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 20th – August 15th

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

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Naturalist on-site at Fish Creek Falls

Mondays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays  June 24th- September 5th

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 21nd- August 30th

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!

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  • 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.

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Mineral Springs Downtown Tour

Wednesdays  June 22nd-August 31st

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 is required for all, go to our program calendar

Wildflower Hikes w/ Karen Vail
June 24th and July 15th

Medicinal Herb Walks w/ Mary O’Brien
June 10th and July 22nd

#GetOutside Photography Hikes w/ Chris Becea- Morning Light Photography
June 3rd and 17th, July 21st, September 15th- Fall Foliage

Mad Creek Geology and Historical Hikesw/ Tread of Pioneers Museum
June 9th, July 7th, and September 1st

Special Events

Registration is required for all, go to our program calendar

Cranes and Birds: A Guided Nature Walk with the Colorado Crane Conservation Coalition – June 10th and July 8th

Musical Stargazing in partnership with STRINGS Music Festival – August 19th and 20th
Buy Tickets here

Continental Divide Trail Hike with the Continental Divide Trail Coalition

July 14th

Wildfire Ecology & Suppression Hike-

September 10th

Fall Foliage Hike- September 16th

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