The Yampa River Festival returns to Steamboat Springs this spring for its 46th year. The 4-day event features thrilling water sports competitions, including kayaks, SUP, and rafts.
It’s hosted by the Friends of the Yampa and made possible by a lot of helpful volunteers, of whom they would love additional help (volunteers get a free t-shirt). This year’s festival takes place from Thursday to Sunday, May 28th to 31st, 2026. It’s a Level 4 Zero Waste Event.
Events
Events at the Yampa River Festival:
- Gear Swap at Backdoor Sports
- Adam Mayo Memorial Fish Creek Race
- Pack Raft Race
- Downriver Fly Fishing Competition
- Open Class Downriver Kayak Race
- SUP Downriver Race
- Drew Hyde Raft Race
- Raft Rodeo Exhibition
- SUP Cross
- Kayak Slalom
- Crazy River Dog
- Tube Rodeo
- Kayak Rodeo
Other important details:
- All registration is in person.
- Beer and cocktails can be purchased with tokens only, sold at tents around the event.
- It’s encouraged to bring your own 12-16 oz cup for beer (to reduce waste) or buy an I Heart the Yampa Kleen Kanteen at the Friends of the Yampa booth.
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Details
Address: Yampa River, Steamboat Springs, CO 80487
Email: info@friendsoftheyampa.com
Dates: Thursday-Sunday, May 28-31, 2026