Steamboat Springs Colorado Boating

Reservoirs

Despite its high altitude, Steamboat Springs, Colorado can get very hot in the summertime. When it does, thankfully there are several places to spend the day boating. Both the Stagecoach Reservoir and Steamboat Lake are beautiful places to cool off. Rentals of all sorts are available at both marinas. Relax on a pontoon boat, practice your paddling in a canoe or kayak, or test your luck with the fish (Rainbow, Brown, Brook or Cutthroat). Generous portions of each lake are also designated for waterskiing and wakeboarding. Show off your 180s and back flips while absorbing the spectacular scenery! Spend the whole weekend and set up tents or trailers at one of several campgrounds near the lakes.

The Stagecoach Reservoir is located less than 30 minutes from Steamboat Springs. 780 acres of water double as a water supply for the area, and a playground for boaters! Surrounded by subtle hillsides, there is a peaceful energy that radiates from this piece of Colorado.

Steamboat Lake is also about a 30 minute drive from Steamboat Springs. This reservoir is over 1000 acres of clear mountain runoff. The lake is picturesquely located at the base of Sand Mt. and Hahn’s Peak. Spend the day enjoying warm water temperatures of over 70 degrees! For those who are looking for peace and quiet, Pearl Lake is a beautiful, smaller alternative nearby.

Rivers

The Yampa River near Steamboat Springs is one of Colorado’s most pristine waterways. Float down the river for a fishing trip, or just to relax on the water. The run through town is easy enough to float in an inner tube (available for rent at several locations in town). Fishing boats, rafts, kayaks and other non-motorized watercraft are all welcome.

Several other rivers within an hour of Steamboat Springs offer whitewater rafting from class II-IV.