122 days (74.5%) with 51 of those days recording four or more inches. This season at mid-mountain, the resort has seen 17 inches in October; 23 inches in November; 126 inches in December (3rd snowiest); 129 inches in January (2nd snowiest) and 104 inches in February (2nd snowiest); and 51 inches in March for a combined total of 450 inches (37.5 feet).
“With each additional flake over the next few weeks, a new snowfall record will be set,” continued Diamond. “With just over two weeks left in the record-breaking snow season, spring skiing/riding in Steamboat should definitely not be missed.”

Today's Snow Report

SNOW: 0" (24 hrs); .5"(48 hrs); Base: 74"; Total: 445.5" (2.5 INCHES TO GO TO SET RECORD!!!)
CONDITIONS: Packed Powder
LIFTS: 16/18
TRAILS: 165/165
TEMP: 36/15.
The Steamboat Ski Resort is inching its way to setting the record. We have woken to a dusting of snow on the past two mornings, but not enough to close in on the ultimate goal. However, there is snow in the forecast for the next few days. Is this finally the record breaking storm?

7 inches of new snow and record about to be toppled!

SNOW: 7" (24 hrs); 7"(48 hrs); Base: 77"; Total: 445" (3 INCHES TO GO TO SET RECORD!!!)
CONDITIONS: Powder/Packed Powder
LIFTS: 16/18
TRAILS: 165/165
TEMP: 35/10.

The weather forecasters were pretty accurate about the potential of Steamboat's latest storm. Last night as the snow piled up, "...it appeared increasingly likely the winter of 2007-08 will be remembered as the most prolific snow year in Mount Werner’s recorded history." The Steamboat Ski Resort reported 7 inches of new powder snow this morning, and more is on its way!

Unfortunately, I am not out seeking powder stashes today, so I must turn to Kat, Steamboat Ski Resort's Straightalk Snow Reporter: "...And a powder day it is. A lovely creamy fresh 7 inches of new snow did a fine job of covering up the Spring Conditions under it. Although the visibility was a challenge on Storm Peak this morning, I found that Sunshine Bowl was just under the clouds. The snow is fast so you don't need a lot of vertical. This made for really nice laps through the trees around Sunshine lift and the "O Clock" runs.

"Now as I take a break to write this report, the sun is breaking through the clouds and the lower mountain is glorious. I am sure the racers competing in the Nastar races are psyched to see the sun. We are so close to that record snowfall, you can almost feel it. Next time it snows I think we'll have it in the bag. Until then enjoy the fresh pow and the Spring sun."

Snow storms in the weather forecast!

SNOW: 0" (24 hrs); 0"(48 hrs); Base: 72"; Total: 438"
CONDITIONS: Packed Powder
LIFTS: 16/18
TRAILS: 165/165
TEMP: 41/21.
Snow is in the Steamboat Springs weather forecast for the next week. Is this going to be the snow that dumps a few extra inches on the Steamboat Ski Resort and tops the record as the snowiest ski season on record?
Snow storms aside, Steamboatians and our visiting friends have enjoyed almost a week of glorious skiing days, abundant with sunshine and perfect temperatures. After all this powder snow, we certainly needed a good dose of vitamin D, and we need to give our legs a break from all these epic powder days. Bring on the groomer skiing.
The skiing and snowboarding conditions in Steamboat are idyllic and spring skiing is going to be as good as it gets. Don't put aways those skis and boards just yet!
The Steamboat Ski Resort will close on April 6, 2008 -- not for lack of snow. To celebrate an epic ski season, the resort is launching The inaugural Springalicious Festival, April 5 & 6. Events included the Annual Cardboard Classic, a new SPLASHDOWN pond skimming competition and three free concerts by American Relay, The Radiators and Susan Tedeschi.
The Cardboard Classic, Steamboat’s traditional rite of spring, and the new SPLASHDOWN Pond Skimming competition will act as the cornerstone events for Springalicious. The Cardboard Classic will celebrate its 28th year on Saturday, April 5th, featuring homemade cardboard crafts racing to a hysterical finish. New this year, entries will be limited to 50 crafts and there will be a $10/per craft entry fee that will be donated to Yampa Valley Recycles.
For the first year ever, Springalicious will feature a SPLASHDOWN Pond Skimming Competition Sunday, April 6th. Steamboat’s bravest (and maybe craziest) skiers/riders will attempt to cross an ice-cold pond at the base of the mountain, while being judged on distance, outfit creativity, and crowd response. SPLASHDOWN Entries will be limited to 75 individuals with a $25 entry fee. In addition to the new H2O event, Springalicious will feature something just for kids- a Jib Jam featuring a variety of small park features just for kids on April 6th at 3:15pm.
To top it off, you can stay in one of ResortQuest Steamboat's vacation rentals for 3 nights, and get your last night free! Arrive in Steamboat on Friday April 4th, ski Saturday, Sunday and play hooky on Monday!

25 inches to go to set the Steamboat snow record!

