One of the things that was included in our tour of the Ninh Binh Province in Vietnam was riding bicycles through the countryside and along the rice paddies. Well, at least that was the description in the tour literature. We did ride bicycles, but it was not through the idyllic countryside, but rather through construction. Vietnam is known for it’s use of bicycles from the 1950’s, which aren’t as stable as modern bicycles. Add to that, we had to dodge construction trucks and ride over stones instead of a smooth path. It may be something that most tourists expect when visiting Vietnam, but we’d have preferred a quiet ride in the countryside versus a ride through a construction zone.
Stones on the Road and a Truck Up AheadIt Would Have Been Pretty Without the ConstructionMore of an Adventure than a Quiet RideThis is Closer to What the Tour Guides Would Like You to See
Most people associate Steamboat Springs with being a destination for skiing, which would be correct, but it is also a popular destination during the summer. Situated in the Colorado Rocky Mountains, there is ample hiking, biking, zip lining, golf, and other activities. The town of Steamboat Springs is a typical Colorado mountain town with historic buildings and ample choices of restaurants and local shops. Whether mountain biking, walking or riding bikes along the Yampa River, playing miniature golf, or riding down the Alpine Slide, there are plenty of things for children as well as adults.
View of Downtown Steamboat Springs
The Yampa River
Stunning Views as You Drive to Steamboat
Fun for the Children
Shopping and Dining in the Old Town Square
Getting into the mountains is a wonderful way to beat the heat and enjoy fresh air, good food, and get away from the daily grind. If you are looking for solitude, though, you will need to get out of town and go hiking or biking on a nearby trail as the resort town is extremely busy as tourists descend upon it in droves. The weekends are especially congested as people escape from Denver and other surrounding cities to join tourists from around the world. Friday and Saturday nights feature a pro rodeo as well as an opera series during the summer. There is also a farmer’s market on Saturdays with a large variety of local artists, fresh vegetables, and other oddities for sale.
Farmer’s Market
Court House
Busy Streets Downtown
Walking the Trail along the Yampa River
Whimsical Statue Downtown
If you make your way out of town and up to the actual ski resort, you take the gondola to the top to enjoy the views or, if you are more daring, rent a mountain bike and take a thrilling ride down the side of the mountain. There is also horseback riding or white water rafting for those who want a true mountain experience. With so much to do, you may find yourself jumping in the hot tub of your local condominium or hotel to sooth those aching muscles at the end of the day. Also, be aware that Steamboat Springs is at 6,700 feet (2,050 meters), so be sure to drink plenty of water as well as sports drinks. When not refueling, perhaps enjoy one of the many local craft beers that are available in the restaurants and pubs.
Gondola to the Top of the Mountain
Bike Rentals and Rafting Adventures
Enjoying a Drink at the Ski Resort
Biking across the River
Downtown Steamboat Springs
Steamboat Springs is definitely a wonderful place to enjoy the best of what Colorado has to offer. Stunning views, outdoor activities, friendly people, and gourmet dining. Regardless of your fitness level, you will be able to find activities that suit your lifestyle. Also, being a large ski resort area, you can find accommodations ranging from upscale hotels and resort condominiums to motels and cabins catering to almost any budget.
