SUMMER PROGRAMS
YAMPATIKA SUMMER 2022
Our summer programs are set! Be sure to scroll to the bottom of this page for our special events. All events that require registration can be found on our Program Calendar (upper right corner of the page) anytime for more details and to register.
Private Programs may be scheduled throughout the year. Below is a button for summertime Private Program requests
PUBLIC SUMMER PROGRAM DESCRIPTIONS
Naturalist Walk “Wildflower Wanders”
Mondays June 21st – August 30th
9:30 AM – 11 AM; Registration required
Wildflower Wanders are offered all summer long and are shorter and easier hikes. Meeting locations vary and if not listed you will be contacted closer to the program as they are based on current conditions.
What to wear: Dress for the weather (current and future) and dress in layers! You’ll most likely want long pants/sleeves to protect yourself from the sun, dirt, and things that might make you itchy (mosquitos, etc.). Avoid cotton when you’re able and go with a synthetic material or wool. Also remember to wear sturdy hiking shoes, good socks, a cool sun hat, and sunscreen!
What to bring in your day pack: 2 Water bottles, snacks, sunscreen, extra layers (long sleeve shirt, fleece) and also bring your waterproof jacket!
Locations vary – Free, registration required
Naturalist on-site at Fish Creek Falls
Mondays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays June 25th- September 6th
Offerings from 10 AM – 2 PM; drop-in no registration required.
There’s are a variety of ways for you to discover more about Fish Creek Falls through our Naturalists.
Thank you to our partners the US Forest Service for making everything below free!
1) A daily guided tour:
- Starts at 10 AM, welcome to all ages- this is a short easy tour in the area led by a Naturalist.
- No registration needed, just show up.
- Meets at the top of the “upper parking lot” right near the top of the overlook trail; look for our “Naturalist on Site” sign.
2) Explore wildlife pelts and skulls:
- A favorite with kids and adults alike our table is set up with a Naturalist from 10 AM – 2 PM.
- Find us at the top of the “upper parking lot” right near the top of the overlook trail; look for our “Naturalist on Site” sign.
3) On the trail!
- Our naturalists will be out at the overlooks, picnic area, or down at the bridge from 11 AM- 2 PM.
- We love to answer questions so please strike up a conversation!
Yampa River Walk
Tuesdays June 22nd- August 31st
9 AM – 10 AM; drop in no registration required
The walk begins and ends at a 3 in 1 building; Our Nature Center, The US Forest Service, and Colorado Parks and Wildlife. You can purchase maps & guides, find free information and obtain permits if you need any- all in one place! Your naturalist will be happy to answer questions about trails and things to do in town as well.
This quiet section of the Yampa River Core Trail is perched along the river bank allowing for beautiful views close up. Depending on the time of year there are wildflowers in the spring and fall colors going into September. Your Naturalist will be able to point out geography, recreational areas, plant/tree species, bird’s and talk about wildlife- we will even go check out the nearby osprey nest which as of May has been claimed by a nesting pair!
Meeting Location: 925 Weiss Drive*, Steamboat Springs, CO
Meeting Time/duration: meet at 8:45 am tour 9 -10 AM
Cost: FREE Open to all ages!
Our loop is about 1 mile in total with zero elevation gain on a paved recreational trail and a wide dirt trail.
What to wear: This is a casual walk have clothes and shoes on that are comfortable for an hour outside; be ready for what the weather brings for the day. Sun protection such as a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen recommended- UV rays are much more powerful at our elevation so even one hour is enough to cause sunburns and sight damage. Bringing a bottle of water is a good idea.
*Please note the building is closed to the public due to governmental regulations as of May 2021 and is not expected to open during the summer. There is a full-service window, however no access indoors or to bathrooms. Your naturalist can help you select maps or guides.
Mineral Springs Downtown Tour
Wednesdays June 30th- September 1st
9 AM – 11 AM; drop-in no registration required.
Don’t miss out on this easy to access tour, steps away from the restaurants and shops of downtown is a diversity of natural Mineral Springs each with its own history, medicinal uses, and geologic pasts starting over 40 million years ago. This program is offered in partnership with Tread of Pioneers Museum. All participants will receive a half-off coupon admission coupon to the Tread of Pioneers Museum for attendance.
Meeting Time: 8:45 am- tour starts at 9:00 AM ends at 11 AM
Meeting Location: Art Depot Parking Lot at 1001 13th Street, Steamboat Springs, CO
Cost: FREE
What to bring/wear: Dress for the weather. You might want a light or rain jacket as the weather changes quickly here! A hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes are a good idea as we will be walking and often without much shade. BRING WATER! There there is no easy access to drinking water.
Anyone is welcome on this tour, however, it is taught at an adult/young adult level of comprehension-
young children may find much of the content difficult to understand.
Monthly Special Programs
Registration required for all, go to our program calendar
Wildflower Hikes w/ Karen Vail
June 18th and July 23rd
Medicinal Herb Walks w/ Mary O’Brien
June 4th and July 16th
Nature Photography Clinics w/ Chris Becea- Morning Light Photography
May 17th, June 25th, July 30th, September 17th- Fall Foliage
Mad Creek Geology and Historical Hikes– w/ Historic Routt County and Tread of Pioneers Museum
June 14th, July 12th, and August 9th
Special Events
Registration is required for all, go to our program calendar
Birding with the Colorado Crane Conservation Coalition – July 20th
Flat Tops Geology Hike – August 5th
Musical Stargazing – August 20th and 21st
Buy Tickets here
in partnership with STRINGS Music Festival
Sarvis Creek Historical & Wilderness Hike – August 25th
in partnership with Historic Routt County
Wildfires Ecology and Suppression – September 10th
Fall Foliage Hike- September 11th
Family Stargazing -September 18th