THERE'S NO STEAMBOAT in Steamboat Springs. The town got its name in 1865 when a trio of French fur trappers heard what they thought sounded like the chugging of a paddle wheel steamer. What the trappers found was a bubbling mineral spring. Put the two together, and Steamboat Springs took its place in the history books.

Whoever designed the town back then allowed enough room on the street so cattle could be driven straight through town. Today, one can enjoy the Western heritage as well as wonderful shops, galleries and restaurants. Summer activities abound, including mountain biking, camping, fly fishing, rock climbing, hiking, tubing and kayaking. Truly a playground for one and all, summer and winter.

There are over 150 natural springs in the Steamboat Springs area. Historically, the Ute Indians used the springs for their medicinal powers.

Steamboat Springs is home to Perry-Mansfield Performing Arts Camp and School, a nationally- renowned arts camp whose graduates include Dustin Hoffman, Julie Harris, Agnes de Mille and Lee Remick.

Steamboat Springs has sent 54 athletes to the Winter Olympics since 1932, more than any other ski town in North America.

At 6,876 feet, summertime high temperatures usually fluctuate between the low-70s and mid-80s F.

Strings in the Mountains Festival of Music • Strings in the Mountains Festival of Music offers world-class performances in chamber music, jazz, bluegrass, country and family concerts throughout the summer. • www.stringsinthemountains.com

Fish Creek Falls • Located just 4 miles from downtown, Fish Creek Falls is one of the area's natural wonders. The creek takes a 283 foot plunge over a hanging-valley cliff into the pool below.

Scenic Gondola Rides • After the snow melts, the Steamboat Ski Resort offers scenic gondola rides for a bird's eye view of the valley. Once guests reach the top, they can mountain bike, hike, eat or ride the gondola back down.

Strawberry Park Hot Springs • Three natural rock pools, ranging in temperature from mild to hot. A perfect way to unwind and 'get away from it all' in a stunning forest atmosphere. • 970.879.0342 www.strawberryhotsprings.com

The Steamboat Springs Pro Rodeo Series • An annual series sanctioned by the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Assoc. and the Women's Professional Rodeo Assoc. Every Friday & Saturday night, 7:30pm, mid-June to mid-August at the Romick Arena, Howelsen Hill Park Complex.

27th Annual Steamboat Marathon, Half Marathon & 10K - June 1

The Rio 24 Hours of Steamboat Mountain Bike Race - June 7-8

20th Annual Rocky Mountain Mustang Roundup - June 12-15

105th Cowboys’ Roundup Days & 4th of July Celebration - July 4-6

28th Annual Hot Air Balloon Rodeo & Art in the Park - June 12-13

Steamboat Wine Festival - July 31–August 3

Labor Day Celebration – Wild West Air Fest - August 31–Sept. 1

Please visit www.steamboatsummer.com for more information as well as for a full schedule of events.