When you visit Steamboat, you're visiting a genuine Colorado mountain town that's steeped in history, surrounded by ranches, barns, horse and cattle, and just so happens to boast one of the biggest and best ski mountains in the country. We are in the heart of the American West, with a ranching heritage that is still such a big part of our community. Read below to find out the best ways to get here and other useful information.
    • Find the parking lot that works best for you
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      The Upper Knoll Lot

      Open Daily - Year Round
      Upper Knoll offers free first-come, first-served parking daily, pre-paid advanced reservations parking, and carpool reservations parking.


      The Meadows Parking Lot


      Open Daily through late November through early April.
      Free Shuttle Service Hours: 7:15am–6:30pm
      During these hours, free shuttles run from the Meadows Lot to the base area. Shuttles* depart approximately every 10 minutes. Drop off at Gondola Square Transit Center. Steamboat Springs free public bus (SST) also runs later into the evening, dropping off at Montview across the street from the lot. No overnight parking.

      Overflow Parking

      As the Meadows Lot reaches capacity, the free shuttle will provide service to these lots until 6:30pm. Shuttles depart approximately every 10 minutes. Drop off at Gondola Square Transit Center. No overnight parking.
      Strings Parking Lot
      950 Strings Rd
      Open Daily late November through early April.
      Free Shuttle Service: When the Meadows Parking Lot becomes full, parking attendants will direct cars to the Strings Parking Lot, on the eastside of Pine Grove Rd. The free shuttle will provide service to this lot until 6:30pm. Shuttles depart approximately every 10 minutes. Drop off at Gondola Square Transit Center. Steamboat Springs free public bus (SST) also runs later into the evening, dropping off at Montview, a short walk to the Strings Lot. No overnight parking.

      YAMPA VALLEY MEDICAL CENTER PARKING (YVMC) LOT

      1024 Central Park Drive
      The YVMC parking lot is only for overflow parking on Saturdays and Sundays.
      Free Shuttle Service: When both the Meadows Parking Lot and Strings Parking Lot become full on the weekends, parking attendants will direct cars to the YVMC parking lot.


      Free Carpool Spaces (Upper Knoll Lot)

      Program Details
      Guests are encouraged to carpool to the mountain to reduce traffic, support sustainability, and make the arrival experience smoother. To help coordinate rides, Steamboat has launched a carpooling app powered by Liftango: Steamboat Carpool. Guests can use the Steamboat Carpool app to match with riders or drivers based on your location and commute times.

      • First 25 registered carpools each day receive guaranteed Upper Knoll parking lot.
      • After registering your ride, you’ll be prompted to accept your reserved spot.
      • Navigate to the Upper Knoll lot using the app and show your registered ride to the parking attendant on arrival.

      Rules

      • Trips must be fully booked and completed through the app to qualify.
      • Reserved parking is first-come, first-served; if no option appears, all 25 spots are taken.
      • Carpools must include 3+ people in the vehicle to be eligible.
      • Carpools must be scheduled before 6:30 AM on the day of your visit.
      • Reserved spaces expire at 10:30 AM; please arrive before then.

      How to Create an Account

      1. Download the Steamboat Carpool app.
      2. Tap Sign Up.
      3. Enter your email and create an account.
      4. Verify your email.
      5. Add your name and phone number.
      6. Tap Submit to complete your profile.
        Drivers may be asked to enter vehicle details.

      How to Schedule a Ride

      Watch this quick 2-minute demo: Book a Ride – Demo
      Choose to be a rider, driver, or either. Enter your trip details and you’ll be shown recommended matches nearby.


      Questions or issues?
      Email Parking@steamboat.com

      Advanced Reservations

      Reserve in advance paid parking is available in the Upper Knoll Parking Lot through April 20th, 2026. Rates start at $22 per day and must be made by 10 p.m. the night before arrival. Reservations are now available for the season and will be limited or unavailable during events in the Upper Knoll lot including MusicFest (Jan. 2-13) and WinterWonderGrass (Feb. 20-Mar. 8). Guests may reserve multiple days throughout the season, but each reservation must be made in a separate transaction.

