Many Steamboat locals and visitors enjoy hiking, biking, and exploring the forested terrain surrounding the ski resort, especially during the beautiful off-seasons. But did you know that much of the land within and around Steamboat Resort is actually part of the Routt National Forest and leased from the U.S. Forest Service?
While it might appear to be public land—and in many ways, it is—access and usage rights are governed by a special use permit (SUP) between the resort and the federal government. This agreement shapes when and how the land can be accessed by the public throughout the year.
Whether you’re planning your next backcountry bike ride, scouting trailheads for a fall hike, or even evaluating a real estate purchase near the resort boundary, it’s important to understand how these leases work and what they mean for seasonal land access.
🏔️ The Basics: Steamboat Resort’s Lease with the U.S. Forest Service
Steamboat Resort operates under a Special Use Permit (SUP) issued by the U.S. Forest Service, which allows it to lease and manage over 6,000 acres of National Forest land for commercial skiing and associated activities.
This permit is part of a longstanding federal program that supports outdoor recreation while maintaining stewardship of public lands. Nearly 60% of skiable terrain at Steamboat Resort is located on this Forest Service land.
The lease outlines what Steamboat Resort can do on that land, including:
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Maintaining lifts and infrastructure
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Operating trails and terrain parks
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Managing avalanche control and safety measures
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Hosting commercial operations (like guided skiing or lessons)
It also defines when the resort has exclusive operational use, and when the land is accessible to the general public.
📅 Seasonal Land Use: When the Resort Has Priority Access
The Special Use Permit is typically active during the resort’s operational seasons:
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Winter Season: Mid-November through mid-April (depending on snowfall and opening dates)
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Summer Operations Season: Typically early June through early September
During these periods, the resort has exclusive use of certain areas, particularly around:
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Lift-serviced terrain
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Construction or maintenance zones
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Areas with ongoing resort programming or events
This doesn’t mean all trails are closed to the public—but it does mean that some restrictions may apply, especially near lifts, service roads, or commercial activity zones.
🚴 How This Affects Hikers & Bikers in the Off-Season
During spring and fall shoulder seasons, when the ski area is not operating, the Forest Service land leased by the resort generally reverts to public access under National Forest rules—with some exceptions.
Here’s what that means for recreationists:
✅ Trails Outside Active Resort Areas Are Open
Many popular hiking and biking trails on Forest Service land that overlap the resort (like Spring Creek, Mad Creek, and Buff Pass loops) remain open and accessible in spring and fall, as long as trail conditions allow.
🚧 Construction Zones May Be Restricted
During offseason maintenance or improvement projects, some areas of the resort may be closed to the public for safety. These will typically be marked with signage, fencing, or notices at trailheads.
🧭 Trail Etiquette Still Applies
Even when the lease is inactive, the land is still subject to USFS regulations. This includes:
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Staying on marked trails
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Avoiding wildlife-sensitive zones
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Packing out trash and following Leave No Trace principles
🏡 Why This Matters for Real Estate in Steamboat
For current or prospective homeowners, especially those looking at properties near the resort, understanding how these land use agreements work adds valuable context.
🏞️ Trail Access Isn’t Always Year-Round
Some trails or access points near homes in neighborhoods like Storm Mountain Ranch, Burgess Creek, and Priest Creek may be affected by seasonal resort operations. A property with “ski-in/ski-out” winter access might have limited trail use in summer if it’s near an active lease area.
🛠️ Future Development May Hinge on SUP Amendments
Any future expansions by Steamboat Resort (such as new lifts, terrain, or summer attractions) must be approved through modifications to the existing Special Use Permit, often with public input and environmental review. Staying aware of these changes can help buyers and investors make informed decisions.
📈 Properties Near Lease Land Hold Long-Term Appeal
Despite seasonal access restrictions, homes near National Forest lease boundaries tend to retain strong resale value, due to proximity to year-round adventure, unobstructed views, and access to both resort and backcountry experiences.
🧭 Tips for Using Steamboat Resort Trails During the Offseason
If you plan to hike, bike, or explore around Steamboat Resort during non-operational months, keep the following in mind:
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Check trailhead signs for current access info
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Avoid areas with construction, equipment, or maintenance crews
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Respect closures—they’re in place for your safety
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Stay on designated trails—especially in spring when trails are muddy and sensitive
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Check with the Forest Service or Steamboat Resort for updates on access restrictions
🔍 Stay Informed. Stay Smart. Explore With Respect.
The land around Steamboat Resort offers incredible recreation opportunities, but it’s important to recognize when it’s under lease and when it’s truly public access. The balance between private operations and public enjoyment is what allows Steamboat to thrive as a world-class mountain destination and a beloved local playground.
For those considering real estate in the area—or simply wanting to enjoy the land responsibly—understanding these seasonal dynamics is essential. Fill out our contact form and we’ll be in touch.