The most wonderful time of the year to head outside…
Yampatika has been serving the Yampa Valley for nearly 3 decades by providing programs that foster environmental stewardship and encourage exploration of our beautiful Valley. Each year, their environmental education programs reach nearly 15,000 children and adults.
Through the efforts of donors and volunteers, Yampatika has also been able to open an Environmental Learning Center at Legacy Ranch where they provide educational programs for children and adults of all ages. In an effort to create change in our school systems Yampatika has created a program to encourage environmental literacy. “No Child Left Inside: A Curriculum for Place-based Education in Routt County,” spans 4 school districts and nearly 1,000 students at the K-5 level per year.
As snow blankets the Yampa Valley, there is no better time to head outside and enjoy the great outdoors. Yampatika has a plethora of wonderful programs this season that explore all that our winter wonderland has to offer. Bundle up and get ready to learn about our magnificent Valley and the creatures that inhabit it.
December Events:
Please note all programs begin December 10th.
Ski with a Naturalist
Tuesdays & Thursday
Join a Yampatika Naturalist for a tour along the “Why Not” trail of our forest mountain habitats.
Uranium Mine Snowshoe Tour
Fridays in December
A Steamboat favorite, the Uranium Mine Snowshoe Tour, is a moderately strenuous 1.5-mile hike. With stunning views of Fisk Creek Falls, this trail leads to an abandoned Uranium Mine.
Moonlight Snowshoe Tour
December 13th
What better way to a moonlit evening than a snowshoe tour? Hosted by Yampatika, this great event takes you on a 1.5-mile hike while guides share the history of Emerald Mountain.
Emerald Mountain Snowshoe Tour
Saturdays in December
Enjoy a guided tour of Emerald Mountain beginning at the base of Howelsen Hill. This tour explores the history of Steamboat Springs and Howelsen Hill as well as the animal tracks and the diverse ecosystems of Emerald Mountain.
Winter Solstice Snowshoe
December 21st
Celebrate the Winter Solstice with a moderately strenuous snowshoe on Rabbit Ears Pass. This educational experience teaches participants about the animal tracks found on Rabbit Ears as well as a history of solstices.
Family Snowshoe Adventures at Legacy Ranch
December 28th
Fun for the whole family, the Family Snowshoe adventures invites you to explore the hay fields of Legacy Ranch. Following the tour enjoy hot chocolate, activities, and more in the historic ranch house!
For more information or to support Yampatika’s programs please visit their website.