Years ago, I used to live in a quaint mountain town called Steamboat Springs, Colorado where I’d spend every day riding the local mountain. Even though it’s been over 10 years since I called Steamboat home, it’s one of my favorite places to visit because it holds a special spot near and dear to my heart. There’s still the favorite stashes, the local watering holes, and the amazing people who make up the community around the mountain. I’m lucky to return to my old stomping grounds at least once a year.
Thanks to the direct flight from Seattle to Hayden, it was a 2 hour flight and 45 minute drive before we were slopeside at Steamboat Resort. We even enjoy a First Class upgrade on the way out. We arrived in the evening but that meant we’d be fully charged to hit the slopes the next day.
It’s been a good year for Steamboat with the town receiving over 230″ of snowfall so far. It looked like we might be lucky with our trip and a storm rolling through but it shifted course on our last day in town. Even while there was no new snow, we did manage to enjoy the packed powder conditions and top to bottom groomers. Got my handy MAX pass to take care of my days on the slopes. It’s pretty cool that it works for a variety of ski resorts, from my home mountain of Stevens Pass to places like Steamboat Springs, Colorado.
The first day was getting in some powder time with Steamboat powdercats on Buffalo Pass but the remainder of the trip was enjoying the groomers and tree riding at Steamboat.
We had a group ranging from beginners to advanced levels but everyone was able to ski and ride together. All it took was a little coordination to ski different trails and meet up at the lift for each lap.
Kyle and myself at the top of the gondola
I was still hoping to snow gods would deliver the champagne powder like it had last year. Seriously one of the best days in Steamboat. When a storm rolls in and delivers, Steamboat can be one amazing place to ride.
I took my GoPro out for a couple laps but kept it to the trees to try to capture the amazing tree riding in the aspens. It’s one of my favorite parts about riding in Colorado. The aspen trees can deliver powder stashes, fun quick turns and plenty of vertical to make the legs burn. At the end of the day after tree laps, the hot tub or hot springs are the perfect way to complete the day (and feel better for the next).
Our last day was enjoying the sights and sounds of downtown Steamboat Springs. A stop into FM Light & Sons to check out the latest western gear, a visit to my favorite coffee shop and cafe for local treats, and finally a goodbye to the area as we headed back to Seattle.
The M.A.X. Pass is perfect for skiers and snowboarders looking to get the most North America has to offer, you have access to 39 mountains, giving you even more freedom to visit your local favorites and to take that big trip you’ve always wanted.Visit https://www.themaxpass.com/ for more details.
