Preservation Plan for Howelsen Hill

PRESERVATION PLAN FOR HOWELSEN HILL

STEAMBOAT SPRINGS, COLORADO October, 2002

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• Howelsen Hill Preservation Plan • CREDITS Steamboat Springs City Council Historic Preservation Advisory Commission 2002 - 2003 Jerry Nettleton, Chairperson Kathy Connell, President Jayne Austin Loui Antonucci Lara Craig Steve Ivancie Jonathan Faulkner Nancy B. Kramer Karolynn Lestrud G. H. “Bud” Romberg Joanne Sanfilippo Arianthé C. Stettner Paul Strong Other participants Bob Dapper - Nordic Council 2000 - 2001 Jan Kaminski - Mountain Architecture Design Group, Kevin Bennett, President PC Ken Brenner Dan Smilkstein - Nordic Council Kathy Connell Jim Engelken Consultants G. H. “Bud” Romberg Winter & Company Arianthé C. Stettner 775 Poplar Avenue Paul Strong Boulder, Colorado 80304

City of Steamboat Springs Noré Winter Paul Hughes - City Manager Ray Kramer Christopher M. Wilson - Director of Parks, Open Julie Husband Space, and Recreational Services Karen Good Linda Kakela - Director of Intergovernmental Ser- vices State Historical Fund Jeff Nelson - Supervisor of Howelsen Hill James Stratis - Projects Manager Laureen Schaffer - Project Manager 225 E 16th Ave. #260 Susan Dellinger - GIS Coordinator Denver, CO 80203 phone: 303-866-2822 Parks and Recreation Commission Jill Brabec Jim Chappell Funding Gary Engle This project was partially funded by a State Histori- Melinda Sherman cal Fund Grant Award from the Colorado Historical Matt Tredway Society and by the City of Steamboat Springs. Peter VanDeCarr Pete Wither For more information, contact: Bobby Yeager Laureen Schaffer, historic preservation specialist City of Steamboat Springs Howelsen Hill Commission PO Box 775088 Rick DeVos (also Executive Director - Steamboat 137 10th Street Springs Winter Sports Club) Steamboat Springs, CO 80477 phone: 970-879-2060 Doug Bradfield John Fetcher Sue Rife

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Introduction 1

Historic Significance 5

Key Features 7

Issues Associated with the Preservation of Howelsen Hill 17

Policies for the Preservation of Howelsen Hill 20

Planning Areas 24

Guidelines 25

Recommendations/Actions 27

Maps Howelsen Hill Historic Features Howelsen Hill Existing Conditions Planning Areas

iv Steamboat Springs, Colorado • Howelsen Hill Preservation Plan• Introduction

Howelsen Hill lies along the western edge of the Yampa River in downtown Steamboat Springs. It rises 440 feet from the river level to its peak, in a sharp, steeply contoured conical form. The famous Steamboat Spring, for which the city gained it name, lies to the north and the community’s rodeo grounds are located to the south. To the west, the back side of the hill slopes down into a basin which looks farther west to Emerald Mountain.

The Significance of Howelsen Hill Howelsen Hill has played a major role in the history of Steamboat Springs. It is one of the earliest sites where competitive Nordic ski jumping was introduced in the United States and also is one of the oldest, continuously operating municipally owned ski areas in the country. Howelsen Hill also is an important visual landmark that has been a major reference point in the city and it has served as the locale for numerous celebrations and events, many of which were established early in the community’s history and continue to be staged today.

It represents the community’s early social and cultural patterns that focused on winter recreation. It includes the physical features of the mountain itself that relate to its early history, and also the institu- tions that operated and maintained it. The City of Steamboat Springs

View from Howelsen Hill across the Brooklyn Neighborhood to Mount Werner.

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has recognized the historic significance of Howelsen Hill by desig- nating it a historic property.

Today, Howelsen Hill is owned and operated by the City of Steam- boat Springs, serving residents and visitors in a variety of recreational activities. As such, it continues to support its historic functions and to adapt to changing needs. Decisions about maintenance and improvements continue to arise, some of which could affect the integrity of the property as a historic resource. It is in this light that this preservation plan (the Plan) is established to help assure that Howelsen Hill retains its historic character while continuing to meet compatible contemporary needs.

This plan is based on two key goals:

Goal 1: To preserve the qualities of Howelsen Hill that contribute to its historic significance Goal 2: To assure the continuing viability of the traditional activities of Howelsen Hill that have contributed to its historic significance

This preservation plan (the Plan) provides policies and guidelines for the historic Howelsen Hill and related park lands and open space in Steamboat Springs. The purpose of the Plan is to provide the City of Steamboat Springs with a comprehensive approach to the preservation of the specific features and general qualities of Howelsen Hill that contribute to its historic significance. The Plan includes specific recommendations and guidelines for preservation, which balance the interests of recreation and cultural resource conservation.

The preservation of working cultural landscapes Why should the historic character of Howelsen Hill be preserved? Howelsen Hill stands as an icon in the community, representing the town’s love of winter sports and its commitment to recreation and its youth. Generations have grown up in Steamboat Springs experi- encing Howelsen Hill directly as athletes or indirectly as spectators and supporting parents. The sense of connection with Howelsen Hill is strong and helps to distinguish Steamboat Springs. This link with the culture of the residents is fundamental and should be preserved to help maintain this sense of community.

As a cultural landscape, Howelsen Hill is particularly important because it has served as a major focal point for community activities throughout much of the history of Steamboat Springs. It is also especially important because the historic uses for which it was created continue today.

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This continuation of use is an ideal condition for historic preserva- tionists, in which a property continues to serve its original function. However, some challenges come with this circumstance: as the re- quirements of the historic function evolve, some changes in the resource itself are necessary. New technologies and international standards used in the construction of ski jumps, for example, require modifications to parts of the jumping hills. The challenge is to ex- ecute needed changes in ways that maintain the key features of the property which contribute to its significance.

