By: Christopher Dawkins

Steamboat is arguably the best mountain in the rockies. What more needs to be said about the mountain beside the point that Steamboat Springs’ mountain has the deepest base that is at reasonable distance from Eaton Colorado. Steamboat’s current base is recorded at 71 inches upper mountain, and Vail is close to half of Steamboat, at 45 inches. Despite having the poor disadvantage of being at a low elevation, Steamboat still is known for having some of the best snow in Colorado. Not to mention the tree skiing is phenomenal at Steamboat. Runs like “Closet” are full of aspen trees. Aspen trees are especially cool to ski through because the branches are taller than the skier, so the thrill of high speeds turning on the champagne powder through the immovable trees is exhilarating. “Champagne powder” was adopted and trademarked by Steamboat resort and means light fluffy powder that will easily blow in a skier’s face as they make their turns. The possibility of stop-and-go traffic on Interstate 70 on the way up to Vail, Colorado or any other resort on that interstate is more than likely. And the possibility of stop-and-go traffic on highway 14 through the Poudre Canyon is close to impossible. Prices for a day lift ticket for Vail and Steamboat are both more than $100; however, the expense of spending a weekend in Steamboat is much lower. Lower prices on meals can be found in Steamboat compared to Vail, CO. The life of skiing and the pure fun of skiing can be coined from Steamboat. Great spots to increase the steamboat experience include: Strawberry Park Hot Springs for a fun attraction, Slopeside for pizza, american food, and a good on-the-slope feel, and the Steamboat Grand Hotel for the best après skiing experience.