Ahead of summer adventures on nearby lakes, Hala Gear SUP’s Victoria Ohegyi shares her top spots to stop in town.

Downtown Steamboat Springs, Colorado
Frank Walter/Steamboat Springs Chamber
Downtown Steamboat Springs, Colorado

Sunset’s Insider Guide series highlights seasonal diversions and secret travel tips from local experts. Follow along as we learn where to eat, drink, stay, and shop.

Victoria Ohegyi in Colorado
Victoria Ohegyi
Photo by Austin Sun

Meet the insider: Victoria Ohegyi, marketing director for Hala Gear SUP

Based in Steamboat Springs, Hala Gear offers all the inflatable boards, paddles, and guidance you need to stand-up paddleboard with ease. Ahead of summer adventures on nearby lakes, we asked marketing director Victoria Ohegyi for her top spots to visit. Fun fact: She used to help prep breakfast at Mariposa Lodge Bed & Breakfast, and also worked at Off The Beaten Path shop where you’ll find a “stellar used book section.” Here are other favorites.

WHERE TO EAT:

Yampa Valley Kitchen restaurant in Colorado
Yampa Valley Kitchen

Dustin Posiak-Trider

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Yampa Valley Kitchen offers seasonal breakfast and lunch with “unique twists on the classics,” like a Reuben with Yampa Valley-raised wagyu and kimchi.

WHAT TO DO:

Steamboat Lake
Steamboat Lake

Frank Walter/Steamboat Springs Chamber

Paddle! “There are several calm lakes located around the area,” Ohegyi says. “Rent a paddleboard from GearSpace and head up to Steamboat Lake for a serene cruise with epic views” of Hahns Peak in the background, or venture out to Stagecoach Reservoir south of town for a fun, kid-friendly float.”

WHERE TO STAY:

Mariposa Lodge in Colorado
Mariposa Lodge Bed and Breakfast

Dan Tullos/Mountain Home Photography

Located within walking distance of downtown, Mariposa Lodge Bed and Breakfast is a “cozy, family-run bed and breakfast that offers charming private suites adorned with timeless Western decor and homemade quilts,” Ohegyi says. “Beth, the host, works directly with local agricultural producers when designing her full breakfasts, promptly served at 8 a.m. every morning.

WHERE TO DRINK:

“If you’re looking for a true, local experience, definitely stop at Sunpie’s. It’s located directly on the Yampa River.” Paddlers stop in after (or sometimes while) “floating to grab stiff drinks and quick, Cajun-style food.”

WHERE TO SHOP:

Off the Beaten Path bookstore in Colorado
Off The Beaten Path

Courtesy of Off The Beaten Path

“Get river-ready at GearSpace, located a stone’s throw from the river. GearSpace offers everything any paddler could need for a day on the water, including rentals, safety gear, apparel, and more. When you’re done, stop by Off The Beaten Path bookstore to get caffeinated.” The cafe features “fun, literary-themed coffee drinks and handmade pastries.”

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