Steamboat Springs, Colorado is a breathtaking destination with many amazing sights to explore. However, there’s one attraction that stands out above the rest and is sure to leave you speechless, whether you visit in the winter or summer. That attraction is none other than the historic Howelsen’s Hill, a ski area that includes an incredibly massive ski jump with a fascinating historical background.
Howelsen’s Hill has been a fully operating ski area since 1914 and is considered the oldest operating ski area in the world today. Before Carl Howelsen created a ski club on this mountain, the town used Howelsen Hill as an Elk Park and wildlife preserve. Howelsen’s goal was to break the record of ski jumping, and he believed that if the jump was steeper, athletes would be able to jump farther. Each year that passed, Howelsen added on to the mountain. First, it was the ski jump, then a slalom course, and it just continued from there. As years went by, Carl Howelsen became a successful winter sports team coach and trained many of these athletes to become world-renowned Olympic athletes. Now, over 70 winter Olympians have trained on these slopes and jumps, and many continue to train and compete in the Olympics each year.
Located across from the Yampa River in downtown Steamboat Springs, Howelsen’s Hill is known for its “champagne powder” snow, making it a popular destination for skiers and snowboarders from around the world. In addition to the massive ski jump, the ski area includes parks designed specifically for beginners and intermediate athletes.
Visitors to Howelsen’s Hill can also learn about the history of skiing in Steamboat Springs at the Howelsen Hill Ski Museum, which showcases the town’s long and proud skiing heritage. The museum is located in a historic ski lodge, and admission is free.
Whether you’re an experienced skier, a beginner, or simply interested in learning about the history of skiing, Howelsen’s Hill is a must-visit destination that offers a unique and unforgettable experience.
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