Working cultural landscapes can continue to be used and experienced in a manner similar to the way in which they were during their periods of historic significance (the time during which the property took on its historic character), even with change occurring. In the case of Howelsen Hill, modifications to the profiles of individual ski jumps occurred over time, in response to changing technologies and evolving styles in the sport. Nonetheless, the fundamental features of these ski jumps, including their general alignment in plan, the views to and from them, and the physical experience of them by jumpers, remain essentially the same as they were. It is the preservation of these qualities that are the focus of this Plan.

The Planning Area The boundary of the area considered historically significant varies, to some extent, depending upon the type of historic Ski Jumps designation that is being considered. All told, the area generally considered as Howelsen Hill Park contains approxi- mately 420 acres. (See the Existing Con- ditions map.) However, the original portion containing the ski area is somewhat smaller, containing 300 acres. This is the part considered to have historic significance. Within this historic area, there also are two different boundaries, that recognized by the Colorado State Reg- ister of Historic Properties in 2000 and A recent aerial photograph of the planning area that recognized by the Routt County Register of Historic Properties in 1997.

During the course of this planning effort, some issues arose that could not be addressed within the defined scope of work. Therefore, this Plan is designed to serve as a working document for the City of Steamboat Springs to use over the next year. It can be tested during that time to assure that it meets the City of Steamboat Springs’s

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objectives and to evaluate how well it can be administered. After an This working plan was developed with contributions from the key appropriate testing period, edits can be made, reviewed by the State decision making groups: the City Historical Fund, new topics can be addressed, and an additional Plan Council, Howelsen Hill can be completed. Commission, the Planning Commission, the Parks and The current Plan is limited to addressing broad policies and guide- Recreation Commission, the Historic Preservation Advisory lines for preservation. Some specific preservation issues require fur- Commission, the Nordic Council ther study and should be addressed in a later stage. Funding an addi- and the Steamboat Springs Winter tional Preservation Plan could be provided in October of 2002 and Sports Club, as well as city staff that Plan would be complete by the summer of 2003. The additional from numerous departments. plans would provide more detailed technical guidelines for specific issues, such as the erosion and slope stabalization and restoration including restoration of historic vegetation patterns.

Within the Howelsen Hill study area there are two historic district boundaries to consider: the State Register boundary and the Routt County Register boundary.

It is important to distinguish the Routt County’s designation of a historic district through its local ordinance process from the designation to the State Register. The State Register of Historic Places is a list of sites and properties of historic significance that is maintained by the Colorado Historical Society. Properties so listed may have national significance, but they may also be listed if they are determined to have significance at the state or local level. The Na- tional Register program is administered by the National Parks Ser- vice and nominations are submitted through the State Historic Pres- ervation Officer, using the criteria of the Secretary of the Interior.

Properties listed in the State Register require that actions be considered by any state agency which might harm or alter the historic character of a listed resource.

By contrast, the local designation process is established through Routt County. Administration of historic properties is applied through the City of Steamboat Springs’s zoning ordinances. These properties are subject to protections outlined in the city ordinance, including demolition and design review by the Historic Preservation Advi- sory Commission. Therefore, this Plan incorporates polices for preservation that are upheld by the City’s Historic Preservation Advi- sory Commission. It is in this light that the Plan is established.

It is important to consider both the land within all of the boundaries of the site as well as the abutting area. This area includes the lands at the base of Howelsen Hill, as well as the town as a whole. The Hill can be seen from many diverse locations throughout the city

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and has expansive views to much of the city and Mount Werner, where the Steamboat Ski Resort is located. Historic Significance

Howelsen Hill is significant historically because it represents one of the oldest, continuously operating community-based ski jump sites in the country. It is the home of important community events and celebrations that date back to Howelsen Hill’s early history and continue today. It is also home to one of the nation’s oldest ski organi- zations. It might not have been so. The logo of the Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club, which was founded to promote ski related activities in the Early plans for the use of Howelsen Hill included creating Elk Park, city. a wild game preserve that would attract city visitors to Steamboat Springs to hunt, explore the mountains, and experience the hot springs. However, in 1914, Carl Howelsen built the first ski jump on Howelsen Hill and began introducing area youngsters to the sports of ski jumping and cross-country skiing. Thus began the on-going use of Howelsen Hill for organized community-based skiing. Howelsen is remembered as a pioneer in skiing, introducing recreational skiing to Steamboat Springs and the state as a whole. For this he earned the title “The Father of Skiing in Colorado.” During the summer, activities such as horseback riding, hiking and mountain The same year that Howelsen built the first ski jump, local residents biking, take place on the slopes of organized the Steamboat Springs Winter Sport Club (SSWSC) to Howelsen Hill. promote ski related activities in the community. It became the first club in the Rocky Mountains to affiliate with the National Ski Club Association. One of the Club’s first organized events was the Win- ter Carnival, a social gathering that celebrated the numerous winter sporting activities that were available in Steamboat Springs. This is one of the events that is still held annually in Steamboat Springs.

Since its inception the SSWSC has expanded their services to provide training in Nordic, Alpine, Freestyle and snowboarding events. The SSWSC was primarily responsible for the operations on Howelsen Hill until 1977 when they relinquished charge of Howelsen Hill to the City of Steamboat Springs. Prior to that time the City of Steamboat Springs allocated funds to the SSWSC to assist with the annual operating costs in its annual budget. Since the City of Steam- boat Springs has assummed general operations on Howelsen Hill, much of the technical maintenance of ski jumps and ski runs is con- tracted out to the SSWSC.

