In Search of Skunk Cabbage: A Fall Adventure and Winter Snowfall Predictor
Autumn’s arrival is often subtle—a whisper in the wind, a golden hue in the aspens, and the promise of cool, crisp days ahead. On such a fall day, Wrangler Mackie set out with her guest Sam, and their horses, Mable and Smoke, to embark on a purposeful horseback adventure: a quest to find the tallest skunk cabbage in the area surrounding Steamboat Lake Outpost.
The fall day was perfect for exploring the wilderness. The trail was lined with a sea of green skunk cabbage, tinged with a hint of yellow as the aspens were just beginning to turn. The Colorado aspens, famous for their golden leaves, stood tall, creating a breathtaking North Routt, Colorado backdrop as they ascended a rocky path.
Mackie and Sam exchanged stories about the old mountain tale—how the height of the skunk cabbage could predict the snowfall for the coming winter. Legend has it that the taller the plant, the deeper the snow will be. A predictor of the upcoming winter snowfall. We will have to wait until spring to find out whether it holds true or not, but the fun is in the searching for and making the prediction.
After about an hour’s ride, they stumbled upon what they were looking for—a patch of skunk cabbage standing proud. The horses, Mable and Smoke, seemed mildly interested as Mackie dismounted and grabbed a tape measure from the saddlebag. Sam carefully selected the tallest plant from the bunch. It measured a whopping 63 inches! “Looks like we better bundle up…,” Mackie joked as they marveled at the impressive height. If the legend holds true…”it’s going to be a deep winter at the Outpost.”
At the end of the day, Sam and Mackie agreed. The adventure isn’t just about finding skunk cabbage; it was connecting with nature, pondering old mountain legends, and getting excited for what the coming winter might bring.
Explore Steamboat Lake Outpost This Fall & Make Your Winter Snowfall Prediction
As the seasons change, there’s no better time to visit Steamboat Lake Outpost. The fall foliage, crisp mountain air, and unique experiences—like tracking skunk cabbage and taking advantage of our 25% off Fall Stay & Play package — make the Outpost a must-visit fall destination. Whether you’re riding the trails, casting a line in Steamboat Lake, or simply enjoying the vibrant colors of the autumn leaves, every Outpost adventure is unforgettable. Call 970.879.4404 to book your package stay now and discover the magic of fall at Steamboat Lake Outpost. Who knows? You might just stumble upon a patch of skunk cabbage and predict your own snowy season ahead! Want to make a guess for the total 24-25 snowfall? Head to our Facebook or Instagram and share your prediction. The person closest to the actual max snowfall next spring will win a Steamboat Lake Outpost sweatshirt!
Call to Book Your Fall Stay & Play Package: 970.879.4404