      Reserve a Parking Spot

      To reserve advanced parking through the ParkMobile app, go to the Reservations tab in the top right corner and search for ‘Upper Knoll.’ Please note: Upper Knoll reservations will not appear on the app’s home screen, and are only visible under Reservations.

      Questions or issues? Email Parking@steamboat.com


      Parking Garages


      Steamboat Square Garage

      Parking is $50/day Monday-Thursday, $60/day Friday-Sunday and holidays, or $25 per hour. Overnight parking available on lower level only for $75 per night.
      Parking is 6 am – 2 am except for the lower levels, which offer overnight parking.

      Use pay station kiosks at lots or the Park Mobile App:

      • Enter license plate number & credit card number to pay
      • All lots free for the first 15 minutes
      • Cars parked without using the app or pay station will be ticketed. $82 citation fee


      Ski Time Square Garage

      Parking is $50/day or $25 per hour.
      Parking is 6 am – 2 am. Overnight parking is allowed for Steamboat Grand hotel guests only.
      Upper level is for permitted Base Club members daily 7:00a-2:00p.

      Use pay station kiosks at lots or the Park Mobile App:

      • Enter license plate number & credit card number to pay
      • All lots free for the first 15 minutes
      • Cars parked without using the app or pay station will be ticketed. $82 citation fee


      Parking Lots

      Lower Knoll Parking Lot

      Parking is $20/day Monday-Thursday and $40/day Friday-Sunday and holidays.

      Northside Parking Lot
      Parking is $40 Monday-Thursday and $50 Friday-Sunday and holidays. Located between Slopeside Grill and Wrangler Carpet.
      Use pay station kiosks at lots or the Park Mobile App:

      • Enter license plate number & credit card number to pay
      • All lots free for the first 15 minutes
      • Cars parked without using the app or pay station will be ticketed. $82 citation fee


      Meadows Overnight Parking

      $100 /night for unattended oversize vehicles and trailers. No camping. Contact 970-846-1055.

      For Winter ‘25/’26, guests are encouraged to carpool to the mountain to reduce traffic, support sustainability, and make the arrival experience smoother. To help coordinate rides, Steamboat has launched a carpooling app powered by Liftango: Steamboat Carpool. Guests can use the Steamboat Carpool app to match with riders or drivers based on your location and commute times and receive a reserved parking spot located in the Upper Knoll Parking Lot.The first 25 carpools registered each day receive guaranteed reserved parking in the Upper Knoll lot.

      Program Details

      • First 25 registered carpools each day receive guaranteed Upper Knoll parking.

      • After registering your ride, you’ll be prompted to accept your reserved spot.

      • Navigate to the Upper Knoll lot using the app and show your registered ride to the parking attendant on arrival.

      Rules

      • Trips must be fully booked and completed through the app to qualify.

      • Reserved parking is first-come, first-served; if no option appears, all 25 spots are taken.

      • Carpools must include 2+ passengers (3 people total) to be eligible.

      • Carpools must be scheduled before 6:30 AM on the day of your visit.

      • Reserved spaces expire at 10:30 AM; please arrive before then.

      How to Create an Account

      1. Download the Steamboat Carpool app.

      2. Tap Sign Up.

      3. Enter your email and create an account.

      4. Verify your email.

      5. Add your name and phone number.

      6. Tap Submit to complete your profile.
        Drivers may be asked to enter vehicle details.

      How to Schedule a Ride

      Watch this quick 2-minute demo: Book a Ride – Demo
      Choose to be a rider, driver, or either. Enter your trip details and you’ll be shown recommended matches nearby.


      Questions or issues? Email Parking@steamboat.com

      Reserve in advance paid parking is available in the Upper Knoll Parking Lot through the Park Mobile app. All weekend/holiday period dates for the season are available for purchase. Book up until 10:00pm the night before and your spot is held until 11:00am the day of your reservation. Limited spaces available.

