Steamboat Springs: Colorado Ski History
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Steamboat Springs, Colorado is mostly known for being a world class ski resort town that sees hundreds of thousands of tourists every year. It is also home to approximately 12,088 residents as well, making this little mountain town a hot spot both on, and off peak tourist seasons. In addition to the community's unique ski history, it also has rich and wild roots like most Rocky Mountain towns do.
The area was once populated by the Yampatikas Utes who were relocated by the US government in 1879. Trappers and ranchers were soon to follow into the area bringing with them new livestock, a steady stream of supplies, and a need to develop the area. Ranching is still alive in the region today and makes up some of the picturesque scenery outside of the major resort areas. The name of the city comes from the sound the hot springs which are located up in the hills used to make. Settlers thought it sounded like a steamboat coming their way.
Skiing was used early on in the Steamboat Springs area as method of transportation. During the harsh winter months the snow in the Rocky Mountains is extremely treacherous and supplies, as well as people, were ushered up and down the hills by ski, sled, toboggan, and snowshoe. As time passed and skiing became more of recreational activity, Steamboat Springs grew along with the new sport.
In 1913, Carl Howelsen built the first ski jump in the city and broke the ice for future ski development. The hill that is his namesake is still part of Howelsen Ski Area today and is a treasured by many locals. Development of Steamboat Ski Resort is mainly due to the efforts of Jim Temple and John Fetcher. These two are responsible for transforming the bare mountain into a ski paradise. Temple was mostly in charge of developing the land while Fetcher, who was a local rancher, handled the main building designs. The resort that so many people love today was open in 1963 on what was called back then, Storm Mountain.
Expansion of this once small town is largely due to The Industrial Company which has overseen development for the last 60 odd years. This company has developed everything from the ski resorts themselves, to the homes and city buildings; as well as parks and roads. This is still the largest employer in Routt County with more than 9,000 employees worldwide.
Article Source: Articlelogy.com
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