Dusky Grouse Coffee: A Community Hub for Connection

Nestled in the heart of Steamboat Springs, Dusky Grouse Coffee is more than just a coffee shop—it’s a space for connection and community! Founded by Stephany Traylor in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, Dusky Grouse was built on the foundation of providing a welcoming environment for all, especially those seeking a sober and supportive space.

From Ski Industry to Coffee Community

Stephany, a longtime resident of Routt County, transitioned from the ski industry to coffee entrepreneurship after selling her previous business in 2019. As a native of Seattle with deep roots in coffee culture, she recognized the need for a community-oriented gathering place in Steamboat Springs.

“When I started putting together the business plan, I realized very quickly that there was a huge need for community space,” says Stephany. “Even when I had our ski shop, I was passionate about community, giving back, and philanthropy. It’s always been at the root of who I am.”

A Commitment to Recovery and Support

From the start, Dusky Grouse Coffee has been dedicated to fostering a space where mental health and recovery are openly supported. As part of this mission, they have been actively involved in the Recovery Friendly Workplace Initiative. This certification is more than a one-time achievement—it’s an ongoing commitment to creating a supportive workplace for individuals in recovery.

“Chris Ray introduced us to the Recovery Friendly Workplace certification after attending a conference,” Stephany shares. “He came back really moved by the initiative and saw that it had real impact. We knew we wanted to be a part of that change.”

Breaking Stigma and Building Safe Spaces

Dusky Grouse Coffee proudly hosts RISE Coffee & Conversation, a monthly event in partnership with The Health Partnership. These gatherings provide a safe and welcoming environment for individuals in recovery, those who are sober-curious, and allies.

Beyond hosting events, the coffee shop also maintains an alcohol-free environment.

“We’ve always been committed to being a safe space for recovery,” Stephany explains. “A lot of coffee shops serve alcohol, and I get why—it’s a way to make money. But I feel like there needs to be spaces that are alcohol-free, not just for people in recovery, but for everyone.”

Providing Life-Saving Resources

In addition to fostering conversations around recovery, Dusky Grouse Coffee provides free Narcan kits and fentanyl test strips as a harm reduction measure.

“It blows my mind that people think offering Narcan is risky. You’re literally saving lives,” Stephany says. “People sometimes hesitate to grab a kit, worried about being judged. But we encourage everyone to take one—high school students, parents, teachers, business owners. There’s zero judgment. The more people who have these resources, the better.”

Encouraging Other Businesses to Join the Movement

Dusky Grouse Coffee was among the first businesses in Colorado to receive the Recovery Friendly Workplace certification, and Stephany hopes more businesses will follow suit.

“If you think this town doesn’t have a problem with drugs and alcohol, then you have some blinders on,” she states. “This certification doesn’t mean you have to hire people in recovery—it just means you’re open to having conversations and creating a supportive work environment. It’s a learning experience, and the more businesses that get involved, the healthier our community will be.”

A Community That Cares

Through their dedication to community support, mental health awareness, and recovery-friendly initiatives, Dusky Grouse Coffee has become a vital space for connection in Steamboat Springs.

“Being a part of someone’s recovery journey is incredibly rewarding,” Stephany reflects. “If we can continue to drop the stigma and provide people with the support they need, we all benefit.”

For those interested in learning more about the Recovery Friendly Workplace Initiative, reach out to The Health Partnership. If you are interested in attending RISE Coffee & Conversation, view The Health Partnership’s upcoming events or stop by Dusky Grouse Coffee in Steamboat Springs.