Hope Peeler heads to the river, tube in hand. Photo by Ben Duke.

Tubing the Yampa River is a classic summer adventure in Steamboat Springs, but a little preparation goes a long way. Follow these tips for a safe and enjoyable float. 

Check the River Flow

• Water levels above 700 cubic feet per second are unsafe for tubing. Even lower flows can still be risky – check conditions before heading out.

Gear Up

• Wear a life jacket – safety first!

• Dress for the river – shoes with straps and quick-dry clothing work best. Most outfitters rent river shoes.

• Secure your valuables – you will get wet, and tipping over is always a possibility.

Be a Considerate Floater

• Respect other tubers, pedestrians and fishermen.

• Keep groups small – five to 10 people is ideal.

• Leave No Trace – pack out all trash.

Know the Rules

• No alcohol

• No dogs

• No disposable items

Where to Get Tubes and Gear
Local outfitters like Backdoor Sports and Bucking Rainbow Outfitters have everything you need, including tube rentals, life jackets, dry bags, river shoes and shuttle services.

No Outfitter? No Problem.

• Park downtown or at the Stockbridge Transit Center and take the free bus to your put-in spot.

• Best starting points: Fetcher Pond or Dr. Rich Weiss Park.

• Important: Steamboat Springs Transit does not allow inflated tubes on buses – deflate before hopping on.