Throughout its history, the design of ski jumps and trails have evolved with modifications. Contours of existing jumps were improved and

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Note: the method of naming ski new jumps were added over time. Support structures were modified jumps related to their length has and, when necessary, replaced. Lift mechanisms were installed, up- changed over the years. The dated, and sometimes relocated. This ongoing refinement of the struc- traditional names and their modern tural elements of Howelsen Hill reflected the active interest of the equivalents are listed below: community, and of the Winter Sports Club in particular, in main- 90M = K114 70M = K90 taining a facility that served area residents and that reflected current 50M = K65 expectations of performance in the sport. In this sense, many of the 30M = K38 modifications are a part of the history of the resource. 20M = K25 It is also important to note that the majority of these alterations were in keeping with the historic character of the hill and they remained subordinate to the overall perception of the hill itself and of the historic sporting experience.

Today, Howelsen Hill is an active year-round recreation area, en- joyed by residents and visitors alike. Ski jumping, downhill skiing and educational activities continue. Recreational, national and international Nordic ski activities take place on the extensive cross- country ski trail facility (15 kilometers)and ski jump complex. Dur- ing the summer, other activities such as horseback riding, hiking and mountain biking, take place on the slopes. New activities, such as the recent addition of an alpine slide, demonstrate the continued desire to locate activities on the Hill and have it serve as a center for recreational sporting activities.

Howelsen Hill has historic significance to the City of Steamboat Springs for many reasons, from the Olympic ski jumping and training that takes place on the ski jumps to the family-oriented activities and horseback riding on the slopes. The Hill has become both a visual icon to the community and a multi-use recreational resource. Some even call the Hill the spiritual center, or heart, of the community. It is well known outside of Steamboat Springs and Colorado, throughout both the national and international ski jumping circuits, as a winter sports icon.

An important part of understanding the significance of Howelsen Hill and of preserving its significance is to understand the key features that help to define its character. Those features listed herein represent both the key historic resources and those features which may gain significance in time.

6 Steamboat Springs, Colorado • Howelsen Hill Preservation Plan• Key Features of Howelsen Hill

The key features are summarized in this section. They are catego- rized by their function or purpose. Nordic Ski Jumps, Landing Area and Lifts, Toboggan Run, Ski Runs, Hiking Trails, Roadways, and Structures have been identified as the major functions that take place on Howelsen Hill. Shallow slope of the 30 (K38), 20 (K25), 15-Meter and Small Rollers Jumps Perceiving the Key Features of Howelsen Hill Howelsen Hill is experienced from three different perspectives: First is of users in winter and summer seasons. Their experiences occur in a space-time manner, moving through the defined routes of the lifts and trails that make up the winter sports aspect of the mountain and hiking in summer. Their perceptions are influenced by the general alignment of the trails, the sense of enclosure that occurs by the surrounding vegetation, and the views out to the town below and mountains beyond.

Historic map of Howelsen Hill, circa 1950, announcing new ski trails.

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The second perspective is that gained from the spectators at the base of the hill. From this viewpoint they see the cuts in the trees for some of the jumps and runs, the lift structures and the buildings at the bottom. Their sense of the character of the hill is influenced by the general shapes of the cuts in the trees, as well as the movement of athletes on the mountain when it is in active use.

Finally, the mountain is also viewed from downtown. At this dis- The platform of the 90-Meter (K114) tance, the distinct form of the hill itself, the stands of trees and the Jump, dating from 1975, seen through cuts for the trails are the distinctive features. the stand of conifers Each of these perspectives is important to consider when describing the key features of the property and in evaluating proposals for maintenance and alteration that may affect them.

Many early site features, trails and structures help to convey the historic character of Howelsen Hill and contribute to its significance. Those features include ones formally identified in the recent historic district nominations and also the intangible elements, such as the visual amenity that Howelsen Hill provides to the city. Views from downtown and across the city, as well as the sense of openness and of a wild area so close to the town center, also contribute to the unique character of Howelsen Hill.

Historic Significance of Landscape Features The period of significance established in historic surveys is from 1914 to 1960. When considering the significance of historic landscape features, such as the ski jumps and trails of Howelsen Hill, it is important to define the means through which a site feature takes on historic significance and the degree to which it continues to convey its historic character. In an active, working landscape such as the Hill, it is the basic framework of access routes, lift systems, trails and jumps that help to convey how the resource was used historically. The basic alignment of trails, their general width and slope are character-defining features that aid in this interpretation of its historic experience.

The features are described in these categories: -Nordic Ski Jumps -Ski Runs -Lifts -Trails and Roadways

Changes can occur to these individual features and the resource itself can continue to retain its historic significance, when the overall character is still retained to the extent that one can still perceive the

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early qualities of the resource. This is somewhat similar to the manner in which a historic building may be modified: For example, a house may have had a dormer added to the roof. This feature remains subordinate to the overall character of the house and one’s ability to interpret the historic quality is retained. In fact, this alteration, if it occurred early in the history of the building, may also have taken on historic significance.

The same principle applies to historic landscapes. In the case of Howelsen Hill, details of trails may change, for example, and yet the overall historic experience of the trail remains intact. On the other hand, a radical change in the character of the trail can result in a loss of integrity. If the trees framing a trail were to be cleared completely, for example, the sense of “framing” the trail would be lost. The view down the 90-Meter (K114) Jump to the Outrun Landing Area and Nordic Ski Jumps the Tow House beyond. This structure The Nordic ski jumps include the Small Rollers, 15-Meter Nordic dates from 1975, built on the location of the original jump dating from 1914. Jump, 20-Meter (K25) Nordic Jump, the 30-Meter (K38) Nordic Jump, the 50-Meter (K65) Nordic Jump, the 70-Meter (K90) Nor- dic Jump and the 90-Meter (K114) Nordic Jump. These jumps, especially the 90-Meter (K114) Jump, are the features which are el- emental to the significance of Howelsen Hill in the history of skiing Chronology of Ski Jumps in Steamboat Springs and the nation. Jump Date 90 (K114) 1914 Small Rollers 70 (K90) 1944 50 (K65) 1936 This recently established jump was constructed in the 1980s and is 30 (K38) 1944 not historically significant. It is located southeast of the Pony Lift 20 (K25) 1948 and is used as a training hill for children. 15 1980s Small Rollers 1980s 15-Meter Located directly southeast of Small Rollers, this jump is also used primarily as a youth training area. It was established in the 1980s and is not historically significant.

