For the truest sense of Steamboat Springs, you might want to mark your calendar for early February. That’s the scheduled return of Winter Carnival, the weeklong celebration of ski jumping, parading, dancing, s’mores-eating and more.

“It’s our Super Bowl,” an organizer once told us.

It’s a fun-filled embodiment of how Steamboat moved from one era into another.

In 1914, the idea was to enjoy the frigid season that local ranchers otherwise dreaded. Ranching still factors prominently around town (see the cowboys and horses also at Winter Carnival), but winter sports now rule (see the stunning slopes).

And yet skiing can’t fully define the town, not even the cowboy skier enshrined in a statue at the resort. The festival is one way to find that definition — but the fun and attractions can be found any given day or two.

Day 1

If coming from the Front Range, you might be delayed arriving to town — what with the long drive and stops for pictures along scenic Rabbit Ears Pass.

Into town, continue your scenic tour at Fish Creek Falls. It’s a short walk to the waterfall spanning nearly 300 feet. For a longer, more adventurous hike, continue to Upper Fish Creek Falls and Long Lake.

Then head downtown, where rows of shops and restaurants await. One must-stop: F.M. Light & Sons, the western clothing store with 120 years of history.

This is a town proud of happy hours — “our most satisfying Steamboat Springs tradition,” reads the listing at mainstreetsteamboat.com. Hurry to Laundry Kitchen & Cocktails before the 4:30 p.m. start. Fried chicken, brisket potatoes and banh mi sliders were on the $9 menu at last check, along with $10 cocktails.

This is a town also proud of live music. Locals and tourists converge around the stage at Old Town Pub, another classic spot for happy hour. Other spots to catch a show: the press. and Schmiggity’s.

Day 2

Adventure is calling, so breakfast can’t take long. “Get and go” is the promise of The Drunken Onion, which also promises “fast, slow food,” meaning from scratch and ready for the taking. Look no further than the breakfast burritos.

From town, the cafe is conveniently positioned near Steamboat Resort. If you’re here in the winter, this is the ultimate destination — now Colorado’s second largest ski area after a multi-year expansion that also added an ice rink, food hall and entertainment stage.

“Ski Town USA” calls itself “Bike Town USA” in other seasons. Perhaps take a spin on the paved, delightful Yampa River Core Trail. Or take your mountain bike to Emerald Mountain, the nearby hub also great for hiking.

Whatever your adventure, the best way to end is in relaxing waters. Tucked back in the forest, Strawberry Park Hot Springs is one of the state’s best soaking destinations. Reservations are required.

It’s that time again back in town: happy hour. Maybe keep it to a drink, saving room for a splurge to cap the trip. Check out the menus at Café Diva and Yampa Valley Kitchen, home to two of the town’s most acclaimed chefs who specialize in fresh ingredients and creativity.