Howelsen Hill Ski Area — Attraction in Steamboat Springs

Yesterday, I decided to try out Housen Hill Ski Ramp, a more budget-friendly alternative to the pricier Steamboat Resort. As a skiing enthusiast, I was curious to see how it stacked up, and despite a few hiccups, it proved to be a worthwhile experience that I’d recommend, especially for families.

Atmosphere and Experience

Housen Hill has a welcoming, laid-back vibe that feels like skiing with a tight-knit community. The staff and fellow skiers were kind and approachable, adding to the charm of the place. It’s not as polished or grand as larger resorts, but it has its own appeal, offering a cozy and unpretentious environment.

One unexpected setback was the malfunction of the main lift to the top of the mountain. It was a bit frustrating to switch to an alternative lift, which turned out to be quite challenging to navigate. I even had a less-than-graceful fall while attempting to use it—definitely not my finest moment! That said, I appreciated the resilience of the staff who worked hard to keep things moving despite the breakdown.

Skiing Highlights

Once I made it to the top, the effort was well worth it. I managed to enjoy the mile-long trail twice, and it was pure bliss. The snow conditions were excellent—smooth, fast, and perfect for an exhilarating ride. Even without the high-end amenities of larger resorts, Housen Hill delivered an authentic skiing experience that felt just as rewarding.

Family-Friendly Perks

Housen Hill is an amazing spot for families, and this is where it truly shines. Kids ski free every day, and they offer free skiing for everyone on Sundays—a rare and thoughtful touch that makes skiing accessible to all. Families looking to introduce their children to skiing without breaking the bank will find this a fantastic option.

Pricing

Perhaps the biggest advantage of Housen Hill is the price. Compared to Steamboat Resort, it’s significantly more affordable without sacrificing the joy of skiing. While there’s room for improvement in terms of guidance and infrastructure, the price point makes these issues easier to overlook.

Final Thoughts

Housen Hill Ski Ramp may not have the bells and whistles of high-end resorts, but it has heart and affordability on its side. With excellent snow, welcoming people, and unbeatable family-friendly deals, it’s a fantastic choice for a fun and budget-conscious day on the slopes. Just be prepared for some minor inconveniences and a bit of adventure getting to the top!

Recommendation: If you’re looking for an affordable ski spot with good snow and a relaxed atmosphere, Housen Hill is worth a visit. Families, in particular, will love the free skiing options for kids and Sundays. I’ll certainly be back—but next time, I’ll be better prepared for those tricky lift...

Howelsen Hill Ski Area is a charming and quaint skiing destination, complete with an invitingly friendly staff and a delightful, well-maintained chalet that provides a cozy spot to relax and change. This gem of a ski area offers the unique opportunity to enjoy both downhill and cross-country skiing in a single day, catering to a variety of skiing preferences. What makes Howelsen Hill truly stand out is their unbeatable Sunday pricing - it's absolutely free! This incredible offer enhances the appeal of the ski area, making it not only a great place for winter sports enthusiasts but also an excellent choice for families and budget-conscious skiers. The combination of a warm, welcoming atmosphere, versatile skiing options, and an irresistible Sunday deal makes Howelsen Hill Ski Area an exceptional choice for anyone looking to enjoy a day...

So glad I could this place to snowboard at. Pocketbook friendly and less crowded. I came here before for tubing down the hill but have now experienced the snowboarding part of it too. They have a small snack shack at the bottom of the hill. The first time we came for tubing, there was a storm that came through with snow and lightning and we took shelter in the lodge/Cafe. Not as long or as many routes to choose from, but they have some challenging slopes and other activities such as the slalom that can be done here. There are also cute mini cabins that you can rent out to have your own private area to store your belongings or eat nd take breaks from the slopes. Very friendly service here both times we...