20-Meter (K25) The 20-Meter (K25) Jump was originally laid out in 1948 and has been used as a training area for children and beginning jumpers. This jump received a new takeoff platform in 1975 and was recontoured in 1983. Nonetheless, it retains its historic alignment and the experience is quite similar to historical use. Therefore, it is a feature that contributes to the historic significance of Howelsen Hill.

30-Meter (K38) Just southeast of the 15-Meter (K25) Jump lies the 30-Meter (K38) Jump. It was established in 1944, recontoured in the 1950s with the

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present configuration dating from 1975 when a new takeoff platform was constructed. The 30-Meter (K38) Jump also retains the essential features of its historical character and therefore contributes to the historic significance of Howelsen Hill.

50-Meter (K65) The 50-Meter (K65) Jump is further southeast of the 30-Meter (K38) Jump using the natural contours of Howelsen Hill to create the proper configuration of the Jump. The 50-Meter (K65) Jump also retains the essential features of its historical character and therefore contributes to the historical character of Howelsen Hill. The 50-Meter (K65) was first used in 1936, with major alterations in 1949, 1959 and 1975 when it received a new takeoff platform.

90-Meter (K114) The 90-Meter (K114) Jump is sited near the summit of Howelsen Hill with the jump-start platform tower and a lower take-off platform. It descends northeast and centers on the Outrun Landing Area. The upper swale of the jump cuts through the ridge bedrock topography and interrupts the coniferous tree line. These features protect the jumps from the wind and help give Howelsen Hill its reputation as one of the world’s best ski jump sites. The present jump is located on the site of the original run cut and cleared by Carl Howelsen in 1914, known as “Big Rollers.” Since that time the actual jump and platform have gone through many changes, but the physical location of the run has remained the same as it was originally sited by

A view from the base of Howelsen Hill toward the jumps. From left to right the 70-Meter (K90) Jump, the 90-Meter (K114) Jump, the 50-Meter (K65) Jump, the 30-Meter (K38) Jump, the 20-Meter (K25) Jump, the 15-Meter Jump and Small Rollers. At the base of the jumps is the Outrun Landing Area.

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Howelsen, with the stand of conifers and the unique topography protecting the jump from winds.

In 1927, the original landing was constructed with improvements and modifications occurring in 1931 and 1940. By 1950 it was improved again and dedicated as a 80-Meter Graham Jump. The actual 90-Meter (K114) Jump was established in 1959. Since that time many of the modifications to the jump run were due to soil slippage, maintaining competition standards for the jump and maintenance of the slope. The jump platform and landing have been reconstructed a number of times, once in 1972 due to the burning of the jump-start platform tower. View of the Outrun Landing Area from the 90-Meter (K114) Jump. 70-Meter (K90) To the southeast of the 90-Meter (K114) Jump is the 70-Meter (K90) Jump. This was constructed in 1944 on the site of the 1938 Boat Tow. Recontouring and stabilization took place during the 1980s in attempts to prevent further soil slippage.

Landing Area and Lifts Integrally linked to the ski jumps are the landing area and the ski lifts. The landing area was established by default when Howelsen Hill began to be used for ski jumping. Later as ski-related innova- Poma Lift at the summit of Howelsen Hill. tions occurred, the lifts were constructed to make the jumps more readily accessible.

Outrun Landing Area Located at the base of Howelsen Hill is the Outrun Landing Area, a rectangular shaped bowl where all the Nordic jumpers land. During the winter, this area is reserved for the jumpers, with spectator seat- ing at the edges. In the summer, the bowl serves as a natural amphi- theater, open to the public for events throughout the season.

Pony Lift Tow To the northwest of the jumps is the Pony Lift Tow. It was originally built as a rope tow in 1945 and in 1954 it was moved from the vicin- ity of the Sulphur Cave to its present location. In 1989 the fiber rope tow was replaced by a wire rope. The lift is used by those training on the smaller jumps.

Poma Lift Southeast of the jumps lies the Poma Lift. It is located on the site of an earlier T-Bar Lift, which was constructed in 1948 and was in use until it was condemned by state authorities circa 1970. The current Poma Lift is a platter pull, constructed in 1971 to replace the T-Bar Lift. It originates at the base of Howelsen Hill and rises to the sum-

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mit of the ridge. Although the lift technology has changed, the T- bar/Poma lift route remains a historically significant feature.

Barrows Lift The Barrows Lift was built in 1989 and serves the summit and Al- pine Slide. It is a chair lift that originates at the southeast edge of the Alpine Slope and rises to the summit just south of the Poma Lift. Ridge Run at the summit of Howelsen The Barrows Lift does not have historic significance because it is a Hill by the Poma Lift. more recent alteration.

