Long before Steamboat Springs became the world-class resort it is today, the Ute Indians adopted the area as their summer home. The inviting waters of numerous mineral springs, mild climate, abundant wild game and rivers teeming with fish, made the area a true paradise. The town got its name when trappers, traveling through the area in the mid-1800s, found a spring that made a chugging noise which sounded to them like a steamboat. Fur trapping gave way to gold mining and eventually ranching and coal mining. Skiing became an integral part of Steamboat's lifestyle just after the turn of the century. Known officially as Ski Town USA, Steamboat Springs has produced more winter sport Olympians than any other town in the United States. To date, 52 Olympians--including 2 summer Olympians--call Steamboat home. Today, summer vacations and winter "champagne powder" skiing are enjoyed with equal enthusiasm, while thriving downtown and mountain commerce areas make Steamboat Springs an active year-round community. A local legend says that the Yampa Valley holds a curse: "Once you visit the valley your heart will be forever captivated, and be compelled to return again and again."