Yampa River
The Yampa River is a river in Colorado that is considered the last major tributary in the Colorado River Basin that retains the characteristics of a large, free-flowing Western river.
- Floating the river from Craig to the Dinosaur National Monument boundary (a total of approximately 50 miles) is recommended as the route passes through 3 canyons over the suggested 3-day journey.
- Rafters and anglers alike are suggested to check the water levels before venturing out onto the river.
Overview
Despite few smaller water supply reservoirs in the headwaters of the Yampa River, annual spring and summer flows continue to provide for habitats and endangered species along
Location/Directions
The Yampa River flows throughout the state of Colorado. As the river is about 250 miles, it flows through northwestern Colorado in the Flat Tops Wilderness and Routt National Forest, through the towns of Yampa and Steamboat Springs and then through the Williams Fork Mountains and Moffat County before entering the Green River near the Utah border.
Seasons
The Yampa River is viewable year-round. However, certain activities are dependent upon the season.
Activities
The Yampa River is most popular for its abundance of commercial rafting opportunities. Numerous commercial rafting outfitters call the Yampa River home during the popular mountain summers. In addition, tubing the Yampa River both through outfitters and as an individual are also popular activities.
Fishing is also a popular activity as the “Rocky Mountain Grand Slam” (abundance of brook, rainbow, cutthroat, brown and mountain whitefish) is present through the 15-mile stretch from Stillwater Reservoir to the town of Yampa.
Additional Info
Fishing permits are required through the Colorado Division of Wildlife.
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