Emerald Mountain: Steamboat's Backyard Playground
Explore Emerald Mountain in Steamboat Springs: hiking, biking, and stunning views await on accessible multi-use trails.
Emerald Mountain, a verdant jewel in Steamboat Springs, offers accessible outdoor adventures with over 24 miles of multi-use trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, providing stunning views and a taste of the Rockies.
A brief summary to Emerald Mountain
- Steamboat Springs, Colorado, 80487, US
- Visit website
Local tips
- Check trail conditions and closures before heading out, especially during the winter and spring months due to snow or seasonal wildlife closures.
- Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and appropriate footwear, as some trails can be steep and exposed.
- Be aware of other trail users, including hikers, bikers, and horses, and yield appropriately.
- Consider starting your hike or ride early in the morning to avoid the midday heat and potential afternoon thunderstorms.
- Dogs are allowed on most trails but must be kept on a leash, and owners should clean up after their pets.
Getting There
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Walking
From downtown Steamboat Springs, Emerald Mountain is easily accessible on foot. Head south towards the Yampa River Core Trail. Cross the 5th Street Bridge and turn right onto Howelsen Parkway. Continue towards Howelsen Hill; several trailheads are located near the rodeo grounds and Howelsen Lodge. Alternatively, from Lincoln Avenue (main street), turn onto 13th Street, then left onto Gilpin Street, followed by a left onto Saratoga Avenue and a final right onto Routt Street, which ends at a parking area and the trailhead. This leads to the popular Blackmer Trail. Walking time from downtown varies from 15-30 minutes depending on the trailhead and pace.
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Public Transport
Steamboat Springs offers a free, comprehensive bus system (Steamboat Springs Transit) that provides access to various points around town. Several bus routes stop near Emerald Mountain trailheads. Check the Steamboat Springs Transit website or app for the most up-to-date schedules and routes. The Red Line and Green Line serve areas close to Howelsen Hill. From the bus stop, follow walking directions to the trailheads. The bus system is free within Steamboat Springs.
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Taxi/Ride-share
Taxi and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Steamboat Springs. Request a ride to Howelsen Hill or the Blackmer Trailhead. A taxi from downtown to Howelsen Hill or Blackmer Trailhead will cost approximately $10-$15. Note that availability may vary depending on the season and time of day.
Discover more about Emerald Mountain
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Aurum Food & Wine Steamboat
0.2 km
Discover the exquisite flavors of Aurum Food & Wine in Steamboat Springs, where modern American cuisine meets breathtaking mountain views.
Howelsen Place
0.3 km
Discover the charm of Howelsen Place in Steamboat Springs - your gateway to Colorado's outdoor adventures and vibrant local culture.
Sulphur Cave Spring
0.3 km
Experience the healing waters and breathtaking scenery at Sulphur Cave Spring in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, a perfect escape into nature's beauty.
Steamboat Pro Rodeo
0.3 km
Discover the excitement of Steamboat Pro Rodeo, where thrilling competitions and rich cowboy culture come alive in the heart of Colorado's stunning landscape.
Schmiggity's Live Music & Dance Bar
0.3 km
Discover the lively energy of live music and dancing at Schmiggity's in Steamboat Springs, where unforgettable nights await in a vibrant atmosphere.
Mountain Tap Brewery
0.3 km
Discover the best of Steamboat Springs at Mountain Tap Brewery, where handcrafted beers and gourmet pizzas create an unforgettable culinary experience.
Fuzziwig's Candy Factory
0.3 km
Discover a candy wonderland at Fuzziwig's Candy Factory in Steamboat Springs, where sweet dreams come true with every delightful treat.
Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory
0.4 km
Discover a sweet paradise at Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, where handcrafted chocolates and confections await every visitor in Steamboat Springs.
Salt & Lime
0.4 km
Experience vibrant Tex-Mex flavors at Salt & Lime, a lively restaurant in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, perfect for food enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.
Old Town Pub & Restaurant
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Old Town Pub & Restaurant in Steamboat Springs, offering delicious American cuisine and lively entertainment.
Main Street Steamboat Springs
0.4 km
Discover the vibrant heart of Steamboat Springs along Main Street, filled with unique shops, delicious dining, and lively community events.
the press.
