Mountain biking around Steamboat

Riding an e-MTB? See where e-bikes are and aren't allowed.

Where to ride

• City trails — the city manages about 55 miles of trails; check its interactive map for open/closed status (City trails).
• Emerald Mountain — city trail system above town; the BLM manages the south side, including Ridge, Beall and Rotary trails (Steamboat Pilot).
• Spring Creek — 5.2-mile multi-use trail popular for hiking and biking, ending at Dry Lake Campground on Buffalo Pass Road (City). See our Spring Creek guide.
• Steamboat Bike Park — lift-served downhill trails at the resort; a downhill-specific bike is recommended and there are equipment rules (no kickstands, functional brake on each wheel, etc.) (Steamboat Resort devices list).
• Routt National Forest — hundreds of miles of roads and trails open to mountain bikes; no permits or fees for individuals, though some areas charge day-use fees (USFS).

Seasons & closures

• Follow posted signs and trail closures on all city trails (City).
• Some forest trails have seasonal access dates — e.g., COTREX lists seasonal access windows on parts of Spring Creek (COTREX). Check the city map and the USFS before riding.

Etiquette & rules

• 15 mph max on city trails; riders 15 and under must wear a helmet (City). Slow zones of 10 mph on Sailors Way and Butcherknife (Steamboat Pilot).
• Walk bikes on Lincoln Avenue sidewalks between 3rd and 12th streets (City).
• Common courtesy: announce when passing and stay on the trail, especially when it's muddy.

Last reviewed: October 31, 2026. Facts link to their sources.