Steamboat is home to many small companies offering all types of outdoor activities. Each of the activities are unique yet all offer their participants exposure to the magic of the Rocky Mountain wilderness. Options range from the mild and scenic to adrenaline stirring adventures. Its not tough to find an activity for a group of mixed ages to enjoy.
Steamboat Springs is blessed with four great rivers weaving through the area, making whitewater sports highly accessible to locals and visitors alike. River sports such as rafting and kayaking can be practiced privately or commercially. Commercial outfitters must carry special permits for each river that they run. The best months of the year for whitewater are May, June, July and August. There are a handful of tour companies in and around Steamboat that provide a variety of guided river rafting trips for mild to wild adventure.
The Upper Colorado River is perfect for a first time family rafting experience. Its safe for younger children, with mostly flat water and a few nice waves and small rapids. Another great choice for beginners and youngsters is one of Steamboat's treasures; the Yampa River town stretch. Because of its close proximity to town and its class II+ rating (on a scale of I-V), this trip is ideal!
For older children and adults, the Elk and Eagle Rivers offer intermediate whitewater. The rapids range from class II-IV on these runs and require a higher degree of navigation and teamwork from the guide and the paddlers. Class III and IV rapids are comprised of larger waves, more rocks and quicker moving water. Prior to the trip, guides instruct their crew on several paddle commands and explain safety information in great detail. The team then works together to manage the rapids, with breaks of milder water in between to admire the views and learn a bit about the area.
There won't be too much time for sight seeing on the class IV/V rafting trip. For the ultimate in intense whitewater, adrenaline seekers may want to check out Cross Mountain Canyon. This section of the Yampa River requires past paddling experience and good physical condition. Steamboat Springs is an epicenter for river adventure. Pick a mild trip, pick a wild trip, but be sure to make the rivers of northwest Colorado part of your vacation.
Fly Fishing is another way to incorporate the river into your summer getaway. Steamboat Springs is home to some of Colorado's best Gold Medal fishing waters. Lake and stream (river) fly fishing trips are very popular all year round, with the peak season being May through September. Large Rainbow, Brook Trout and Cutthroat are plentiful and the guides know where just where to cast a line. Guided fly fishing tours offer you the use of the best equipment on the market and a variety of public and private water to choose from. Beginners and experienced anglers will have a memorable experience.
For fun on dry-land in Steamboat, select from horseback rides, cattle drives, ATV tours, hot air balloon rides, biking, rock climbing, hiking and a heavy equipment play area where guests operate bulldozers and excavators! Watch for part 2 of the Summer in Steamboat article series for more details on these fabulous outdoor activities.
------
The author, Claire Chappell, started Steamboat Vacations in order to share her passion for outdoor sports. The company specializes in planning vacations to Steamboat Springs, Colorado that include various adventure sports along with great accomodations and services. For more information on Steamboat Activities and Vacations, go to http://www.steamboat-vacations.com
