Luxury Homes in Colorado Mountains
Steamboat Springs, located in Colorado’s Yampa Valley, has long been appreciated for its wealth of natural beauty—bubbling hot springs dot its landscape, the Yampa River runs directly through the town, and the Rocky Mountains loom overhead. The Porches, a series of four- and five-bedroom houses, are right in the midst of this picturesque setting. Earth-toned exteriors forged with wood and stone channel the surrounding mountains. Inside, upscale touches such as hand-hewn beams, hand-distressed floors, and stone fireplaces give homes a luxurious feel. The houses all sit at the base of Steamboat Ski Resort, about 400 yards from nearby ski hills and hiking trails.
Ensconced in nature and named after Colorado’s native trees, The Porches’ townhouses have lots of modern upgrades, including granite countertops, down-stuffed couches, and custom cabinetry. Several homes have private balconies adjoining the master suites, and others have recreation rooms with home theaters and billiards tables. The townhouses spread out across three stories and some can sleep up to 14.
Much of the action at The Porches centers on the Barn, a 6,000-square-foot clubhouse located about 100 steps from every home. Head here to take a dip in the all-season, heated swimming pool or socialize around the great room’s fireplace. At the Barn’s concierge desk, guests can book everything from fly-fishing trips to restaurant reservations. Guests of the hotel can take a private shuttle to and from the ski resort, at additional cost, as well as to restaurants and attractions in downtown Steamboat Springs.
Steamboat Springs, Colorado: Hiking and Mountain Biking on Scenic Alpine Trails
Steamboat Springs hugs the western ridge of the Continental Divide in northwest Colorado, 150 miles northwest of Denver. Though it’s still a ranching center, the town is best known as a world-class ski destination. In the warmer months, Steamboat Resort’s alpine trails are a popular spot for hikers and mountain bikers.
You can also bike along the 7-mile Yampa River Core Trail, which follows its namesake river through downtown Steamboat and several parks. If you prefer hiking, Fish Creek Falls is a rewarding trek. You can see the falls after just 0.2 miles and continue for another 2.25 miles to reach the top of the cascade.
The alpine berg gets its name from the 150-plus hot springs that dot the area; legend has it that the springs sounded, to early settlers, like a steamboat rounding the bend. Visit Strawberry Park Hot Springs to soak in mineral water heated to 104 degrees. Clothing is optional after dark.
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