SNOW: 6" (24 hrs); 15"(48 hrs); Base: 76"; Total: 436"
CONDITIONS: Powder/Packed Powder
LIFTS: 16/18
TRAILS: 165/165
TEMP: 34/12

Check-out the latest Steamboat Ski Resort Skiing Video


Each day I talk to people all over the country and everyone always asks about the weather. Well, it's sunny one minute, lightly snowing the next, dumping snow the next, and before you know it the clouds have parted again. The snow just keeps on coming.

We've had another 16 inches of fresh snow in 48 hours and 10 inches overnight, 5 inches falling after the Steamboat ski resort closed. Yep! It's another powder day in Steamboat Springs.


We're only 25 inches away from the all-time snow record! Steamboat recorded a 400-inch Champagne Powder snow season for just the 6th time since 1979/80. This is the fastest the resort has reached the 400-inch level and is just three inches ahead at this date of the record holding 1995/1996 season when it finished the season with 460.25 inches.

Best Weekend of the Season!

SNOW: 6" (24 hrs); 15"(48 hrs); Base: 76"; Total: 414"
CONDITIONS: Powder/Packed Powder
LIFTS: 16/18
TRAILS: 165/165
TEMP: 32/11
This weekend was my best weekend of the year so far. Sure, I have had several epic powder skiing days this year, days which definitely go down in my top 10 ever. But this weekend was the perfect combination of weather ...
Saturday was a perrrrrfect blue-bird day. Being warm and sunny, there was no need to rush up to the ski resort before a lazy sleep-in and a big breakfast. Chris and I cruised around the mountain, enjoying fast groomers and soft moguls. For the first time this year, we made it to Slopeside Bar to enjoy Sunshine and Sunshine Wheat Beer with friends. Sunny days and extended apres skiing are definitely some of my favorite winter days.
Then, on Sunday we woke up to 9 inches of new snow!!! Alas, no sleep-in. But it was worth it! The conditions were unexpected, and brilliant. Definitely one of my best days ever. First, we dropped into the trees to the left of Heavenly Daze and around Teds Ridge. The powder was untracked and sailing over my knees... and this was only the beginning. Every run we took on Sunday was hypnotic. Every run we found was untracked. I couldn't believe our luck!
The Steamboat Ski Resort continues to report new records for this season. These stats translate to personal stats for all of our resident ski bums. 414 inches of snow means that we can expore deeper and deeper into Steamboat's infamous trees. Ski terrain for the very first time, terrain that can only be dreamed of when there is enough snow to cover the natural hazards. No matter how long any of us have been here, and now matter how many days we have each skied, I challenge anyone who believes they have skied every possible run on the mountain.This is the beauty of the Steamboat Ski Resort.
So, what are the latest stats?
Steamboat Ski Resort Press Release, March 3, 2008: "Steamboat recorded another snow milestone this morning, recording a 400-inch Champagne Powder snow season for just the 6th time since 1979/80. This is the fastest the resort has reached the 400-inch level and is just three inches ahead at this date of the record holding 1995/1996 season when it finished the season with 460.25 inches."
"Since November 21st, snow has fallen 78 out of 103 days (75.7%) with 45 of those days recording four or more inches. This season at mid-mountain, the resort has seen 17 inches in October; 23 inches in November; 126 inches in December (3rd snowiest); 129 inches in January (2nd snowiest) and 104 inches in February (2nd snowiest); and 9 inches in March for a combined total of 408 inches (34 feet).
In addition to registering another four-wire winter, the resort hit three key milestones within just a month of each other: surpassed 300-inch mark on 2/1/08; six days later surpassed 350-inch mark on 2/7/08; and today surpassed the 400-inch mark. Furthermore, Steamboat-Ski Town, U.S.A.® received more than 100 inches of snow for three consecutive months (December, January & February) for the first time in resort history."
Spring skiing in Steamboat Springs is undoubtedly going to be excellent. Unfortunately, there's only 5 more weeks to enjoy this memorable season. Epic snow won't keep the steamboat ski resort open after April 6, but by then, I am itching to get on my mountain bike anyway.

Record Snow at the Steamboat Ski Area

SNOW: 0" (24 hrs); 9"(48 hrs); Base: 73"; Total: 399"

CONDITIONS: Packed Powder

LIFTS: 16/18

TRAILS: 165/165

TEMP: 38/20

Today, front page of the Steamboat Pilot & Today Newspaper has the headline "Snow By The Hundreds" blazened across the front. It is official! The Steamboat Ski Resort is reporting record snowfall for three straight months.

"For the first time on record, the Steamboat Ski Area has seen three straight months — December, January and February — with at least 100 inches of snow. Ski Corp. spokeswoman Heidi Thomsen said the resort’s current records go back to the winter of 1979-80. The resort’s current total snowfall is 399 inches at mid-mountain."

"...With 40 days left before the resort’s April 6 closing, this season already is Steamboat’s sixth-snowiest. The resort needs just less than 50 inches of snow for the snowiest winter on record at Mount Werner."
...Read the entire "Snow by the Hundreds" article.

The Steamboat Ski Area on Tuesday was about 48 inches away from breaking the 1996-97 snowfall record.
...Watch Steamboat Pilot & Today Video.