0.4 km
Discover the vibrant live music scene at The Press, Steamboat Springs' top bar for craft drinks and unforgettable performances.
Back Door Grill
0.4 km
Experience the best burgers and vibrant American dining at Back Door Grill in Steamboat Springs, a must-visit for every foodie.
Sweet Pea Tours
0.5 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Steamboat Springs, Colorado, with Sweet Pea Tours' personalized transportation and scenic adventures.
Howelsen Ice Arena
0.5 km
Discover the excitement of ice skating and hockey at Howelsen Ice Arena in Steamboat Springs, where winter sports come alive amidst stunning mountain views.
Unmissable attractions to see
Howelsen Hill Ski Area
0.1 km
Discover historic Howelsen Hill Ski Area in Steamboat Springs: Home to Olympic legends and North America's oldest continuously operating ski area.
Steamboat Art Museum
0.3 km
Discover fine art in the heart of the Rockies at the Steamboat Art Museum, showcasing the culture and heritage of Northwest Colorado.
Off the Beaten Path Bookstore and Café
0.3 km
Discover a curated collection of books, delightful coffee, and a warm community atmosphere at Steamboat Springs' favorite independent bookstore and café.
Pine Moon Fine Art
0.4 km
Discover local talent at Pine Moon Fine Art, downtown Steamboat Springs' vibrant showcase of diverse artistic styles and mediums.
Crooked Key Escape Rooms
0.5 km
Experience thrill and teamwork at Crooked Key Escape Rooms in Steamboat Springs, where every puzzle unlocks a new adventure.
The Tread of Pioneers Museum
0.5 km
Explore Steamboat Springs' vibrant past at the Tread of Pioneers Museum, featuring exhibits on skiing, ranching, and local heritage.
Little Toots Park
0.6 km
A charming riverside park in Steamboat Springs with a playground, picnic spots, and river access for family fun and relaxation.
Steamboat Spring
0.7 km
Relax and rejuvenate in the heart of Steamboat Springs at the historic and family-friendly Old Town Hot Springs.
Black Sulphur Spring
0.7 km
Discover the unique, dark waters of Black Sulphur Spring, a key landmark in Steamboat Springs' rich history and geological tapestry.
Dr. Rich Weiss Park
0.8 km
A scenic riverside park in Steamboat Springs offering relaxation, recreation, and a tribute to local Olympian Dr. Rich Weiss.
Old Town Hot Springs
0.8 km
Steamboat Springs' historic hot springs and recreation center, offering year-round relaxation, fitness, and family fun in a downtown setting.
Heart Spring
0.8 km
Discover the historic Heart Spring in Steamboat Springs: a natural mineral spring offering relaxation and rejuvenation for over a century.
Lithia Spring
1.1 km
Discover the natural serenity of Lithia Spring in Steamboat Springs, a historic mineral spring offering relaxation and rejuvenation amidst stunning mountain scenery.
Yampa River Botanic Park
1.7 km
Discover serenity in Steamboat Springs at the Yampa River Botanic Park, featuring diverse gardens, art, and peaceful pathways. Open May to October.
Amaze'n Steamboat Family Fun Park
2.0 km
Steamboat's favorite family fun park with mini golf, a giant maze, laser tag & gemstone panning, creating unforgettable memories for all ages.
Essential places to dine
Taco Cabo
0.2 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at Taco Cabo in Steamboat Springs—where fresh flavors meet vibrant culture.
Sunpie's Bistro
0.2 km
Experience the best of Steamboat Springs at Sunpie's Bistro with fresh local flavors and a lively bar atmosphere.
E3 Chophouse
0.2 km
Experience culinary excellence at E3 Chophouse in Steamboat Springs – where premium steaks meet stunning riverside views.
Brass Kitchen and Bar
0.2 km
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O'Neil's Tavern & Grill
0.3 km
Discover authentic Irish cuisine at O'Neil's Tavern & Grill in Steamboat Springs—where good food meets great company!
8th Street Steakhouse
0.3 km
Experience exquisite flavors at 8th Street Steakhouse in Steamboat Springs - where premium steaks meet warm hospitality.