Toboggan Run, Ski Runs, Hiking Trails and Roadways Over the years many runs, trails and roadways have been used on the Hill; the most significant ones have maintained their historic placement and connections. Often ski runs serve as horseback riding or hiking trails and roadways during the warmer months. The major runs include Ridge Run, Wren’s Run, Mile Run, and Sulphur Cave Run as well as the Alpine Slope. Shorter subsidiary or connecting runs include the Freestyle Bumps Access Trail, the Jump Access Trail, Shortcut Run, Emerald View Run and Town View Run. There are also several trails that serve exclusively as horseback riding or hiking trails: Mile Run Hiking Trail and Sulphur Cave Roadway Extension Horse and Hiking Trail. Both Mile Run and Wren’s Run function as the main roadways during the warmer months when they are accessible to maintenance vehicles, horseback riders, mountain bikers and hikers. Other historic runs remain, but are no longer used. These runs are now evidenced by past grading or an absence of mature vegetation.

Wither Chute Toboggan Run The Wither Chute Toboggan Run is one of the historic runs that is no longer utilized on the Hill. It was first laid out in 1944. It has not been used for some time and the only physical evidence of the run that exists today is the less dense vegetative cover and a slight re- grading of the slope that occurred to create a smooth run.

Mile Run & Wren’s Run Mile Run and Wren’s Run define the boundaries of the major ski activities on the Hill. They meet at the peak of Howelsen Hill, with Mile Run looping down to the landing area along the northwest slopes and Wren’s Run looping down to the base along the southeast slopes. Mile Run was the earliest recognized ski run at the Hill. The roadway dates from the 1930s and was used as a service road to the ridge and summit. The Mile Run Roadway defines the northern and western boundaries of the historic district. Wren’s Run defines the southern and eastern boundaries of the site. It was established in

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1944 and was initially constructed by Gordon Wren. Both runs are historically significant.

Freestyle Bumps Access Trail Freestyle Bumps (Knoll) Access Trail extends north from Wren’s Run to the summit of the intermediate knoll. It passes under both the Barrows Lift and overhead electric lines. The specific date of its establishment is not known.

Ridge Run Ridge Run links the Poma Lift, Barrows Lift and the jump-start platform of the 90-Meter (K114) Jump. From the 90-Meter (K114) platform it extends to meet Mile Run. It was first established in 1939 and was called the Skyline Trail. It was widened in 1944-45, but One of the access roads leading toward still retained much of its original character. Ridge Run has not been Emerald Mountain. substantially altered since that time and is historically significant.

Sulphur Cave Roadway The Sulphur Cave Roadway was one of the earliest roadways on the Hill. It provided access to the Sulphur Cave Spring between 1914 and 1920 when the area was a game park. Now it also serves to provide access to the hiking and horse trail located above the Sul- phur Cave. The Sulphur Cave Run descends from the Sulphur Cave Roadway. It was first established in 1945 and now parallels the Pony Tow Lift. It is a historically significant feature.

Sulphur Cave Roadway Extension Horse & Hiking Trail The Sulphur Cave Roadway Extension Horse and Hiking Trail is a non-contributing resource which connects the Sulphur Cave Road- way to the summit via the Wither Chute and then parallels the ridge.

Alpine Slope The Alpine Slope is the original ski area known as Howelsen Hill and is the section of the Hill that is most often seen as the visual connection to the community. It can be seen from much of the city and includes the Upper Face, the Lower Face and the Freestyle Bumps, running from the ridge down the swale and on to the base. The slope was originally cut into the face of the Hill in 1931, and later in 1944 it was cleared further and smoothed.

Jump Access Trail The Jump Access Trail probably dates from the inception of Howelsen Hill’s use as a ski jumping area. The trail parallels the 90- Meter (K114) Jump on the southeast side. The path runs from the base of the takeoff platform to the start platform stairway. It provides access to the Fetcher Tower and the Small Jumps Tower and is a historically significant feature.

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Freestyle Aerial Jumps Freestyle Aerial Jumps were created when the slopes were recontoured in the early 1990s. They are located on the south and east slopes, outside of the major view area. They are not historically significant.

Recent Trails A number of trails such as the Sulphur Cave Roadway Extension Horse and Hiking Trail and the Mile Run Hiking Trail were established more recently. They connect and often parallel existing trails. Similarly, there are several ski runs that were more recently established. Both the Shortcut Run and the Town View Run are located to the south of the eastern intermediate knoll, outside of the primary view from downtown. They are also not historically significant. The Howelsen Hill Tow House is a one- and-a-half story rustic log structure with a steeply pitched cross-gabled roof. Emerald View Run The Emerald View Run is the result of re-clearing the vegetation from a run that was first created in the late 1940s and 1950s. The run connects Howelsen Hill to the peak of Emerald Mountain. Chronology of Buildings Structure Original date Howelsen Tow House 1945 These physical features illustrate the tangible historic resources of Gable Storage Shed 1945 the Hill. In addition there are a number of features which accentuate Howelsen Hill Lodge the integrity and value of the Hill. One of these is the “wrap” of (original portion) 1945 forest around the ski jump area that serves to define the ski jumps Fetcher Tower 1975 Small Jumps Tower 1975 from a distance. In the winter one can even see the runs illuminated Pony Lift Tow House 1990 and alive with night skiing. Behind the Hill sits the protected open space of Emerald Mountain. The mountain rises above the Hill and serves as a backdrop to the alpine slope.

Buildings A number of structures are clustered at the base of the Hill including the Tow House, a Gabled Roof Storage Shed, the Howelsen Hill Lodge, the Poma Lift Upper and Lower shacks. A number of other temporary structures are scattered throughout the site and the Fetcher Tower and the Small Jumps Judges Tower are located along the slope of the Hill.

Pony Lift Tow House The Pony Lift Tow House was built in 1990 and located at the base of the Pony Tow Lift. It is a small wooden frame structure that replaced one built in 1953. It does not have historic significance.

