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

During warm summer days the cool water of the Yampa River is a magnet for tourists and locals. Paddle boarders, tubers, kayakers, anglers and rafters all diverge beyond its beautiful banks, which led the City of Steamboat Springs to form a strict guideline for users.

• Avoid standing or walking on the river bed (except fisherman)
• Dogs allowed per leash laws
• Life jackets, flotation devices and proper footwear recommended
• No alcohol
• No bathing or diapers in the river
• No glass
• No littering
• No Styrofoam coolers
• Respect other river users
• Respect private property

Tubers can use their own tubes or rent them. Backdoor Sports at 841 Yampa Street has been running watersports on the Yampa River for years. Their published ‘frequently asked questions’ answers all you need to know about renting a tube for a float on the Yampa.

Guest: Where do we start tubing and where do we finish?

Backdoor Sports: Tubing starts from our shop location at 841 Yampa Street. Tubers will float approximately 2 miles down river to just past the James Brown Soul Center Of The Universe bridge, where there is a large sign directing tubers to exit the river and a takeout. Tubers are then shuttled back to the shop.

Guest: How long does this take?

Backdoor Sports: The time of the tube ride depends on the flow pace of the river. Generally in peak tubing season, the trip is just over an hour.

Guest: How do we get back?

Backdoor Sports: We continuously run shuttles between the takeout and the shop.

Guest: How far do we tube?

Backdoor Sports: The tube ride is approximately two miles down the Yampa River.

Guest: Can I wear flip-flops?

Backdoor Sports: Sorry, no flip-flops allowed, shoes/sandals with a heel strap or closed heel are required. We rent river shoes for $3, should you need them.

Guest: What didn’t I think of?

Backdoor Sports: If you wear sunglasses or prescription eyewear, a safety strap is highly recommended to prevent them from falling and getting lost in the river. We sell Croakies safety straps, which are available at the tubing desk. Sunscreen is highly recommended.

10 Fun and Free Family Activities in Steamboat Springs 

Fun doesn’t need to cost a cent with a playground like Steamboat Springs. Spend a morning, an afternoon or a whole day entertaining the family without breaking the bank.

1. Take advantage of free casting classes at West Lincoln Park, sponsored by Steamboat Flyfisher, on Saturdays at 5 p.m.
2. Hike Emerald Mountain leaving from Blackmere Road all the way to the quarry for incredible views of Steamboat and the Yampa Valley. Climb Mount Werner later in the day to watch the sun setting over town.
3. Play volleyball, tennis and skateboard at Howelsen Park.
4. Paddle in the Yampa River and soak in the run off from the Hot Springs in natural pools just before Rabbit Ears Motel as you head into town.
5. Experience Steamboat’s heritage from ranching to skiing by watching the Fourth of July Parade. Head over to Howelsen Hill to witness ski jumpers including past and present Olympians compete in the Jumpin’ Jammin’ contest. Come back when night falls for an incredible firework extravaganza.
6. Check out: free talks, movie nights, seminars, and kids workshops at Bud Werner Memorial Library.
7. Learn from a local naturalist at Yampatika about flora, fauna, birds, wildlife and archaeology on a free weekly-guided hike. www.yampatika.org
8. Spend an evening strolling through downtown Steamboat visiting an eclectic mix of venues during first Friday Artwalk. Meet local artists; sip wine and snack on appetizers that are served at a variety of locations.
9. Enjoy live music every Thursday afternoon in the Yampa River Botanic Gardens. Music on the Green is run by Strings Music Festival. Programing changes weekly. Music starts at noon and typically runs for one hour. Spend time strolling through the gardens before and after.
10. Hike and bike to your hearts content on acres of trails from mellow pathways to adrenaline fueled climbs. www.biketownusa.com