Each late August, thousands of sandhill cranes gather in the Yampa Valley before their long migration south. We’re looking forward to the Yampa Valley Crane Festival, a four-day celebration of one of our region’s most iconic species.
Hosted by the Colorado Crane Conservation Coalition, this year’s festival runs August 28-31, 2025, across Steamboat Springs, Hayden, and Craig. It features guided crane viewings, expert speakers, bird walks, films, crane-themed art, family-friendly activities, educational displays, and much more.
Paint a Crane: Art Meets Conservation
One of the highlights this year is a “Paint a Crane with Sumi Ink” workshop at the Steamboat Art Museum on Thursday, Aug 28. Inspired by Hokusai’s brush techniques, participants will learn a traditional Japanese style to paint cranes in a single expressive stroke, a beautiful way to connect art, culture, and wildlife conservation.
Why We Love This Festival
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Crane viewings at dawn over private fields, an unforgettable experience for wildlife lovers of any age (advance registration required for shuttle trips)
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Expert speakers including Dr. George Archibald (co-founder of the International Crane Foundation), Dan Collins (USFWS), Rebecca Weiss (author and birding guide), and Ted Floyd (Birding Magazine editor)
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Live raptor demonstrations, bird-themed films, nature journaling and sketch-a-bird workshops, and the Yard Art Crane display featuring community-painted cranes, an auction highlight for many attendees
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Nature walks from the Core Trail to local preserves, perfect for families and curious birders alike
The festival headquarters is at Bud Werner Memorial Library, the heart of it all in downtown Steamboat Springs.
Why It Matters to Locals
This isn’t just a vacation attraction, it’s part of what makes Steamboat Springs feel like home. Festival proceeds help fund local conservation, youth education programs, and protect crane habitat across Northwest Colorado. It also brings community members, families, and visitors together in a meaningful way.
Tips for a Thoughtful Visit
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Register early for guided crane viewings and workshops like paint a crane or bird journaling, space fills fast and fees may apply.
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Choose at least one event in Hayden or Craig to extend your experience and support habitat areas beyond town limits.
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Bring binoculars, wear layers, and plan to arrive early for sunrise crane flights or educational presentations.
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Support the cause by visiting the Yard Art Crane display, attending speaker events, or joining one of the guided walks.
Ready to experience the Yampa Valley’s wild side?
Check the full festival schedule, register for events, and view the full art workshop lineup at the official site.
🌐 Visit the official festival site
Got questions about lodging, guides, or housing near festival venues? We’d love to help you plan!
–Team Yazbeck