Howelsen Hill Tow House The Howelsen Hill Tow House was built in 1945. It is a one-and-a

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half story rustic log structure with a steeply pitched cross-gabled roof, suggesting the Scandinavian vernacular that many of the structures on the Hill mimic. It provides an entrance to the ski area at the base, defines the end of the jumps and runs from the summit and slopes. The gable ends contain second floor window openings. The Tow House is historically significant.

Gable Roof Storage Shed The Gable Roof Storage Shed is The Gable Roof Storage Shed was probably built in 1945 as well presently located to the west of the Tow and is constructed in a similar manner to the Tow House. It is pres- House. ently located to the west of the Tow House, though its location has changed throughout the history of the Hill as needed. It has log construction with a pair of double doors opening to the southwest and a window below the eave on the southeast elevation. This is a significant feature.

Howelsen Hill Lodge The main section of the Howelsen Hill Lodge was probably built in The main section of the Howelsen Hill 1945. There was community interest in building a clubhouse for the Lodge was probably built in 1945. winter sporting activities that took place on the Hill. Local residents cut logs on Gore Pass, then assembled the lodge at the base of Howelsen Hill. This occurred at the same time that the Tow House was built. The style of the Lodge is rustic log construction with chinking between the logs. Since the original one-story main lodge was built there have been a number of additions and renovations enlarging the structure and providing room for training activities. The original portion of the lodge is a locally significant feature.

There are also a number of temporary structures scattered throughout the Hill resource area. Many of these are storage sheds which are moved to appropriate locations as needed. A cluster of these The Poma Lift structures are small structures exists at the summit of the Hill. They are small wood wooden frame buildings. frame buildings which are similar to structures used throughout the Hill’s 87-year history. Presently, the collection of temporary structures includes the Alpine Downhill Slalom Starting Booth (built in the 1970s), the Upper Lift Shack and Wren’s Run Storage Shed, (built in the 1980s) and the First Aid Station (built in 1990). These structures are not historically significant.

More temporary structures are located near the Poma Lift and at other lifts on the Hill. The Poma Lift structures are small wooden frame buildings. These include the lower lift shack and landing built in the 1980s. At the top of the lift near the summit are both a circa 1980s lift shack and 1988 storage hut. These are not historically significant.

Steamboat Springs, Colorado 15 • Howelsen Hill Preservation Plan •

Fetcher Tower The Fetcher Tower was constructed in 1975. It is a six-story steel structure used for judging the 90-Meter (K114) and 70-Meter (K90) Jumps. It is located in a prominent spot on Howelsen Hill between the 70-Meter (K90) Jump and the Barrows Lift. The tower is clad and roofed in corrugated metal and has a cantilevered roof which overhangs four levels of enclosed viewing spaces. The Fetcher Tower Gabions have been built into the slope replaced a previous judges’ tower; it is not historically significant. between the 70-Meter (K90) and 90- Meter (K114) Jumps to reduce soil Small Jumps Tower slippage The Small Jumps Tower was also built in 1975 and replaced a previous one. It is located adjacent to the 30-Meter (K38) Jump and has a shed roof and wood frame construction. This is not historically significant.

A number of gabions have been built in various locations into the slope between the 50-Meter (K65), 70-Meter (K90) and 90-Meter (K114) Jumps, as well as above the Fetcher Tower. The gabions help to reduce soil slippage which has been occurring along the more steeply sloped sections of Howelsen Hill. Slippage has been a prob- lem throughout the history of Howelsen Hill, both on the steep slopes and under the jumps. These are not significant and, while they provide necessary stabilization, they detract from the historic character of Howelsen Hill.

16 Steamboat Springs, Colorado • Howelsen Hill Preservation Plan• Issues Associated with Preservation of Howelsen Hill

The role of the Hill Part of the appeal and value of Howelsen Hill is its diversity of professional, recreational and local user groups. It serves as a training facility, a youth activity center and an open, inviting space as well as a visual icon for the community. However, it cannot serve all possible uses and still maintain its historic significance or the quality of the traditional experience. Therefore the role that the Hill plays in the community as a historic resource and a recreational facility must be clarified. It is one that must balance preservation objectives with recreational ones. It also involves consideration of the historic use itself, in that preserving the historic use and the quality of the historic experience is a vital part of preservation, along with protection of the physical features that represent its history. This is a fundamental issue that clouds many of the planning decisions made for Howelsen Hill.

Potential overuse Because Howelsen Hill is such a central feature in the community and a focal point of several sports activities, the potential for its overuse is a major issue. For many groups that propose the installa- tion of new recreational facilities in the community, Howelsen Hill is the “preferred locale.” This increasing demand threatens to alter the historic character of the resource and puts stress upon the park management team. As the number of users increases, the ability to maintain a sense of connection with nature and the mountain in general is compromised.

Inappropriate maintenance procedures The facilities at Howelsen Hill require continuous maintenance. While this work is encouraged, inappropriate maintenance techniques can erode the character of the mountain and may even result in de- struction of historic features. These include construction of retaining walls and clearing trails of trees that frame them. It also includes repairs to historic buildings that may be inappropriate. Allowing historic building trim features to decay, for example, could result in the loss of important features. Guidelines for maintenance are needed.

Steamboat Springs, Colorado 17 • Howelsen Hill Preservation Plan •

Slope stability A specific, geotechnical issue related to maintenance procedures is the continuing “creep” of parts of the hillside. In order to stabilize slopes, retaining structures are needed. However, these have the potential to negatively affect the visual qualities of the mountain. Some recently installed structures, for example, use rocks and wire mesh as gabions, which contrast sharply with the natural setting. As a result, a clear understanding of the appropriate engineering options is needed and related guidelines should be developed.

