It's boating season on the Yampa River
For Steamboat Springs locals there are 4 very distinct seasons of the year. Ski Season (winter), River Season (spring), Concert Season (summer), and Biking Season (fall). Lucky for the many local river rats, we are entering the prime time for river sports here in Northwester Colorado. The water is just fast enough to murk up the fishing holes, and just cold enough to keep the tubers and their Wal-Mart rafts at bay.
This is the time of year when you can actually throw in that 14’ raft and a few friends and not worry about getting held up on a rock. It’s the time of year when paddle boarders come out in full gear (not just bikinis) to surf the waves while the gettin’ in still good. The kayakers still shiver in their warmest dry suits, the wildlife is still undisturbed and the town is calm.
This boater’s paradise is typically enjoyed for a very small 4-week window but most of us will try and stretch it just a little longer. Not caring too much that we have to dodge a fly rod every now and then, or clean up someone’s river booty (lost article of clothing). When the water warms up and the waves simmer down many of us will head for the bigger water just a short drive away. If you’re like me, you will grab the brightest Wal-Mart raft you can find and join the party of tubers lazily floating this gorgeous stretch of river right in your own backyard.
If you want to learn more about the Yampa River or experience it for yourself Steamboat is home to two kayaking schools, a stand-up paddle boarding school, locally-based SUP manufacturer HALA, and two retail shops, Mountain Sports and Backdoor Sports, plus an additional storefront for HALA in the works. The Yampa River Festival, June 2-3, is a three-day celebration held at the beginning of the summer season every year. More information can be found here.
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