- CHAMPAGNE POWDER
Steamboat (steamboat.com) is famed for big snowfalls, especially its trademark Champagne Powder, unique in its lightness making it exceptionally easy to ski. No need to worry about tired legs, the snow is so fine and dry you drift through it seamlessly. The science behind the snow is technical, but the name less so: it derives from sparkling wine champagne.
- CHUTES AND BOWLS
The steep chutes at the top of the mountain are great in the days following a big snowfall, but make for some interesting terrain the rest of the time nonetheless. Hike up from Storm Peak Express to Christmas Tree Bowl for some tree skiing, or head down North St. Pats, via Morningside. Head up to the chutes early on a powder day for some epic riding in the fresh snow.
- FIRST TRACKS
There is no better feeling than being the first on the mountain, whether it’s a powder, or blue-sky day. You know you’re in for a good day when you’re the first on the gondola and there’s a queue at the bottom station. Make carefree carves on the corduroy snow, or be the first to track-out the fresh powder on the piste. With the first tracks pass, skiers and boarders are eligible to board the gondola at 8.00am, a full 30 minutes prior to general admission. Lift pass costs $29* and includes a breakfast voucher. (*2011-12 price. Ski pass also required.)
- RELAX IN THE HOT SPRINGS
I can’t think of a better way to relax after a day in the powder. The Strawberry Park Hot Springs (strawberryhotsprings.com), located just 16km from the resort, are natural mineral water springs with three pools at varying temperatures. Take a plunge in the cold pool and then bathe in the 40°C pool. Once darkness falls it’s clothes off bathing only, and only adults are permitted. Adults $10.
- GO WESTERN!
The ski resort is located a few miles from the old cattle town of Steamboat Springs, which to this day is traditionally western. Take a trip downtown and explore the shops, bars and restaurants. Make sure you pay a visit to FM Light & Son’s, a western mercantile store which has served the town since 1905, to really get the character of the place.
British Airways (ba.com) fly once daily from Heathrow to Denver. Stay at the Steamboat Grand (steamboatgrand.com).
