Steamboat Springs, Colorado— In December 2025, Steamboat Ski Resort had a severe wind event. This took down an estimated 4,000 to 4,500 trees across the resort, impacting some skiable terrain for the rest of the season. Now, the Colorado ski resort is working to remove these trees and reuse them for important purposes.
This week, 9News traveled to the ski resort to see the work being done on these trees. Helicopter crews are traveling to these areas to pick up the trees and then dropping them at a site for repurposing. After cutting them up, helicopter crews drop some of them onto the forest floor to bring carbon into these areas. They’re doing this because bringing carbon in these areas improves forest health.
Here are some of the other reasons/benefits behind the move:
- Reduces the risk of wildfires, which have occurred near the ski resort this summer.
- Allows Steamboat to open more skiable terrain.
- Reduces hazards for skiers and riders during ski season.
- The wood can be reused, which is planned to be converted into trail signs and features in the bike park.
Steamboat’s projected opening date for the 2026-27 season is November 21st. Meanwhile, Steamboat Resort offers a range of summer activities available for guests. This includes scenic lift rides, hiking and biking trails, and more.
Image/Video Credits: Steamboat Ski Resort, 9News
