Ride 'em Skis, Cowboy! Steamboat Cowboy Downhill Tomorrow

Steamboat Springs western brand is never more evident than at the annual Cowboy Downhill, when Cowboys and cowgirls from across the country make their way to Steamboat Spr­ings to com­pete at the Steamboat Ski Area’s Stampede run. At this event, rodeo champions exchange bucking broncos and bulls for a set of skis or a snowboard.

Experience levels vary - some of these exceptionally skiiled horsemen are strapping on skis for the first time! Get ready for all the thrills and spills, with cowboy hats and chaps going everywhere. There's a lot of hootin' and hollering, and plenty of "Yee Haws." Be prepared to belly laugh! Bring your camera because some of the action happens so fast, your snap shots will later reveal the true hilarity of stampeding cowboys on skis!

The Cowboy Downhill began 36 years ago when Billy Kidd and Larry Mahan, a six-time All-Around World Champion cowboy, decided to put a few pro rodeo stars on skis. Hilarity ensued!

This year’s Cowboy Downhill features two events. In the first, participants race through a dual slalom course on skis or a snowboard, hit a jump, lasso a Steamboat Ambassador and saddle a horse before crossing the finish line. The second is an all-out, every-man-for-himself race to the bottom of Stampede.

Steamboat's Cowboy Downhill is scheduled to coincide with the National Western Stock Show and Rodeo in Denver, which started Jan. 5. Participants must be members of the Professional Rodeo Cowboy’s Association or a member of the Professional Bull Riders.

Several activities will be available in Gondola Square during the Cowboy Downhill event. From noon to 4 p.m., visitors can check out the Community Agriculture Alliance’s informational booth. During that time, a 4-H farm animal petting zoo will be set up that also will include a clinic teaching visitors how to rope.
An awards ceremony will follow the Cowboy Downhill. Afterward, at about 5:30 p.m., a free concert featuring Reckless Kelly will begin in Gondola Square.

What: 36th annual Cowboy Downhill
When: 4 p.m. Tuesday
Where: Stampede run at Steamboat Ski Area
Cost: Free
Travel to Steamboat: Call today to get exceptional rates on two night stays. These deals are not published online - call for details.