There’s nothing like being on the water on a warm summers day in and around Steamboat. One of our favorite things to do is jump on a paddleboard and cruise down the Yampa River or paddle across the lakes in North Routt. We sat down with local experts at the Paddleboard Adventure Company to get their top tips for beginners.

If you’ve never tried paddle boarding, what do you advise to get started? 

Start on a small body of flat water.  Start on your knees and always be looking out, never down.  There are so many kinds of boards out there so you want make sure you get the right board for your size and for what kind of paddleboarding you want to do.  

What should you wear? 

It all depends on the air and water temps.  It is Colorado, so you want to be prepared.  Even if it starts out sunny and clear when you launch onto the lake, things can change. Have warmer layers and proper safety gear such as a personal flotation device and a whistle. On the river, always wear a helmet and PFD.

We’ve heard about paddleboard yoga, how does it differ from regular forms of yoga? 

You always hear those who have practiced yoga on dry land say, paddleboard yoga requires more concentration, core strength, and balance since you have the dynamic of floating on water.  The boards we use for paddleboard yoga are super stable.  You really only go in when you are pushing yourself to try something new.  Otherwise, most things you do on dry land can at least be attempted on the board.  What’s the worst that can happen?  You’ll get wet.

Where are your favorite paddleboard spots in and around Steamboat? 

Depending on the time of year, the Yampa River town stretch is always good.  Early season it is a fun challenge cause it’s big water and late season it’s more technical.  I love Pearl Lake and that’s why we do our tours there.  The water can be really glassy and the views are outrageous.

Is there anything you should be cautious of paddleboarding here?

Do not wear an ankle leash on the river but one that has a quick release system attached to your PFD.  Also, there is no shame in kneeling when you feel uncomfortable in whitewater.  It is better to fall from a kneeling position then a standing one. Make sure you know and have practiced getting back onto your board once you fall off.

Be respectful of other users.  Always steer clear of fisherman and their lines.  With kids and animals, please make sure they can swim and always have them wear a PFD. The river isn’t a good place to start for anyone unless you are taking a lesson with certified and capable instructors. Also, don’t leave any trash behind.

How fit do you need to be to paddleboard?

If you’re not fit when you start, you will be after a few weeks of regular paddling.  Paddleboarding in a river requires you to be a good swimmer and fit enough to be able to get back on your board in moving water, rather quickly at times.  On bigger lakes, some people get wind blown to the other side and do not have the strength to paddle upwind to get back to the dock.  You definitely want to be in decent shape, being prepared is always better than being surprised.

To find out more about renting a board, or taking a lesson check out www.paddleboardadventurecompany.com

Steamboat Paddleboard Adventures

1. Yoga at 9,000 feet

It’s not everywhere you can downward dog and tree pose with your head almost touching the clouds. Every Sunday until September 6, stretch out at the base of Mount Werner from 9 – 10 a.m. with instruction from the experienced teachers at Yoga Center of Steamboat. Cost is free but suggested donation is $10 – best to reserve a mat in advance.

On August 30 make your way to the top of the gondola (opens at 9.30 a.m.) for a 10 – 11 a.m. class at 9,000 feet. Views, fresh air and an entire body stretch – Namaste.
www.yogacenterofsteamboat.com

2. Paddleboard Pearl Lake beneath the stars

Surrounded by a forest of pines, Pearl Lake is a secluded little haven just short of Steamboat Lake. Steamboat Paddleboard Adventures has introduced a very different way to experience the tranquility of this place. Starting at 8 p.m. a group of up to six people can enjoy a guided nighttime float. Boards are equipped with NOCQUA lights, which emit a soft glow to show the way. Tours end at 10 p.m. and must be reserved. Suitable for age ten and up. www.steamboatpaddleboardadventures.com

3. Unwind in soothing waters

Feel your stresses float away with a Watsu massage at Strawberry Park Hot Springs. Nestled in the trees, seven miles north of town is one of Steamboat’s hidden gems. Natural waters gather in a series of pools ranging in temperature, with a cool stream to dip in and out of. ½ hour massage $65. www.strawberryhotsprings.com

4. Seek scenery from the saddle

Meander your way through aspen groves and catch a glimpse of rolling ranchland riding in North Routt. Family owned and run Del’s Triangle 3 Ranch offers one and two hour rides through some of the Yampa Valley’s most dramatic scenery. $55 for one hour, $85 for two hours. www.steamboathorses.com

5. Source or sample some of Steamboat’s edibles.

With only 59 growing days, we relish any fruits or veggies that can grow up here. Local non-profit, Yampatika runs a series of guided summer hikes and workshops throughout the summer, sharing knowledge of native flora and fauna. Join them later this month on their annual wild mushroom hike and learn the art of foraging. Or kick back on September 16 for their garden to table dinner served in the historic setting of the Legacy Ranch. Reservations for both are required. www.yampatika.org.