Whether you know it as The Gold Season, Fall, or Autumn — it’s no secret that this time of year is like no other. From the deep shades of crimson and amber that color the mountains to the crisp air perfect for outdoor activities, Steamboat Springs and Mammoth Lakes are full of magic this time of year.
Gold Season is the very best of Mother Nature’s artwork. Still, the striking landscape is more than just a picturesque backdrop, It’s full of exciting activities and places to explore. Steamboat and Mammoth are favorites for travelers because of the endless opportunities for adventure and the kind of beauty that goes beyond the perfect Instagram photo (although you can certainly get a great shot, too!).
If you’re dying to see these grand views for yourself, don’t forget to try out some of the can’t-miss opportunities while you’re here!
Your Gold Season Bucket List:
Steamboat Springs, CO:
- Hike to The Top of Hahn’s Peak If you love the reward of a beautiful view after a difficult hike, then this is the perfect activity for you. A centuries-old fire tower rests at the top of this inactive volcano. Coming in at around 3.6 miles roundtrip, it’s not long before you get to see a 360-degree view of the fall foliage from the top of Hahn’s Peak. This one is a must-see!
- Go Horseback Riding Horseback riding through the golden landscape is fun for the whole family. Whether you’re an experienced rider or it’s your first time — the ranchers have options for everyone’s skill level and preference. What better way to fully immerse yourself in the season than to see it on horseback!
- Relax in Steamboat’s Hot Springs You can either soak your sore muscles peacefully in the hot springs or have some fun with all that Old Town Hot Springs has to offer. Including hot springs-fed pools, two waterslides, a climbing wall, and a fitness center. With so much to experience, why not try it all?
- See Fish Creek Canyon’s Waterfalls The fall trees are a stunning backdrop for the already breathtaking waterfall at Fish Creek Canyon. It’s just a short walk until you get to watch the fresh alpine water cascade down the rocks from 280 ft high!
- Sip Your Way Through the Steamboat Brew Trail If you’re looking for a different kind of trail, then this is the one for you. With a distance of 2.7 miles, the trail follows the Yampa River and goes through town. The Brew Trail is made up of four local breweries where you can enjoy beers and even small batches of whiskey, vodka, gin, and moonshine. You can walk or rent a bike, it’s up to you! (Whichever you choose, just make sure you’re being safe and responsible).
Mammoth Lakes, CA:
- Hike The Heart Lake Trail in Mammoth This trail comes to life in the Fall, as Aspen trees offer a colorful backdrop to the Sierra Nevada sky. Not only does this hike offer unparalleled views of the season, but you also get to see the iconic heart-shaped lake!
- Have a Sunset Picnic on Minaret Vista The Minaret Vista offers a breathtaking view of Mammoth Lakes’ signature skylineーperfect for a sunset picnic or stargazing at night. Grab some snacks, a friend, and a place to sit back and enjoy the view!
- Fall Fishing Mammoth Lakes Basin offers some of the best trout fishing in the world! Autumn changes the deciduous trees of the Eastern Sierra into a stunning expanse of gold color. Experience pure serenity as you fish along miles of this golden shoreline.
- Discover Fall Colors in Reds Meadow Take full advantage of the gold season and the awe-inspiring shades of Mammoth with a day-long excursion. Reds Meadow has plenty of options for fall hikes, specifically Rainbow Falls. This 101-foot waterfall is part of the Devils Postpile National Monumentーknown for the charming rainbow created by its mist.
Now you have several more lines to add to your bucket list, and you can have fun crossing them off during the Gold Season at Steamboat Springs and/or Mammoth Lakes! Don’t forget to take a deep breath and appreciate all that Mother Nature has to offer this fall.
Book your stay today with Nomadness Rentals today! Click HERE to view a wide variety of Mammoth Lakes and Steamboat Springs vacation rentals. Plus, VIEW ALL our year-round discounts.
