Your Steamboat Springs Winter Itinerary: From Airport to Hot Springs

Landing in Steamboat Springs during the winter feels like stepping inside a snow globe — frosted trees, crisp air, and mountains that look almost too perfect to be real. But if you want your trip to start smoothly, it helps to know exactly how to plan your first day.

Here’s a simple, stress-free winter itinerary that takes you from Yampa Valley Airport (HDN) to downtown Steamboat… and straight into a relaxing soak at Strawberry Hot Springs.

1. Arrive at Yampa Valley Airport (HDN)

Flying into HDN is refreshingly easy — no massive terminals, no confusing signage, no long walks through crowds. But in the winter, snow and ice can slow things down a bit.

Pro tips for arriving smoothly:

• Keep gloves and a warm jacket in your carry-on (the temps drop fast here).

• Expect slower baggage unloading during snowstorms.

• Book transportation before you arrive. Shared shuttles fill quickly in winter.

Your driver with Sweet Pea Tours will be waiting for you at baggage claim, tracking your flight and adjusting as needed. No waiting in long pickup lines, no rushing through the snow — just a warm vehicle and a smooth ride into town.

2. Settle Into Your Lodging

Once you arrive in Steamboat Springs, take a little time to settle in. Winter days are shorter, so it’s nice to get unpacked and warmed up before heading out again.

A few things to do during this quick break:

• Swap into warm layers

• Charge your phone

• Grab some water, snacks, or a quick bite

• Check hot springs shuttle times

If you arrive midday or early afternoon, you’ll have plenty of time to experience one of Steamboat’s most iconic winter activities…

3. Head to Strawberry Hot Springs for an Evening Soak

There’s no better welcome to Steamboat Springs than sinking into the natural 104°F pools at Strawberry Hot Springs while snow falls around you. It’s quiet, surreal, and easily one of the most magical winter experiences you can have.

But here’s the part many visitors don’t realize:
The road to the hot springs is steep, icy, and requires 4WD or snow tires all winter long.

That’s why locals always recommend booking transportation instead of driving yourself.

With Sweet Pea Tours, you get:

• A private shuttle

• A driver experienced in winter mountain conditions

• A direct pickup and drop-off

• Zero stress about slipping tires or icy switchbacks

Once you arrive, settle in and soak under the stars. It’s the perfect way to unwind after a travel day.

4. Enjoy a Cozy Dinner Back in Town

After your hot springs adventure, you’ll return to town relaxed and ready to eat. A few great winter-friendly options in Steamboat:

• Creekside Café – Warm comfort food

• Mambo’s – Classic Italian, great for families

• Salt & Lime – Fun vibes, rooftop views (bundle up!)

• Smell That Bread Bakery – Perfect for grabbing something cozy

Winter evenings here are calm, peaceful, and perfect for winding down.

5. Rest Up — Tomorrow is Ski Day

A winter soak + a smooth airport arrival is the ideal combo before your first day on the mountain. Whether you’re here for skiing, boarding, snowshoeing, or just relaxing, you’ll wake up refreshed and ready for adventure.

Make Your Winter Arrival Stress-Free

Traveling in winter doesn’t need to feel chaotic. With a little planning — and a reliable ride — your trip starts on a high note.

Sweet Pea Tours makes your first day simple with:

• Private airport transfers

• Local, winter-trained drivers

• Reliable pickup times

• Direct service to lodging + hot springs

• Clean, comfortable vehicles with room for all your gear

👉 Book your winter airport or hot springs shuttle here:
https://sweetpeatours.com/private-airport-transportation/

Start your Steamboat winter vacation the easy way.