      Reserve a Parking Spot

      Questions or issues? Email Parking@steamboat.com

      Frequently Asked Questions

      Which lot does a paid reservation allow me to park in?

      Upper Knoll Lot only.

      Why should I make a reservation?

      A reservation guarantees a seamless start to your day with a dedicated parking spot held until 10:00am.

      How do I make a paid reservation?

      Visit Steamboat.com/Parking and navigate to the Paid Parking & Upper Knoll Advanced Reservation dropdown and select "Reserve a Parking Spot" or visit Steamboat Ski & Resort Parking | Find Parking | ParkMobile
      Can I park in Upper Knoll without an advanced reservation or carpool booking?

      Yes.Upper Knoll now offers a limited number of pre-paid and carpool reserved spots each day. However, the rest of Upper Knoll remains free and first-come, first-served.
      How much does a reservation cost?

      Reservations start at $22 per day.

      How late can I make a reservation?

      Up to 10:00pm the night before you arrive.

      How far in advance can I book?

      Advanced parking reservations can be made until April 20, 2026 at $22 per reservation. One reservation allowed per account, per day. Users can book multiple reservations for the season but only one reservation can be made per transaction.
      Are reservations limited?

      Yes. Once Upper Knoll reaches capacity, the date will no longer show as available in ParkMobile.

      How do attendants know I have a reservation?

      Your reservation is verified through your license plate number.

      What if I drive a different car?

      You may update your license plate until 10:00pm the night before. After that, show your confirmation to the attendant.

      What is the cancellation policy?

      Cancel in ParkMobile by 10:00pm the night before to receive a full refund.

      What time do I need to arrive?

      Arrive before 10:00am or your reserved space may be released.

      How long is my reservation valid?

      Your space is available from 5:00am–11:59pm on your reserved day. No overnight parking due to snow removal (2:00am–5:00am).

      What if Upper Knoll is closed for events?

      Reservations will not appear on ParkMobile. This typically occurs during MusicFest (Jan 2–13) and WinterWonderGrass (Feb 20–Mar 8).

      Are employees allowed to reserve?

      Yes, but employees are encouraged to use the Emerald employee lot.
      How do I Book through the Park Mobile App?

      Navigate to the options screen in the top left corner of the Park Mobile app home screen and select Reservations. Upon being redirected, search for Upper Knoll and click on the pop-up shown on the map.

      I’m a First Tracks pass holder — do I need a reservation?

      First Tracks pass holders are welcome to reserve in advance. However, limited first-come, first-served parking will continue to be available in Upper Knoll daily.
      Are Reservations Limited?

      Yes. Once Upper Knoll reaches daily reservation capacity, the date will no longer show as available in ParkMobile.
      Do I have to register my carpool through the Steamboat Carpool App?

      Yes. Carpools must be booked through the Steamboat Carpool app to be eligible for a reserved space in the Upper Knoll Lot.
      Can I park in Upper Knoll wihtout an advanced reservation or carpool booking?

      Yes.Upper Knoll now offers a limited number of pre-paid and carpool reserved spots each day. However, the rest of Upper Knoll remains free and first-come, first-served.

      Who can help with reservation issues?

      • Onsite attendants
      • Email: parking@steamboat.com
      • Urgent needs: 970-846-0742

      Which lot does a carpool reservation allow me to park in?

      Upper Knoll Lot only.

      How much does a carpool reservation cost?

      Carpool reservations are free.

      How many people are required for a carpool?

      A minimum of 3 people per vehicle.

      How do I make a free carpool reservation?

      Download the Steamboat Carpool App from Steamboat.com/Parking.
      You may:
      • Join a public carpool, or
      • Create a private ride with people you already plan to travel with.
      Can I park in Upper Knoll without an advanced reservation or carpool booking?

      Yes.Upper Knoll now offers a limited number of pre-paid and carpool reserved spots each day. However, the rest of Upper Knoll remains free and first-come, first-served.

