5.30.2008

Steamboat Springs Best Place To Live The Western Dream


At a recent Steamboat Springs Chamber Meeting I learned that American Cowboy Magzine, America's most widely read Western lifestyle magazine, officially recognized Steamboat Springs as one of the top 20 places to live the Western Dream. What I didn't know, was that, in fact, Steamboat ranked number 4!

American Cowboy rightly points out that it is hard to truly define the West -- and there are mixed meanings: " Opinions will vary, but whether you aim to wet a line in a wild river, enjoy a unique annual event, or explore living history in a place where it’s never been forgotten, you can’t go wrong with any of these choices," states Tom Wilmes, author of 20 Best Places To Live In The West in American Cowboy. "But a few remaining outposts of true Western spirit still thrive. Communities that celebrate their Western roots just in the way they go about their everyday affairs."

Here. Here. Steamboat local's will agree that what separates our town is the genuine hospitality and welcome feeling that every visitor to this town receives; the fact that, as you walk down Lincoln Avenue, everyone will nod, smile or perhaps even tip their hat to you (even better if they are wearing a cowboy hat!).

American Cowboy believes Steamboat Springs is one of the best places to live in the West because: Its reputation as Ski Town USA is certainly a draw, but few know that Steamboat Spring’s ranching roots run deeper than any amount of champagne powder. Cradled by a fertile valley of the Yampa River, the area was once the largest exporter of cattle in the West. Today you’ll find that history alive and well at events such as Cowboys’ Round Up Days, and the annual Hot Air Balloon Rodeo, both in July.

"The places we chose embody the magic and spirit that is the great American West, and we're thrilled to recognize each town for its commitment to honoring, celebrating, and preserving their Western history and heritage," said Bill Garrels, publisher of American Cowboy. "Whether you're looking for a new place to settle or the perfect place to vacation, these communities deliver top value in the form of adventure, culture, charm, natural beauty and unspoiled wilderness, and frontier history and tradition. This year's selections really offer something for everyone."

In celebration of Steamboat's praise, ResortQuest would like to recommend:

The TOP 10 ways to Live The Western Dream in Steamboat:

  1. Horseback riding tour with local rancher and ski legend, Ray Heid
  2. Be a Cowboy or Cowgirl for a day at Saddleback Ranch
  3. Discover the Mt Zirkel Wilderness on horseback, followed by dinner at the Saloon
  4. Raft & Ride at Elk River Ranch
  5. Wagon Ride and Western Dinner on a Real Working Ranch
  6. Do you have the pioneering spirit? Take a scenic road trip along the Flat Tops Trail
  7. Shop for genuine cowboy hats and boots at F.M. Light & Sons
  8. Yee Haw! Go to the Steamboat Summer Pro Rodeo
  9. Visit the Tread of Pioneers History Museum
  10. Wade through Steamboat's picturesque landscape and take a fly fishing trip
    ...Read entire article about Top 10 Ways to Lead the Western Dream
    ...and check-out the Best Western and Agricultural events in Steamboat Springs

1 comment:

ColoradoKuhl said...

My husband and I just moved to Steamboat in September 2007, and not once have we second-guessed our decision to retire here. Not only is it an absolutely beautiful area, Steamboat provides a healthy high-energy life style, small-town friendliness, and an abundance of activities for entertainment. We're living our dream in Steamboat; and as my husband says, "It can't get any better than this!"