City announces start of tubing season, users advised to stay aware of safety rules

The Yampa River fell below 700 cubic feet per second for the first time this season at 12:15 a.m. Wednesday, marking the start of tubing season in Steamboat Springs for commercial and recreational users.

“Although the river has dropped below 700 cfs, it is still flowing extremely fast and the water remains cold,” Deputy City Manager Rob Burdine said in a news release. “Enjoy the river, but be careful and always keep safety in mind whenever you head out on the water. Families with children may want to wait a little longer to go tubing until the flow drops further.”

Safety should always be the priority when tubing the river, and users should wear proper gear such as life jackets, river shoes and helmets. Users should also be prepared and remain vigilant for extreme weather conditions, be on the lookout for potential hazards along the river’s edge and carry a first aid kit. The river is also always cold, fluctuating between 54 and 66 degrees throughout the day, according to the U.S. Geological Survey.

Peter Van De Carr, owner of Backdoor Sports, said the stretch of the Yampa River that runs through downtown Steamboat Springs should only be tubing for people who are strong enough to swim to shore and comfortable with the risk of being separated from their tubing. He said the river is much too fast for young children to tubing that section.

Disposable containers are not allowed on the river, which includes everything from cans, plastic bottles and glass to Styrofoam bags and coolers. Swimmers are allowed to bring their own reusable container, which must be attached to their tube at the start of their trip.

This year, Friends of the Yampa has partnered with the city to raise awareness among river users through its River Ambassador program. Ambassadors are at recreation sites, pop-up events and other locations along the waterway this summer to lend their support.

Van De Carr is optimistic his outfitter will be able to open its tubing facility Thursday, but he said it will depend on the river flow and whether it can reach 600 cfs overnight. He hopes to make a decision by 9 a.m., if not sooner.

Those wishing to tub with an organizer should be aware that there are monthly quotas imposed on the number of tubes allowed on the river per organizer, which gives other river users a chance to have space and time on the Yampa.

“Definitely wear a life jacket, don’t even think about going without one,” Van De Carr said. “The upper river is calmer, say from River Creek Park to Fetcher. We business owners aren’t allowed to go there… if you’re a thrill seeker, come to town, but if not, get out at Fetcher Pond at the latest.”

Van De Carr pointed out that the quietest section for tubing in town is the stretch from River Creek Park to Rotary Park.

Those choosing to take the Metro privately are recommended to park their car downtown or at the Stockbridge Transit Center and take the bus to their launch location.

All tubes sold in town are subject to an additional $5 fee, which goes toward river education initiatives to spread the message of good river etiquette.

“Keep an eye out for each other. Everyone helps each other out,” Van De Carr said. “(Tubing) is a community activity and I love the excitement around it, but be aware of your surroundings and other people who might need your help.”