More Than A River – A Member of the Family
In the history of a family, there are sometimes places so special they become honorary members.
I’ve seen it happen with homes passed from generation to generation, vacation spots returned to year after year, favorite restaurants, even college campuses. In our Steamboat family, we have a few such honorary members, but none more special than the Yampa River.
My own time in Steamboat has unfolded in and along the banks of the Yampa. I’ve watched the seasons reflect in its water as it freezes and thaws, thunders and crawls. The Yampa is a family member we celebrate with, sit quietly beside, share the marvel of our town with. A companion to be grateful with and for. And also, joyfully, a place to Play! Play! Play!
There were the old days of the Tugboat’s River Fest, and today’s traditions like the Kayak Tournaments, tubing and paddle boarding, fly fishing, and Summer Camp kids diving for lost sunglasses in the eddy of the A-Hole. There’s the annual Rubber Ducky Race fundraiser, the quiet joy of reading in the grass, warming up in the Hippie Hot Springs at Dr. Rich Weiss Park, scrambling on river rocks, or simply sitting on a bench watching the water flow.
The Yampa has been a steady witness to our individual and collective joys, griefs, romances, and inspirations. It has gently shepherded so many of us through our days and milestones, simply by being there—predictable, grounding, alive. Even visitors who stay just a few days often leave with a quiet sense that something meaningful has happened by the river.
It’s more than a beloved local landmark—it’s a constant presence in our story. As one of the last free-flowing rivers in the West and proudly known as The Wildest River in Colorado, the Yampa is a national treasure and must be protected at all costs. So, who takes charge of protecting this river we hold so dear?
Introducing: Friends of the Yampa
Founded in 1981, Friends of the Yampa exists to protect and enhance the Yampa River for all.
According to AmericanRivers.org:
“Right now, the Yampa provides world-class recreation, is the source of a thriving agricultural economy, serves as the lifeblood for endangered fish species, and drives local economies from Steamboat Springs to Vernal, Utah. A large-scale diversion would have dramatic impacts on river function all the way to Lake Powell. Not only would it be an ecological disaster for the Yampa and the Upper Colorado River basin, it would cost billions of dollars, putting a huge burden on Colorado taxpayers and water rate payers.”
Friends of the Yampa is a nonprofit organization funded by a wide network of supporters and partners. Its work spans the entire river corridor from the Flat Tops through Steamboat and all the way to Dinosaur National Monument, where the Yampa joins the Green River.
Their mission isn’t just about keeping the Yampa wild, it’s about ensuring the river remains accessible, healthy, and vibrant for generations to come. From conservation advocacy to community education, habitat restoration, and youth engagement, Friends of the Yampa does the essential work of protecting both the river and the people who love it. Whether they’re organizing river cleanups, working with local governments and ranchers, or hosting festivals that celebrate this living waterway, their efforts are a reminder that stewardship is an act of love.
In a time when wild places are vanishing, it’s deeply comforting to know the Yampa has guardians—people who recognize its irreplaceable value and are committed to preserving its free-flowing spirit. Because a river like this isn’t just part of the landscape. It’s part of our identity, our heritage, and our shared hope.If the Yampa has ever given you a moment of wonder, peace, fun, or awe—consider giving something back.
Visit www.friendsoftheyampa.com to learn more, become a member, volunteer, or donate.
When we protect the Yampa, we protect a piece of what makes Steamboat home. We protect an honored member of our family.
Written by Madeleine Mason
To hear more about FRIENDS OF THE YAMPA, listen to the Elevating Steamboat podcast featuring Lindsey Marlow, Executive Director, and Rebecca Hext, Development Program Manage
Elevating Steamboat: Stories of Impact and Inspiration is dedicated to the people and organizations working to uplift our community presented by The Carpet Shoppe, where they can elevate your space as the top flooring choice in Steamboat.