SUMMER PROGRAMS
YAMPATIKA SUMMER 2023
Our summer programs are being planned as we speak! More information available soon.
All of our upcoming events can be found on our Program Calendar. To register for our programs, click here!
Private Programs may be scheduled throughout each season. Below is a button for summertime Private Program requests
PUBLIC SUMMER PROGRAM DESCRIPTIONS
Naturalist Walk “Wildflower Wanders”
Mondays June 19th – August 14th
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 23rd- September 4th
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 20th- August 29th
9 AM – 10 AM; registration encouraged
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!
¿Busca nuestra Caminata Bilingüe del Río Yampa? ¡ Haga clic aquí para aprender más y para inscribirse!
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 Walking Tour
Wednesdays June 21st-August 30th
9 AM – 11 AM; registration encouraged
Don’t miss out on this easy to access, ~1 mile walking 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.
Ski Resort Guided Nature Walks
Thursdays July 6th- August 31st
10 AM – 11 AM; registration required
Join Yampatika naturalists on this guided nature walk as we venture into the Routt National Forest to learn about ungulates, birds and bears, and fire! Our guided hike will take you around the beautiful Creekside Trail on Burgess Creek Road. Each week will be a different topic!
Understanding Ungulates: July 6th, July 27th, and August 17th
Birds, Bears, and Berries: July 13th, August 3rd, and August 24th
Flakes and Flames: July 20th, August 10th, and August 31st
Meeting Location: Creekside Trailhead, Steamboat Springs, CO
Meeting Time/duration: meet at 9:45 am tour 10 -11 AM
Cost: FREE
Open to all ages!
This nature walk is ~1 mile long at an elevation of 7,000 feet. The terrain is somewhat uneven but accessible to most.
What to wear: Hiking boots or waterproof shoes are recommended. Wear comfortable clothing for the weather as well as plenty of sunscreen! Make sure to bring water– a hat and snacks are also recommended.
Monthly Special Programs
Registration is required for all, register here
Mad Creek Geology and Historical Hikes– w/ Tread of Pioneers Museum
June 16th, July 14th, and September 1st
Wildflower Hikes w/ Karen Vail
June 25th and July 28th
Locations vary!
Medicinal Herb Walks w/ Mary O’Brien
June 30th and July 21st
Locations vary!
Special Events
Mountain Biking Leave No Trace Workshop w/ Routt County Riders – July 7th, 12pm – 1pm at Bud Werner Library
Pizza provided! Learn more and get registered here.
Yampa Valley Brewing Happy Hour – July 12th, 4:30pm – 6pm
Yampatika is Yampa Valley Brewing’s July nonprofit! We receive proceeds from all $20 Yampa Valley Blonde pint glasses filled with your choice of beer.
Musical Stargazing in partnership with STRINGS Music Festival – August 25th and 26th
Buy Tickets here
Fall Foliage Hike- September 14th
Location TBD