      How far in advance can I book?

      Up to 21 days before arrival.

      How late can I book?

      Until 10:00pm the night before.

      Are free carpool spaces limited?

      Yes. Free carpool reservations are limited to the first 25 vehicles, plus remaining daily capacity.

      How do I know if my carpool is confirmed?

      Your reservation must show “ACCEPTED” in the app.
      If it displays “REQUESTED”, your spot is not yet confirmed.

      What if I arrive with fewer than 3 people?

      Attendants will verify occupancy. Vehicles with fewer than 3 people will be redirected to another lot or first-come, first-served spaces (if available).

      Do all passengers need accounts?

      No. Only two adults (with accounts) need to be linked in the app. Children do not need accounts.

      Do I have to carpool with strangers?

      No. You may create a Private Ride with your own group.

      Do I need both ParkMobile and the Carpool App?

      No — you only need one reservation system:
      • ParkMobile for paid reservations
      • Steamboat Carpool App for free carpool reservations

      What happens if Upper Knoll is closed for events?

      Only reservations marked “ACCEPTED” are valid.
      Avoid planning carpools for Jan 2–10 and Feb 20–Mar 10 due to major events.

      Are employees allowed to carpool?

      Yes, employees are welcome to carpool and park at Upper Knoll when available.

      How do I cancel my carpool reservation?

      Cancel your scheduled ride in the Steamboat Carpool App.

      Yes, at the Gondola Transit Center. Follow the signs in the Transit Center for passenger drop off.
      Why is Steamboat charging for parking?
      The Steamboat parking program is designed to reduce single-occupancy vehicles, support sustainability goals, and improve the arrival experience at the resort through managing parking demand.

      This program incentivizes carpooling and alternative modes of transportation, helping reduce the number of single occupancy vehicles arriving/parking at the resort. Guests who carpool will have access to free parking options and the parking program encourages shifting more riders on public transportation and into offsite employee parking lots.

      How much does it cost to park daily?

      Parking LocationWeekdays (Mon-Thurs)Weekends (Fri-Sun) & Peak Periods*Carpool (3+ People)
      Meadows LotFree$15/day (free after 1 p.m.)Free
      Upper Knoll Lot$20/day (free after 1 p.m.$25/day (Free after 1 p.m.)Free (reserve in advance required)
      Lower Knoll Lot$25/day$45/day
      Steamboat Square Garage$55/Day$65/day
      Ski Time Square Garage$55/DAy$55/day

      *Peak Periods include Dec. 26, 2026-Jan. 3, 2027; Feb. 15, 2027; Mar. 4, 2027

      Is there a season parking pass option?

      Yes. A limited number of 26-27 Season Parking Passes will be available for purchase on April 9 for the Upper Knoll and Meadows lots. For locals and frequent visitors, a Season Parking Pass offers a more cost‑effective and convenient way to access paid parking throughout the winter, eliminating the need to pay daily rates and streamlining arrival on busy days.

      Parking Season Pass Pricing
      • Parking Pass Plus (Upper Knoll & Meadows Lot Season Pass): $600
      • Parking Pass Meadows (Meadows Lot Season Pass): $300

      How do I pay for parking or making a parking reservation?

      Steamboat uses ParkMobile for paid parking and parking reservations. Guests can pay via the app or on the website once parked in the Upper Knoll and Meadows lots; the Lower Knoll lot and Parking Garages offer app and kiosk payment options.

      Is there a discount for carpooling?

      Yes. We encourage carpooling. Any vehicle arriving with three or more people will receive free parking in the Meadows Lot on paid parking days. Guests who reserve a limited-available carpool spot in advance via ParkMobile can also park for free in the Upper Knoll Lot, giving carpoolers free access to our most convenient surface parking.

      Carpool benefits apply to our surface lots only. Parking garages are not eligible for carpool discounts.

      Can I reserve a parking spot?

