Winter Activities

Averaging over 300 inches of annual snowfall, Steamboat Lake takes on a new personality in winter.

Placer Cove and the Sunrise Vista Campground are zoned “non-motorized” in winter and feature a network of marked snowshoe and groomed ski trails. Ski trails are generally groomed on Saturday mornings and as soon as possible after significant snowfall.

Snowmobilers can ride in the park or access the Routt National Forest and 146 miles of groomed trails and backcountry. You can look at our most up-to-date grooming report for area snowmobile trails, courtesy of the Colorado Snowmobile Association and the North Routt Snow Riders.

Ski and snowshoe rentals, as well as guided snowmobile tours, are available out of Steamboat Springs. View the Steamboat Springs Chamber of Commerce website or contact them at (970) 879-0880.

Ice fishermen may try their luck during winter months. Before going out onto a frozen lake, pond, or river, it’s important to take safety precautions to reduce the risk of falling through the ice. Knowing how to judge ice conditions will also help you make more informed decisions while enjoying winter activities.

Park Access

The Visitor Center and the road to the Dutch Hill Marina parking lot remain open throughout the winter. All other park roads are typically closed mid-to-late October until mid to late May.

Winter Camping

There are 12 electric hookups for RVs at the Marina parking lot during winter months. Camping permits and vehicle passes are required for all campers.