There’s nothing quite like a sunny summer day to float theYampa River. Right now, the water is at that sweet spot, just the right flow, the perfect temperature, and the sun is doing its part too. However, we might only have a couple of good tubing weeks left. If you’ve been waiting for the green light to grab a tube and float, this is it.
As locals, we know how magical it is to float the Yampa River, but we also know it comes with responsibility. Whether you’re new to Steamboat or just need a refresher, here’s your guide to floating smart, supporting local, and making the most of these short but sweet tubing weeks.
âś… Check Conditions Before You Go
The Yampa can go from mellow to wild (or too shallow) pretty quickly. That’s why we always recommend checking river conditions before heading out. It’s not just about safety, it’s also about protecting the river for everyone who calls it home.
👉 Visit the “Know Before You Go” page on Friends of the Yampa.
They break down current flow rates, temperature, and even when tubing should be paused due to warm water or high runoff. Respecting these guidelines helps keep the river healthy and tubing allowed all season long.
🎟️ Don’t Have a Tube? Rent Local with Back Door Sports
If you don’t own your own setup, one of the best options in town is Back Door Sports. They’ve been part of the local scene for decades and offer:
Tube rentals & shuttle service
Only $25 per person
Runs daily from 10:30 AM to 3:30 PM
You’ll float from the 5th Street Bridge to the James Brown Soul Center of the Universe Bridge. A scenic, splashy ride with just the right mix of mellow and fun.
🚌 Local Tip: Ride the Free Bus in Your Swimsuit
If you have your own tube, here’s a true Steamboat local hack: use the free city bus as your shuttle. Yes, you might see folks in swimsuits and sandals hopping on the bus, and yes, it’s totally normal.
Here’s how it works:
Choose your take-out spot first
Ride the bus back to your put-in point
Be sure your tube can deflate enough to ride safely
Pack a dry bag for your clothes, shoes, phone, and a snack
And please no glass or disposable foam coolers
You’ll avoid parking hassles, support our eco-conscious community, and get to float on your own time.
🧠Respect the River, Respect Each Other
As fun as tubing is, it’s important to remember this is a shared resource. Give anglers space, stay off private property, and be mindful of your volume when you’re floating past riverfront homes.
A few local etiquette reminders:
Pack it in, pack it out leave nothing behind
Stay in your tube, wading on private property is not cool
Keep your group tight and under control, especially at busy access points
Watch out for kids, dogs, and wildlife along the banks
📲 Stay Connected for River Updates
River levels change fast. Want the latest?
We’ll be sharing Yampa River updates on our Team Yazbeck Instagram. Follow us there, or check back on the blog for upcoming Steamboat Springs summer events and local tips.
🏞️ Float the Yampa While You Can!
Tubing season doesn’t last forever. Depending on flows and temps, we’ve probably got a few great weeks left, but that can change quickly. Check conditions, float smart, and soak up the best of what summer in Steamboat has to offer: river sandals, laughter, and that one friend who always falls out of their tube.
We’ll see you on the Yampa.
—Team Yazbeck
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