      Yes. Guests can make advanced parking reservations via ParkMobile for the Upper Knoll Lot when booked by 10 p.m. the night before. Reserving ahead guarantees a parking space in the Upper Knoll Lot until 10:00am at a discounted rate.

      Carpools of three or more receive free parking with an advanced carpool reservation made via ParkMobile.

      Reservations apply to the Upper Knoll Lot only .

      Are there free parking options?

      Yes. Guests have several free and convenient ways to get to Steamboat Ski Resort without paying for parking. These options help reduce congestion, support sustainability goals, and often make arrival easier on busy days.

      Carpooling
      Vehicles with three or more people qualify for free parking:
      • Meadows Lot: Free for carpools on arrival (on paid parking days).
      • Upper Knoll Lot: Free with an advanced carpool reservation. Carpooling is the simplest way to secure free parking close to the mountain.

      Free Public Transit
      The City of Steamboat Springs offers free bus service throughout town with frequent routes to and from the resort. This is one of the most reliable and stress‑free ways to get to the mountain. Guests not directly on the bus line can park in the Stockbridge Transit Center and east portion of River Creek Park. Guests are reminded to follow all posted parking regulations.

      Hotel and Lodging Shuttles
      Many hotels, condos, and property management companies provide complimentary shuttles directly to the resort, allowing guests to avoid parking altogether.

      Walking or Biking
      For guests staying or living nearby, walking or biking can be a quick and pleasant way to reach the resort, especially on fair‑weather days.

      Do you have a dedicated skier drop-off location?

      Yes, at the Gondola Transit Center. Follow signs in the Transit Center for passenger drop-off.

      How will this affect Passport Club members’ parking access?

      Passport Club members’ parking benefits will be announced with next year's pass offering.

      Will there be drop-off options for Trailbusters/Minibusters and Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club families?
      Yes. Drop-off logistics will be shared with Trailbusters/Minibusters and SSWSC guests prior to the start of the 26-27 Winter Season.

      Is it typical for ski resorts to charge guests to park?

      Yes. Most major resorts have paid parking and reservation programs. SSRC reviewed parking programs across the industry to identify the best plan for Steamboat.

      Will Northside Parking Lot still be a parking option?

      Beginning summer 2026, The Stockman will break ground in the current Northside parking lot which will transition that lot out of SSRC parking operations.

      If the mountain goes into overflow parking, will parking in overflow lots be paid as well?

      The intention of this new parking program is to reduce number of vehicles parking on busy days and to limit the days overflow parking is needed. If Steamboat goes to overflow lots, parking will be free for guests parking in those lots.


















    • Find the parking lot that works best for you
      View Parking Map

      Plan ahead with live parking updates & lot statuses
      Download Steamboat App


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      Sign up for Text Alerts
      Free Parking
      Free parking is available in the Upper Knoll Parking Lot. Short walk to the base. No overnight parking.

      Paid Parking


      Steamboat Square Garage

      Parking is $10 week days, $19 weekends, and $25 overnight.
      ski time square garage
      Parking is $10 week days, $19 on weekends.
      Lower Knoll Parking Lot

      Parking is $5/day

      Parking is 6 am – 2 am. Overnight parking for the general public is allowed in the Steamboat Square garage. Overnight parking in Ski Time Square is for hotel guests only.
      Use pay station kiosks at lots or the Park Mobile App:
      • Enter license plate number & credit card number to pay
      • All lots free for the first 15 minutes
      • Cars parked without using the app or pay station will be ticketed. $80 citation fee.


      Overnight PARKING
      Overnight parking for oversized vehicles is available in the Meadows Parking Lot for $40/night. Contact 970-846-1055.

    • STEAMBOAT SPRINGS TRANSIT

      With Steamboat Springs Transit (SST) Free Bus system, getting around Steamboat without your personal vehicle is easy! The City of Steamboat Springs offers a comprehensive system of FREE bus transportation between the ski area and downtown, as well as most hotels, condominiums, restaurants, grocery, and entertainment locations. The ski area is three miles/4.8 km southeast of downtown Steamboat Springs.



