Casey’s Pond History: Getting Back to the Roots
Nestled in the heart of the Yampa Valley, Casey’s Pond is a warm and inclusive senior living community surrounded by picturesque mountains and unlimited sky. It’s the only continuing care community in a Colorado mountain resort town, but its roots in the Steamboat Springs area date back to the early 1900s.
Local residents recall that the pond, once named Storm Mountain Lake, may have been man-made, as there is a dam at one end. Since the early 1900s, pioneer ranchers like the Sinden and Selbe families have called this land at the foot of Storm Mountain their home. In the past, various structures, including a large barn and outbuildings, existed on Walton Creek Road. It wasn’t until around 1941 that electricity became widely available in the area.
In the late 1950s, the Casey family became the new owners and embarked on further developments, like a gas station and small diner, and to this day, the pond is still named for their ownership of the land. The log cabin that was located on Pine Street was temporarily a “modular” school for first graders. Eventually, this cabin was moved to its present site at the edge of Casey’s Pond, and became a marker for the East entrance to Steamboat Springs in 1977 where it served as a visitor information center.
A New Era: Casey’s Pond Senior Living Community
In 2008-2009, the idea of creating a full-service, senior living community was envisioned by healthcare leaders in the community. The Doak Walker House at the Yampa Valley Medical Center needed a new and expanded location to cater to the growing retirement population in Northwest Colorado. Casey’s Pond Senior Living Community, a non-profit organization, received funding from the YVMC Foundation and other tax-exempt bonds to support the project.
The new structure was designed based on the “Green House” model of care, emphasizing a home-like environment, individualized care, and opportunities for personal growth. Construction began in May 2012, and by October 2013, the first residents moved into their new suites at The Doak Walker House wing of Casey’s Pond. Shortly after, Veranda (Independent Living) and Grove (Assisted Living) residents joined the community, marking a new era for the community.
From the very beginning, Casey’s Pond set out to create an environment where residents could thrive physically, emotionally, and socially. Over the years, Casey’s Pond has continuously evolved to meet the changing needs and desires of its residents. In response to the growing demand for independent living options, the community expanded to include beautiful apartments to meet a variety of lifestyle and financial needs, offering seniors the freedom and comfort they desire while still enjoying the benefits of a supportive community.
Looking Ahead
In 2024, Northwest Colorado Health became the new owners of Casey’s Pond, after a community-led effort to save the senior living community from receivership. With new leadership and a continued commitment to providing exceptional care, innovative programs, and a strong sense of community, Casey’s Pond is poised to continue making a positive impact on the lives of seniors in Steamboat Springs for many years to come.
Ready to learn more about living at Casey's Pond?
Surrounded by the beauty of the mountains, we’ve learned that even the small moments in life are worth celebrating. If you’re interested in learning more or have any questions, please fill out our form and our Residency Specialist will follow up with you.