Clyde's Pies
0.3 km
Discover Clyde's Pies in Steamboat Springs - where artisanal pizza meets cozy mountain charm.
The Commons Food Hall
0.3 km
Experience diverse culinary offerings at The Commons Food Hall in Steamboat Springs – where local flavors meet vibrant community spirit.
Sizzlin Jamaican Cuisine
0.3 km
Experience authentic Jamaican cuisine in Steamboat Springs with vibrant flavors and a welcoming atmosphere at Sizzlin Jamaican Cuisine.
Tahk Omakase Sushi
0.3 km
Experience the finest omakase sushi in Steamboat Springs, where tradition meets innovation in every delicious bite.
Skull Creek Greek
0.3 km
Discover the authentic taste of Greece at Skull Creek Greek in Steamboat Springs—where every dish is a celebration of Mediterranean flavors.
Noodles & More Saigon Café
0.3 km
Savor authentic Vietnamese and Thai cuisine at Noodles & More Saigon Café in Steamboat Springs—where every dish tells a story.
Winona's Restaurant and Bakery
0.4 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at Winona's Restaurant and Bakery in Steamboat Springs—where every meal feels like home.
Johnny B Good's Diner
0.4 km
Experience classic American breakfasts and delightful sundaes at Johnny B Good's Diner in Steamboat Springs - A must-visit culinary gem!
Mazzola's Italian Restaurant
0.4 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Mazzola's Italian Restaurant in Steamboat Springs - where every meal feels like a special occasion.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Urbane Clothing
0.3 km
Discover stylish apparel and unique footwear at Urbane Clothing, a top shopping destination in Steamboat Springs, Colorado.
The Homesteader
0.3 km
Discover The Homesteader in Steamboat Springs, CO—your destination for quality kitchen supplies and gourmet ingredients.
Steamboat Treasures & Tees
0.3 km
Explore the charm of Steamboat Springs at Steamboat Treasures & Tees, your go-to destination for unique souvenirs and local gifts.
West Lyfe
0.3 km
Discover unique styles and quality craftsmanship at West Lyfe, the premier clothing store in Steamboat Springs, Colorado.
The Core
0.3 km
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Steamboat Fun and Games
0.3 km
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Jewelry & Fossil Shop Of Steamboat
0.3 km
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Steamboat Apparel and Gifts
0.3 km
Discover unique fashion and local gifts at Steamboat Apparel and Gifts, a charming boutique in the heart of Steamboat Springs, Colorado.
Chez Nous
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Upcountry
0.3 km
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MatchBox Candle Co.
0.3 km
Discover the magic of handcrafted candles at MatchBox Candle Co. in Steamboat Springs, where creativity meets aroma in a delightful experience.
Shirtworks of Steamboat
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Ohana
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Wanderlust Boutique
0.3 km
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Cowboys and Indians
0.4 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Common Bar
0.3 km
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The Barley Tap and Tavern
0.3 km
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Foxes
0.5 km
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West End Sports Grill
0.5 km
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Vintage Bar
3.9 km
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The Collective Wine Bar Steamboat
3.9 km
Explore a curated selection of wines at The Collective Wine Bar in Steamboat Springs, where every sip tells a story of flavor and adventure.
T Bar At Steamboat
4.0 km
Experience the ultimate après-ski atmosphere at T Bar At Steamboat, where great drinks and a cozy ambiance await in Steamboat Springs.
Thunderhead Red's
6.3 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Thunderhead Red's, a must-visit bar in Steamboat Springs, CO, offering local flavors and craft drinks.
The Divide Restaurant & Lounge
80.6 km
Discover the flavors of Wyoming at The Divide Restaurant & Lounge, where exceptional dining meets a cozy lounge atmosphere in Encampment.
307 Pub & Grub LLC
80.7 km
Experience the heart of Wyoming at 307 Pub & Grub LLC, where delicious grill fare meets a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Mangy Moose Roadside Bar
81.7 km
Experience the rustic charm and vibrant atmosphere of The Mangy Moose Roadside Bar in Riverside, Wyoming, where great food and local culture meet.
The Farm at Brush Creek
98.9 km
Experience the essence of Wyoming's culinary scene at The Farm at Brush Creek, where local ingredients & artisanal craft meet in a picturesque setting.
