Tales from the Tread “Summer Heritage Events”

By Candice Bannister, Executive Director, Tread of Pioneers Museum

 

This summer, immerse yourself in the history of Steamboat Springs with over 70 opportunities to explore the area’s heritage, all presented by the Tread of Pioneers Museum and local experts. Whether you’re a visitor, a longtime resident, or somewhere in between, you’ll find plenty of ways to connect with the stories that shaped our valley through weekly tours and events offered all season.

Highlights include monthly behind-the-scenes collections tours at the museum, First Friday Artwalks, and our newest feature exhibit, Triumph & Perseverance: The Olympic Legacy in Steamboat Springs, opening to the public on June 25.

Best of all? Most events and tours are free (unless otherwise noted), and museum admission is always free for Routt County residents. Mark your calendars!

 

Weekly Heritage Walking Tours and Storytelling Series – June 3 – September 11, 2025

 

• Olympic Heritage Tour – Explore Steamboat’s unparalleled Olympic prowess, the impact of Carl Howelsen, and the history of Howelsen Hill, the Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club, and the sport of ski jumping. Led by local Olympian Ben Berend, he shares his journey from learning to ski at Howelsen Hill to competing in the Olympics. Every Tuesday from 9-10 a.m. Starts at Howelsen Hill Lodge – 845 Howelsen Parkway. FREE!

 

• Mineral Springs Walking Tour – Join a Yampatika naturalist for an informative tour that highlights the variety of mineral springs found in the area. Find out which spring was a favorite of the pioneers to make lemonade and which one inspired dreams of a spa resort. Presented by Yampatika in partnership with the Tread of Pioneers Museum. Every Wednesday from 9-11 a.m. Starts at the historic Art Depot – 1001 13th St. *Date range: June 18-Aug. 27. FREE!

 

• Downtown Historical Walking Tour – This popular tour is an easy stroll through Steamboat Springs’ history. Hear the stories of the town’s founders and early businesses, learn about locally-produced building materials, and discover the development of our town from a new perspective. Every Thursday from 9-10:30 a.m. Starts at the Tread of Pioneers Museum – 800 Oak St. FREE!

 

• Brown Bag Summer Storytelling Series – For over 25 years, this locals’ favorite oral history program has fascinated audiences. From family and ranching history to historic preservation and more, get your front row seat to county history with the locals who lived it. Every Friday from noon to 1 p.m. from July 11 through August 29, on-site at the Tread of Pioneers Museum, 800 Oak St. For speakers and topics: treadofpioneers.org. FREE!

 

Special Events

• Pioneer Days at the Historic Mesa Schoolhouse – Kids and families will love these hands-on pioneer activities and demonstrations that take place at this historic one-room schoolhouse. June 18, July 1, July 16, and July 29 from 1-3 p.m. (33985 Hwy 40). FREE!

 

• Lulie Crawford’s Wildflowers and Watercolors – Steamboat pioneer Lulie Crawford was a notable artist and musician and loved to paint the area’s wildflowers. Join us at the Yampa River Botanical Park to learn about Lulie Crawford and her artwork, receive instruction from a professional watercolor artist from the Steamboat Art Museum, and make your own wildflower paintings. June 10, June 24, July 8, July 22, and August 5 from 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. (1000 Pamela Ln.). FREE!

 

• Mad Creek History & Geology Hikes – Explore the history and geology of this fascinating area on one of Steamboat’s most stunning hikes. Presented in partnership with Yampatika. June 13 and July 11 from 8:45 a.m. – 1 p.m. Meet at the Mad Creek Trailhead on HWY 129. *Register and pay fee at yampatika.org.

 

From Olympic heritage to pioneer history, from mineral springs to downtown development, there’s something for everyone this summer with the Tread of Pioneers Museum.

More info.: treadofpioneers.org