Inappropriate alterations As improvements occur that support the historic uses, the potential exists to construct new facilities that intrude into the scene, altering one’s perception of Howelsen Hill. These may include new recreational structures as well as supporting buildings, playing fields and parking lots. These may be necessary alterations, but each should be considered carefully and then designed appropriately.

Loss of integrity as a historic resource As alterations continue to occur, the historic integrity of the resource is threatened. Even though one individual action may not, in itself, result in the loss of significance of the property, the incremental effects of such changes can be detrimental to its overall integrity. Therefore it is important to consider each individual section in the context of its cumulative effect.

Funding sources Funding for maintenance of Howelsen Hill is allocated annually by City Council and varies depending upon the resources available and immediate needs. General improvements, including construction of new supporting facilities require their own special funding, as do basic ski operations. Of special consideration is the key role that the Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club plays in maintaining the ski jumps and in its programming. All of these are categories of funding that are essential to maintaining the historic experience of the hill, yet policies for funding are not clear and consistent. Each funding request should be considered in terms of how it would help to preserve the integrity of Howelsen Hill and sustain its historical, traditional uses.

18 Steamboat Springs, Colorado • Howelsen Hill Preservation Plan•

Decision-making Presently, Parks staff must struggle with requests for new uses and they are challenged to assure that basic maintenance procedures are ones that will support preservation. The criteria for determining the appropriateness of a proposed use, or in evaluating the impacts of maintenance or improvement actions are not specified. In some cases, the role of the Historic Preservation Advisory Commission in com- menting on, and recommending, such actions is not clear. A lack of formal policies and criteria for determining the appropriateness of proposed actions results in a complex decision-making process, one that is stressful for all participants. Therefore a clear definition of how decisions are to be made is needed.

Steamboat Springs, Colorado 19 • Howelsen Hill Preservation Plan • Policies for Preservation and Management of Howelsen Hill

In consideration of the objectives to preserve the historic significance of Howelsen Hill and support its traditional uses, the following policies are established to form the basis for decision-making about use and management:

Policy 1, Historic Preservation: The key features of the Hill that contribute to its significance should be preserved, such that one’s ability to interpret the historic character is maintained. The following preservation criteria shall be met:

1.1 Key features that contribute to the significance of Howelsen Hill should be preserved. These include specific structures and site features, as well as the general “wrap” of the forest that frames the trails.

1.2 Maintenance procedures should be employed which preserve the qualities of the mountain that contribute to its significance.

1.3 Alterations may be considered that do not threaten or de- stroy the historic significance of the resource.

1.4 The Historic Preservation Advisory Commission shall apply design guidelines for preservation in recommending the appropriateness of proposed maintenance and alteration actions.

Policy 2, Compatibility of Use: Any activity on the mountain should relate to its natural setting, including the sense of topography, open space and natural elements. The sense of participating in activities that are connected with the natural setting and that highlight the individual sports experience is extremely important. Therefore, any permitted use should comply with the following criteria:

2.1 Traditional activities, such as horseback riding, skiing, hiking and passive recreation, are encouraged.

2.2 New uses should support the existing and historic uses. For example, a training facility that enhances ski jumping would support historic uses.

20 Steamboat Springs, Colorado • Howelsen Hill Preservation Plan•

2.3 Uses should serve the community at large, especially the youth of the area.

2.4 The number of activities should be limited, such that a “clut- tered” appearance is avoided and conflicts between different uses are minimized.

2.5 The flora and fauna of Howelsen Hill should be respected.

2.6 The visual impacts of the uses should be minimized, in re- gard to the impact upon historic features and with respect to views from town.

Policy 3, Financial Support: The primary function of Howelsen Hill is to provide recreational opportunities that are compatible with its historic character and use. It should not be expected to be the primary source of funds for its upkeep and operations. While some mountain activities may help to generate financial support, they should be compatible with the qualities of recreation that are a part of the historic experience. Income- generating strategies should be consistent with the following criteria:

3.1 Long-term funding stability should be established to ensure the continuation of operations and appropriate preservation treatments for the hill.

3.2 Multiple funding sources should be combined in an overall funding strategy.

3.3 Only funding sources that are compatible with the priorities for historic preservation and compatible uses should be pur- sued.

Policy 4, Decision-making: A clear, objective decision-making process should be employed to evaluate actions that affect the character and use of the hill. This process should apply to potential alterations and maintenance activities as well as proposals for new uses. The Parks, Open Space and Recreational Services Department should work cooperatively with the Historic Preservation Advisory Commission and the Parks and Recreation Commission in decision-making. The City Council should decide key policy questions and funding proposals. The following decision-making process should be employed:

Steamboat Springs, Colorado 21 • Howelsen Hill Preservation Plan •

4.1 For a new use or facility, the first step should involve the presentation of a preliminary plan to the Parks and Recre- ation Commission for review. They should assess whether the use or facility is potentially compatible with Howelsen Hill. Contingent upon their approval a more detailed design should be presented to the Historic Preservation Advisory Commission for review and comment. The Historic Preser- vation Advisory Commission can recommend approval as is, make comment, recommend modifications to the plan or recommend denial. If the detailed design meets approval the plan then is to be presented to City Council for authorization and final approval. See following flow chart.

REVIEW PROCESS FOR NEW USE OR FACILITY

Preliminary review by Parks, Open Space and Recreational Services Staff & Commission

Historic Preservation Advisory Commission Reviews & Comments on Detailed Design

1. 2. OR COMMENTS RECOMMENDS MODIFICATION

SENT TO REDESIGN CITY & COUNCIL RESUBMIT

22 Steamboat Springs, Colorado • Howelsen Hill Preservation Plan•

4.2 Consideration for proposed alterations to existing facilities or for introduction of new uses should follow a more simpli- fied process by which the Parks, Open Space, and Recre- ational Services staff and Parks and Recreation Commission conduct a review if requested. Minor modifications can be reviewed and approved by city staff. Upon approval, a detailed design should be presented to the Historic Preserva- tion Advisory Commission. Once the Commission has reviewed the plan they can either recommend approval for implementation, request that specific modifications be made to the plan or appeal the plan completely.