      Steamboat Springs Transit Schedule


      LODGING PROPERTY SHUTTLES

      Many local lodging properties offer private shuttle service to take you anywhere in town you might need to go. The extent of the service varies by property.

      Call your selected lodging property directly to inquire about shuttle service,
      or reach out to Steamboat Central Reservations® for more information:
      877-783-2628 [toll free] or 970-879-0740 [International]


    • airport shuttles
      Steamboat Springs is only minutes from the Hayden Airport (HDN) and between 3.5 and 4 hours from Denver International Airport (DEN), weather and road condition dependent.
      View Shuttle Rates & Schedules
      rental cars
      Prefer to rent your own car while in Steamboat? Steamboat Central Reservations® can help you book your rental car to and around Steamboat from respected rental companies. Call 800-922-2722 to book.
    • The Hayden airport is located just a few miles east of Hayden and approximately 22 miles/35 km west of Steamboat Springs off Highway 40. From the airport, take the access road about 2 miles/3.2 km out to Highway 40 and turn right. Steamboat is about 22 miles/35 km east. While there is no public bus service from the airport, but shuttle services are available.

      157 miles/250 km northwest of Denver, an easy 3 hour drive. Take I-70 west through the Eisenhower Tunnel to Silverthorne, Exit 205 (67 miles/107 km). Take CO 9 North to Kremmling (37 miles/59 km), then West on US 40 to Steamboat Springs (53 miles/85 km).
      View conditions on Highway 40 | View conditions on CO 9

      View Airport Shuttles from Denver.
      Take CO 14 West, through Poudre Canyon, over Cameron Pass until Walden, CO. Take CO 14 (toward Steamboat Springs) until US 40, and turn right (West) over Muddy and Rabbit Ears Passes to Steamboat Springs.
      230 miles/368 km Northwest of Colorado Springs. Take I-25 north to C 470 (53 miles/85 km) then C 470 west to I-70 west (15 miles/24 km). Take I-70 west through the Eisenhower Tunnel to Silverthorne exit 205 (67 miles/107 km). Take CO 9 North to Kremmling (37 miles/59 km), then West on US 40 to Steamboat Springs (53 miles/85 km).
      Take I-70 West through Glenwood Springs and Eagle to Exit 157 (117 miles/187 km). Take CO 131 North (75 miles/120 km) to US 40. Turn left on US 40 to Steamboat Springs (4 miles).
      Take US 40/UT 189 South to Heber City, UT. Stay on US 40, Steamboat Springs is about 5 1/2 hours from Park City.
      Take WY 230 West (Snowy Range exit) through Mountain Home to the Wyoming/Colorado border, the road changes to CO 127. Stay on CO 127 to Walden. Take CO 14 West to US 40 at Muddy Pass and Rabbit Ears Pass to Steamboat Springs.
      Take this route if US 40 over Rabbit Ears Pass is closed and you're coming from Denver or Colorado Springs. Take I-70 west through the Eisenhower Tunnel to Silverthorne, exit 205 (67 miles/107 km). Take CO 9 North to Kremmling (37 miles/59 km). Head west on US 40 until the intersection with CO 134 (6 miles/9.6 km). Turn left and go over Gore Pass (CO 134). At Toponas, take Colorado 131 north to Steamboat Springs (40 miles/64 km). Or, take I-70 west (through Vail) until Exit 157. Take CO 131 North to Steamboat Springs (75 miles/120 km), then left on US 40 to town (4 miles/6.4 km).

    • take the Snowstang to Steamboat
      Starting December 16, Snowstang will provide 40 days of weekend bus service between Denver and Steamboat Springs on Saturdays and Sundays, as well as the Martin Luther King Jr. and Presidents Day holidays. Passengers can board at either Denver Union Station or the Denver Federal Center. Fares are $20 one-way, or $40 Roundtrip for Steamboat Springs. Additional discounts will be available for Seniors and Children. Children age 2 - 11 ride free with a full fare-paying adult ticket.

      Learn More