One of the greatest assets of Hayden is the incredible land that we live on. There is incredible access to recreational activities – a little something for everyone.
Anglers fish for both warm water and cold water species at the numerous access points to the Yampa in and around Hayden. Upstream of Yampa River State Park is one of the healthiest trout fisheries in the state, and on the eastern end of Yampa River State Park from Hayden to Craig, you can find populations of small mouth bass, northern pike and more trout.
Elkhead Reservoir State Park, located less than 30 minutes from Hayden, is an oasis in the high desert. The 900 acre reservoir offers angling opportunity for smallmouth bass, crappie, bluegill, northern pike, rainbow trout, and channel catfish.
For alpine skiing, the world-class Steamboat Springs and the historic Howelsen Hill (the oldest operating ski area in Colorado) are a short drive away.
For cross-country skiing, Dry Creek Park in Hayden has a 1-mile nordic track for both skate and classic skiers, as well as snowshoers. For a longer outing, Deepe Ranch—private land adjacent to town—offers more than 10 miles of groomed nordic trails (but please respect the land owners by staying on the trails). Additionally, Yampa River State Park has a nordic track and there are dozens of other options on Forest Service roads and other trails.
The Northwest Colorado Snowmobile Club maintains 100 miles of trails in the Bears Ears area of national forest lands. Trail elevations range from approximately 7,000 to over 10,000 feet with snow depths of 4 to 10 feet from late November through April. The area has a wide variety of terrain and scenic overlooks.
Dog sled rides are available in the Dunckley Pass region of the Flat Tops Wilderness Area through Snow Buddy Dog Sled Tours.
