Indoor and Outdoor Activities to do with Kids during Mud Season in Steamboat Springs
As a parent in Steamboat Springs, the shoulder seasons can feel like a tricky time to keep kids entertained. Mud Season—typically in April and May—is actually a lovely window when the town takes a deep breath before the Summer tourism season begins. Whether you’re a local looking for ways to keep the kids busy, or a visitor hoping to enjoy Steamboat at a slower pace (and score some great lodging deals!), there’s plenty to do. Here are a few fun ways to make the most of this quieter season with little ones in tow.
Outdoor Activities
Go for a swim at Old Town Hot Springs
The outdoor heated pools at Old Town Hot Springs are a great place to splash and play with the kids. With fewer crowds than in peak season, your family can fully enjoy the warm, relaxing pools. It’s also a good time of year to sign little ones up for swim lessons in preparation for the summer.
Explore the Local Trails and Playgrounds
Mud season offers a rare chance to explore Steamboat’s trails without the crowds. Enjoy a quiet hike along Butcherknife Creek, take in the scenic views at Fish Creek Falls, or walk the trail at Blackmere. Stick to lower elevations where the snow has melted and the mud has started to harden! The playgrounds should be emerging from the snow too, so go explore some climbing structures!
Smell the flowers at the Yampa River Botanic Park
As the snow melts, the Yampa River Botanic Park begins to bloom. This six-acre park features various themed gardens and is a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a family picnic. The park is open from dawn to dusk starting May 1, 2025.
Stroll on Lincoln at the First Friday Artwalk
The First Friday Artwalk in Steamboat Springs is a free, self-guided tour held on the first Friday of each month from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. During this event, local art galleries, museums, and businesses in downtown Steamboat Springs, showcase rotating exhibits and offer refreshments. It’s a favorite among both locals and visitors, providing an opportunity to experience the town’s vibrant arts scene.
Bike or Walk the Yampa River Core Trail
The Core Trail is a 7.5-mile paved multi-use trail runs through the heart of Steamboat Springs along the Yampa River. It’s perfect for biking with little ones and walking with a stroller. There are numerous scenic spots to stop and relax.
Indoor Activities
Go Bowling at Snowbowl Steamboat
Snowbowl Steamboat is the perfect spot to get the kids moving and excited. With lanes equipped with bumpers for the kids, and seasonal specials that make it easy on the wallet, it’s a fun indoor family outing. Check their website for current deals, the menu, and special events.
Bounce off the walls at Gymnastics
Let the kids burn off energy at Excel Gymnastics’ open gym sessions. They’ll love bouncing, tumbling, and swinging in a safe, supervised environment, and it’s a great way for them to stay active indoors. Check the schedule for open gym times, as they may vary.
Get competitive at the Arcades
Both Steamboat Fun and Games and West End Sports Grill offer fun-filled arcades, with classic and new games alike. Kids can play their way through an array of games, while parents get a little downtime – or jump in on the fun! Check out Steamboat Fun and Games or the West End Sports Grill for more details.
Curl up and read in a cozy chair at the library
When it’s time to wind down, the Bud Werner Memorial Library provides a warm and welcoming space with daily programming for kids. It’s a wonderful spot to explore books, engage in kid-friendly events, or simply get cozy as a family. Discover their schedule and upcoming events on the library’s youth page.
Watch a Family Movie
For a cozy indoor outing, head to the Wildhorse Cinema & Arts theater to catch a family-friendly movie. The theater offers a comfortable escape with the latest releases, making it perfect for a relaxed afternoon or evening with the kids. View showtimes and ticket info on their website.