Steamboat Springs, Colorado 23 • Howelsen Hill Preservation Plan • Planning Areas

Howelsen Hill should be considered as a set of planning areas, which are defined with consideration of the historic qualities and uses of the resource. The areas are defined here, and they reflect differing degrees of historical significance and sensitivity to changes. When applying the Policies for Preservation that are described in the previous section their relationship to the relevant Planning Areas should be considered. A description of these Planning Areas follows:

Area 1: Historic Slopes Preservation Core This area contains the greatest concentration of ski lifts, jumps and trails. Preservation of all of the significant features in this area is a high priority.

Area 2: Historic Slopes Conservation Area This area lies to the south of the core of the slopes and it contains several historic features that also merit preservation. Some non-contributing features also exist here, including the Alpine Slide. Main- taining the overall historic character of this area and minimizing the visual impacts of later alterations are goals.

Area 3: Historic Base Core This area includes the Lodge and Tow House. Preservation of these historic structures is a high priority here. In addition, maintaining the overall informal village character is an objective, while accom- modating improvements to enhance the function of the area. Visual impacts of later alterations, such as parking areas and support buildings, should be minimized.

Area 4: Historic Base Transition Area This area frames the Historic Base Core and includes parking areas and playing fields. This establishes the foreground of the base; de- velopment here can greatly affect the perception of the historic experience from town and especially from the jumps. Improvements in this area should be designed to minimize visual impacts on the historic core.

Area 5: Outer Mountain Slopes Portions of the mountain to the south and west are out of view of the historic features. This area can accommodate new structures with less of an impact on the historic character. Nonetheless, the impacts of users in this area should be considered such that the overall mountain experience is preserved.

24 Steamboat Springs, Colorado • Howelsen Hill Preservation Plan• Guidelines

Design Guidelines for Maintenance and Improvements Existing and any newly routed trails may require supporting structures or retaining walls. Further study of the structural stability of trails in steeply sloping areas should be considered in the future. Existing buildings should be properly maintained to prevent extensive repairs in the future and maintain their historic integrity. Im- provements and additions to existing structures or features should be completed in a manner consistent with the character of the structure or feature and in accordance with the Secretary of the Interiors Standards.

Design Guidelines for New Site Features Overall character should be simple in both design and detail. Service areas should be screened.

Design Guidelines for Landscape 1. Existing native species should be used in any planting associated with slope stabilization, new landscaping or other projects on the Hill.

2. Planting should be planned to appear “natural,” arranged infor- mally.

3. Structural materials visible in the landscape should be “native” or natural materials such as rock and timbers, but should be mini- mally visible and subordinate to the historic materials.

4. Service areas should be screened.

Design Guidelines for New Buildings 1. New buildings should be sited and orientated so as not to be visually or physically intrusive on the Priority One area of the Hill.

2. Materials used in any new construction should be natural, muted and rustic in keeping with the existing character of the Hill so as to reduce their visual impact.

3. Building forms should mimic that of the existing significant buildings which are predominantly designed with chalet roofs.

Steamboat Springs, Colorado 25 • Howelsen Hill Preservation Plan •

4. The scale of all new buildings should be in keeping with that of the existing buildings and subordinate to the mountain to reduce their visual impact.

5. The significant buildings on Howelsen Hill have a rustic alpine style. New construction should draw upon the chalet style as a prototype, with contemporary adaptations.

Zones of sensitivity shall be determined. 1. In addition to the boundaries of the historic districts, an “Inter- face Area” for the Howelsen complex has been identified.

2. Priority areas both within the historic district boundaries and outside those boundaries has been classified.

3. The relationship of Howelsen Hill to nearby resources, such as Emerald Mountain has been illustrated.

26 Steamboat Springs, Colorado • Howelsen Hill Preservation Plan• Recommendations/Actions

In order to facilitate implementation of this plan, some key actions should be executed. These are:

Plan Adoption Adopt the preservation plan including both the design criteria and design guidelines.

Funding Strategy Pursue funding from a variety of the following listed resources: 1. Create an endowment that provides for the annual operational costs. a. This fund would be overseen by the City.

2. Allow for grants and private donations to help support capital facilities.

3. Apply for State funding, from agencies such as the State His- torical Fund, both yearly and possibly long term.

4. Sponsor special events that serve as fund-raising for the Hill.

5. Allow for corporate sponsorship, as long as any banners or ad- vertisements are in scale with the site and in keeping with the character.

6. Secure more funding from the City operating budget. a. The 2002 Citizen’s Survey suggests support for a dedicated revenue source for capital facilities on Howelsen Hill.

7. Special events rental income should at least cover costs of keeping the facility open.

8. Provide activities in other park venues that generate surplus income. a. This could be achieved by creating two to three activity centers in other areas of the city.

9. Provide activities on the Hill that generate surplus income.

Steamboat Springs, Colorado 27 • Howelsen Hill Preservation Plan •

Additional Research Additional studies should be planned for in the future. 1. One of the more immediate needs is a study of the slopes and soils of Howelsen Hill to determine the best means to stabilize Howelsen Hill and the ski jumps.

Plan Update After the Plan has been in use for one year it will be reviewed to determine any changes or additions that should be made before a final version is submitted to the City of Steamboat Springs. Proce- dures for approval of grant funds from the City may include contin- gencies and implications. The City Council is the final approval body for a City-supported funding project and the State Historical Fund is a review body for work supported by their grants.

28 Steamboat Springs, Colorado