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Steamboat Springs

Yampa River Botanic Park – Steamboat Springs loop from Strings

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Hiking trails & Routes

Routt County

Steamboat Springs

Yampa River Botanic Park – Steamboat Springs loop from Strings

Moderate

5.0

(1)

hikers

Yampa River Botanic Park – Steamboat Springs loop from Strings

03:04

12.0km

50m

Hiking

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.

Last updated: May 21, 2026

Waypoints

Start point

Bus stop

Get Directions

2.57 km

Yampa River Botanic Park

Highlight • Natural

The Park sits at an altitude of 6,880 ft in a cool valley at the foot of Mt Werner, the Steamboat Ski Mountain. In winter, cold air flows down the mountains into the Valley so that temperatures can reach as low as minus 40 degrees Fahrenheit (and Celsius). The Park gets an average of only 60 days a year without a killing frost. These low temperatures, together with very dry summers and high levels of ultra-violet make this a challenging climate in which to grow plants. Native species, plants from similar climates in other parts of the World, and cultivars of lower-altitude plants thrive. The gardens contain mostly perennials.
The Yampa River Botanic Park is managed by a volunteer association. The 6 acre park sits on land donated to the City of Steamboat Springs.
The Park is free and open to the public from dawn to dusk, May 1 through October 31. Most plants in the Park are labeled with common and scientific names and show which plants are native only to Northwest Colorado (endemic). Since 1999 the Park hosts "Music on the Green", free lunchtime classical and contemporary music concerts. yampariverbotanicpark.org

Tip by

6.30 km

Steamboat Springs

Highlight • Settlement

Steamboat Springs is situated at an elevation of 6,700 feet in northwest Colorado. It is known as Ski Town USA, boasting two ski resorts within the town. Steamboat features a historic downtown area with local businesses, restaurants, and geothermal hot springs. Additionally, the Yampa River flows right through downtown.

Tip by

7.78 km

Yampa River Trail south of Steamboat Springs

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

The Yampa River Core Trail is a 7.5-mile paved multi-use trail that runs through the heart of Steamboat Springs and along the Yampa River. The Core Trail ties all aspects of Steamboat together: it’s a straight shot from one side of town to the other.
Walk or bike your way from park to park, stopping at the various scenic stops to enjoy the views. You’ll cruise over wooden bridges and alongside the picturesque Yampa river. The Core Trail offers excellent fishing access, as well as a place to start or end a relaxing float down the Yampa on an inner tube. As you make your way down the Core Trail, you can watch fishermen cast flies and listen to the delighted whoops of children playing in the water at the famed C Hole standing wave, located on the trail just behind the Library.

Tip by

12.0 km

End point

Bus stop

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

8.88 km

1.20 km

943 m

826 m

113 m

Surfaces

10.1 km

953 m

838 m

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Weather

Today

Saturday 11 July

32°C

8°C

2 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 13.0 km/h

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Description

If you're looking for a wonderfully accessible and scenic outing in Steamboat Springs, the Yampa River Botanic Park – Steamboat Springs loop from Strings is an excellent choice. This moderate hiking route covers 7.4 miles (12.0 km) with a gentle 156 feet (47 metres) of elevation gain, taking about 3 hours and 4 minutes to complete. It's a perfect option for families or anyone wanting a relaxing stroll through beautiful gardens and along the river.

What to expect on Yampa River Botanic Park – Steamboat Springs loop from Strings

The journey begins on the Yampa River Core Trail, a paved, multi-use path that hugs the Yampa River. You'll enjoy continuous views of the water, framed by cottonwood trees, and even catch glimpses of Mount Werner and downtown Steamboat Springs. The terrain is predominantly flat, making for an easy walk. The highlight is undoubtedly the Yampa River Botanic Park, a 6-acre "hidden gem" where gravel paths wind through over 60 unique gardens. It's a serene experience, especially in fall, and ideal for anyone seeking a peaceful escape without strenuous effort.

Planning your visit

This loop is generally accessible and can be started near the Strings Music Pavilion area, connecting directly to the Yampa River Core Trail. The trail is suitable for all ages and fitness levels, making it a great family-friendly option. While specific parking details aren't provided, the area around the Strings Music Pavilion and the Botanic Park typically offers visitor parking. Consider visiting in the fall for vibrant autumn colors, though the park and trail are beautiful throughout the warmer months.

Trail details